How to Wear a Crop Top For Your Body Shape

The secret to rocking a crop top (yes, anyone can do it!)

Crop tops are all the rage, but truth be told, the belly-baring trend can be flat-out intimidating. But we’re here to let you in on a little secret: anyone—anyone—can pull off the look, and we’ve got celebrity examples to prove it. The key is finding the right silhouette for your body shape and pairing it with its better half. Are you tall in stature? Follow Naomi Harris's lead and pair a white bustier top with a pleated high-waisted skirt to shorten a long torso. If that’s too much skin exposure for your taste, cover up with an extra-long blazer to balance proportions.

Just remember: The goal is to sexily flash a teensy sliver of skin. Too much midriff can quickly spiral into scandalous (read: unflattering) territory. Essentially, that means high-waisted pants or skirts are your crop top’s BFF.


IF YOU'RE TALL...
Selecting a bustier (or in Naomi Harris' case, a bandeau) may seem counter-intuitive, but teaming it with a flared knee-length skirt can actually shorten the torso. Throw on an extra-long blazer to bring it all together and lessen too much skin exposure.

SHOP THE LOOK:
Shop the look below:
Bustier: Tibi, $225; tibi.com
Skirt: DVF, $398; dvf.com
Blazer: Zara, $139; zara.com
Necklace: BaubleBar, $42; baublebar.com
Heels: Carvela Kurt Geiger, $155; kurtgeiger.com


IF YOU'RE PETITE...
Elongate your frame by committing to the same print all over, like Rachel Bilson. Also remember to find a fitted top—anything looser can easily overwhelm.

SHOP THE LOOK:
Top: Trina Turk, $198; neimanmarcus.com
Skirt: Trina Turk, $278; neimanmarcus.com
Heels: Aldo, $110


 IF YOU'RE CURVY...
Aim for structured pieces—they tend to graze as opposed to cling to every curve. While Mindy Kaling took the glam route with emerald embellished separates, brighten up for spring with a citron hue and a playful print. Pair your top with a skirt that flares out from the waist to instantly whittle an hourglass silhouette.

SHOP THE LOOK:Top: Carven, $278; farfetch.com
Skirt: Carven, $550; shoplesnouvelles.com
Peep-toes: Faith, $95; asos.com



IF YOU'RE ATHLETIC...
Find a midriff-baring top and a flirty pleated full skirt that, worn together, reveal a sliver of skin, which can help create curves and carve out a waist. Case in point: Zoe Saldana in her dusty green separates.

SHOP THE LOOK:
Top: Alice and Olivia, $176; aliceandolivia.com
Skirt: Alice and Olivia, $1,120; aliceandolivia.com
Heels: Banana Republic, $128

Travel-Ready Clothing and Accessory Picks

Arrive at your next destination in style with smart picks made for the (airport) runway.

Boden Crinkle Holiday Skirt

Go ahead and cram this playful skirt into your suitcase. Because of its ultra-lightweight printed fabric and already-rumpled texture, you won't have to bother with an iron once you reach your destination. Also available in yellow and in tall sizes.



                To buy: $68, bodenusa.com

Zara Shiny Leather High Heel Sandal

Not only will these strappy heels go with color or print you pack, but they also have the power to elevate even the most laid-back of sundresses.

               To buy: $90, zara.com

Garnet Hill Lace Sheath Dress

Eyelet is another fabric that packs well. And this summery sheath can easily chill out on a beach vacation but then look polished back at the office with a colorful cardigan. Available in three other colors and in petite sizes.

                  To buy: $138, garnethill.com

Loren Hope Carina Necklace

This neutral sparkler takes up little space in your luggage, yet it provides all the embellishment you'll need, whether you want to add pizzazz to a dressy skirt or a striped T-shirt and jeans.

              To buy: $165, shoptheloupe.com

C.Wonder Dot Print Stretch Sateen Skinny Ankle Pant

Whether you're headed out for a low-key dinner or an outdoor shindig, these statement-making pants require little more than a simple tee and ballet flats to achieve a sophisticated yet casual vibe. Also available in navy.

