Introduction to Crochet Bralettes
Crochet bralettes are the epitome of laidback and effortless style that allows you to show off as much (or as little) skin as you want! They are great for warm weather months or layered under your favorite button-down or sweater when it gets a bit chilly. They’re also incredibly easy to make, and there’s always a way to adjust or customize them to your tastes.
Crochet bralette patterns often focus on smaller-busted women because they don’t offer a lot of support, but here we have free crochet bra top patterns to suit a variety of body types.
What is a Bralette?
As Lingerie Addict Founder Cora Harrington put it, bralettes are basically bras but without any of the structure. They are unwired, unlined, and unpadded.
Technically, the first bras from the 1920s were also bralettes by today’s standards. Where the traditional bra's goal is to shape the breasts into perfect pushed-up circles, the bralette is somewhat revolutionary in that it holds everything in place without changing the shape of the body.
Bralettes are casual and easy to wear. Combine that with the handmade aspect of a crochet bralette, then you have yourself an effortlessly stylish top or layer for any occasion!
Why are Crochet Bralettes Popular?
Crochet bralettes are some of the most versatile garments that you can make as a crocheter. These pieces gained traction thanks to the rise of Instagram and music festival style around the mid-2010s.
You can wear a bra top with a flowy skirt and sandals for those spring and summer vibes. You can dress it down by layering it underneath an open button-down and high-waist jeans.
Nowadays, it’s become increasingly popular to wear bralettes on their own. Crochet bralettes always pop up around summer and make for the cutest beachside outfits.
Measuring and Sizing a Bralette
How to Determine Your Chest Measurement
The most important measurement for crocheting garments, especially bra tops, is the chest measurement. If you don’t start with a pattern that fits in the chest, your bralette won’t fit properly.
To get your chest measurement, measure around the widest part of your bust/chest. Make sure the measuring tape is parallel to the ground and is snug around your body, but not tight. Since you won’t wear anything under your bralette, you should measure without a top or undergarment on.
Choosing Your Bralette Size
Bralettes are sized based on the chest measurement, as mentioned above.
Most crochet bralette patterns will adhere to the standards for garment sizing set out by the Craft Yarn Council, which are as follows:
| Size | XS | Small | Medium | Large | XL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chest in inches | 28-30 | 32-34 | 36-38 | 40-42 | 44-46 |
| Chest in cm | 71–76 | 81–86 | 91.5–96.5 | 101.5–106.5 | 111.5–117 |
Most patterns can easily be altered (such as adding or removing rows or stitches) to best fit your specific cup size and body type.
How to Crochet Bra Cups for Beginners
You can crochet bra cups in any size using this basic pattern from Doe and Deer Crochet. This pattern uses a (4) worsted weight cotton yarn and gives the number of chains and shaping for working a simple shaped cup in single crochet.
The way this works is that you crochet back and forth around a foundation chain while continuously increasing in the topmost stitch in order to create a rounded shape so that your bra cup sizing is perfect.
Once you’ve got this pattern down, the free crochet bralette patterns in this list will come so much easier to you, or you can make your own pattern using these cups as the base.
If you have a larger bust, then the basic crochet bra cup shape might not provide you with enough support or coverage. This bralette cup pattern from Crafty Madness makes a more custom-sized bra cup that offers support and fits your unique shape!
Best Crochet Stitches for Bralettes
- Single Crochet: The single crochet or sc is one of the most basic stitches and provides you with the best coverage, especially in the bust area.
- Half double crochet: The hdc or half double crochet stitch isn’t as dense as the single crochet, but it does provide a bit more height. This allows you to work a project up more quickly while still having coverage and added breathability.
- Moss stitch: The single crochet, chain, and skip pattern of the moss stitch not only makes it super fun to work, it’s also dense enough to not be too revealing, but still airy enough to be comfortable.
Of course, you can use any stitch pattern you want for the bottom band and straps of your bralettes. Check out our Ultimate Crochet Stitch Library to learn 45 different stitches you can add to your crochet bralettes or any other project!
Supplies Needed for Crochet Bralettes
Yarn
Bralettes are usually worn in the warmer months without undergarments beneath them, so it’s best to keep them light, comfortable, and soft on the skin.
