Crop Tops in Winter
It’s time to talk about crop tops. The trend that cropped up (couldn’t resist!) last year is not leaving anytime soon, so I’ve decided to embrace the trend. In fact, it’s starting to grow on me. It feels a little chic and different to show some skin in the months when even the most fashionable are covered up in coats and bulky sweaters.
A peek of midriff adds an element of surprise to an otherwise predictable wardrobe. But how do you wear one without looking like a Miley Cryus wannabe or a Britney Spears imposter? Let’s take some cues from our favorite celebs.
Pair with a high waist skirt. High waist pencil skirts, to be exact. This gives the outfit a vintage flair and almost looks like a dress with a midriff cutout. It’s also forgiving for those of us without washboard abs. Jennifer Lawrence has been rocking this look lately. Hailee Steinfeld also loves the style (she wore this funky Thakoon Addition ensemble to a recent movie premier). In her case, the long-sleeved top works well to balance the shorter skirt.
You can also pair the top with high waist pants. In fact, any type of conservative bottom works to offset the sexiness of a crop top. Just no low-cut jeans!
Creative layering. Throw a blazer over it, or wear a cropped sweater over a dress or a longer tee. Creative layering will help you stay classy and keep warm! Crop tops will likely never be office-appropriate (at least not in this town), but they are definitely workable for a hot date night or a girl’s night out.
For more wardrobe inspiration, check out Stylebistro’s impressive photo collection, or head to your local Urban Outfitters for a serious array of winter crop tops options, including cropped flannel shirts.
Erica Moody is a Louisiana-born writer who’s called D.C. home since 2010. In addition to fashion writing, she covers social events, edits The Citron Review literary journal and is working on a novel. Erica holds an MFA in creative writing from Antioch University.