Pink Flamingo Skirt and a Ruffled Crop Top

White Ruffled Crop Top ($43, similar for $31 if out of stock!) | Pink Flamingo Midi Skirt | White Valentino Heels | Prada Bag (loving these here and here) | White Sunglasses | Lipstick in ‘Raspberry’

I know people hear “crop top” and immediately think “oh I could never wear that”. However, crop tops are one of my favorite articles of clothing. They can be incredibly flattering if worn right. With the ability to draw the eye to your waist in a slimming way, it’s one of my go to tricks. If you’re reading this and your reaction is total disbelief, read on for my tips on how to make this style work for you!

Every body type is different. I’ll be the first one to admit that. But there are some undeniable cuts that work on almost everyone. The wrap dress and the crop top are two of those IMO.

The key to finding a flattering crop top is that it covers you top two ribs (at least). Like this one. The more, the merrier here. This isn’t Coachella. And we don’t want it short enough so that people question your line of work. Make sure it goes below your bra line! Keep it conservative! If you’re on the curvy side, make sure it hits you at your true waist.

I personally stick to crop tops that are fitted at the bottom. I have broad shoulders and a narrower waist so this works for my figure. Disclaimer: my waist wasn’t like that until I started Pure Barre a few years ago. However, I own a few loose, ruffled crops too that also work. They’re just few and far between. If you’re lean or athletic, you’re welcome to them all.

My next tip is to only show an inch or two of skin. That inch should be at the base of your rib cage. That means, high waists are going to be your best friend. I always stick to the high waisted skirt to hide my wide hips. However, high waisted jeans are also totally okay if you have a favorite pair. The high waist holds everything in, enabling you to sit down, eat a feast, and do whatever else while still feeling comfortable. Amen!

If you haven’t done your crunches yet or aren’t as confident in your midsection, create the illusion that you are. The fit and flare skirt is going to be your new best friend. Don’t go too dramatic with the flare though unless you don’t have any curves at all. This flamingo midi skirt is about as flared as I would go since I’m curvy on the bottom. The width at the hem makes my waist look smaller in comparison. Lastly, if you’re on the curvy side, try a pencil skirt and layer a long vest over it. This will create a slimming effect. I wore this combo to our rehearsal dinner before our wedding! Just minus the vest because it was summer in wine country.

All in all, a crop top with a modest cut is the key to working this summer style. Less is more, they always say. In this scenario, they couldn’t be more accurate! Plus, crop tops made the list of the 5 date night outfits he really wants you to wear.

Will you be rocking a crop top this summer?

And now for the giveaway! I’m teaming up with some of my favorite ladies to giveaway a $500 shopping spree to Target. I was actually shopping online the other day and thought I’d share what I picked out (in the widget below). I really love this windowpane dress for the office as well as this bold pleated skirt.

a Rafflecopter giveaway