The contrast between a dense, structured waistband and a wide-open mesh body is what makes this skirt work, it’s fitted where it needs to hold shape and airy everywhere else. The honeycomb cells in the lower section create a dramatic open texture that’s much faster to work than it looks, since each repeat covers a lot of ground. For another mesh skirt in the same lightweight spirit, the rainbow mesh skirt takes a similar approach with a self-striping yarn.
Crochet Top Linen Skirt
A tasseled drawstring at the waist keeps the fit adjustable without any elastic or seaming practical and easy to customize for length. The mini mesh skirt is worth a look if you want the same open texture in a shorter silhouette.
Materials
- Lightweight yarn held double
- 4.5 mm crochet hook for the main body
- 4.0 mm crochet hook for optional knee shaping
- Stitch markers
- Scissors
- Tape measure
- Darning needle
Key Stitch for This Crochet Pattern
Before You Start
- Take a moment to measure your waist, hips, and desired length.
- These pants are worked top-down, so your early measurements directly affect the final fit.
- Holding the yarn double creates a fabric that is still breathable but more stable than a single strand.
- This helps the waistband hold its shape and prevents the mesh section from stretching too much over time.
Waistband
- Make a slip knot and chain 9
- Skip 2 chains and work half double crochet in each remaining chain across
- Chain 2, turn, and work half double crochet in the back loop only across the row
- Repeat the back loop only row until the band matches your waist measurement
- Fold the band in half and join the short ends with slip stitches to form a circle
What’s happening here
Working in the back loop only creates a ribbed texture that gives the waistband stretch and recovery, similar to knitted ribbing. This is what allows the pants to stay comfortably in place without feeling tight.
When checking the length of your band, measure it slightly snug rather than loose. The ribbing will stretch when worn.
- Never read a crochet pattern before? No problem! The video tutorial below is perfect for beginners, or give the written pattern below a try!
Transition Row and Hips
- Chain 1 and work single crochet evenly around the waistband edge using two single crochets per row
- Chain 3 and work one double crochet in each stitch around, then slip stitch to join
- Place stitch markers at the hip points to divide front and back
- Work a double crochet increase row by placing two double crochets at each stitch marker
- Alternate one increase row with one normal double crochet row
- Continue until you reach the required number of rows for your size
- Work straight double crochet rows until the solid hip section measures about 11 inches
Stitch and shaping clarity
- The first round of single crochet is important. It evens out the edge of the ribbed band so your stitches are balanced before moving into taller stitches.
- Placing stitch markers at the hips helps control where shaping happens. Instead of increasing randomly, you are building width exactly where the body needs it.
- Alternating increase and regular rows creates a gradual, natural curve rather than a sharp flare. This is what gives the pants a smooth fit over the hips.
Common point of confusion
- If your fabric starts to ripple, you may be increasing too quickly.
- If it feels tight across the hips, you may need a few extra increase rows before working straight.
Mesh Stitch Section
- Chain 3 and work one double crochet in the same stitch
- Chain 5, skip two stitches, and work two double crochets in the next two stitches
- Repeat this pattern around the skirt
- Slip stitch to the center of the chain space and start the next row
- Chain 3 and work one double crochet in the same chain space
- Chain 5 and work two double crochets in the next chain space
- Repeat this mesh row until the skirt reaches your desired length
Switch to a smaller hook at knee level if you want a more tapered fit
How the mesh works
This section creates openness and airflow, which is what makes these pants ideal for warm weather.
The chain spaces form the gaps, while the paired double crochets act as anchors. Working into the chain spaces in the following rows keeps the pattern aligned and consistent.
Fit adjustment tip
- If you prefer a straighter leg, continue with the same hook size throughout.
- If you want a slight taper, switching to a smaller hook at knee level tightens the stitch size without changing the pattern itself.
Finishing Touches
- Work a final single crochet border around the waistband edge
- Chain a long drawstring and weave it through the waistband
- Fasten off and weave in all loose ends
Fit and Sizing Guidance
These pants are highly adjustable because they are built from the waist down.
- Waist fit comes from the length of the ribbed band
- Hip fit is controlled by the number of increase rows
- Length is fully customizable in the mesh section
Try the garment on as you go, especially before starting the mesh section. Adjustments are much easier at that stage than later.
Beginner Notes
- Back loop only stitches are key for the waistband stretch
- Keep your stitch count consistent when transitioning from ribbing to rounds
- Use stitch markers generously during shaping to stay on track
- Turning chains count as stitches in the double crochet rounds
Troubleshooting
- Waistband feels too tight: Add a few more rows before joining the band
- Waistband feels too loose: Remove a few rows or use a slightly smaller hook
- Hips feel restrictive: Add one or two extra increase rows before working straight
- Mesh looks uneven: Make sure you are consistently working into chain spaces, not into the stitches below
Finishing Notes
- Take time when weaving in ends, especially in the mesh section where loose ends can be more visible.
- A neat finish makes a big difference in how polished the final piece looks.
- Blocking is optional but helpful.
- It opens up the mesh pattern and evens out stitches, giving the pants a cleaner drape.
