A belly top is a crop top: a top cut short enough to show some or all of the midriff. Lengths range from a micro crop that sits just under the bust to a subtle crop that grazes the top of high-waisted jeans and only shows skin when you move. The secret to wearing one well, at any age or size, is pairing the crop length with the rise of your bottoms. High-waisted trousers, skirts and jeans let you show as much or as little as you like. This guide explains the types of crop top, what to wear with them, and how to style belly tops through the colder months too.
Shop all crop tops.
Quick Picks: The Best Crop Tops at Fashionfitz
- Best brown crop top: Brown Ribbed Long Sleeve Crop Top, £18.99. 92% polyester and 8% elastane rib in coffee, sizes S–XL.
- Best knit crop top: Pink Contrast Trim Knit Crop Top, £24.98. 55% acrylic and 45% cotton.
- Best going-out crop: Bubble Hem U-Neck Long Sleeve Crop Top, £26.94. A white viscose blend.
- Best colour pop: Colourblock Knit Crop Top, £29.99. 100% viscose in grapefruit orange.
- Best under £10: Heart Print Mesh Crop Top with Lettuce Trim, £9.99.
- Best crop top set: Rose Floral Crop Tee & Shorts Lounge Set, £25.99.
Crop Top Lengths Explained
- Micro crop: ends just below the bust. Bold, and best with high-waisted bottoms for balance.
- Classic crop: ends a few inches above the belly button. The standard belly top.
- Subtle or high-hip crop: ends at the belly button or just above. With high-waisted jeans it shows little or no skin until you move. This is the easiest place to start.
- Boxy crop: short but wide, so it skims rather than clings.
- Cropped knit or cardigan: a jumper or cardigan cut to the waist, ideal for colder months. Try the Khaki Buttoned Cropped Cardigan (£41.11) or the Pink Stripe Crochet Cropped Cardigan (£26.99).
What to Wear with a Crop Top
High-waisted jeans
The classic pairing. A high rise means even a short crop shows only a sliver of skin. Wide-leg and straight jeans balance the shorter top. See our best jeans for women guide.
Matching skirt or shorts
A crop top co-ord looks deliberate and polished. Try the Cropped Top Drawstring Skirt Set (£42.99) or the Mineral Wash Crop Tank & Split Skirt Set (£45.99). More in our two piece dresses guide.
Wide-leg trousers
A fitted crop with high-waisted wide-leg trousers is the most elegant way to wear one, and works for summer evenings and events.
Under a blazer or shirt
An open blazer or oversized shirt covers most of the midriff and frames the crop. It's ideal if you're unsure about showing skin.
Leggings and joggers
For athleisure, a ribbed crop with high-waisted leggings or joggers. See our activewear sets guide.
How to Wear Crop Tops in Autumn and Winter
- Long sleeves: a long-sleeve rib like the brown crop top keeps your arms warm.
- Cropped knits: a cropped jumper over a high-waisted skirt with tights and boots.
- Layer under coats: a crop top under a long open coat or a puffer vest.
- Layer over a dress: a cropped knit over a slip or shirt dress turns it into a skirt look.
- Party season: the Bubble Hem Crop Top with a satin skirt and heels.
Crop Tops for Every Age and Body
Crop tops aren't only for one age or body type. It's about choosing the right length and pairing:
- Not sure about showing skin? Choose a subtle crop with high-waisted bottoms, or layer an open shirt or blazer over the top.
- Curves and plus size: boxy or ribbed crops in mid-weight fabrics, with high-rise bottoms that sit at the natural waist. A matching set creates one smooth line. See our plus size style guide.
- Petite: crop tops are a petite favourite because they lengthen the leg. Keep bottoms high-rise.
- Tall or long torso: a crop that would be subtle on others may sit higher on you. Choose a subtle or high-hip crop with high-waisted bottoms.
- Fuller bust: choose a crop with structure, such as wider straps, long sleeves or a thicker knit, and wear it with a supportive bra.
Graphic, Ribbed and Knit Crop Tops
- Graphic crop tops: a casual, playful look. Pair with jeans and trainers.
- Ribbed crop tops: stretchy and figure-skimming, a wardrobe basic in neutrals like brown, black and cream.
- Knit crop tops: softer and more textured, great for spring, autumn and layering. Try the Flag Print Cropped Knit Sweater (£29.91).
- Mesh and sheer crop tops: layer them over a bralette or cami, like the Sheer Checkered Crop Tank (£11.57).
How to Care for Crop Tops
- Wash at 30°C, inside out. Ribbed and knit crops keep their shape better when dried flat.
- Don't tumble dry stretch fabrics, because heat shrinks length, which matters on a crop.
Quick Questions
What is a belly top?
A belly top is another name for a crop top: a short top that shows some or all of the midriff.
What do you wear with a crop top?
High-waisted jeans, trousers, skirts or shorts. A matching set or an open blazer or shirt also works well.
Can you wear a crop top over 30, 40 or 50?
Yes. Choose a subtle crop with high-waisted bottoms, or layer with a blazer or open shirt. It's about proportion, not age.
How do you wear a crop top in winter?
Choose long sleeves or a cropped knit, and pair it with high-waisted trousers or a skirt with tights, plus a long coat or gilet.
Are crop tops flattering for curvy women?
Yes. Boxy or ribbed crops with high-rise bottoms that sit at the waist are especially flattering.
Shop Crop Tops at Fashionfitz
Find your perfect length in our crop tops collection, or browse more women's tops.
