My MO with crop tops, which I wear on the regular, has always been to hide my midriff. In fact, the practice is so common that I was actually surprised to learn that the technique behind it isn’t quite common knowledge. So, after polling the office and learning that not everyone is fluent in how to pull off the tiny top without baring it all, I figured it was time to share my easy trick.
While shorter tops and bra-inspired styles are great and all, if you’re less into the idea of showing a ton of stomach, all you need to do is choose tops that are still short, but on the slightly longer end of the crop-top spectrum, and pair them with high-waisted bottoms. (Fun fact: I can be seen doing this here, here, and here).
Nonetheless, whether that means trousers, jeans, paper-bag pants, or anything else is up to you. Simply choose a rise that is high enough on your body to meet your top where it ends, or close to it. My trick for this when shopping online is to compare the rise listed on the product’s page to a pair of pants I already own and know the fit of. That way, I can guess around how high or low they will sit on my waist.
So, if you’re ready to crop-top it up everywhere and anywhere, continue on to shop some of my favorite longer versions, plus the best high-rise bottoms to pair them with.
I can vouch for how easy this top is to wear.Available in sizes 34 to 42.
These high-waisted jeans can totally pass as trousers.Available in sizes 24 to 36.
A take on spring’s Western trend that feels so fresh.Available in sizes 0 to 14.
You could style these with any top you own.Available in sizes 10 to 22.
If you don’t opt for the matching skirt, we suggest some colorful pants.Available in sizes 2 to 8.
These belted trousers are already a hit in WWW HQ.Available in sizes XS to XXL.
This color will look good with jeans and any neutral pants.Available in sizes XS to L.
Enter neutral pants.Available in sizes 2 to 12.
This versatile wrap top can go dressy or casual depending on what bottoms you choose.Available in sizes 0 to 14.
I’d suggest a top on the tighter side to tuck into these paper-bag-style pants.Available in sizes XS to XL.
This top plus the shorts you’re about to see next form my ideal summer weekend outfit.Available in sizes XS to L.
Are you seeing it?Available in sizes 14 to 24.
Love a good lettuce edge.Available in sizes 1X to 3X.
Ultra high means these will let you cover your whole stomach with most tops.Available in sizes 23 to 31.
Puff sleeves are having a moment right now, and this top hits on the trend perfectly.Available in sizes P to L.
I am obsessed with these super-high-waisted pants.Available in sizes 0 to 10.
Once you see this top in action, you’ll have to have it.Available in sizes 0 to 14.
Printed pants will make all your outfits so much cooler.Available in sizes 0 to 10.
Want more easy wardrobe solutions? Check out our guide to nailing your airport outfit every time.