Needlecrafts - Crochet, Bagging Fringe

Inspiration image | Coach Dakota Bag

Inspiration image | Etro

Inspiration images | (large) Giorgio Armani (top) Etro (bottom) Blugirl

Fringes, when added to both accessories and clothing creates a bohemian vibe. This, of course conjures up images of a free, hippy lifestyle which has a certain amount of sexiness to it.
During the seventies Yves Saint Laurent brought folklore fashion, an ethnic look which inspired youth in the counter culture to dress in a very individual way. Present fashion is embracing fashions from that time as they are new to a younger market. Floppy hats, vests, bell bottom jeans, lots of patchwork, embroidery and embellishment, all this and bags with long fringe was nirvana back in the day.
Definitely worth remembering and repeating, maybe in more contemporary colors or for summer, in an explosion of happy colors.
Read further for free patterns featuring 6 different types of crochet bags, suggestions for fringe placement, tutorials and helpful videos for ideas on fringing.

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Needlecrafts - S/S 2014 Trend - Fringe Benefits

All images | Style Bistro

Here we are, into the first few days of the winter season and already I'm talking about a trend featured for next spring.
Well, here's a reality check, fringes are not new. Trends are recycled and repackaged.
Some hang around for quite a few seasons and others, mercifully, die a quick death.
Ordinary fringes on the bottom of a scarf are boring, been there done that.
Now, leather or suede fringes on a knitted garment is interesting creating a boho vibe that is currently so popular.
Think tufts of fringes here and there, not necessarily in even lines.
Starting with a plain, flat base mix textures using bouclé, sheer tape, eyelash and metallic fringe.
This mix creates excitement in the design, much like mixing patterns or colour blocking.
A thick roving yarn randomly knotted on the shoulders lends a dishevelled, military feel simulating epaulettes.
The design possibilities are endless as are the types of fringe patterns and materials to make them.

Read on and be inspired by designs featuring different ideas for fringes and how to use them. For crocheters there are several novel patterns to try.

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