                To buy: $98, cwonder.com

Hi There From Karen Walker Marmara Peplum Blouse

Marrying the easygoing appeal of a tee and a sassy peplum blouse, this fun top is ideal for instantly jazzing up skinny jeans or topping streamlined linen trousers. Also available in petite sizes.

      To buy: $98, anthropologie.com

Deux Lux Sullivan Clutch

Tuck this pretty straw clutch into your beach tote to use as a wallet during the day. At night, wear it as a cross-body purse to add a bit of glamour to a relaxed maxi dress.

          To buy: $120, deuxlux.com

Loeffler Randall Starla

Comfort meets style in these standout flat sandals. The wraparound leather ties with gold star accents lend a touch of whimsy to an otherwise basic outfit. Wear with anything from midi skirts to shorts.

    To buy: $175, saksfifthavenue.com

Mar Y Sol Caracas Sisal Basket Tote

Great for transporting picnic and beach essentials alike, this adorable carryall features an open top for easy access as well as for stowing bulkier items. (Backgammon, anyone?)

            To buy: $115, piperlime.com

what to wear to work tomorrow...

Feeling bored by your office wardrobe these days? Here's a simple but unbelievable chic look you can put together using pieces from your closet or a few key buys from high street retailers.










This outfit combines bright white with pops of black and white for a stunning effect that's still totally 9-to-5 appropriate.








SHOP THE LOOK FOR $100 AND UNDER


oversized shirt
The cool-factor of this outfit is partially achieved by the slightly oversized white shirt--a key buy for your spring wardrobe that you'll wear again and again. Look for a style in linen for that not-too-stiff, effortlessly chic look.

                                                                Mango, $50




proper undergarments
Spring whites in the workplace (or anywhere, for that matter) call for the right undergarments. Jockey's Skimmies Slipshorts give you the smooth look and modesty-factor of shapewear or constricting. Genius, I know!

                                                                         Jockey, $20




pencil skirt
Fit is super-important with a pencil skirt; especially when you're dealing with white fabric. Look for one that fits at the waist but isn't skin-tight elsewhere. If off-the-rack options don't do your curves justice, size up and take it straight to a tailor.

                                                                    TopShop, $84




gold lariat
A super-long gold necklace adds a glam, '70s feel to your look without coming on too strong. Tuck this simple chain inside your shirt for an even simpler effect or add a gold bangle if your office is more casual and encourages fashion-forward looks.

                                                               Baublebar, $36




lace-up sandals
The casual, raffia-like material of these super-sexy lace-up sandals brings them right into daytime and adds a bit of style and substance to this minimalist outfit. Pair with a fresh pedicure in nude, violet or Bordeaux for a gorgeous look.

                                                                    Zara, $100




nude lipstick
Dark lipstick could take this office outfit to an inappropriate place; keep makeup elegant and minimal instead. Think: expensive-looking nude lipstick, flawless skin and light smoky shadow in a neutral color.

                                                              Tom Ford, $49




animal print clutch
To make a fabulous clutch work for daytime, opt for an oversized, structured shape. If this fun little add-on feels too fancy or isn't practical for your office, swap it with a tote in an equally eye-catching black and white print.

                                                             BCBG, $88

A CHIC WAY TO STYLE A PRINTED JACKET

I'll show you how to tackle this tricky trend

Investing in a printed outerwear option may not seem like the most convenient way to splurge--unless you know how to work it! Today, I'm showing you how to style this tricky trend in an off-duty fashion plus give you hope that owning an eye-catching jacket like J.Crew's edgy number will result in not just one, but a handful of potential (not to mention chic) outfit ideas.

THE JACKET
J.Crew's printed jacket is one to invest in if you're looking for a chic statement piece you can incorporate into any outfit. I adore its studded detailing and dreamy color combo--can you say 'need now'?                             
 
                 J.Crew Floral-Print Jacket, $300






























LUXE MUSCLE TEE
A great basic goes a long way, which is why I'm pining for this ultra-soft, luxe muscle tee.
          T by Alexander Wang Muscle Tee, $89






































PUNCHY PUCKER
Dress up a jeans-and-tee look by rocking a bold lip color. To complement this chic and easy outfit, I highly suggest Bobbi Brown's neon shade.



