Crochet Two Piece Set Tutorial: Mesh Crochet Skirt & Crochet Bralette

If you’ve been scrolling through fashion inspiration lately, you’ve probably noticed that crochet two piece sets are having a serious moment. From beachside photoshoots to summer festivals, this handmade style has taken over, and for good reason. There is something undeniably special about wearing something you made with your own hands, especially when it looks this good. In this tutorial, I’m going to walk you through how to create a stunning mesh crochet skirt and a matching crochet bralette that together form a complete two piece set you’ll reach for all season long.

Whether you’re an intermediate crocheter looking to level up your skills or someone who has made a few garments before and wants to try something a little more fashion-forward, this pattern is designed to be approachable and customizable. We’ll cover materials, sizing, stitch breakdowns, and step-by-step instructions for both pieces. By the end, you’ll have a coordinated set that looks boutique-worthy but cost a fraction of the price.

Let’s get into it.

Materials You’ll Need

Before we start, let’s talk supplies. Having the right materials makes a huge difference in how your finished pieces look and feel against your skin.

Yarn: For a mesh crochet set like this, you want a yarn that drapes well and has a slight sheen to it. Cotton or cotton-blend yarn is ideal because it’s breathable, holds its shape, and comes in a gorgeous range of colors. I recommend using a DK weight or light worsted weight cotton yarn. You’ll need approximately 400–500 yards for the bralette (depending on your size) and 600–900 yards for the skirt (depending on your desired length and size).

Hook: A 4.0mm or 4.5mm crochet hook works beautifully with DK to light worsted cotton yarn. The mesh stitch pattern opens up best when you go slightly larger than the yarn label recommends, which creates that airy, open look we’re going for.

Additional supplies: A tapestry needle for weaving in ends, stitch markers, a measuring tape, scissors, and approximately 1.5–2 yards of coordinating ribbon or adjustable elastic for the bralette straps. You may also want a small amount of swimwear lining fabric if you plan to wear this set to the beach or pool.

Gauge: For this pattern, a gauge of about 14 stitches and 8 rows in a 4-inch square using the mesh pattern is ideal. Always do a gauge swatch before beginning a garment. I know, I know — everyone says that and nobody wants to do it. But for wearables, especially something that needs to fit well like a bralette, your gauge swatch will save you from a lot of heartbreak later.

Sizing Guide

This pattern is written to fit sizes XS through XL. Here are the approximate finished measurements for each piece.

Crochet Bralette:
XS — Bust 30–32 inches | S — Bust 33–35 inches | M — Bust 36–38 inches | L — Bust 39–41 inches | XL — Bust 42–44 inches

Mesh Crochet Skirt (Mini Length):
Waist is adjustable due to the drawstring or tie design. Hip circumference ranges from 34 inches (XS) to 46 inches (XL). Length from waist to hem is approximately 16–18 inches for a mini skirt. Instructions for a midi length skirt are also included below.

Understanding the Mesh Stitch

The mesh stitch is the star of this pattern. It creates that open, lacy look that makes this set feel so light and summery. If you’ve never worked a mesh stitch before, don’t worry — it’s much simpler than it looks.

The basic mesh stitch is worked as follows: chain 3, skip 2 stitches, single crochet in the next stitch, and repeat across. On return rows, you chain 3, turn, and work single crochets into the chain-3 spaces from the previous row. That’s really the whole thing. Once you understand that rhythm, the pattern flows quickly and you’ll find yourself zipping through rows.

There’s a satisfying meditative quality to mesh crochet that makes it one of my favorite techniques for garment making. You can put on a podcast or your favorite playlist and let your hands do their thing.

Part One: The Mesh Crochet Skirt

Getting Started

The skirt is worked from the waist down in a series of mesh panels. We’re going to begin with the waistband, work the mesh body, and finish with a simple shell stitch hem that adds a pretty, feminine edge.

Abbreviations used:
ch = chain | sc = single crochet | dc = double crochet | sl st = slip stitch | sp = space | st = stitch | rep = repeat | sk = skip

Waistband

Chain 8.

Row 1: Sc in the second chain from the hook and in each chain across. (7 sc) Chain 1, turn.
Row 2: Sc in each stitch across. Chain 1, turn.

Repeat Row 2 until your waistband measures the same as your waist circumference. For most people this is between 26 and 38 inches. You want this to be snug but not tight since we’ll be adding a tie or drawstring through it. Slip stitch the short ends together to form a ring.

