Crochet has gone from niche style statement to one of the defining trends in modern menswear. Once reserved for vintage holiday wardrobes and bohemian aesthetics, today’s crochet pieces have been reimagined with cleaner silhouettes, premium fabrics and contemporary styling, making them a key investment for any well-dressed man this summer.
Leading that movement is Wax London, a brand renowned for combining timeless design with considered craftsmanship. Its Porto crochet shirt collection has become one of the label’s standout success stories, returning for another season thanks to overwhelming demand. Blending breathable cotton construction with striking patterns and versatile colour palettes, the Porto range offers an easy way to embrace one of the biggest trends of the season without venturing too far outside your comfort zone.
The appeal of crochet lies in its ability to deliver texture without adding weight. Open-knit construction allows air to circulate freely, making crochet shirts ideal for warmer temperatures, while the intricate stitching adds visual depth that instantly elevates even the simplest outfit. It’s a welcome alternative to plain linen shirts or standard cotton overshirts, offering something that feels both relaxed and refined.
Fashion’s renewed appreciation for craftsmanship has also helped fuel crochet’s rise. As shoppers increasingly favour pieces with personality and artisanal details, crochet perfectly bridges the gap between heritage techniques and modern design. It captures the handmade aesthetic while remaining polished enough for everything from beach holidays and rooftop drinks to summer weddings and weekend city breaks.
Wax London has embraced that balance brilliantly with the Porto collection. Rather than leaning too heavily into retro styling, the brand updates crochet with clean cuts, contemporary fits and wearable colour combinations that feel fresh rather than nostalgic. The result is a collection that appeals to men who want standout summer style without sacrificing versatility.
One of the highlights is the Porto Ecru and Blue Square Crochet Knitted Shirt (£145), which immediately catches the eye with its intricate geometric crochet pattern. The combination of soft ecru and vibrant blue creates a design that feels playful yet sophisticated, while the handcrafted-inspired detailing gives the shirt genuine character. Whether paired with tailored shorts, relaxed chinos or crisp white denim, it’s the sort of piece that effortlessly becomes the focal point of an outfit.
Product: https://waxlondon.com/products/porto-ecru-and-blue-square-crochet-knitted-shirt
For those who prefer something a little more artistic, the Porto Pale Blue Doodle Crochet Knitted Shirt (£145) offers a fresh interpretation of crochet knitwear. Crafted from 100% cotton, the relaxed silhouette features an all-over doodle-inspired motif in pale blue and ecru that feels playful without being overpowering. The breathable open-knit construction makes it an excellent choice for festivals, Mediterranean holidays or simply enjoying long summer evenings outdoors.
Product: https://waxlondon.com/products/porto-pale-blue-doodle-crochet-knitted-shirt
If your style leans towards understated dressing, the Porto Ecru and Black Stripe Crochet Knitted Shirt (£125) delivers a more subtle take on the trend. Featuring timeless stripe detailing in neutral tones, it offers all the texture and breathability of crochet while remaining exceptionally easy to wear. The lightweight cotton-blend knit makes it an ideal layering piece over a plain white vest or lightweight T-shirt, creating an outfit that feels effortlessly put together.
Product: https://waxlondon.com/products/porto-ecru-and-black-stripe-crochet-knitted-shirt
The versatility of the Porto collection is perhaps its biggest strength. These aren’t shirts destined to spend most of their lives hanging in the wardrobe waiting for a holiday. They work just as well with relaxed tailoring for evening dinners as they do with drawstring shorts for beach days. Add loafers for a smarter finish, or keep things casual with minimalist trainers or leather sandals.
Crochet also lends itself particularly well to layering. Worn open over a simple vest or premium T-shirt, the textured knit creates dimension and movement that standard shirts often lack. Alternatively, buttoned up with lightweight trousers, it offers a more refined look that’s perfect for summer events where traditional tailoring might feel too formal.
As menswear continues to move towards relaxed sophistication, pieces that combine comfort, craftsmanship and individuality are becoming increasingly valuable. Crochet ticks every one of those boxes, offering a tactile alternative to predictable summer staples while remaining practical enough for everyday wear.
Wax London’s Porto collection demonstrates exactly why crochet has become one of the defining trends of the season. Beautifully crafted, breathable and effortlessly stylish, these shirts prove that modern crochet is no longer a niche trend but an essential addition to the contemporary summer wardrobe. Whether you’re embracing crochet for the first time or adding another standout knit to your collection, the Porto range offers one of the strongest examples of how this timeless technique has been successfully reimagined for today’s man.