Sarisa Pokawattana
03 Sep 2022
If you grew up in Bangkok during the early 2010s, you’d probably be familiar with the crochet and knit craze that took over the city. Memories of Saturdays spent at knitting cafes and scouring for yarn deals at JJ Market feels like a fever dream that left as abruptly as it came.
Since the pandemic, the niche textiles (and their creation) have become a full-fledged global trend. Crochet and knitwear are applicable to every fashion aesthetic from 70s groovy granny squares to early 2000s distressed jumpers. And Koktail is ready to guide you through it all.
Colourful, creative and sustainable, Uglieknitwear is anything but ugly. The Bangkok-based brand sources their yarns from local businesses in Thailand. Like Huang Seng Craft, the creator’s grandma’s ‘go-to’ store. Pair their affordable and joyful knitwear with the store’s curated secondhand clothing, and your outfit is guaranteed to turn some heads.
Instagram: @uglieknitwear
Beloved amongst instagram shoppers and celebrities, Sasiknits’ knits have become the latest ‘it’ closet essential. Each piece is made to order, in line with the shop’s commitment to slow fashion. Although the brand is based in Bangkok, they provide worldwide shipping.
True to Laz.lace’s instagram bio (Keep it crafted, fun, free), the shop represents one of the most intriguing parts of crocheting: experimentalism. Oftentimes, crocheters use freehand techniques and see where the hook takes them. With Laz.lace, the end result is always one-of-a-kind tops and accessories to punctuate your outfit.
At KnitCircle, the experienced team is taking strides to reduce production waste, and upcycle materials to maximise sustainability. The brand’s M.O.? ‘Comfortably elegant, crafted with attention to detail’. On top of the brand’s environmentally friendly core values, KnitCircle’s pieces are also inspired by local botanical resources.
Wholesome and meticulously designed patterns of tiny cottages, tulips gardens, tiny ducklings in front of a sunset backdrop draw customers of all ages to Mana Knits. Pick out your next statement cardigan, dress or crop top for that upcoming photoshoot session. And support a Thai handmade craft as you do.
Instagram: @mana.knits
If you’re on the hunt for pinterest-esque fashion, Knitwear by J will check the box and then some. What started as a curious hobby and school project has turned into a closet brimming with DIY patterns and a budding business. Three months ago, the 15 year old entrepreneur began selling originals, using 100% organic cotton yarn. The rest is history.
Instagram: @knitwear.byj
The mother-daughter duo behind Granny Studio has carved their own niche with their quirky granny square bucket hats. Now, the pair is stepping up their game with satin ribbon shoulder bags in pastel and saturated colourways. Granny Studio makes sure to weave a vintage common thread through all their handmade accessories.
Instagram: @granny.studio
Never worry about a boring ootd again. Whether you're out grabbing coffee or relaxing by the beach, stand out from the crowd with A Very Chill Day’s pieces, prioritising versatility, uniqueness, and practicality for everyday usage. Most importantly, their pieces add the perfect pop of colour to mix and match with the rest of your wardrobe.
Instagram: averychillday
Want to show off your bikini while keeping things mysterious? Sunsol is making waves (I couldn’t resist) with their high quality crochet pieces. Expect everything from quintessential summer wear to bathing suit coverups. This one’s truly for the beach girlies and island hoppers looking for a refreshing item to spruce up their wardrobe.
Instagram: @sunsol.official
Allur Quarter has been a staple Thai brand for a while. But some customers may not be aware that their crochet pieces are beautifully handcrafted by local artisans. A testament to crochet and knitwear’s versatility, the brand’s pieces range from chunky cardigans to airy camisoles. Shop weather-friendly essentials and help small communities.
Instagram: @allur.quarter