Why wear crop tops?
While crop tops have been dominating summer fashion trends for several years, it appears they’re here to stay! Even if you’re not typically one to follow the latest styles, crop tops offer a stylish way to showcase your skin without going overboard with revealing outfits. One of the best things about crop tops is their versatility – they can be worn by anyone, regardless of body type, making them an inclusive fashion staple.
5 top tips for wearing crop tops
When incorporating crop tops into your wardrobe, start by building a foundation of balance and proportion. Avoid overwhelming the senses with too much skin exposure by pairing your crop top with a high-waisted skirt, or layering it over a dress to create a trendy silhouette. For added coverage, opt for long-sleeved crop tops or pair them with maxi skirts. To flatter your figure, strike a balance between fitted and flowy silhouettes.
A loose-fitting crop top paired with a pencil skirt can create a striking contrast, while a fitted crop top worn with a full skirt showcases your best features. If you’re self-conscious about your midsection, focus on highlighting the lower half of your torso by wearing high-waisted pants or a high-rise skirt. Conversely, if you’re proud of your toned abs, try a longer crop top paired with low-rise jeans to show them off in all their glory.
Remember that fashion trends are seasonal, and crop tops are typically best suited for warm weather. However, don’t be afraid to experiment during other times of the year – simply layer up or swap out your shorts for cropped sweaters to stay on-trend.
How to choose the right crop top for your body shape
Tall and slim
For individuals with a slender and tall physique, finding the right balance is crucial to create a harmonious silhouette. A clever trick is to use a cropped top that hits at the natural waistline, paired with skirt or pants falling a couple of inches below. This will not only elongate the legs but also provide an opportunity to showcase some skin without appearing too short.
The strapless bustier top can be particularly flattering on tall women when combined with a high-waist, knee-length skirt, creating a striking contrast that draws the eye upwards and creates a balanced look.
Curvy
When it comes to curvy body shapes, a shorter crop top paired with a high-waisted skirt can be a game-changer. This combination draws attention away from the midsection and creates a more balanced silhouette. Opt for structured pieces that skim your curves rather than cling to them, ensuring a confident and put-together look. For an even more polished appearance, consider long-sleeved crop tops – they’re surprisingly flattering on curvy figures.
Narrow hips and broad shoulders
When aiming to balance out broad shoulders, consider incorporating a halter-style crop top that directs the viewer’s gaze towards your neck. This clever styling trick draws attention away from the width of your shoulders and creates a more streamlined silhouette. Additionally, a full skirt can also help to counterbalance this feature.
If you’re looking for further guidance on dressing up broad shoulders, simply focus on accentuating your favorite part of your torso by following the same tips outlined elsewhere in this post.
Hourglass
To accentuate an hourglass figure, opt for a crop top that falls just above the natural waistline. This will create a beautiful definition between the bust and hips, drawing attention to your tiny waist and curvy silhouette. Avoid loose or boxy silhouettes, as they can add volume to the midsection. Instead, look for high-waisted skirts or pants that cinch at the natural waist, creating a flattering contrast with the curves of the hips.
With this combination, you’ll be able to highlight your figure’s best features and create a striking visual effect.
Busty
When it comes to incorporating crop tops into your wardrobe, remember that they can offer a level of coverage you prefer. For those with a curvier figure, opting for a crop top with a higher neckline or a long-sleeved design can provide the desired amount of coverage. Additionally, fitted silhouettes are generally flattering on all body types, so prioritize these over loose, baggy styles. As for prints, it’s best to stick with more subtle options to avoid overwhelming your overall look.
Petite
When it comes to visually adding length to your torso, consider wearing a crop top with a hemline that rises up at the front. This simple trick can create the illusion of longer legs and a more balanced silhouette. Additionally, pairing a crop top with a skirt or dress in an all-over print is another effective way to elongate the body without creating a broken-up effect.
By incorporating these styling tips into your wardrobe, you can create a more streamlined appearance that draws the eye downward, rather than upward.
