If there was ever a time to incorporate the crochet bikini to your collection, it’s now! The good old classic yarn is not only perfect for those long, hot beach days but affords a timely nod to our local artisans as we count down to Jamaica 60.

University of Technology, Jamaica business student Vanessa Thomas, who has been crocheting with her grandma since the age of 12 and who considers the craft sacred and her swimsuits a must-have, spoke recently with Tuesday Style Fashion (TSF).

“I love the reverence associated with crochet. Plus, I saw a crochet top online that I literally had to recreate. I put my [learnt] skills to the test and the results were amazing! My friends were actually impressed with it, especially my grandma.

Realising that she was on to something, that there was a market for crochet and most importantly, it was something she enjoyed doing, she took the plunge and created a crochet line: Thredz by Jenel. (Her middle name is Jenel).”

Creating one-of-a-kind pieces by hand, and juggling studies as a final-year business student is no easy feat. Time management became an integral part of her daily routine. “It’s not the easiest thing because it’s a constant battle between the two to see which gets most of my attention,” she admits. She’s focused, however, on balance. Finishing school and getting her degree are both priorities, as, too, ensuring customer satisfaction.

There have been no complaints to date. “Everything is handmade, depending on the outfit I’m working on. I tend to use either cotton or synthetic yarn, based on the customer’s demand,” she explained.

Thredz by Jenel currently offers brunch and party attire including rompers, dresses, tops, and pant sets; however, the brand’s swimwear collection is what TSF spotlights today.