5 Chic Looks That Prove This Y2K Top Deserves a Place In Your Wardrobe

No top says "summer" like a crop top. The midriff-baring silhouette is designed to show off an extra few inches of sun-kissed skin, especially if you opt for 2023's ultra-cropped version. Typically, tees and blouses cut above your belly button feel quite youthful, but the secret to making this shrunken shape more polished is all in the styling.

This year in particular, there are plenty of "grown-up" iterations out there that will seamlessly slot into your wardrobe of smart tailoring and expensive-looking staples. Expect simple linen designs and silky camisoles that cast this '90s icon in a whole new light. Of course, there's also the option to lean into the nostalgia and put together a fun throwback look—each crop top lends itself to a whole range of outfit ideas.

But to get you started, I've assembled five easy-to-copy ensembles. If you haven't yet jumped on the tiny top train, perhaps the below looks will convince you.

1. Cropped Shirt + Denim Skirt + Summer Accessories

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(Image credit: Who What Wear UK)

Style Notes: For a lunch meeting or shopping date in the city, I'd toss on this shirt-and-skirt combination. The collar detail and tan accents work in tandem to make the cropped silhouette feel sophisticated.

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2. Bustier Top + Blazer + Silk Skirt

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(Image credit: Who What Wear UK)

Style Notes: Arranged a fancy date and don't know what to wear? A blazer and slip skirt is a classic pairing. Let a pretty strapless top peek out from underneath, finishing the look with elegant evening accessories.

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3. Breton Top + Denim Shorts + Fisherman Sandals

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(Image credit: Who What Wear UK)

Style Notes: On a balmy summer's day, let the sun hit your legs in a pair of high-waisted bermuda shorts that show off just a thin line of midriff. Elevate the simple formula with gold-toned jewellery and a neck scarf.

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4. Strappy Top + Cargo Trousers + Trainers

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(Image credit: Who What Wear UK)

Style Notes: Step back to the noughties by teaming your crop top with low-slung cargo trousers. Complete the outfit with casual accessories, such as retro sneakers and a logo-adorned baseball cap.

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5. Silk Top + Tailored Trousers + Elevated Accessories

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(Image credit: Who What Wear UK)

Style Notes: Personally, I'd wear this look to a low-key wedding. The crop top's silky fabric and the sparkly earrings make it feel dressy, but you'll be comfortable enough to dance all night in the block heels and wide-leg trousers.

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Next Up: The Anti-Jeans Outfits French Girls Are Wearing This Summer

Freelance Fashion Editor

Bébhinn Campbell is an Edinburgh-based fashion and lifestyle writer and editor. She started her first blog at age 14 and went on to intern at print and digital publications in Berlin and London, including Dazed & Confused and Indie magazine.

A job at a fashion startup took Bébhinn from Ireland to Scotland in 2019, where she now works as a freelance journalist and copywriter covering everything from travel and interiors to styling advice. As a contributor to Who What Wear, Bébhinn always keeps her eyes peeled for emerging trends and looks worth writing about. She prides herself on her ability to cut through the noise and identify solid investment buys, exciting new brands and fresh takes on classic design.

In her spare time, Bébhinn enjoys perusing Edinburgh’s best vintage shops, working through her out-of-control book collection and watching dog reels on Instagram.