Anything from fingering weight to worsted weight yarn should work for a crochet bralette. Cotton yarn and natural fibers are the best choices. Acrylic yarn can also be used, as it has more stretch but is less breathable. A bra top can even be worked in lightweight wool for a warm and cozy replacement for your regular bra in winter or when lounging around the house!
If you’re looking for a good (4) worsted weight cotton yarn, you can never go wrong with Lily Sugar’n Cream. It comes in a wide selection of colors and is made with 100% cotton.
Lion Brand Coboo is a great (3) DK weight option because it uses a blend of cotton and bamboo that creates a breathable fabric that also drapes beautifully!
Sport weight yarns (yarn classification 2) are suited for lighter projects with great textures. If you want to make vibrant tees and delicate cover-ups, then Knit Picks’ Shine Sport could be the one for you! It’s got great washability and the natural beech wood fiber material stands the test of time (and your washing cycle)!
The good news is, if you’re stitching from a pattern, it will tell you what kind of yarn (weight as well as brand/variety) was used so you can choose to use the same yarn if it is still in production or you can choose a yarn of the same weight and fiber content to ensure a similar result.
Crochet Hooks
Having a full set of different hook sizes is a sure way to always be ready for any project that you might come across.
Clover’s Amour Crochet Hook Set is a great choice if you’re looking for a full set. They are ergonomic and brightly colored so you can easily tell which size you’re using.
The pattern you are working should tell you what crochet hook to use, but in this case it’s important to make a gauge swatch and adjust your hook size as necessary to ensure your project comes out the size it is supposed to.
Notions and Tools
Once you’ve got your yarn and hook, you also need to consider other tools you’ll be using while crocheting your bralette. Some of the most common essential notions and tools are listed below:
- A pair of scissors
- Tapestry needle
- Tape measure
- Stitch markers
These are all must-haves for any crochet project so they’re always handy to have around!
Bralette Patterns for Beginners
Beginner Bralette Pattern
Designer: Knits ’n Knots
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton
If there’s one pattern that’ll get you pumped to create more bralettes, this is it! This beginner bralette pattern is worked in single crochets with a simple band underneath and back straps that run through the front of the top for added support. It would be a great bikini top or for everyday wear.
Moonlit Bralette Pattern
Designer: Hanna Christena, via LoveCrafts
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton DK
This is one of the fastest and easiest crochet bralette patterns on this list. It’s made with just two cups connected with straps made of chain so you can customize it to the way you want to wear it.
Easy Crochet Bralette Pattern
Designer: Cosy Rosie UK
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton DK
This cute bralette pattern can be made to your bra size for the perfect fit! It also features a version of the flame stitch to add a lace element to the design.
Pretty Picot Bralette Pattern
Designer: Carroway Crochet
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Red Heart Super Saver
This pattern can be made by advanced beginners as it uses basic stitches and has clear detailed instructions. It’s finished with gorgeous picot edging, and you can customize the length to your desire!
Hope Bralette Pattern
Designer: What About Yarn
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Premier Yarns Bloom DK
This gorgeous bralette is pretty simple to make even for a beginner! It’s the perfect fit for walking along the beach at sunset!
Velocity Crochet Bralette Pattern
Designer: Charde Crochets
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Knit Picks Swish Worsted
This pattern brings a sleek edge to your favorite crochet bralettes. It’s made using moss stitch, which adds a rich texture to the overall fabric.
Granny Merge Bralette Pattern
Designer: Me & My Hook
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: King Cole Cottonsoft DK
We’re once again proving that the beloved granny square crochet motif can be used for absolutely anything. This boho bralette is beginner-friendly, size-inclusive, and incredibly easy to pair with your current wardrobe!
Cardiff Bralette Crochet Pattern
Designer: Urbaki, via LoveCrafts
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Baby Soft
This incredibly stylish bralette is quick to make and looks amazing when worn in the sun! It features a unique asymmetrical pattern that’ll make you stand out in any crowd!
Bralette Patterns for Intermediate/Advanced Crocheters
4AM Bralette Pattern
Designer: Paintbox Yarns, via LoveCrafts
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: King Cole Cottonsoft DK
This gorgeous halter top is the perfect balance of casual and classy that you can wear from day to night. It’s worked up using granny squares and features fringe and decorative cluster stitches.
