how to wear a crop top tastefully

See that, up there? That is my unabashed hope that when people google, "how to wear a crop top tastefully," they end up here.

Because if that's what you're googling, you're my kind of people.

Truthfully, I like the crop top. Depending on the time of the day/month/year, I have a decent stomach, and I don't mind showing it off... a little. Because the line between a cute, on-trend crop top and a complete fashion disaster is... easy to cross. When I was a silly naive college kid, I basically wore them once a week... now I look back at my old photos and wish I could remind my little teenager self to bring a sweater. :-)

So here are a few of my tips for embracing this trend in a way that you won't regret a few years down the line:

Do Not Bare (Too Much) Skin

If you're going to take away one piece of advice, let it be this: crop tops and low-rise jeans together are almost uniformly sleazy looking. If you're going to be wearing a top that shows your stomach, stick to high-waisted skirts and pants. You want to show a hint of skin -- not your whole body!

Cover Your Legs

When you're wearing a crop top, go for a full leg -- no miniskirts or short-shorts! A full, flowy maxi skirt takes this look into boho, and that's exactly what you want. Sleek, high-waisted pants could make it a little more urban and polished, but either way, people are looking at your outfit, not your body.

Bring a Jacket

Seriously! No matter how great you feel putting on that top in the first place, there will be a point in the day or night when you want a little more coverage. Grab a cute jean jacket (I'm obsessed with this one from Koral) or a cardigan, and you won't end up worrying about your outfit all night!

So there you have it -- what's your crop-top advice? I really do love them, but they're definitely a challenge! Fortunately, when it's so hot in Texas, nobody really bats an eye at anything that keeps you cool. So maybe that's the solution -- move to Texas!

Gifted Koral denim jacket, Sabo Skirt crop top, gifted Chaps skirt (on sale now for $26!), gifted Alex and Ani bracelets.