Many ponytail and messy bun hats start with an opening that's tight around your hair. This shell stitch hat by Lauren of Daisy Cottage Designs has a larger opening, which makes it easier to slip on over your hair bun.
The shell stitch design gives this a nice texture and the added bow makes it extra special. This and many of Lauren's other patterns are free, but you can also buy the PDF version for easy printing and saving.
You may think that anything that uses the term "granny crochet" couldn't be on a modern crochet list, but this blouse pattern by Cecilia Losada proves that it works. Perfect for spring and summer, this breezy top incorporates a colorful medallion and granny stitch sides and sleeves. And because you can choose any mix of colors you like, it's highly customizable for your style!
When is knitting not knitting? When it's slip stitch crochet! This simple pillow strongly resembles chunky knitting, but it's all done with a hook. Sierra from Sweet Everly B guest posts at Sewrella showing how to crochet your own couch cushions.
Warm winter hats can still look modern and fashion-forward. This beanie uses a clever construction and bulky self-striping yarn to make a swirl of stripes that come together at the top. If you've never crocheted short rows, this could be your perfect opportunity!
Stay snug as a bug in a cocoon-style cardigan! This starts as a giant rectangle and then you add a few rows for cuffs and trim, which makes it great for beginners. One size fits most, but the simple construction makes it easy to adjust the size as needed. Cozy Cardigan Crochet Pattern
There was a time when shawls were seen as old-fashioned, but now they are a modern way to dress up an outfit. The Foxtrot Shawl from Rocketgirl Crochet has a simple pattern with a more detailed edging and fun tassels. To keep your shawl styling looking modern, wear it with the point in the front so it's more like a scarf!
Keep your little one looking chic and staying dry with these adorable crocheted bibs! The free pattern set includes three different styles, including this bandana style version with stitched cacti. Make one or a whole coordinating set as a shower gift!
Modern can mean lots of things to different people, and sometimes it means simple and sophisticated. That's what this crocheted and embroidered pillow from Katie Green is all about. Starting with a base of basic stitches, it includes a pattern for stitching a sweet floral design as an accent.
Stephanie from All About Ami never fails with her delightful takes on crochet. Her Cobblestone Cowl has a beautiful knit-like texture that will keep you cozy and warm. The pattern comes in two sizes so you can choose if you want to wear it as a single loop or doubled around your neck.
Who doesn't love a rainbow of yarn? Use your favorite ROY G BIV color palette to crochet an actual rainbow that kids will love to hug. Heidi from Hands Occupied created this free pattern for her Over the Rainbow softie, a design that's so cute you may not want to share!
