There was a time when the word crochet conjured images of granny squares and stiff, scratchy waistcoats. Not anymore. In 2025, crochet has undergone a total transformation—one that’s sleek, stylish, and surprisingly wearable. Leading the charge is none other than Olympic gold medallist Tom Daley, who’s teamed up with British fashion label Reiss to create a collection that’s breathing fresh life into this time-honored craft.
The Reiss x Tom Daley collaboration is a tightly curated 15-piece capsule that blends traditional knitting artistry with crisp, modern silhouettes. From the outset, it’s clear this is not your grandmother’s crochet. It’s thoughtful, fashion-forward, and functional. Even better, the entire collection supports a charitable cause, proving that looking good and doing good can go hand in hand.
Here’s how this capsule nails the summer’s most unexpected menswear trend—and how you can wear it with confidence.
The Hero: Crochet Denim Jacket
At the heart of the collection lies a standout piece that demands attention: the Crochet Denim Jacket. Its clean off-white base offers a minimalist canvas, but it’s the carefully crocheted panels and tactile hand-stitched detailing that set it apart. It straddles the line between classic and experimental—perfect for those who want to dip into the trend without going full boho.
Wear it open over a ribbed tank or a loose-fitting camp shirt to master that elusive smart-casual balance. It’s the kind of jacket that does all the heavy lifting, making the rest of your outfit almost irrelevant.
The Quiet Star: Crochet Denim Shorts
Designed to complement the hero jacket, the Crochet Denim Shorts are anything but background players. Matching crochet inserts and precise contrast stitching give these shorts a sense of craftsmanship usually reserved for high-end tailoring.
They shine when paired with neutrals—think tonal tees or the matching wave-knit shirt for a co-ord look that’s cohesive without trying too hard. But don’t underestimate their standalone power. With just enough detailing to catch the eye, they bring a sense of depth and design to your summer rotation.
The Collector’s Item: Tile Crochet Shirt
Next up is the piece that feels destined to become a future collector’s gem: the Tile Crochet Shirt. Crafted with bold geometric crochet work and cut in a boxy, modern silhouette, this shirt is a statement without being loud.
The texture is soft and breathable, and the tile pattern reads both vintage and futuristic. Layer it over a tank or wear it solo with relaxed slacks for an elevated off-duty ensemble. It’s the ultimate conversation starter, made for rooftop evenings and stylish escapes.
The Risk Taker: Crochet Polo Shirt
Every collection needs its wildcard, and the Crochet Polo Shirt wears the crown here. Using multicoloured yarn in a patchwork-style weave, it reinterprets retro crochet into something distinctly current. Think colour-blocking, but with yarn.
Despite its playful palette, the polo maintains polish thanks to its structured collar and intentional design. It’s a bold move—but one that pays off, especially when balanced with simple trousers or tailored shorts.
The Cozy Cool: Chunky Knit Jumper in Soft Blue
For cooler summer nights or windy coastal days, the Chunky Knit Jumper offers comfort without compromising on style. Its hand-knit heft gives it weight, but the serene sky-blue tone keeps it light and seasonally appropriate.
Inspired by the collection’s aquatic theme, this piece feels like a nod to water without diving into kitsch. Try it over wide-leg shorts or worn loose with chinos for a cozy yet curated look.
The Everyday Essential: Wave-Knit Shirt
Finally, the most accessible piece in the lineup—the Wave-Knit Shirt. Short-sleeved and rendered in a soft blue-and-white jacquard, it feels like summer distilled into fabric. The wave-like pattern hints at seaside days but stays subtle enough for city wear.
Button it up with tailored drawstring trousers for a crisp look, or leave it open over a vest for laid-back layering. It’s effortless and versatile, making it a strong contender for most-worn status this season.
Final Thoughts: A Fresh Take on Tradition
What makes the Reiss x Tom Daley collection so compelling isn’t just the crochet—it’s the reimagining of an old craft through a modern lens. With sharp tailoring, clean lines, and clever texture play, this capsule shows that crochet isn’t just back—it’s better than ever.
And beyond the style points, there’s heart here too. With all proceeds going to charity, each purchase supports a cause, not just a closet.
So whether you’re a longtime crochet skeptic or an early adopter of the trend, this collection offers an open invitation: to rethink texture, embrace craftsmanship, and wear your values on your sleeve—literally.