Pear-Shaped
When it comes to dressing pear-shaped figures, the key is to create a balanced silhouette. One effective approach is to opt for tops that are lighter in color and cut than the bottom half of your outfit. This draws attention to your shoulders and bust, effectively counterbalancing the curves of your hips. A crop top that hits at the narrowest part of your body can work wonders, creating a more streamlined appearance from head to toe.
Add some visual interest with ruffles, patterns or pockets on your top, and you’ll be directing eyes upward, away from any areas you’d like to downplay.
Toned
For those who’ve achieved a toned physique, rocking a crop top is likely a breeze. However, the right length of the top can make all the difference in flaunting your impressive abs. While a shorter style can showcase your hard-earned definition, a longer, looser fit might be the most flattering choice for you when paired with low-rise jeans. This subtle variation can create a more balanced silhouette and draw attention away from any potential flaws.
Rectangular
When aiming to add curves to a straight-up-and-down body, crop tops can be a game-changer. A loose-fitting crop top paired with a fitted skirt will create the illusion of a smaller waist in comparison to your bust and hips. Alternatively, a flowy pleated skirt can instantly add volume to your lower half, creating a more curvy silhouette.
If you’re blessed with a smaller bust, a bustier crop top can be a flattering choice – and the best part is that you won’t have to worry about feeling self-conscious or uncomfortable in this style, unlike some of your peers.
Different styles of crop tops
The versatility of crop tops is truly remarkable, offering countless styling options to cater to diverse personal tastes. Whether you’re drawn to bold and daring or understated and elegant, there’s a crop top out there waiting to become your new go-to staple.
To illustrate just how adaptable this trend can be, let’s explore a few key styles that have helped make it so enduringly popular – think of these as mere glimpses into the endless possibilities available when incorporating crop tops into your wardrobe.
1950s Vintage Crop Tops
Crop tops are an excellent choice for achieving a 1950s-inspired look with a defined waist and full skirt. By not adding any extra volume at the waist, they allow you to create a silhouette reminiscent of the era. To achieve this classic style with a modern twist, opt for ladylike designs featuring high necklines and long sleeves. Pair these tops with A-line or circle skirts for a glamorous, retro-inspired look that’s equal parts nostalgic and fresh.
Boho Crop Tops
Crop tops are a summer staple that can elevate any bohemian-inspired outfit. To incorporate this trend into your wardrobe, look for drapey lace designs or pair simple styles with bold, eye-catching prints. When wearing crop tops with printed maxi skirts or harem pants, they help to create a streamlined and balanced look by preventing the overall ensemble from feeling too busy.
Polished and Pretty Crop Tops
When it comes to incorporating crop tops into your office wardrobe, the key is to balance a casual vibe with professional polish. To achieve this, focus on structured shapes and high-quality fabrics that exude sophistication. Layering your crop top over dresses or blouses can help maintain a modest level of coverage while still allowing you to showcase your personal style. Opt for neutral color palettes and incorporate details like shirt collars to add a touch of refinement.
By doing so, you can successfully transition the casual appeal of crop tops into a more formal setting, all while maintaining a modern and stylish edge.
90s Style Crop Tops
The 1990s were indeed the era of the iconic crop top. With the decade’s fashion revival in full swing, why not seize the opportunity to incorporate a vintage-inspired crop top into your wardrobe? One creative way to achieve this look is by repurposing an old skinny-fit t-shirt – simply cut off the bottom hem to create a makeshift crop top.
Pair it with other 90s staples like plaid or high-waisted jeans, and you’ll be rocking a stylish and on-trend outfit that’s reminiscent of the decade’s fashion heyday.
Sexy Crop Tops
The allure of a revealing outfit is undeniable. When paired with the right silhouette, a skimpy crop top and pencil skirt can exude both sensuality and sophistication. With the perfect balance of bold colors and textures, this combination can be transformed from a raunchy night out ensemble to an elegant evening look.
Sporty Crop Tops
Crop tops have taken on a life of their own in the world of fashion, and when it comes to athletic-inspired trends, they’re particularly effective. By combining elements of sports bras and jerseys, designers have created a style that’s equal parts sporty and alluring. This look is perfect for those who want to make a statement while still prioritizing comfort. The versatility of crop tops allows them to be dressed up or down, making them an excellent addition to any wardrobe.