Mosaic Bralette Pattern
Designer: Lucy Brunke, via Ravelry
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Red Heart Super Saver
This bralette features a mosaic pattern that looks intricate but can actually be crocheted in just a few hours! If you’re a confident intermediate crocheter, then you’ll be rocking this bra top at the next festival!
Rainbow Fringe Bralette Pattern
Designer: Carroway Crochet
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Red Heart Super Saver
Add a pop of color to your wardrobe with this gorgeous rainbow fringe bralette! The pattern also makes for a great stash-buster for all your leftover yarns.
Red Heart Eyelet Stitch Bralette Pattern
Designer: Red Heart Design Team
Yarn weight: (1) Fingering
Suggested yarn: Red Heart It’s A Wrap Sprinkles
This versatile garment adds a touch of flair to your warm weather wardrobe. The V-neckline and V-shape directional crochet draw the eyes in and highlight your figure. There’s also a coordinating cardigan pattern to make a super sleek twin set.
Isla Fuego Festival Top Pattern
Designer: What About Yarn
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar‘n Cream
Looking for a cute bralette to wear to your next tropical destination? The Isla Fuego Festival Top is the perfect beachside companion and looks amazing with whatever bottoms you want to wear it with.
Earth Mother Crochet Bralette Pattern
Designer: Carroway Crochet
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Red Heart Super Saver Stripes
Whether you’re going somewhere warm or just want a cute outfit on a night, the Earth Mother bralette deserves a spot in your closet. The pattern also accommodates adjustments for sizes XS to XL.
Size-inclusive Bralette Patterns
Bloom Bralette
Designer: Knits ’n Knots
Yarn weight: (1) Super fine
Suggested yarn: Knit Picks Comfy Fingering
This pattern was created to accommodate all sizes which is why the Bloom Bralette can be customized in terms of ease, length, and strap width! And the best part is that you can also wear this WITH a bra for extra support!
Ivory Lace Bralette Pattern
Designer: Carroway Crochet
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Caron Simply Soft
The cups used for this pattern follow a basic design using the double crochet stitch. The pattern is available in sizes from extra small to extra-large, but you can alter the cups to make them larger if you like.
Heatherette Bralette Pattern
Designer: Yarn Thrift
Yarn weight: (2) Sport
Suggested yarn: Knit Picks Shine Sport
This gorgeous bralette pattern prides itself in being able to fit any cup size. It also contains detailed instructions and a sizing chart to help you figure out how to make your bralette fit you perfectly.
Meadow Tie Top Bralette
Designer: Taylor Lynn Crochet, via The Hook Nook Life
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: I Love This Cotton
This cute bralette can be made in any size from small to extra-large. It’s worked up with half double crochet stitches in the back loops only and features buttons and a front tie.
Curvy Bralette
Designer: Morale Fiber
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Darn Good Yarn 100% Cotton
This stunning pattern contains a tutorial on bra cups that fit best on bigger chests with the simple addition of edging to get them to curve inward. Crochet your own cute bralette and wear it with confidence all summer!
Goldstone Bralette Pattern
Designer: Knits ‘n Knots
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Knit Picks CotLin DK
This easy boho-style bralette is as stylish as it is comfortable thanks to the cotton and linen blend yarn used. The comprehensive pattern is easily adjustable, so you can just keep crocheting until you reach the size you like.
Sarah Bralette Pattern
Designer: OTH Crochet Nook
Yarn weight: (5) Bulky
Suggested yarn: Bernat Maker Home Dec
The simple yet stunning Sarah Bralette can be easily adjusted to fit any cup size. For larger sizes, you can even crochet two straps for each cup to lend extra support.
Sienna One Bralette, Two Styles Pattern
Designer: The Knotty Lace
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Cascade Fixation
This pattern can be styled differently depending on whether you want a V-neckline or a U-shaped one. It’s completely customizable from cup sizes A through F, plus incredibly easy to make.
Sunday Morning Bralette
Designer: Noel Belle Crochet
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar’n Cream
The thing with simple and basic crochet garments is that they’re easily customizable to fit the wearer best. This pattern is sized up to 5XL and also includes detailed instructions for how to customize the fit for your preferences.
Bralette Patterns for Summer
Calypso Bralette Crochet Pattern
Designer: Knotty Bliss Boutique, via The Hook Nook Life
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: I Love This Cotton
This fun bralette top features a corset-style back that’s perfect for the summer. The pattern includes size variations of a small, medium, and large.
