Last Updated on August 27, 2020
Think back to the quintessential red carpet clothing of the 90s…are you seeing visions of wonderfully-taught tummies peeping out beneath crop tops?
Perhaps you’re seeing Britney Spears, Drew Barrymore or Destiny’s Child in all-out denim, matching leather, or defiantly-casual cropped sweaters?
What a time to be alive.
You can guess where I’m going with this…the crop top is back in a big way! However, the fashion “rules” have somewhat changed since the heyday, so here’s our take on how to style a crop top in the 21st century.
No matter your size, shape, age, or profession, there is a modern crop top look out there for you.
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High-Waisted, Wide-Leg Pants…30’s meets 90s
High-waisted, wide-leg trousers are timeless and flattering on almost all body types, making women into badass fashion icons since the 1930s. A crop top with high-waisted pants is an iconic look, as it shows a small sliver of bare skin while maintaining the edge and bravery of the crop.
What’s more, by seeing the entire trouser from high waistband to hem, the legs are given the appearance of being long and model-worthy. An off-the-shoulder, long-sleeved crop top in a fitted, stretchy fabric is a complete win, giving extra privacy and warmth in winter months.
Off-Shoulder Long Sleeve Cami Crop Top
This is a fabulous option for people who are a little apprehensive about trying crop top looks as it gives extra coverage to the tummy. Make it double vintage by pairing with a pair of T-bar heels, a beret, and pearl earrings. The perfect way to return to old-Hollywood glamour while embracing our beloved 90s trends.
Overalls With a Peep of Skin
Let’s get super 90s and embrace the overall, preferably with low-cut sides. Wear a cropped tee underneath, so the curve of the waist peeps through.
For anyone out there who doesn’t quite have the same torso as they did in the 90s (I hear ya, girl!), overalls provide comfy coverage while showing off the best part of your midsection. In saying that, if you want to wear a mesh knit halter crop and low-cut jeans, you go for it!
Mesh Net Short Sleeve T-Shirt Crop Top
A-Line Mini and Leggings
Time to channel Baby Spice, the queen of cute! An A-line mini, preferably mid or high waisted with a cropped tee or fitted sweatshirt looks feminine and flirty while giving enough coverage to feel comfortable at work (or generally as a 30-something adult).
The mini skirt brings a wickedly retro 1960s vibe to the 90s crop, (we love to clash decades!). Play around with color and texture to suit your design preferences.
Read: Grunge Fashion Accessories That Will Turn Heads
Cargo Pants and Sneakers
Since we love to hark back around here, let’s hark back to the good old days of the super-baggy cargo pants. Go for the classic Khaki green, baggy cargo pant sitting mid-rise just above the hip, and pair with a fresh white cropped tee and sneakers.
For a modern take, keep the sneakers sleek and streamlined as opposed to chunky. This is an excellent travel outfit as it’s cozy, non-restrictive, and walk-friendly.
Bodycon skirt with an oversized denim jacket
If you’re feeling game, one-up your crop top with a body-con skirt to show off your stellar hips. Picture a floral bodycon skirt with a fitted cropped sweater in a contrasting tone, with gold-accented accessories and slicked, J-Lo-worthy hair.
You could even opt for a matching skirt and top set (an excuse to hit the shop for a new outfit? You’re welcome!).
Contrast the super-tight style with an oversized blue denim jacket, or even a subtle-striped tailored blazer for more streamlined style preferences. Time to post a bunch of social media photos cause you’re a living work of 90s-themed art.
Office-friendly crop top looks
I’m sure you’ll agree that an all-out, navel-baring crop top look isn’t exactly accepted in most office environments, even today. However, there’s absolutely a place for it! It’s all about how much skin is on show, and what’s happening around said skin.
