Bare midriff masterclass – How to wear a crop top in 2024

Thanks to the return of 90’s and Y2K trends, crop tops are back and they are everywhere. They’ve been taking over our Instagram feeds, and celebrity style, and almost every brand has their own take on the midriff-baring style.  But showing some skin is not for the faint of heart: this is probably why even the most daring fashionistas still shy away from exposing theirs. But no more, people. Here are a few tips to show off your midriff!

In true Y2K fashion, the trendiest crop top style this year is undoubtedly the baby tee. Take a page from Megan Fox’s style book and head to the children’s section for perfectly cropped tees, or pay homage to Britney Spears with baby tees featuring graphics and snarky quotes.

If you’re showing your stomach, covering your legs will help keep your outfit on the modest side. Just as you would cover your chest if you’re exposing quite a bit of your legs, you might want to make your bottom half more modest if your top half’s out on the town.

Baring your tummy is meant to be fun! With so many brands hopping on the trend, the market is rife with fun and unique crop top designs. We especially love cut-out designs for when you’re feeling most daring; or elevated materials like feathers or sequins for a night on the town. There’s nothing like dressing a little mischievous sometimes!

The right choice of underwear to match your crop top is more important than you might think. Generally speaking, make sure that your bra of choice matches the vibe of your top, so that, in case your underwear shows, you’re not caught off guard. If you’re into a streetwear, hip-hop vibe, men’s underwear peeking from the waist of your low-waisted jeans is all the rage this year. Lace bralettes—when not too revealing—can also be worn as tops, especially when layered under blazers, shirts, or jackets (more on that later).

While some would praise you for the major boldness required to show your midriff at work, the majority of workplaces really would not appreciate it: in most cases, it might be better to stick to the safe side and keep your stomach-showing for the weekend.

Alternatively, a knitted or crochet crop top layered over a formal shirt is a fashion-forward style hack that allows you to use your wardrobe to the fullest (without getting dress-coded).

Speaking of, layering is the key to getting the most out of your crop tops and building outfits around them. A casual crop top worn with a chic blazer, cool vest, or a mesh long-sleeved top can instantly elevate your look from summer picnic to evening out. Layering with formal pieces like the aforementioned blazer can also give new life to sporty lycra tops or lacy bralettes.

Pairing your crop top with the right trousers is fundamental for a balanced outfit. If you want to wear a shorter top while keeping it more modest, go for high-waisted bottoms to avoid showing as much skin. Generally speaking, crop tops are usually slim and fitted: balance their silhouette with wide or baggy trousers for some good big/slim tension.

It’s 2024, people, and body-shaming and gender roles are so out. Always remember that every body is a crop top body, regardless of bust circumference, clothing size, or gender. Fashion is, above all, meant to be a carefree and accessible outlet for self-expression, all that matters is that we feel good about ourselves and our bodies.

Original text and content: Steph King