Bobbi Brown Lipstick in Neon Pink, $25


































DISTRESSED DENIM
Dress down the eye-catching nature of a printed jacket with a pair of distressed skinny jeans.

                                                         MIH Jeans Skinny Jeans, $264
















BUCKET BAG

I adore a gray hued handbag, it will literally match with everything.
 
                                            Vince Camuto Drawstring Bag, $248

SPRING STATEMENT NECKLACES

Gear up for warm weather weddings, spring family gatherings and chic daytime outings with an eye-catching statement necklace! All priced at under $250 and able to take a basic blouse or snoozy tee to the next level, these standout stunners are a no-brainer buy for nailing sophisticated style on a budget.

                                                                                                       Persian Leaves Necklace

                                                                                      J.Crew , $125

                                                                                       (Favorite!!)

Crystal Statement Necklace

                           Adia Kibur, $90

Ball and Chain Necklace

Mango, $80

Floral Statement Necklace

                             BCBG, $218

Frieda Necklace

Stella and Dot, $128

Betty Necklace

                     Banana Republic, $70









                                                                                                      Pave Pod Collar Necklace

                                                                                                 Rachel Zoe, $ 195

             Encrusted Statement Necklace

                         River Island, $53

Gemstone Drama Necklace



Juicy Couture, $128

What to wear to your next family gathering

With Easter less than a week away and the recent start of Passover, it's only natural for you to begin brainstorming the perfect outfit to wear to an upcoming family get-together. Stress less; whether you're frantic to a find chicly classic ensemble to meet the folks in or are stumped on what to wear to Sunday brunch, I have three outfits that are sure to get you through your next holiday celebration (or quality time spent with the fam) as glam as ever.

SUNDAY BRUNCH

If a chic family brunch is in your future, I recommend embracing warmer days with a lightweight day dress (think pretty florals or lace), a colorful statement necklace and a neutral cardigan or denim jacket to keep you covered up if the temperature drops.

To assure your accessories are family-friendly, be sure to keep your handbag and additional add-ons on the understated side when dealing with an eye-catching statement necklace like this gorgeous one from Erickson Beamon.

Aviator-Style Sunglasses, Miu Miu, $340

Vintage Denim Jacket in Recycled Indigo Wash, J.Crew, $128

Girls on Film Necklace, Erickson Beamon, $1300

Lace Shift Dress, Reiss, $370

Metal Fram Clutch Bag, ASOS, $34

FORMAL DINNER

While reservations at a chic restaurant makes for a perfect excuse to dust off your LBD, you may want to reconsider shorter hemlines when getting dressed for a family affair. Maintain feminity without showing too much skin by testing out a longer silhouette that won't sacrifice your figure.

I adore Rachel Zoe's one shoulder maxi gown for a glam night out with your loved ones. It's conservative enough to be worn everywhere (weddings, date nights, you name it!) yet pretty enough to turn heads.

Gloss Fusion Lipstick, Dolce & Gabbana, $36

Pierre One Shoulder Dress, Rachel Zoe, $325

Gold-Plated Bracelet, Kenneth Jay Lane, $85

Julia Clutch, Vince Camuto, $148

Strappy Aztec Cage Sandals, Alexandre Birman, $650

MEET THE PARENTS

Breathe! When meeting the parents for the first time, an on-point presentation by way of your ensemble isn't as stressful as it might seem. For this family-oriented occasion, I'm recommending bright white or dark denim (leave your distressed jeans at home), a prettily printed blouse with a higher neck and hemline and understated accessories. Dressing to impress has never been easier.

Keep your makeup to a minimum when meeting the parents. I'm complementing the spring florals on Zara's bright blouse with a lightly color-kissed check and a faint wash of eyeshadow.

Printed Blouse, Zara, $70

Solitaire Necklace, Shashi, $55

Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush in Captivating, Tarte, $26

Spotless Skinny Ankle Jeans, Joe's Jeans, $179

Lydia T-Strap Sandals, B Brian Atwood, $350



7 Days of Cute, Cozy, and Oh-So-Sexy Lingerie

Take on a week's worth of adventures--whether you may find yourself beachside or in the boudoir--with these bras and panties that will make you feel put together from the inside out.

