Skip to content
A Simple Guide to Different Types of Crop Tops & How to Wear Them
When it comes to fashion, crop tops have become a staple in many wardrobes, making their way into every season's trend list. Whether you're looking for a casual summer outfit or a formal evening look, crop tops offer versatility and style. With so many different types of crop tops to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.
In this blog post, we've compiled a detailed guide to the different types of crop tops available, from classic designed to trendy designs. So, whether you're a regular or a newbie to the trend, keep reading to discover the best types of crop tops that will elevate your wardrobe.
Different Types of Crop Tops That I Love
1. Tank Crop Tops
Tank top crop tops are a great option when you want to dress casual but still look cute. I opt for a tank crop top on days where I am running errands or just heading to a work out session. If you are something who loves to show off their arms and shoulders, then tank tops are perfect for you!
2. Off-The-Shoulder Crop Tops
Off-the-shoulder crop tops are a great option for more formal outings like a dinner date or brunch. They’re also a great way to show off your collarbones in a feminine and classy way while staying warm and comfortable.
3. Crochet/Knit Crop tops
A staple crop top for the summer time. Crochet crop tops are usually the main event of the outfit, so pair it with a neutral pair of linen pants or shorts to really highlight the crochet detailing!
4. Mock Neck Crop Top
Mock neck crop tops have that elevated look without feeling like a full-on turtleneck. It’s kind of like the cooler, more wearable version. I love throwing it on with high-waisted jeans or pants, and it layers really well under a blazer in the fall or winter. Honestly, if there’s any crop top you could get away with at work or a business event, it’s this one.
5. One Shoulder Crop Top
One-shoulder crop tops are such a fun way to switch things up. They show just the right amount of skin without trying too hard and instantly make any outfit feel a little more elevated. I love them for going out or even a cute dinner. They look so good with high-waisted silk trousers or a denim maxi skirt. It's one of those pieces that makes you feel put together with not much effort.
6. Baby Tee Crop Top
I love a cropped baby tee because it gives off that “who is she” vibe. A lot of celebrities love this style too because it’s flattering on pretty much any body type, has that chic athleisure feel, and pairs well with almost anything. Leggings, baggy jeans, shorts, even a skirt. You can dress it up or down, which is why this is probably my favorite type of crop top on the list!
7. Tie-Front/Knot Crop Top
Tie front/knot crop tops is a cropped short with a tie detail in the front. This is perfect for the summer time while you're by the beach or lake. It can be styles casually with a pair of denim shorts and sandals or formally with high waisted wide leg jeans and slingback heels.
8. Strapless Crop Top (Tube Top)
A strapless crop top, also known as a tube top, is a top that is sleeveless and has a body-con fit to it. This is probably my second favorite on this list because I love showing my arms and collarbones. They are a great option for the summer time, but also can be worn in the colder months if styled correctly. During the summer I like to pair it with silk pants and strappy sandals and during the colder months, I would add a silk blazer with booties!
9. Deep V-Neck Crop Top
For my girlies who want to accentuate their chest more, a deep v-neck style would be perfect. It features a low, plunging neckline (v-shape) cropped right above the belly button. This one from Amazon has great reviews and is affordable.
10. Long Sleeve Crop Top
Long sleeve crop tops are perfect for colder weather. You can go for a fitted one (which is my fave) or something a bit looser. Either way, you’ll stay comfy and look chic. Plus, they’re a great choice if you’re not into showing your arms!
11. Seamless/Bralette Crop Top
A seamless or bralette crop top is super soft and comfy with no bulky seams, making it feel like you’re barely wearing anything. It’s perfect for layering or wearing on its own when you want to just lounge around at your house or a friends house. Skims has some great options!
12. Halter Crop Top
A halter crop top ties or fastens around your neck, leaving your shoulders mostly bare, which gives off a very feminine look. I love styling it with high-waisted jeans or a flowy skirt for summer days or nights out. It’s perfect when you want something a little different that still feels easy and cool. I also love pairing my halter top with statement earrings to complete the look!
13. Peplum Crop Top
A peplum crop top has that little flare at the waist that adds a cute, girly touch. This is a great option for someone who likes to hide their hips. I like pairing it with skinny jeans or tailored pants to balance out the volume. It’s great when you want to look polished but still look young and hip.
