How to Crochet a Cute Summer Boho Top: Easy Step-by-Step Pattern

If you’ve been scrolling through Instagram or Pinterest lately, you’ve probably noticed that crochet boho tops are absolutely everywhere this summer. These breezy, lightweight pieces have a way of looking effortlessly stylish — the kind of thing that looks great thrown over a swimsuit at the beach or paired with high-waisted linen trousers for a rooftop dinner. The best part? You don’t need to be an advanced crocheter to make one. This pattern is designed with beginners and intermediate crafters in mind, walking you through every step from choosing your yarn to weaving in that final end.

Whether you’re new to crochet or you’ve made a few dishcloths and scarves and are ready to level up, this project is the perfect summer challenge. Let’s dive in.

What You’ll Need Before You Start

Getting your materials together before you begin will make the whole process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need for this boho summer top.

Yarn: Choose a lightweight cotton or cotton-blend yarn in a worsted or DK weight. Cotton is ideal for summer tops because it’s breathable, holds its shape well, and washes easily. Look for something labeled “size 3” or “size 4” on the label. Popular choices include Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton, Paintbox Simply DK, or Paintbox Simply Cotton Worsted. You’ll need approximately 400–700 yards depending on your size (more on sizing below).

Hook: A 4.0mm to 5.0mm crochet hook works best with this yarn weight. The size you choose will depend on your gauge, so don’t skip the gauge swatch.

Other supplies: A yarn needle for weaving in ends, scissors, stitch markers, a tape measure, and a few locking stitch markers to keep your place.

Optional: If you want to add bohemian flair, pick up some natural wooden beads, fringe, or thin ribbon ties to use in the finishing details.

Understanding the Sizing

This pattern is written for sizes Small, Medium, Large, and Extra-Large. The finished measurements refer to the bust circumference of the finished top — keep in mind that this is a more relaxed, open style, so a bit of negative ease is built in for a flowy, boho feel.

Small: fits bust 32–34 inches (yarn needed: approximately 400–450 yards)
Medium: fits bust 35–37 inches (yarn needed: approximately 450–520 yards)
Large: fits bust 38–41 inches (yarn needed: approximately 520–600 yards)
XL: fits bust 42–45 inches (yarn needed: approximately 600–700 yards)

To adjust sizing, you can also simply increase or decrease your foundation chain in multiples of the stitch pattern repeat. Instructions for customizing your size are included in the pattern notes below.

Gauge and Why It Matters

Gauge is the number of stitches and rows that fit into a 4-inch by 4-inch square when using your specific hook and yarn. Two crocheters using the same pattern and yarn can produce wildly different results because everyone holds their yarn with a slightly different tension.

For this pattern, you’re aiming for approximately 14 stitches and 16 rows per 4 inches in the main stitch pattern using a 5.0mm hook.

To make your gauge swatch, chain 20, then work in the stitch pattern for about 20 rows. Lay it flat (don’t stretch it), and measure 4 inches across the center. Count your stitches. If you have more stitches than 14, your tension is too tight — try a larger hook. If you have fewer, your tension is too loose — try a smaller hook.

It might feel tedious, but spending 20 minutes on a swatch can save you from making an entire top that doesn’t fit.

Stitch Abbreviations Used in This Pattern

ch — chain
sl st — slip stitch
sc — single crochet
dc — double crochet
hdc — half double crochet
ch-sp — chain space
sk — skip
rep — repeat
st(s) — stitch(es)
RS — right side
WS — wrong side
pm — place marker

Main Stitch Pattern: The Boho Shell Stitch

The star of this top is a simple shell stitch that creates a beautiful open, lacy texture — perfect for warm weather. A shell stitch is simply a group of double crochets worked into the same stitch, creating a fan shape. Here’s how to work the shell stitch on its own before you start the pattern:

Foundation chain: chain any multiple of 6, plus 3.

Row 1 (RS): Work 2 dc into the 4th chain from the hook. Skip 2 chains, sc into the next chain, skip 2 chains, work 5 dc into the next chain (this is your first full shell). Rep from (skip 2, sc, skip 2, 5 dc shell) across to the last 3 chains. Skip 2, sc into the last chain. Turn.

