How to style crop tops this summer

Crop tops can look all wrong really quickly, and pairing them with the right kind of outfit can be difficult. With all the different styles (bustier, boxy, flowy, slim fitting) how should you wear each? And how much is too much belly showing? Here are some ways to wear different types of crop tops for the cutest summer outfit.

One key piece of advice in styling crop tops is to keep everything proportional. If you are showing a large amount of your stomach, try to keep your bottom half a little more covered, and vice versa. For example, a shorter crop top will pair well with a very high wasted maxi skirt, or high wasted jeans. In general, only showing about the width of two fingers is the ideal amount to show your stomach without it looking like you are wearing a bathing suit. Keeping it classy can never go wrong.

Simple crop

Simple t-shirt style crops are some of the easiest to wear, as they can go with just about anything. High wasted shorts, jeans, maxi skirts, flowy skirts, and much more will all look flattering with this essential top. This one is from Forever 21.

Knit crop

Knit style crops are a great way to incorporate wintery items into the summertime. The knit texture could work well for a breezy summer night since it is thicker than regular t-shirts, especially if you pair it with dark skinny jeans and maybe even a jacket. This style will work best with jeans, but a long maxi skirt would look a bit more dressy for a nicer occasion. You can find this one at H&M.

Crocheted detail crop

Detailed crops can play up any outfit and add a little something extra. The key here is to pair it with something solid in color and high wasted, like a maxi skirt. These can also go well under a leather jacket on a cooler night. Find this one at Forever 21.

Flowy crop

Flowy crops like this one are a great piece to wear with something a bit more tight on the bottom. Tighter jeans, skirts and shorts all will show off your lower half in a really flattering way. See this one from Tobi.

Long sleeve crop

Long sleeve crops are perfect for wearing with shorts or skirts. This one has matching bottoms, but simple jean shorts of any color would pull the look together just as flawlessly. Long sleeve crops give you more wiggle room when it comes to what bottoms look best! Find this two-piece including the crop at Forever 21.

Graphic crop

Graphic tees are a fun and casual way to add some flare. They are also great to wear under overalls for a throwback look! Wear your favorite band, or just simply some fun words to play up a usually girly look. This Guns N’ Roses top is from Forever 21.