crop-tops

May 7, 2014

Pair it with This: Sculptural Crop Tops

[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

J.W. Anderson Butterfly Silk/Cotton Top

Bec & Bridge Bitter & Twisted Textured Top

Alexander Wang Asymmetrical Cropped-Side Wrap Tank

May 3, 2012

The Launch of ASOS Africa

by fashion pulse contributor

[Floral Kanga Bra Top, $45.45]

[Collarless Shirt, $69.08 and Small Geo Print Shorts, $63.63]

Has a drab, all- black wardrobe got you down? Add some splashes of color and sustainability to your wardrobe with the launch of ASOS Africa. The new collection of acid-brights, zebra, and giraffe print separates will encourage excursions to another world, even if it is just heading to another day at the office (or at school).

[Zebra Midi Shirt Dress, $90.90]

[Small Geo Print Sleeveless Jacket, $81.81]

The Kenyan made designs are attracting fashion adventurers for Spring/Summer 2012, with our absolute favorites being the crop tops, knicker shorts and striped parka. The 21 women’s styles retail from $45.45-$136.34 and are now available here at ASOS.com!

What’s more, ASOS Africa has pledged a portion from every purchase to benefit local communities in East Africa. We can all be ambassadors of sustainable style.

-Alana Quagliariello

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October 27, 2011

alice + olivia’s “Very Secret Garden” for Spring 2012

by fashion pulse contributor

Launched in 2002, alice + olivia by Stacey Bendet is clothing that packs a powerful personality punch, and lots of it. This year’s spring 2012 assortment was inspired by the idea of the “Very Secret Garden,” a classic concept of knowledge, mystery, and wonder. It is a ready-to-wear collection of party dresses, crop-tops, bustiers, here-to-stay maxi dresses, high-rise wide leg pants and other separates that do not fall short of a feminine magnetism.

Entering the showroom was like entering the closet of my dreams…and that’s before I even noticed the shoes! Bold purple, poppy, orange, green, strawberry pink and icy blue all popped against the white walls of the room. Pretty suede, silk, and tweed fabrics captured the essence of the private garden theme. One-shoulder shift dresses and the incorporation of numerous bustier tops offered a sensual feel, while both exaggerated and miniature floral patterns maintained the season’s girlish charm. I can totally envision the summery knits paired with the brand’s premier line of colored denim; a fun rack filled with bubble gum pink, lemon yellow, and robin’s egg blue jeans.

The spring assortment of a+ 0 shoes, Bendet’s first full line, presented gorgeous bright wedges, some plain and some adorned with painted snakeskin. Yet, neutrals also remained essential to the sky high pumps, wedges, and flat sparkling sandals. Overall, the looks can certainly please a number of girls, moods and styles. Bendet also continues to expand her aesthetic collaborating with the legendary Gene Meyer on a scarf collection.

The alice + olivia girl is the life of the party, in a sweet, refined way. You can’t take your eyes off of her — there is glitz and glam via sequins, feather, and leather, but there is also a delicate undertone beneath the entire line. Perhaps this ethereal duality is what makes the clothing and accessories so appealing and enduring.

-Alana Quagliariello

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May 12, 2011

Cropped Tops are Chic Again (thefind Guest Post)

by Julia DiNardo

From our friends at thefind.com:

What is this I see? Cropped tops are making a comeback? Why, I haven’t seen cropped tops make an appearance since the days of Clueless and the original Scream. That was the 90’s, an entire decade ago… and that officially means that I am getting old. Nonetheless, cropped tops are back, and this summer, they are coming back strong. I’m seeing them in refreshing new ways. With ruffed up denim shorts, leggings, and over jumpsuits. Though I won’t be able to wear them like I once did in high school, that would be completely baring it with a bell-free and very much missed flat stomach, the cropped top can still be just as perfect and trendy, and age appropriate, when layered with the right things. The cropped tee will instantly add new life to the dresses and tank tops to your already existing wardrobe. Just be sure to wear it well and wear it proud. And no matter who asks, never fess up to watching the original Scream or Clueless when it was still in theatres. Here are a few of my favorite pieces to pair with for the upcoming sizzling season: Go for a classic with Michael Starz Slub Short Sleeve Scoop Neck. For something fancy choose Gryphon’s Sequin version. Lastly, for a classic rocker vibe, John Lennon’s Stencil Crop Tee is waiting.

– Mira Torres