Top of the crops

The crop top is a love/hate item for most women. Wear it right and it can be oh so chic. Wear it after that three course meal and the bloat is real. Now the weather is (finally!) returning to normality, the sight of Spring - and indeed Summer - is less dream than reality. And that means it's well and truly time to dig out those mid-driff skimming tops. Hurrah.

When it comes to crop tops, there's no one way to style them. These are my favourite options.

Look 1: Classic crop top + high-waisted skirt.

Quite possibly the easiest way to style a crop top. Just find a skirt that'll do the trick. If out for a classy or formal evening, opt for a longer skirt. Pleated versions or the A-line skirt (which made a comeback last year) work nicely. Otherwise, a shorter skirt presents a more relaxed look, perfect for day outings.

Look 2: With 'mom' jeans. 

A bit more chilled. A crop top worn with wider mom jeans looks effortlessly stylish - and is incredibly easy to do too. Pair with chunky belt and oversized shades for major Jessica Alba just nipped to the supermarket vibes.

Look 3: Go quirky with trousers.

And patterned trousers at that. The top just acts as a complimentary piece during this look, so keep it plain and simple. Choose bold printed trousers and let them do the talking. [Click here for some flared options] Feeling more brave? Choose matching crop top/trouser for a high-fashion catwalk look.

Look 4: Under dungarees. 

This is a wonderful way of styling the crop top, because it exposes your torso only from the side allowing a subtle flash of skin. Think denim dungarees worn with a Breton top underneath. Picnic outfit, sorted. Just match with flat pumps or espadrilles for cute, girl-next-door style.

All images, Pinterest