Row 2 (WS): Ch 3 (counts as first dc). Work 2 dc into the same stitch at the base of the ch-3. Skip to the next sc, sc into the sc. Work 5 dc shell into the sc. Rep across. End with 3 dc into the last sc. Turn.

Rep Row 2 for the pattern. Once you get the rhythm going, this stitch moves quickly and creates a gorgeous drape.

Pattern Instructions

Step One: Make the Back Panel

Chain 73 (79, 85, 91) — this is your foundation chain and will determine the width of your back panel.

Row 1: Work 2 dc into the 4th chain from the hook (the skipped chains count as the first dc), sk 2 ch, sc in next ch, (sk 2 ch, 5 dc in next ch, sk 2 ch, sc in next ch) across to last 3 ch, sk 2 ch, 3 dc in last ch. Turn. You will have 11 (12, 13, 14) shells across.

Rows 2–22 (2–24, 2–26, 2–28): Ch 3, turn. Work 2 dc in same st, sc in next sc, (5 dc in next sc, sc in next sc) across, 3 dc in last sc. Turn.

Continue working in pattern until your piece measures approximately 12 (13, 13.5, 14) inches from the foundation chain, ending on a WS row.

Place a stitch marker at each end of the last row worked — these mark the beginning of the armhole shaping.

Continue working in pattern for another 8 (8.5, 9, 9.5) inches for the armhole and upper back. Fasten off and weave in ends.

Step Two: Make the Front Panel

The front panel is worked the same as the back panel through the armhole markers. Once you reach the armhole markers, you’ll divide for the neckline.

Work the front panel identically to the back panel until the piece measures 12 (13, 13.5, 14) inches. Place stitch markers at each side.

Continue in pattern for 4 (4, 4.5, 4.5) inches above the markers, ending after a WS row.

Neckline shaping: On the next row, work in pattern across the first 4 (4, 5, 5) shells. Fasten off. Skip the center 3 (4, 3, 4) shells and rejoin yarn at the next sc. Work in pattern across the remaining 4 (4, 5, 5) shells. Fasten off.

This creates the V-neck opening that gives the top its boho character.

Step Three: Joining the Panels

Place your front and back panels with right sides facing each other. Using your yarn needle and a length of yarn, whipstitch the shoulder seams together at each side, stitching through the outermost stitches of each panel. Secure and weave in ends.

Turn the garment right side out. You’ll now have a top with open sides (these will become the tie closures) and an open armhole on each side.

Step Four: Adding the Side Ties

One of the most charming details of a boho crochet top is the lace-up or tie side detail. Instead of sewing the side seams closed, you’re going to create ties along each side edge.

With RS facing, join yarn to the bottom corner of one side edge with a sl st.

Ch 50 (or longer if you prefer a more dramatic tie). Sl st back into the same edge stitch to anchor. Fasten off.

Move up the side edge approximately 2 inches to the next natural stitch along the edge. Join yarn and repeat (ch 50, sl st to anchor, fasten off).

Continue adding ties every 2 inches up the side seam until you reach the armhole marker. Repeat on the other side edge, and then repeat the whole process for the other side of the top.

To wear the top, simply lace the ties through each other or tie them in a bow, adjusting the fit as you like. This lace-up side detail makes the top adjustable and gives it that unmistakable boho look.

Step Five: The Armhole Edging

For a clean, polished look, you’ll add a simple single crochet edging around each armhole.

Join yarn to any stitch along the armhole opening with a sl st. Ch 1. Work sc evenly around the entire armhole opening, working approximately 1 sc per stitch along horizontal edges and 1 sc per row end along vertical edges. When you reach your starting point, sl st to join. Fasten off and weave in ends.

Repeat on the other armhole.

Step Six: The Neckline Edging

Join yarn to the center back neck edge. Ch 1. Work sc evenly around the entire neckline, including down both sides of the V-neck opening. At the point of the V, work 3 sc into the same stitch to keep the corner lying flat. Join with sl st when you return to the starting point. Fasten off and weave in ends.

For extra boho style, add a second row of edging: join yarn, ch 1, and work (sc, ch 3, sc) into every third stitch around the neckline to create a simple picot edging. This tiny detail makes a big difference in the finished look.