THE WEEKEND GETAWAY
Dare to bare your shoulders (and perhaps channel your inner Brigitte Bardot) on that sunny seaside vacation. Layer a revealing silhouette over this strapless corset that provides all the support you need through your rib cage.

Marni Cropped Denim Top, $330
Carven Green Printed Poplin Skirt, $450, avenue32.com
Cosabella Merriweather Bra, $125
Fluer of England Lemon Cello High Waisted Shortie, $86
Andy Wolf Blue Fake Friends Sunglasses, $355, avenue32.com
J.Crew Stone Burst Necklace, $165
Joie a la Plage la Celle Sandals, $135






THE DAY AT THE OFFICE
Make your coworkers notice you not your panty lines by wearing smooth and seamless options that remain invisible under almost any 9-to-5 look.

Elizabeth and James Tierney Sheer Hem Blouse, $295
Freda Camilla Slim-Leg Tailored Trousers, $350
Bodas Smooth Tactel Thongs, $48
7 for All Mankind 728 Eyeglasses, $148
Fallon Pearl Palm Cuff, $175, fallonjewery.com
Burberyy Prorsum Big Crush Ponyhair Tote, $1,857
Tory Burch Asher PAtent Stud-Buckle Pump, $350






THE SPIN CLASS
You don't want everything to be on the move while you're exercising. This performance bra and hipster hold you together in all the right places, and wick away moisture to keep you looking cool even when you're feeling the burn.

Adidas by Stella McCartney Since 2005 Performance Tank, $65
Athleta Relay Capri, $69
Under Armour Get Set Go Bra, $44.99
R-Gear Undercover seamless Stripe Hipster, $17.99
Giero Reila Cycling Shoe, $99.99
Lucy Power double Strap Headband, $10






THE GALA DINNER
Think you could never pull off a satin column dress? Pick up some shape wear and think again.

Tibi Serpentine wrap-Effect Satin Gown, $495
Fashion Forms Stretch-Lace Self-Adhesive Backless Strapless Bra, $45net-a-porter.com
Mondaine Lana High0Waisted Shaping Briefs, $79, net-a-porter.com
Kenneth Jay Lane Oversized Hammered Cuff Bracelet, $150, shopbop.com
Alexander McQueen Floral Print Skull Zip Pouch, $270
Schultz Floralite Pumps, $200, shopbop.com






THE AFTERNOON WITH FRIENDS
You're letting loose, and your lingerie should, too. Unbotton your borrowed-from-the-boys flannel shirt just enough to afford a peek at this super feminine lace bra let in a playful bright hue.

Uniqlo Flannel Check Long Sleeve Shirt, $29.90, uniqlo.com
Current/Elliott The Slouchy Stiletto Mid-Rise Skinny Jeans, $208
Cheek Frills Neon Bralett and Knicker Set, $45, avenue32.com
Bing Bang Wishbone Necklace, $78
Alexander Wang Rockie Bag, $875
Saint Laurent Palm-Print Slip-On, $395






THE DATE NIGHT
This lacy and racy pairing is designed to stay on--at least for as long as you want it to.

Alice + Olivia Dany LAce-Trimmed Silk Crepe Dress, $400, net-a-porter.com
I.D. Sarrieri Margaux Underwire Half Padded Balconette Bra, $222, shop.sarrieri.com
I.D. Sarrieri Margaux Retro Brief, $161, shop.sarrieri.com
Jennifer Fisher SMall Talon Sword Earrings, $325
Jerome Dreyfuss Ponyhair Popoche Pouch, $525, barneys.com
Barneys New York High Back Sandal, $395






THE LAZY DAY IN
What's better than an afternoon spent relaxing? An afternoon spent relaxing in loungewear that is this soft, comfy, and chic.

Capitol Couture by Trish Summerville Love Stretch-Jersey T-Shirt, $75, net-a-porter.com
James Perse Genier Cotton French Terry Track Pants, $125, net-a-porter.com
Eberjey Maritime Stripes Bralet, $48, journelle.com
Eberjey Maritime Stripes Hipster, $42, journelle.com
Corgi for J.crew Cashmere Bordeaux Heart Socks, $98