Crochet Pattern 2 Piece Summer Set: Boho Crop Top and High Waisted Shorts Tutorial

There is something undeniably magical about wearing something you made with your own hands. When that something is a breezy, bohemian two-piece set perfectly suited for a summer festival or a lazy afternoon at the beach, the magic multiplies tenfold. This crochet pattern for a boho crop top and high waisted shorts is one of those projects that feels just as good to make as it does to wear. Whether you are a seasoned crocheter or someone who has been wanting to level up beyond scarves and dishcloths, this tutorial will walk you through everything you need to know to create a stunning festival-ready set from scratch.

This post covers the full pattern, tips for customizing the fit, yarn suggestions, stitch breakdowns, and everything in between. A downloadable PDF version of this pattern is also available so you can take it with you to your favorite crafting spot without needing to keep a browser open.

Why Crochet Your Own Beachwear?

Fast fashion has given us endless options for festival and beach outfits, but nothing compares to a handmade piece. Crochet beachwear has been having a major moment for the past several years, and it shows no sign of slowing down. From runways to music festivals to coastal Instagram feeds, the open-stitch, breezy aesthetic of crochet fits right into the boho lifestyle.

When you crochet your own two-piece set, you get complete control over the fit. That alone is worth the effort. Swimwear and festival clothing are notoriously difficult to shop for because sizing is so inconsistent across brands. A handmade set can be adjusted for your exact measurements, so the crop top sits exactly where you want it and the shorts hug your hips in all the right ways.

Beyond fit, there is the material question. You choose the fiber. You decide if you want the softness of cotton, the slight sheen of bamboo blend, or the airy drape of linen. You are not stuck with whatever a manufacturer decided to cut costs on.

And then there is the satisfaction factor. Wearing something you crocheted yourself to a concert or a beach bonfire is a conversation starter, a confidence booster, and a small act of creative rebellion all at once.

Materials You Will Need

Before diving into the pattern, gather your supplies. Having everything ready before you start will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Yarn: For this set, a size 2 or size 3 cotton or cotton-blend yarn works beautifully. Cotton is the star of the show for summer crochet because it is breathable, holds its shape well, and feels cool against the skin. Good options include Paintbox Simply DK Cotton, Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton, or Drops Safran. You will need approximately 400 to 600 yards for the crop top and 300 to 500 yards for the shorts, depending on your size. Choosing a natural, undyed, or earthy tone will enhance the boho aesthetic, though vivid festival colors like terracotta, rust, sage, or cobalt are equally stunning.

Hook: A 3.5mm (E) or 4.0mm (G) crochet hook works well with size 2 to 3 cotton yarn. Always make a gauge swatch before starting.

Gauge: Approximately 18 stitches and 20 rows in single crochet with a 3.5mm hook equals 4 inches by 4 inches. Adjust your hook size as needed to match this gauge.

Notions: Stitch markers, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, scissors, measuring tape, and a half-inch elastic band for the shorts waistband (cut to your waist measurement).

Lining (optional): If you plan to wear this set as swimwear or at a beach, you may want to line the shorts with a stretchy fabric. A nude or matching swimwear lining fabric works well and can be hand-sewn in place after crocheting.

Sizing Guide

This pattern is written for sizes XS through XL. Measurements are as follows, and all adjustments are noted throughout the pattern:

XS fits a 30 to 32 inch bust and 32 to 34 inch hips. S fits a 33 to 35 inch bust and 35 to 37 inch hips. M fits a 36 to 38 inch bust and 38 to 40 inch hips. L fits a 39 to 41 inch bust and 41 to 43 inch hips. XL fits a 42 to 44 inch bust and 44 to 46 inch hips.

The crop top is designed to sit just below the bust with a relaxed fit at the torso, and the shorts are high-waisted with a slight A-line flare for comfort and movement.

Stitch Abbreviations

Throughout this pattern, the following standard US crochet abbreviations are used:

ch means chain. sl st means slip stitch. sc means single crochet. hdc means half double crochet. dc means double crochet. tr means treble crochet. sp means space. rep means repeat. beg means beginning. sk means skip. yo means yarn over. RS means right side. WS means wrong side.

Part One: The Boho Crop Top

Design Overview

This crop top is worked from the bottom up. It features an open diamond mesh body that is breezy and lightweight, a solid or textured bust panel for coverage, and adjustable tie straps at the shoulders. The overall silhouette is fitted through the bust and flares slightly at the hem, which lands just at or below the natural bra line. The result is an effortlessly bohemian look that pairs with the matching shorts or with high-waisted denim for everyday wear.

