How to Flaunt Your Belly with Crop Tops: A Friendly Guide
Wearing a cute crop top is a bold fashion statement that has been popularized by celebrities and influencers.
It can be intimidating to try out this trend, especially if you are not used to showing off your midriff, or if you don’t have that flat belly that you see on social media.
I always find myself admiring women who confidently sport this look. For me – an apple-shaped body type – crop tops can be a little tricky to pull off.
However, after experimenting and finding what works best for my body, I have learned that anyone can flaunt their belly with crop tops and feel confident while doing it.
Choosing the Right Crop Top for Your Body Type
Crop tops have been a popular clothing item for years and are a great way to show off your midriff. However, if you have a belly, you may be hesitant to wear them.
But don’t worry, there are many ways to wear crop tops that will flatter your figure and make you feel confident.
When it comes to crop tops, fit is key. You want to make sure that the top fits you properly, not too tight or too loose.
A tight crop top will accentuate any unwanted bulges, while a baggy crop top will make you look bigger than you are.
Look for a crop top that fits snugly around your midsection but doesn’t cling to your belly. This will create a slimming effect and keep you feeling comfortable.
Additionally, consider your body shape when choosing a crop top. Different styles will flatter different body types. Here are some tips for choosing the right crop top for your specific body type:
Determine Your Body Shape
The first step to finding the perfect crop top is to determine your body shape. Are you an apple, pear, hourglass, or rectangle?
If you haven’t already, take some time to find out your body shape as this will help guide you in choosing the right crop top.
Here’s a quick breakdown of each body shape:
- Apple: wider midsection with slim arms and legs
- Pear: smaller upper body with wider hips and thighs
- Hourglass: balanced proportions with defined waistline
- Rectangle: straight up and down with little waist definition
These are the most common body shapes, however, you may fall into a combination of these or have a different shape altogether. The key is to understand your proportions and find styles that flatter your unique figure.
If you’re unsure, ask your best friend to help you determine your shape or consult with a professional stylist for personalized advice.
Consider Your Belly Size
Now that you know your body shape, it’s important to also consider the size of your belly. If you’re self-conscious about your belly, opt for a crop top that falls at or above your natural waistline. This will help to conceal any bulges and create a more flattering silhouette.
Avoid crop tops that are too tight or too loose, as they can emphasize your belly and make you feel uncomfortable. Instead, choose a crop top that fits just right and is made from a stretchy material for added comfort and flexibility.
You would also want to draw attention to other areas of your body, such as your arms or legs, to balance out your overall look. For example, if you have a larger belly but slim arms and legs, opt for a crop top with long sleeves or a high neckline to draw attention upward.
Choose the Right Length
Crop tops come in different lengths, so choose one that works best for your body type. If you have a short torso, opt for a crop top that falls just above your belly button.
If you have a longer torso, go for a crop top that falls just below your bra line. And if you’re not comfortable showing too much skin, choose a longer crop top that covers most of your belly.
Look for Flattering Details
When choosing a crop top, look for details that flatter your body type. For example, if you have a larger bust, go for a crop top with a V-neckline to elongate your torso.
If you have a smaller bust, opt for a crop top with ruffles or embellishments to create the illusion of curves. And if you have a curvier figure, choose a crop top with a peplum or flared hem to balance out your proportions.
Form-fitting crop tops can also be flattering if they have ruching or gathering along the sides, as this can help to camouflage any problem areas and create a smoother silhouette.
Don’t Be Afraid to Layer
If you’re still not comfortable showing off your belly, don’t be afraid to layer your crop top. Pair it with high-waisted skirts or pants, or wear it under a blazer or denim jacket.
Layering can add depth and dimension to your outfit, while also providing coverage for your belly.
Remember, the key to wearing a crop top with confidence is to choose one that makes you feel comfortable and confident in your own skin. With these tips, you’ll be able to find the perfect crop top for your body type and rock it with style!
Styling Tips for Wearing Crop Tops
Crop tops can be a fun and stylish addition to your wardrobe, but if you have a belly, you might be hesitant to wear them. However, with the right styling tips, you can confidently wear a crop top and look amazing.
Choose the Right Waistline
When it comes to styling a crop top, the waistline of your bottoms is important. Opt for high-waisted pants, shorts, or jeans to create a smooth silhouette that flatters your figure.