Once your waistband is joined, you’ll work along the long edge of it to create your foundation row for the mesh body.

Foundation Row: Join yarn to the side edge of your waistband. Chain 1. Work approximately 120 (XS), 130 (S), 140 (M), 150 (L), or 160 (XL) single crochet evenly spaced around the bottom edge of the waistband. Join with a slip stitch to form a round.

Mesh Body of the Skirt

Now we move into the mesh stitch worked in the round.

Round 1: Chain 4 (counts as dc + ch 1). Skip 1 stitch. Dc in next stitch, ch 1, skip 1 stitch. Rep from around. Join with sl st to the 3rd chain of beginning ch-4.

Round 2: Sl st into the first ch-1 space. Chain 4. Dc in next ch-1 space, ch 1. Rep from around. Join with sl st to 3rd chain of beginning ch-4.

Repeat Round 2 until your skirt body measures approximately 13–15 inches from the waistband, or until it reaches your desired length before the hem. For a mini skirt, aim for about 13 inches. For a midi length skirt, continue until the body measures 20–22 inches.

Pro tip: Try the skirt on as you go. Crochet garments can stretch slightly with wear, so checking the length periodically ensures you end up with exactly what you’re envisioning.

Shell Stitch Hem

The shell stitch hem adds a lovely decorative edge that elevates the whole look of the skirt.

Hem Round 1: Chain 1. Sc in the next dc, sc in the ch-1 space. Rep from around. Join with sl st.

Hem Round 2: Chain 3 (counts as first dc). Work 2 more dc in the same stitch. Skip 2 stitches. Sc in the next stitch. Skip 2 stitches. Work 5 dc in the next stitch (this forms your shell). Skip 2 stitches. Sc in the next stitch. Skip 2 stitches. Rep from around. End with 2 dc in the same stitch as your beginning ch-3 (this completes the first shell). Join with sl st.

Fasten off and weave in ends.

Adding the Waistband Tie

Cut a length of ribbon, fabric strip, or braided yarn cord approximately 60 inches long. Using your tapestry needle or a small safety pin, weave it through the open spaces at the top of the mesh body, just below the waistband. Pull both ends to gather the waist slightly and tie them in a bow at the front or side. This creates an adjustable fit that works for multiple sizes and gives the skirt a romantic, effortless feel.

Alternatively, you can thread a piece of elastic through the waistband itself for a more secure, no-tie option.

Part Two: The Crochet Bralette

Design Overview

The bralette is worked in two cups that are joined at the center, with a band that wraps around the ribcage and ties or clasps at the back. The cups use a combination of mesh stitch and single crochet to give structure where you need it and openness where you want it. Adjustable ribbon ties at the shoulders and back make this piece wearable across several sizes.

Right Cup

Foundation: Chain 20 (XS/S), 24 (M), or 28 (L/XL).

Row 1: Sc in the 2nd chain from the hook and in each chain across. Chain 1, turn.

Row 2: Sc in the first stitch. Ch 2, skip 1 stitch, sc in next stitch. Rep from across. Chain 1, turn.

Row 3: Sc in the first stitch. 2 sc in ch-2 sp, sc in next sc. Rep from across. Chain 1, turn.

Rows 4–5: Sc in each stitch across. Chain 1, turn.

Row 6: Sc across to the last 2 stitches, skip 1, sc in last stitch. Chain 1, turn. (This begins the shaping along the top cup edge.)

Row 7: Sc in first stitch, skip 1, sc across to end. Chain 1, turn.

Rows 8–10: Continue decreasing 1 stitch at the top edge every other row while keeping the bottom edge straight, until your cup measures approximately 4 inches (XS/S), 4.5 inches (M), or 5 inches (L/XL) at the tallest point.

Fasten off and set aside.

Left Cup

Work exactly as for the Right Cup, but mirror the decreases so they fall on the opposite edge, creating a symmetrical pair.

Joining the Cups

Hold both cups so that their straight bottom edges are aligned and facing you. The shaped (diagonal) edges should be at the top outer corners. Using your yarn and tapestry needle, whipstitch or slip stitch the two cups together along their inner straight edges for approximately 1–1.5 inches, creating the center front of the bralette.

Underbust Band

With the right side of the joined cups facing you, join yarn to the bottom right corner of the right cup.