Starting the Hem

Begin by making a foundation chain. Chain 144 (152, 164, 176, 188) and join with a slip stitch to form a ring, being careful not to twist the chain.

Round 1: Ch 3 (counts as first dc), dc in each ch around, join with sl st to top of beg ch-3. You should have 144 (152, 164, 176, 188) dc.

Round 2: Ch 1, sc in same st and in each dc around, join with sl st to first sc.

Round 3: Ch 4 (counts as dc + ch 1), sk 1 sc, dc in next sc, ch 1, sk 1 sc; rep from around, join with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch-4. This creates the open lattice foundation.

Building the Diamond Mesh Body

Round 4: Sl st into first ch-1 sp, ch 5 (counts as dc + ch 2), dc in next ch-1 sp, ch 2; rep from around, join with sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch-5.

Rounds 5 through 10 (or until piece measures approximately 5 inches from hem): Sl st into ch-2 sp, ch 5, dc in next ch-2 sp, ch 2; rep from around, join to 3rd ch of beg ch-5.

For the diamond detail, work the following mesh variation every 4th round: Sl st into ch-2 sp, ch 3, dc in same sp (this forms the first half of a V), ch 1, sk next ch-2 sp, (dc, ch 1, dc) in following ch-2 sp; rep from around, ending with ch 1, join with sl st. On the following round, work (dc, ch 1, dc) into each ch-1 sp between V clusters to complete the diamond shape.

Continue alternating mesh and diamond detail rounds until the body of the top measures approximately 8 to 10 inches from the cast-on edge, or until you are about 2 inches below where you want the bust panel to begin.

Creating the Bust Panel

The bust panel is worked flat in two separate rectangles (one for each cup) and then seamed at the center.

For each cup, chain 28 (32, 36, 40, 44).

Row 1 (RS): Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across. Turn.
Row 2: Ch 2, hdc across. Turn.
Row 3: Ch 1, sc across. Turn.

Repeat rows 2 and 3 until the cup panel measures approximately 4 (4.5, 5, 5.5, 6) inches tall.

Shape the top edge by working decreases at each end of every other row twice: (sc2tog, sc to last 2 sts, sc2tog).

Fasten off, leaving a long tail for seaming. Repeat for the second cup.

With right sides facing out, join the two cups at the center front using a mattress stitch or slip stitch seam, leaving about half an inch open at the bottom center for the V-neck shape if desired.

Attach the bust panel to the top of the mesh body by slip stitching along the bottom edge of the cups to the corresponding round of the mesh. This is easier if you pin the panel in place first with stitch markers.

Strap Options

For the simplest tie straps, at the top corner of each cup, attach yarn and chain approximately 80 stitches (or more for a wrap-style tie). Single crochet back along the chain for a neat, sturdy strap. These straps can be tied at the neck in a halter style, crossed at the back, or wrapped around the torso multiple times for a different look.

For a more structured strap, work a strip of single crochet or moss stitch approximately 1 inch wide and 12 inches long and attach it at the cup corner. This version looks more polished and is great if you prefer a traditional bra-strap style.

Finishing the Top

Weave in all ends. Block the top by wetting it lightly, pinning it to your measurements, and allowing it to dry flat. Cotton yarn responds beautifully to blocking and will drape much more fluidly after this step.

Add fringe to the hem if desired by cutting 6-inch lengths of yarn, folding them in half, and using a hook to pull them through the bottom stitches. Trim to an even length for a polished boho fringe hem.

Part Two: The High Waisted Crochet Shorts

Design Overview

These high-waisted shorts are worked in the round from the waistband down. They feature a solid single crochet and half double crochet waistband that houses an elastic insert, an open mesh body that transitions into a more solid stitch at the thigh, and optional fringe or scallop trim at the hem. They sit naturally at or above the natural waist and have just enough ease to be comfortable and flattering without being boxy.

The Waistband

Chain 6 and work in rows of single crochet until the piece is long enough to wrap snugly around your natural waist (usually 26 to 36 inches depending on size). This creates a sturdy channel for the elastic.

Join the short ends with a slip stitch to form a ring.

Thread your cut elastic through the channel and secure the ends together by sewing them with a tapestry needle and yarn. Close the waistband channel by slip stitching along the open edge.

