Free Backless Crochet Top Pattern With Flowy Skirt

The top is worked as a simple rectangle in an open stitch repeat, the backless effect comes from folding and seaming the front panel only, leaving the back edges free. It’s a clever use of basic construction that produces a result that looks more complex than it is. For a similar open-fabric top with a different neckline, the sheer mesh panel top is worth comparing side by side.

Skill Level

• Beginner to Intermediate

Materials

• Approximately 200 g cotton yarn
• 4.0 mm crochet hook
• Scissors
• Yarn needle

Finished Fit

• Adjustable waist fit
• Customizable skirt length
• Adjustable back ties
• Suitable for multiple sizes by adjusting the starting foundation chain

Crochet Abbreviations

• Ch = Chain
• Hdc = Half Double Crochet
• Sl St = Slip Stitch
• Inc = Increase (work two stitches into the same stitch)

Pattern Notes

• The foundation chain should fit comfortably around your waist.
• Always check that your starting chain is not twisted before joining.
• The skirt is worked from the waist downward.
• The top panel is worked upward from the skirt.
• The back remains open to create the backless style.
• Length and fit can easily be customized.

Skirt Section

Foundation Round

• Create a foundation chain that comfortably fits around your waist.
• Join the first and last chain with a slip stitch to form a ring.
• Be sure the chain is not twisted before joining.

Round 1

• Chain 1.
• Skip the first stitch.
• Work one Half Double Crochet into each chain around.
• Place the final Half Double Crochet into the stitch at the joining point.
• Join the round.

1. If you’re a beginner and crochet patterns feel confusing, start with the video tutorial below, it’s the easiest way to learn as you go!

Round 2

• Work one Half Double Crochet into each stitch around.
• Join the round.

Increase Round

• Work one Half Double Crochet in each stitch around.
• At two evenly spaced locations on each side of the garment, work two Half Double Crochets into the same stitch.
• Continue around and join the round.

Shaping Rounds

• Work two rounds of regular Half Double Crochet, placing one stitch into each stitch around.
• Repeat the Increase Round followed by two regular rounds.

Continue Shaping

• Repeat this increase sequence until the skirt reaches your desired hip width.

Creating Extra Back Length

Back Extension

• Crochet only halfway around the skirt.
• Turn your work without chaining.
• Work Half Double Crochet stitches back across the row.

Additional Rows

• Continue working back and forth for several rows.
• This creates extra length at the back of the garment for improved fit and drape.

Resume Working in the Round

• Once the desired back extension is achieved, return to crocheting in the round.
• Continue until the skirt reaches your preferred length.

Top Panel

Attaching the Yarn

• Attach yarn to the upper edge of the skirt.
• Leave an open section at the back to maintain the backless design.

Front Panel Foundation

• Work across the front stitches only.

Shaping Row

• Follow this stitch pattern across the row:
  • One Half Double Crochet in the next stitch.
  • One Increase in the following stitch.
• Repeat across the row.

Continue Panel Growth

• Turn your work.
• Continue working Half Double Crochet rows back and forth.
• Build the panel upward until it reaches the middle of the bust.

Coverage Rows

• Add several additional rows beyond the bust point.
• This creates better coverage and a more comfortable drape.

Armholes and Straps

Dividing the Top

• Divide the remaining top stitches into three sections:
  • Left side section
  • Center front panel
  • Right side section
• Leave the side sections temporarily unworked.

Front Panel

• Continue crocheting the center front section.
• Work rows of Half Double Crochet until shoulder height is reached.

Side Sections

• Attach yarn to each side section.
• Work rows of Half Double Crochet.
• Continue until these sections match the height of the center panel.

Shoulder Joins

Joining the Pieces

• Align each side section with the corresponding front panel edge.
• Join at the shoulders using Slip Stitches.

Back Ties

Creating Adjustable Ties

• Attach yarn at each shoulder join.
• Chain a long length suitable for tying comfortably at the back.

Strengthening the Tie

• Slip Stitch into each chain across the entire tie length.
• This creates a sturdy and durable cord.

Repeat

• Create a matching tie on the opposite shoulder.

Finishing

• Fasten off all yarn ends.
• Weave in loose ends securely using a yarn needle.
• Try on the garment and adjust tie lengths if desired.

Technique Explainer:

Increase (Inc)

An increase is created by working two stitches into the same stitch. This adds width and helps the skirt flare gently around the hips.

Pro Tip: Place stitch markers where your increases occur so they stay evenly spaced throughout the project.

Working in the Round

Working in the round means crocheting continuously around a circular piece rather than turning at the end of each row.

Pro Tip: Mark the beginning of each round with a stitch marker to avoid losing your place.

Half Double Crochet (Hdc)

To make a Half Double Crochet:

• Yarn over.
• Insert hook into the stitch.
• Yarn over and pull up a loop.
• Yarn over again.
• Pull through all three loops on the hook.

This stitch creates a fabric that is softer and more flexible than single crochet while remaining dense enough for garments.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use cotton yarn for the best drape and breathability.
• Try the garment on periodically while crocheting.
• Add extra increase rounds for fuller hips.
• Add extra rows to the front panel if additional coverage is desired.
• Make longer ties for more styling options.
• Block the finished garment for a smoother, more professional appearance.