Step Seven: The Bottom Hem

The bottom hem is where you can really let your personality shine. For a simple, clean finish, work 2 rows of sc along the entire bottom edge. For a more bohemian look, try adding a fringe.

To add fringe, cut lengths of yarn approximately 10 inches long. Fold each length in half, insert your hook through a bottom stitch, pull the folded loop through, then pull the two loose ends through the loop and tighten. Repeat across the entire bottom edge, spacing fringe every 2 stitches. Trim to even lengths if needed.

You can also thread wooden beads onto the fringe strands for extra texture and visual interest.

Finishing Touches and Blocking

Once your top is fully assembled and all ends are woven in, it’s time to block it. Blocking is the process of wetting your finished piece, shaping it, and allowing it to dry flat. It makes an enormous difference with cotton yarn — it evens out the stitches, opens up the lace pattern, and gives the whole garment a more polished, professional appearance.

To wet block your top, soak it in cool water for 15–20 minutes, then gently press out the excess water (don’t wring). Lay it flat on a clean towel or blocking mats, smooth it into shape, and let it air dry completely before wearing or storing.

Styling Your Boho Crochet Top

Now for the fun part. This top is incredibly versatile and works for a wide range of summer occasions.

For the beach or pool, wear it over a bandeau or triangle bikini top with high-waisted swim bottoms and flat sandals. Add a wide-brim straw hat and some layered gold jewelry and you’re set.

For a casual daytime look, pair it with high-waisted denim shorts and espadrilles. A simple tote bag and some hoop earrings pull the whole look together.

For an evening out, try wearing it tucked loosely into a flowy maxi skirt in a complementary color. Wedge sandals, a clutch, and layered necklaces elevate this simple crochet piece into something that looks truly intentional.

Don’t be afraid to play with color, either. Classic off-white or cream gives a timeless, vintage feel. Terracotta, sage green, and dusty rose are all perfect boho shades. For something bolder, a deep cobalt blue or coral makes a statement.

Tips for Success

Don’t skip the gauge swatch. It really does make the difference between a top that fits and one that ends up as a gift for someone with a smaller frame.

Use locking stitch markers generously. Mark your armhole points clearly so you don’t have to count rows later.

Work in good lighting. The open shell stitch pattern can be easy to miscount, especially when you’re watching TV or distracted. Give it your full attention, at least until the pattern clicks.

If you run out of yarn mid-row, try to join new yarn at the end of a row rather than the middle to avoid a visible join in the lace pattern.

Take breaks and check your work every few rows. It’s much easier to catch a missed stitch early than to rip back several rows of shell stitches later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this top with a different yarn fiber? Absolutely. Bamboo-cotton blends are a lovely choice and drape beautifully. Linen yarn gives a slightly stiffer, more textured result. Avoid anything too stretchy (like wool or acrylic) for a garment top, as the weight of the fabric can cause stretching over time.

Can I make this crop-length or longer? Yes — simply adjust the number of rows you work before the armhole markers. Adding extra rows at the body makes a longer top; stopping earlier gives you a more cropped silhouette.

What if I want to close the sides instead of using ties? You can whipstitch the side seams partially or fully closed before adding your edging. Leave a gap at the top of each side for a more relaxed armhole opening if you prefer.

Is this pattern suitable for complete beginners? If you’re comfortable making chains, single crochets, and double crochets, you can absolutely do this. The shell stitch is just a combination of those basics. Take it one row at a time and you’ll be surprised how quickly it comes together.

Final Thoughts

There’s something genuinely special about wearing something you made with your own hands. This boho crochet top is the kind of project that starts as a creative challenge and ends as a wardrobe staple — something you’ll reach for again and again throughout the summer and beyond. The open shell stitch, the lace-up side ties, the optional fringe and beads — every detail works together to create a piece that looks like it came from a boutique in coastal Portugal or a weekend farmers market.

Take your time with it, enjoy the process, and don’t stress too much if it isn’t perfect the first time. Crochet is a craft that rewards patience and practice, and every imperfect stitch teaches you something. Happy crocheting, and have a beautiful summer.