Sasha Bralette
Designer: Taylor Lynn
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Bernat Softee Baby Cotton
This gorgeous bralette was made to keep you cool and comfortable even during action-packed summer days. It’s worked in one piece and features a lace-up back, making the sizing more flexible.
Geo-Trim Bralette Pattern
Designer: The Knotted Nail
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Red Heart Super Saver
The Geo-Trim Bralette is easy to modify to any size, length, and strap width you desire. It’s also easy to crochet with only a combination of single and half double crochets.
Sun-Soaked Top
Designer: Knits n Knots
Yarn weight: (2) Sport
Suggested yarn: Knit Picks Paragon
This is the perfect summer festival outfit. The six-strap front that converges into two straps on the back is not only supportive, but also sure to draw attention as a super fun design element.
Bernat Crochet Festival Bralette
Designer: Yarnspirations
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Bernat Softee Cotton
This gorgeous, comfy bralette is going to be your favorite top for festivals. It features a lace-up back and is worked in single crochet and ribbing techniques. It has a coordinating cardigan pattern, too.
Aphra Bralette Pattern
Designer: Luisa B, via Ravelry
Yarn weight: (1) Super fine
Suggested yarn: Knit Picks Comfy Fingering
The Aphra Bralette is a simple backless piece that features a strappy halter neckline. The pattern is perfect for beginners who want to create an intricate-looking piece without a huge amount of work.
BNHO Strapless Bralette Pattern
Designer: BNHO Crochet
Yarn weight: (2) Sport
Suggested yarn: Red Heart Fashion Soft
This strapless bandeau-style piece is incredibly versatile and works up quickly. Pair it with your favorite jeans or throw a casual cardigan over it and you’ll have yourself a show-stealing look wherever you go.
Bralette Patterns with Video Tutorials
Basic Mesh Bralette
Designer: Made by BJax
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar’n Cream
This pattern allows you to make the perfect beginner bralette that you can wear outside right away. It features a simple mesh pattern on the bottom band that adds visual interest and hugs your waistline.
Crochet Peekaboob Top
Designer: PassioKnit Kelsie
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar’n Cream
This crochet top lets you get in touch with your cheekier side with its cutout placement. PassionKnit also offers a sizing chart to help you customize your bra top to your exact fit.
Easy Crochet Granny Bralette Video Tutorial
Designer: Chenda DIY
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar’n Cream
This stunning granny bralette is the perfect warm weather top that you’ll want to have in your wardrobe. Chenda DIY truly has some of the best beginner-friendly and easy to understand bralettes and crop tops on her channel, so check it out while you’re there.
Crochet Granny Square Bralette
Designer: TCDDIY
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Red Heart Super Saver
This quick and easy bralette can be worked up in just a few hours. Take your finished Granny Square Bralette out for a spin in a pair of jeans or use it as a casual layering piece!
Scallop Edge Crochet Bralette Top
Designer: WeiWei Wei
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Red Heart Super Saver
This cute and summery bralette works up pretty quickly and looks amazing on any body type. It features a scallop edging along the neckline and the bottom hem to add visual interest.
Sunflower Crochet Top
Designer: Krystal Everdeen
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable
This gorgeous top follows the design of a typical bralette, but with sunflower granny squares along the bottom band. It’s a great summertime statement piece that you can wear with a flowy skirt, jeans, or your favorite pair of shorts.
Are You a Beginner Crochet Who Would Like Some Extra Help to Learn How to Crochet?
Being a beginner in the world of crochet is never a bad thing. It means that you get to have so much to explore and learn. That doesn’t mean that you can’t get a shortcut to all the information, however.
Our Crochet Fundamentals Class is the place to learn the basics and beyond so that you can stitch up any of the gorgeous bralette patterns listed here, as well as any other crochet projects you want to work on!
Do You Want to Learn More Interesting Crochet Stitches to Use for Your Crochet Top Projects?
There are so many crochet stitches to learn and some of the best projects can be unlocked once you do. The Ultimate Crochet Stitch Library has a collection of 45 stitches PLUS video tutorials and patterns to help you do just that and more!
Learn new stitches, craft your own patterns, and get detailed tips on how to perfect your crocheting skills when you sign up!