Row 1: Chain 1. Work sc evenly across the bottom edge of both cups, then continue chaining and adding sc until the band reaches all the way around your ribcage to the back. For most people, this means working approximately 80–110 sc depending on your size.

Rows 2–4: Sc in each stitch across. Chain 1, turn.

After Row 4, fasten off, leaving a long tail for seaming if needed. If you prefer a tie-back closure, simply leave the ends long and knot them to prevent unraveling. Then cut two lengths of ribbon (approximately 30 inches each) and attach them to either end of the band using a whipstitch or by threading them through the edge stitches.

Straps

You have a few options for straps. The simplest and most adjustable approach is to use ribbon. Cut two pieces of ribbon approximately 24–28 inches long. Attach one end of each strap to the top corner of each cup using a whipstitch. Try the bralette on and adjust the length at the back before securing.

If you prefer crocheted straps for a fully handmade look, chain until the strap measures your desired length (usually around 18–22 inches for the halter neck ties). Single crochet back across the chain. This creates a simple, narrow crochet strap. Attach these to the top corners of the cups and tie them at the back of the neck.

Finishing the Bralette

Weave in all ends carefully with your tapestry needle. If you plan to wear this as swimwear or want additional coverage, you can cut small triangles of swimwear lining fabric and hand stitch them to the back of each cup. This is completely optional but a nice touch if you want more support or modesty.

Putting the Set Together

Once both pieces are complete, lay them flat and take a moment to appreciate your work. The mesh pattern creates a cohesive, coordinated look between the skirt and the bralette, and the matching yarn color ties everything together beautifully.

When wearing the set, tie the skirt at your natural waist or slightly higher for a more elongated silhouette. The bralette works best when the band sits snugly just below the bust. Adjust your straps so they sit comfortably on your shoulders without digging in.

This set pairs beautifully with high-waisted shorts if you want to wear just the bralette separately, or with a flowy cover-up over the skirt for a beach-to-brunch transition. You can also layer the bralette over a fitted tank top for a more modest everyday look.

Care Instructions

Since this set is made with cotton yarn, it’s actually quite easy to care for. Hand wash in cool water with a gentle detergent and lay flat to dry. Avoid wringing the pieces out since that can distort the mesh structure. With proper care, your crochet set will last for many seasons.

Tips for Customizing Your Set

One of the best things about making your own crochet clothing is the ability to customize everything. Here are a few ways to make this set uniquely yours.

You can change the color of the yarn entirely or use a gradient or variegated yarn for a more playful, boho look. You can also add fringe to the hem of the skirt for a festival-ready vibe by cutting short lengths of yarn and attaching them to each shell point along the hem. Swapping the ribbon ties for wooden toggle buttons or metal rings gives the bralette a more elevated, editorial look. Adding a second or third row of shells to the hem gives the skirt a more dramatic finish and a slightly longer length.

If you want a more modest skirt, simply continue working the mesh rounds for longer before adding the hem. Adding an extra 8–10 rounds will take you from mini to midi length with no other changes to the pattern.

Common Questions

Can a beginner make this set? This pattern is best suited for intermediate crocheters who are comfortable with single crochet, double crochet, and working in the round. If you’re a beginner, I’d recommend practicing the mesh stitch on a small swatch and getting comfortable with garment construction before diving in. That said, with patience, beginners can absolutely work through this pattern.

How long does this set take to make? Depending on your speed and the size you’re making, the skirt typically takes 8–12 hours and the bralette takes 4–6 hours. Breaking the project up over several days makes it feel much more manageable.

What if I run out of yarn? If you need to join a new skein, do so at the beginning of a round whenever possible. Weave in the ends securely with a tapestry needle, going in multiple directions through the stitches to prevent unraveling.

Can I use acrylic yarn? You can, but I really recommend cotton for this project. Acrylic doesn’t breathe as well and tends to feel less comfortable against the skin in warm weather. It also doesn’t drape the same way, which affects how the mesh hangs.

Final Thoughts

Making a crochet two piece set is one of those projects that feels incredibly rewarding from start to finish. The mesh crochet skirt comes together faster than you’d expect, and once you get into the rhythm of the bralette cups, the whole thing starts to look like something you’d find in a high-end boutique. The combination of simple stitches and thoughtful construction is what makes this pattern so satisfying.

I hope this tutorial gives you everything you need to create a set you absolutely love wearing. If you make it, I’d genuinely love to see it — share your finished project and tag me so I can celebrate your work. Happy crocheting!