Modern Midriff: Crop Tops Make a Comeback

Fashion always repeats itself, and this season proves it because crop tops have been all the rage. Today's crop top look is a new twist on the old trend—way more tasteful, flattering and sexy. Unfortunately, the incorrect ways they are being worn is sending me into a rage. Less is more. Unless you are channeling Kelly Kapowski circa 1990, do not overexpose that belly button! As trendy as they may be, crop tops can easily bring you from "hi" fashion to no fashion.

Worn right, a crop top can be a staple piece to any outfit. It just refers to the length of the shirt, and is actually meant to be worn as a layering piece, which is why you can't throw a crop top on and go. This isn't a Juicy Couture matching velour jump suit we are talking about! It's a crop top; NOT a belly shirt. If you want to show off your adorable navel, hit the beach.

It's OK to show skin. The key is minimal midriff. Use the crop top to draw attention to the higher waistline, creating a feminine figure that's sexy but not too revealing. That part of the midsection (right below the ribcage and above the navel) is the smallest part of your torso, so bringing the focus to that area makes sense. Then, pair your crop top with mid- to high-rise bottoms. Keep in mind that the shorter the bottoms, the more free-flowing the top should be.

For an effortless look, try pairing a crop top with a maxiskirt. What makes this combination work is balance. If you're going to wear a long, flowy maxiskirt that covers most of your body, a fitted crop top that falls just below the ribs is perfect. Add some chunky jewelry and Bohemian sandals and bam! Your crop top just made you hippie chic. Other outfit ideas include layering your crop top over a sleeveless dress; pairing a loose-fitting crop top with a high-waisted pencil skirt; or wearing a bandeau crop top with a blazer or sweater and paperbag pants.

I can happily say this trend will stay hot through summer into fall, as demonstrated by the collage above featuring blogger Naty Michelle. To flawlessly make the transition, rock tights! Layering your crop top with hot pants and opaque tights is hip yet appropriate for the season. Glamming!

As someone who adores fashion, today's take on the crop top opens a closet full of ideas and options. I encourage everyone to mix and match and have fun with the fun possibilities. If done right, you can wear your crop top from the office to girls night out. Just remember that a peek at your upper tummy hints at sexy, while full-on belly button exposure is passé. Just ask Zack Morris. Maybe you can reach him on his oversized brick phone.

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