What is a Crop Top?
A crop top is any top that ends above your belly button or hits right at your waist, showing a bit of skin. It's one of those pieces that can be super casual or totally dressed up depending on the style and material. There are so many different kinds of crop tops out there like one shoulder, seamless or bralette styles, peplum, mock neck, tank, baby tees, halter tops, and long sleeve versions. I love how easy they are to wear and how they go with everything from high-waisted jeans to skirts to trousers. If I had to pick favorites, I’d say the halter top and the cropped baby tee are the ones I reach for the most. They’re both flattering and just feel cool without trying too hard. If you’re wondering about crop top meaning, it’s basically any top that ends above your belly button or right at your waist and shows a little skin.
The Difference Between a Tank Top Vs. Crop Top
A tank top is typically a sleeveless shirt that hits around the hips or waist and can be worn on its own or layered. A crop top is any style of top that’s cut shorter to show some of your stomach or sit right at your waist. The main difference is just the length. But a tank top can totally be cropped too, and when it is, it basically becomes a cropped tank top (mentioned above) which is one of my favorite go-to basics.
most popular crop tops brands that I love
There are so many brands that sell crop tops, but these ones below are some of my favorite go-to retailers I buy from. Ranging from affordable to more high end designer crop tops, there are options for everyone!
how to style a crop top?
If you're ever wondering what to wear crop tops with there are so many different ways depending on the vibe you’re going for. For something casual, I’ll throw on a baby tee with high-waisted jeans or leggings. I'll usually pair it with a pair of athletic sneakers like New Balances or my APL's.
If I want more of a fancy look, I’ll go for a halter or one-shoulder crop top with tailored trousers. Long sleeve crop tops are great when it’s colder out, and I love pairing them with loose denim or a silk long skirt. And if I’m feeling like being more feminine and looking for a crop top that isn't too short I will opt for a peplum top with a mini skirt or linen pants.
Honestly, the options are endless, you can dress them up or down, mix and match with different bottoms, and layer as needed!
FAQs
what is a long crop top called?
A long crop top is just a crop top that hits a little lower, usually around your natural waist. It still gives that cropped feel without showing too much skin. I like this style when I want a more relaxed or modest look but still want to keep things cute.
what do you call a crop top without sleeves?
A crop top without sleeves is usually just called a sleeveless crop top or sometimes a tank crop top (which i mentioned above), depending on the neckline and strap style. It's one of the most common types especially for the warmer months.
what is a midriff top?
A midriff top is a shirt that shows the area around your stomach, usually just above the waist. It’s similar to a crop top but can sometimes be a little longer or looser while still letting you show some skin. Great if you are someone who does not love to show their stomach as much but still wanted to participate in the crop top game.
What is the top without shoulder straps called?
A top without shoulder straps is called a strapless top or a tube top (mentioned above). This is great for dressier occasions or a cute summer beach look.
Are there crop tops that only cover your chest?
Yes, there are crop tops that only cover your chest. They are called bandeau tops or tube tops. They’re usually strapless and show a lot of skin, making them perfect for warm weather or layering underneath a white linen top for the spring.
Crop tops are versatile and trendy clothing items that have become a staple in the fashion industry. From the classic tank top style to the more modern off-the-shoulder and halter-neck designs, there is a crop top for every occasion and body type. It really depends on what you personally like on your body and how it's going to make you feel. If you're not a fan of vibrant prints or colors, go for some of the neutral colored crop tops that you saw above. If you love vibrant and fun colors, then you can go for a graphic cool crop top. The beauty of crop tops, is that there is something for everyone due to the vast variety of options. So whether you're going for a casual brunch or a night out with friends, incorporate a crop top in your outfit. With this guide to different types of crop tops, we're you'll find the perfect one.
Related Articles
Meet the author
Kaylin Malek Khorsandi
Hi, I'm Kaylin! I focus on finding high-quality items at reasonable prices, saving you the time and effort. Each product shared has been extensively researched and reviewed to ensure you are always given the best of the best. Happy shopping! 💓
This was a really insightful post. Looking forward to more content like this!
https://thelittletrunk.com/collections/tops
Leave a comment