Working the Body of the Shorts

With the waistband ring held horizontally and the RS facing you, join yarn at the back center seam.

Round 1: Work 120 (130, 140, 150, 160) sc evenly around the bottom edge of the waistband. Join with sl st.

Rounds 2 and 3: Ch 2, hdc in each st around. Join.

Round 4 (Begin mesh): Ch 4, sk 1 st, dc in next st, ch 1, sk 1 st; rep from around. Join.

Rounds 5 through 12: Sl st into ch-1 sp, ch 4, dc in next ch-1 sp, ch 1; rep from around. Join.

At Round 13, begin shaping the crotch by dividing the work into front and back.

Crotch Shaping and Leg Openings

Count your stitches (or spaces) and divide them in half. Mark the halfway point at the front center and back center.

Work the back panel flat for 4 rows in hdc, decreasing 1 stitch at each end every other row. This creates the seat curve.

Rejoin yarn at the front panel and work the front flat for 2 rows in hdc.

Join the front and back at the crotch by slip stitching or seaming the short inner leg edges together with a few rows of sc. The amount of seaming needed will depend on your desired inseam length. For a shorter short, seam 1 to 2 inches. For a bit more coverage, seam 3 to 4 inches.

Finishing Each Leg Opening

Work 1 round of sc around each leg opening. Then work a decorative edge of your choice. A simple option is a reverse single crochet (also called crab stitch), which creates a neat, twisted edge. A scallop edge is made by working (sc, dc, dc, dc, sc) into every 4th stitch around the opening. A simple chain loop fringe is another option: work (sc, ch 5, sc) into every 3rd stitch around.

Finishing the Shorts

Weave in all ends and block as with the top. The shorts will relax and drape beautifully after blocking, particularly if made with cotton.

Customization Tips and Styling Ideas

One of the great joys of making your own crochet set is how easy it is to make the design truly your own. Here are some ideas to spark your creativity.

For color, consider using two complementary tones, one for the top and one for the shorts, to create a mix-and-match aesthetic. Earthy neutrals like cream, sand, and rust look gorgeous together. Bold contrasting colors like cobalt blue and warm white make a statement at festivals. Variegated or ombre yarn adds natural color movement without any extra effort.

For texture, try swapping the plain dc mesh for a shell stitch pattern in the body sections. A V-stitch mesh creates a slightly different open lace look. A moss stitch or linen stitch panel in the bust gives more coverage while maintaining texture interest.

For embellishments, crochet flowers can be attached to the top straps or the leg openings of the shorts. Wooden or shell beads threaded onto the tie straps add a beachy detail. Tassels at the hem of the shorts or at the ends of the top ties look amazing and move beautifully as you walk.

For styling, wear the set with strappy sandals and layered necklaces for a full festival look. A flowy maxi kimono or lightweight sarong thrown over the top adds coverage and an extra dimension of boho style. Pair the crop top alone with high-waisted linen trousers for a more elevated summer outfit.

Care Instructions

Cotton crochet pieces are generally easy to care for, but a little attention goes a long way in keeping them looking their best. Hand washing in cool water with a gentle soap is always safest. If machine washing, use a mesh laundry bag and select the delicate cycle with cold water. Lay flat to dry rather than using a dryer, as heat can cause cotton to shrink or distort the stitch definition. Avoid wringing or twisting, which can stretch the fibers. Store folded rather than hanging to help the pieces keep their shape over time.

Download the PDF Pattern

A printable, printer-friendly PDF version of this full crochet pattern is available for digital download. The PDF includes all the written instructions you have just read, plus a visual stitch diagram for the mesh body sections, an at-a-glance sizing chart, a materials checklist, step-by-step photos of key construction points, and notes on customizing the fit. It is formatted to print clearly on standard letter or A4 paper and is designed to lay flat in a binder or clip into a pattern folder.

This pattern is intended for personal use only and may not be resold, redistributed, or taught for profit without permission. Garments made from this pattern may absolutely be sold in your own small creative business.

A Few Words on Making and Wearing

There is a long and beautiful tradition of handmade textile clothing, and crochet beachwear sits right in the middle of it. When you work this pattern, you are joining a long line of crafters who found a way to turn fiber and time into something wearable and alive. The boho aesthetic that drives so much of festival fashion today has its roots in handmade culture, in craft fairs and commune gardens and the kind of creativity that refuses to be mass produced.

Wearing something you made is always a little radical. It says you had an idea,