High-waisted bottoms also help to elongate your legs and balance out the proportions of your outfit, especially if you have a shorter torso.
Play with Colors
Don’t be afraid to play with colors when styling a crop top. While black and other dark hues can be slimming, you can also experiment with bright colors and bold prints. Just make sure to choose colors and prints that flatter your skin tone and figure.
Experiment with Crop Top Length
Crop tops come in different lengths, from midriff-baring to just above the waistline. Experiment with different lengths to find the one that works best for your body type. If you’re self-conscious about showing too much skin, you can also layer a crop top over a camisole or tank top.
Proportions are Key
When wearing a crop top, it’s important to balance out the proportions of your outfit. If you’re wearing a loose-fitting crop top, pair it with fitted bottoms to create a flattering silhouette.
On the other hand, if you’re wearing a form-fitting crop top, opt for looser-fitting bottoms to balance out the proportions.
So, just as important as choosing the right crop top, having the right bottom half is equally essential. It can make or break your outfit, so take the time to find the perfect pair of bottoms that will complement your crop top.
Wear with High Waist Bottoms
As mentioned earlier, high-waisted bottoms are the perfect pairing for crop tops. They help to create a smooth silhouette and flatter your figure. High-waisted shorts and jeans are great for a casual look, while high-waisted pants can dress up your outfit.
Pencil skirt is also great as a high-waisted bottom option for a more polished and sophisticated look. Just make sure that the length of your crop top is balanced with the length of your high-waisted bottoms to avoid showing too much skin.
Layering with Crop Tops
Layering with crop tops is a great way to wear them with a belly. Not only does layering add a stylish element to your outfit, but it also helps you feel more confident and comfortable. Here are some layering options to try out:
Jackets and Cardigans
Layering a jacket or cardigan over your crop top is a classic way to wear it. Not only does it add an extra layer of warmth, but it also helps to hide your belly.
You can opt for a longline cardigan or a fitted blazer depending on the occasion. A long jacket or trench coat can also be a great option when it comes to spring trend.
Or, you can pair a crop top with a flowy midi skirt and a denim jacket for a casual yet stylish look.
Layering Tops
Wearing a layering top underneath your crop top is another great way to hide your belly. You can opt for a fitted tank top or a loose-fitting blouse depending on the style of your crop top.
A peplum crop top is a great option to pair with a fitted tank top to create a layered look. It also adds some texture and dimension to your outfit.
Palazzo Pants
Palazzo pants are loose-fitting, wide-leg pants that can be paired with crop tops for a comfortable and chic look.
They help to hide your belly while still showing off your figure, creating a flattering look and feel. You can opt for a solid color or a print to add some visual interest to your outfit.
Sweaters
Wearing a sweater over your crop top is a great option for colder weather. It also works for me since I have a big belly and feel self-conscious about showing it. Yet, I still want to wear crop tops, so this is the best way for me to do so.
You can opt for a chunky knit sweater or a fitted sweater depending on the occasion. A turtleneck sweater is also a great option to pair with a high-waisted crop top.
Accessories for Crop Tops
Accessories can elevate any outfit, including crop tops. Here are some accessories to consider
Overalls
Wearing overalls with a crop top is a fun and stylish way to wear them. You can opt for denim overalls or a more dressy option depending on the occasion. Pairing a crop top with overalls creates a layered look that helps to hide your belly.
Outerwear
Wearing outerwear over your crop top is another great way to hide your belly. You can opt for a trench coat or a parka depending on the occasion. A leather jacket is also a great option for a more edgy look.
Layering with crop tops is a great way to wear them with a belly. Whether you opt for a jacket, layering top, sweater, overalls, or outerwear, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Creating an Illusion with Crop Tops
If you’re worried about wearing a crop top because of your belly fat, don’t worry, there are ways to create an illusion of a slimmer waistline. Here are a few tips to help you:
Choose the Right Fit
First of all, it’s important to choose the right fit for your body. Don’t go for a top that is too tight or too cropped, as this will only accentuate any unwanted bulges. Instead, opt for a relaxed fit that is not too tight around your belly.
High-Waisted Bottoms
Pairing your crop top with high-waisted bottoms is a great way to create an illusion of a slimmer waistline. High-waisted bottoms help to cover your belly and give the appearance of a smaller waistline. You can choose from a variety of options such as high-waisted jeans, skirts, or shorts.
