crop top dress

[Pictured: McQ Alexander McQueen Layered-Front Crop Top; Saks.com]

Wait wait wait – before you write off the trend, and think you are too old, not in good enough shape, etc, can I just request your attention for a moment, so that I may share a little bit of information first, that could change your mind. It’s no so much about showing your midriff or tummy, but rather, the beauty of it lies in the illusion, or possibility, of a sneak peek at an itty bitty, tiny bit of skin. That is truly what is sexy, sophisticated, and modern about the silhouette, and as you’ve probably observed, most people do it dead wrong.

In order to make the crop top, and you, look at the height of refinement, the garment calls for a sculptural silhouette, made of a very sturdy, high quality fabric. A thicker, densely woven, more expensive iteration is what you’ll end up with, but it will look a million times better than the fast fashion versions.

Keep the color of the crop top solid and neutral; all-white or all-black will be the easiest way to pair it with what you already have in your wardrobe. And speaking of…show off the stark, slim-fitting garment by contrasting it with wide legged pants, or try it with a high-waisted skirt. If the lines are smooth and clean in the bodice of one of your dresses, wear the crop top over it for a streamlined, and hence, no-skin silhouette.

I’ve had numerous vintage pieces over the years that have been exactly this crop top/dress combination as previously described, however the crop top was in many cases, built into the dress as one full piece (p.s. – check out this version by Just Cavalli).

The simpler the crop top is kept, the better it will look, so stay away from heavy embellishment, unless you plan to drastically pair down the rest of your look. A sleeveless or half-sleeve version will lend you the most versatile of options as well as movement. All in all, I know you can rock the crop!

In This Look:

Tracy Reese Sleeveless Crop Top