The shell edging is what sets this top apart from a plain triangle bikini a scalloped border traces both cups, then repeats in a deeper, picot-tipped band just under the bust. The cups themselves are worked in dense, straightforward rows, so all of that texture comes from the trim rather than the base stitch. For a similarly shaped cup with less trim to manage, the bathing suit top with shaped cups and tie straps keeps the halter tie but skips the extra shell rounds.
Crochet Swimwear
Because the shell trim is worked as a separate finishing round rather than built into the main stitch pattern, it’s easy to add or leave off depending on how much detail you want. Pair it with the tie-side bikini bottom for a full set both pieces use the same halter-style ties, so the color and finish will match edge to edge.
Materials
- Cotton yarn
- 2.5 mm crochet hook
- 3.5 mm crochet hook
- Stitch markers
Stitch Skills You’ll Use
Bra Cups Make 2
- Create a slip knot and chain 20 for a medium size, adjusting the chain length for your bust
- Single crochet into the second chain from the hook and in every chain across
- Chain 1 and turn
- Work back loop single crochet in every stitch across
- Chain 1 and turn
- Repeat back loop single crochet rows until you have 17 rows total
- Chain 1 and work back loop single crochet across until the last stitch
- Work 3 single crochets into the final stitch to turn the corner
- Single crochet evenly into the end of each row along the side edge
- Continue working back loop single crochet rows across the new width until the cup reaches your desired coverage
Decorative Shell Edging
- Attach yarn to the first stitch along the cup edge
- Skip 2 stitches
- Work 2 double crochets, chain 2, and 2 double crochets into the next stitch
- Skip 2 stitches and slip stitch into the next stitch
- Repeat this shell pattern across the bottom and side edges of each cup
- If you’re new to reading crochet patterns, don’t worry, just follow along with the video tutorial below and use the written pattern as a reference!
Connecting Cups and Straps
- Chain 5 between the two cups to join them together
- Single crochet across the chain to reinforce the connection
- Switch to a 3.5 mm hook
- Attach yarn to the top of one cup and chain 150
- Single crochet back down the chain to form a neck strap
- Attach yarn to the bottom outer corner of the cup and chain 150
- Single crochet back down the chain to form the back strap
- Work single crochet two together along the bottom edge of the cups for a snug curved fit
Bottom Mesh Section
- Work 3 rows of single crochet along the bottom using back loops on right side rows
- Work 2 double crochets, chain 2, skip 1 stitch and repeat across the row
- Repeat the mesh row by placing double crochets into the double crochets below
Scalloped Border
- Work 3 double crochets, chain 3, and 3 double crochets into one stitch
- Skip 2 stitches and single crochet into the next stitch
- Repeat the scallop pattern evenly across the edge
Understanding the Construction
This top is built from two rectangular cup panels that are shaped outward from one corner. The back loop single crochet rows create horizontal stretch while maintaining firmness. Working into the back loops only forms subtle ridges that help the cup mold gently to the body.
- The turning corner with 3 single crochets creates the curve that begins shaping the cup.
- From that point forward, you are no longer working a flat rectangle.
- You are building width and coverage simultaneously.
- The mesh and scalloped sections are decorative but also functional.
- The mesh adds lightness and flexibility.
The final scallops visually balance the shell edging at the top.
Fit and Sizing Guidance
Adjusting the Starting Chain
The starting chain determines the base width of the cup. For a smaller bust, reduce the starting chain. For fuller coverage, increase it.
When adjusting:
- Keep tension consistent.
- Make both cups identical.
- Try one cup against your body before finishing the second.
Adjusting Cup Height
The 17 rows create a medium height. If more vertical coverage is needed, add additional back loop rows before shaping the corner.
Strap Length
The chain 150 straps are intentionally long to allow tying and adjustment. Before fastening off permanently:
- Try the top on.
- Confirm comfort at the neck and back.
- Shorten or lengthen if needed.
Stitch and Shaping Clarity
Why Back Loop Single Crochet Is Used
Back loop single crochet:
- Creates flexibility across the fabric.
- Forms structured ridges.
- Allows better shaping around curves.
If you accidentally work through both loops, the fabric will be slightly stiffer and less textured. It will still function, but the finish will look smoother.
Working Evenly Along the Side Edge
When instructed to single crochet evenly into the end of each row:
- Insert your hook under two strands along the row edge.
- Aim for one stitch per row.
- Avoid placing too many stitches or the edge will flare.
If the fabric begins to ripple, you likely added too many stitches. If it pulls tight, you may need one or two additional stitches distributed evenly.
The Corner Turn With 3 Single Crochets
Placing 3 single crochets into one stitch allows the work to pivot naturally without puckering. This is essential for forming a smooth cup curve.
Beginner Notes
Even though this is a wearable garment, the stitches are beginner-friendly. The shaping may feel new if you have only worked flat rectangles before.
Helpful tips:
- Use stitch markers at the beginning of rows if needed.
- Count rows carefully to keep both cups symmetrical.
- Block lightly before adding edging for a cleaner finish.
Troubleshooting
Cups Not Matching
If one cup appears slightly larger:
- Count rows again.
- Check starting chain length.
- Confirm tension consistency.
It is better to redo one cup early than try to compensate later.
Shell Edging Pulling Tight
If the edge curls inward:
- You may be skipping too many stitches.
- Ensure you are consistently skipping 2 stitches each time.
- Loosen your double crochet tension slightly.
Bottom Edge Not Curving Smoothly
The single crochet two together along the bottom edge shapes the garment to sit against the body. If it still feels straight:
- Add one additional decrease in the center area.
- Make adjustments gradually rather than aggressively.
Finishing Notes
Weave in all ends securely, especially along straps. Cotton yarn can loosen over time, so reinforce your starting and ending knots well.
Before wearing:
- Lightly steam block if appropriate for your yarn.
- Allow the top to fully dry flat.
- Try it on again to confirm shaping and comfort.
This design relies on structure, symmetry, and tension control. When those elements are balanced, the result is clean, supportive, and polished.