Layering
Layering is another great way to create an illusion of a slimmer waistline. You can wear a cropped jacket or cardigan over your crop top to help give you a more polished look. This will also help to cover your belly and give you some extra coverage.
Dark Colors
Wearing dark colors can help to create an illusion of a slimmer waistline. Darker colors tend to have a slimming effect, so opt for black, navy, or other dark colors when choosing your crop top.
A black crop top combined with high-waist jeans can give you a slimming and stylish look. You can also experiment with different patterns and prints in dark colors to add some variety to your outfit.
Stretchy Material
Choosing a crop top made from stretchy material can also help to create an illusion of a slimmer waistline. Stretchy material will hug your curves in all the right places and help to smooth out any unwanted bulges.
By following these tips, you can confidently wear a crop top with a belly and create an illusion of a slimmer waistline. Remember, it’s all about choosing the right fit, high-waisted bottoms, layering, dark colors, and stretchy material.
Boosting Confidence While Wearing Crop Tops
Wearing a crop top with a belly can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right mindset and some practical tips, you can rock a crop top with confidence and feel great while doing it.
Embrace Your Body
The most stylish accessory you can have when wearing a crop top with a belly is confidence. Embrace your body and all its beautiful imperfections. Remember that everyone’s body is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all definition of beauty.
Instead of focusing on what you perceive as flaws, focus on what you love about yourself. When you feel good about yourself, you’ll radiate confidence, and that’s what will make you look and feel great in a crop top.
Choose the Right Fit
When it comes to crop tops, fit is everything. Choose a crop top that flatters your body shape and makes you feel comfortable.
If you have love handles, opt for a high-waisted crop top that will cover them up and accentuate your curves. A flowy crop top can also be a great option if you’re not comfortable showing too much skin.
Pair with High-Waisted Bottoms
Pairing a crop top with high-waisted bottoms is a great way to feel confident while showing off your midriff.
High-waisted jeans or shorts can give you coverage while still allowing you to show off your tummy. Plus, high-waisted bottoms can help smooth out any love handles and create a flattering silhouette.
Experiment with Layers
If you’re not quite ready to go all-in with a crop top, try layering it over a tank top or t-shirt. This can help ease you into the trend and give you some extra coverage if you’re feeling self-conscious.
You can also experiment with different types of layers, like a denim jacket or cardigan, to create a unique look that’s all your own.
Express Yourself
At the end of the day, fashion is all about self-expression. Don’t be afraid to play with different styles and trends to find what works for you.
When you wear what makes you feel good, you’ll radiate confidence and look great in whatever you choose to wear, including crop tops and other trendy pieces.
So go ahead and rock that crop top with pride, knowing that you’re expressing your unique style and feeling confident in the process.
Crop Tops for Different Occasions
Crop tops can be a great addition to your wardrobe, and you actually have plethora of styles to choose from in order to create different looks for different occasions without revealing too much skin.
Even if you are self- conscious about showing off your midriff, the good news is that there are many ways to style crop tops that can flatter your figure and make you feel confident. Here are some ideas for wearing crop tops for different occasions:
Everyday Wear
For a casual look, pair your crop top with high-waisted jeans or shorts. This will help to cover your belly while still showing off your midriff.
You can also wear a crop top with a maxi skirt for a boho vibe. If you’re worried about showing too much skin, you can layer a tank top underneath your crop top for more coverage.
Night Out
If you’re going out for a night on the town, you can wear a crop top with high waisted skirts or pants. This will create a chic and stylish look that’s perfect for a night out.
You can also pair your crop top with a blazer or leather jacket for a more sophisticated look. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different textures and fabrics to create a unique and eye-catching outfit.
If you’re heading to a place with specific dress code, you can still incorporate a crop top by layering it under a dress or jumpsuit. This adds a trendy touch to your outfit while still keeping it appropriate for the occasion.
Revealing
If you’re feeling daring, you can wear a revealing crop top that shows off more skin. However, it’s important to make sure that you feel comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing.
You can pair a revealing crop top with high-waisted pants or a skirt to balance out the look. You can also wear a sheer crop top with a bandeau or bralette underneath for a more subtle reveal.
Fashion Trends
Crop tops are a popular fashion trend that can be worn in many different ways. You can wear a crop top with wide-leg pants for a retro look, or pair it with a denim skirt for a more casual vibe.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors, patterns, and textures to create a unique and personalized look.
Formal Events
Crop tops may not be your go-to choice for formal events, but with the right styling, they can make for an unexpected yet elegant look.
You can pair a crop top with a high-waisted maxi skirt or wide-leg pants for a sophisticated and chic ensemble. Add statement jewelry and heels to elevate the look even further.
Body Positivity
Crop tops can be worn by anyone, regardless of body type or size. It’s all about finding the right fit and styling that makes you feel confident and comfortable.
Remember, there is no one “perfect” body type, and everyone should feel empowered to wear what they want. Don’t let the society’s idea of what is “acceptable” dictate your fashion choices.
Choosing the Right Undergarments for Crop Tops
When it comes to wearing crop tops, choosing the right undergarments is key to feeling confident and comfortable. Here are some tips to help you choose the right undergarments for crop tops:
Invest in a Good Bra
Wearing a well-fitted bra is essential when it comes to wearing crop tops. The right bra will provide you with additional support and keep everything in place.
If you’re wearing a revealing crop top, consider investing in a stick-on bra or nipple covers for a seamless look.
A bra with underwire or padding can help provide the support you need. You can also opt for a bralette or a sports bra if you prefer a more comfortable option.
Consider Shapewear
If you’re not comfortable showing your midriff, consider wearing shapewear. Shapewear can help smooth out any bumps or lumps and give you a more streamlined look. Look for high-waisted shapewear that covers your midsection.
Embrace High-Waisted Bottoms
High-waisted bottoms are a great option when it comes to wearing crop tops. They can help provide coverage and support, and they also help elongate your legs. Look for high-waisted pants, skirts, or shorts that fit well and flatter your figure.
Avoid Visible Panty Lines
When wearing tight-fitting crop tops, visible panty lines can be a problem. To avoid this, opt for seamless underwear or a thong. You can also try wearing shapewear that covers your bottom.
Experiment with Layering
If you’re not comfortable showing too much skin, try layering your crop top over a tank top or a t-shirt. You can also try wearing a sheer crop top over a bralette for a more daring look.
How to Take Care of Your Crop Tops
Made with delicate fabrics and intricate designs, crop tops require special care to make them last. Here are some tips for taking care of your crop tops:
Read the Care Label
Before washing your crop top, always check the care label for instructions on how to wash and dry it properly. This will ensure that you don’t damage the fabric or any embellishments.
Also, pay attention to the fabric type and follow care instructions accordingly. For example, cotton crop tops may require a gentle cycle in cold water, while silk or lace crop tops may need to be hand-washed.
Hand-Wash if Possible
Hand-washing is usually the best option for delicate items like crop tops. Fill a clean sink with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Gently swirl the top in the water and let it soak for a few minutes.
Afterward, rinse the top with cool water until all soap is gone. Then, gently squeeze out excess water and lay it flat to dry on a towel.
Use a Mesh Laundry Bag
If you must machine wash your crop tops, use a mesh laundry bag to protect them from getting caught on other clothes or damaged by the washing machine. Place your crop top in the bag and use a gentle cycle with cold water.
Avoid using fabric softener as it can leave residue on delicate fabrics. Also, avoid putting crop tops in the dryer, as heat can shrink or damage the fabric.
Store Properly
To prevent wrinkles and maintain the shape of your crop tops, it’s important to store them properly.
Hang them on padded hangers or fold them neatly in a drawer, making sure they are not crushed by heavier items.
If your crop top has delicate embellishments, place a piece of tissue paper over them before folding to protect them from snagging or getting damaged.
Spot Clean Stains
If you notice a stain on your crop top, spot clean it immediately to prevent it from setting in. Use a mild detergent and water to gently dab the stain, avoiding rubbing which can damage the fabric.
For tougher stains, consult a professional dry cleaner for advice on how to safely remove them without damaging the crop top.
Refresh with Steam
To refresh your crop tops in between washes, use a steamer to gently remove wrinkles and odors.
Hang the top on a hanger and run the steamer over it, being careful not to get too close to delicate fabrics or embellishments.
You can also hang your crop tops in the bathroom while you take a shower – the steam from the hot water will help refresh them.