Wearing crop tops has been a fashion statement for decades. They're one of the trendiest ways to spice up your look. Whether you have a stack of old shirts or you're feeling creative, cropping a shirt will never disappoint. There are also some outfits that only look fantastic with crop tops!
However, to achieve an excellent outcome, you must be familiar with the proper techniques and tricks for cropping a shirt. Even though it is pretty simple and rarely involves any sewing, one miscut and your beloved shirt might end in a disaster. So follow our guide to discover how to transform your shirt into a crop top!
Table of Contents
How to Choose the Right Size for You
Before you begin the process of converting your shirt into a crop top, you must first determine the appropriate size for you. There are a few things to consider while deciding which crop top size is your ideal size. First, determine the length of your crop top.
Crop tops are often available in various lengths, including one that ends right under your bra line. One that comes up to your belly button and another that stops just above your waistline, revealing barely an inch of skin.
The one you choose solely depends on your personal preferences. The next step is to find a good fit. What will you pair with your crop top? Usually, fitted tops go well with loose skirts or jeans.
Once again, it all comes down to personal likings. Lastly, select a size that makes you feel the most comfortable and gorgeous!
If you wish to take precise measurements, watch this video.
Turn an Old Shirt Into A Crop Top
Before you jump to the steps, first decide which shirt you're fine with cutting up. You can choose a loose-fitted if you're planning to add ties later on or a tight stretchy shirt if you want to have a perfect fit.
Step #1: Mark the Length
Now, put the shirt on and play around with different lengths until you're satisfied with one. Ideally, the crop tops lie a couple of inches above the belly button. However, you can go with a long or short length if you like.
Once you decide on a length, grab a pen or chalk and mark it, so you have an understanding of where you want to cut the shirt. For a safety measure, add a few inches to your desired length in case of any cutting errors.
Step #2: Use A Pair of Scissors to Cut the Shirt
Next, take off the shirt and lay it flat on the flat and hard surface, preferably a tabletop. Get rid of any folds. Then, grab a pair of scissors and cut across the line you marked earlier. If you want to secure a shirt through a knot, create two triangles in the front. Make sure not to cut it all the way to the top.
Step #3: Cut Out the Collar
Since regular crop tops are usually without the collar, here's how to cut it out from your shirt. Lay down the shirt flat on a surface and get rid of all the wrinkles in the fabric. Use scissors to cut around 1.5 inches of the collar from its hem to remove it. You can always cut more material if you want a lower neckline.
Step #4: Cut Off the Sleeves
If you want to go for a sleeveless crop top, cut off the sleeves on your shirt along the inside of shoulder seams, and you're done.
Wear the shirt once again to check for fitting and make further changes if needed.
How to Crop A Shirt Without Cutting
If you have a shirt you don't want to ruin by cutting, we've got you covered. This method will tell you how to convert it into a crop shirt without using scissors. Here's what you need to do:
- To start, put on your shirt.
- Then, gather the hem of your shirt like you hold a bouquet.
- Finally, make a regular knot.
- For a back knot, follow the same steps, then tuck the knot under your shirt to hide it.
Make A Crop Top Out of A Button-up Shirt
If you have an old button-up shirt lying around, now is the best way to put it to use by converting it into a crop top. The only thing you'll need for this method is a button-front shirt and a pair of scissors. Whether your shirt is made from cotton or polyester, you may easily crop it to the desired size.
Follow the steps below to carry out this method:
Step #1: Determine the Length You Want to Cut
To start, put on your button-up shirt and stand in front of a mirror. This first step is to choose how much you want to remove from your shirt in order to turn it into a crop top. It's all about personal preference, and how much you want to remove should be based on your level of comfort.
Make a mark on your shirt using a marker or a pen once you've decided the length you want to remove.
Step #2: Measure the Length From the Bottom to the Marked Point
Place your button-up shirt on a flat surface. Remove any creases that may lead to incorrect measurement. Using a measuring tape, measure the distance between the bottom of your shirt and the marked point.
Then, flip your shirt over so that the backside is now on top. Mark the inches you determined from the front of your shirt using a measuring tape. Then, draw a line across the width of your shirt's back.
Step #3: Cut the Shirt Into Your Desired Length
Get a pair of scissors and begin cutting your shirt following the line you established on the backside of your button-up shirt. Make sure to allow an additional inch while cutting in case you make a mistake.
Turn the shirt over so that the back is on the flat surface and the front is facing you. From each side, cut along the same line, leaving 2-3 inches from the center.
Step #4: Cut Diagonal Lines Towards the Bottom of Your Shirt
Begin cutting from the 2-3 inch mark where you left off in the previous step for this final step. Cut two diagonal lines from either side of your shirt to the bottom. You may use this additional piece to tie your crop top.
Step #5: Cut Off the Sleeves (Optional)
This is an extra step if you wish to go for a sleeveless crop top. Simply cut out the sleeves of your button-up shirt along the seams, and you're done!
Different Ways to Style A Crop Top
The best part about crop tops is that they suit every body type. Another plus of this garment is that you have the freedom to style it however you want. With so many options listed below, choose the one that you think you'll rock the most!
Casual
If you want to achieve a casual chic look with your crop top, choose one that is solid, patterned, or artsy and drapes loosely around your waist. You may wear this crop top with high-waisted shorts for a beachy appearance or with jeans. Wear a pair of casual sandals to complete the outfit!
Another option is to wear an overall over the top with the sides unbuttoned, exposing your torso's sides. Also, in milder weather, pair a sweater crop top with jeans and add an extra layer of coat if it's extremely cold. Match it with sneakers, and you're good to go.
Professional
To obtain a professional look while wearing crop tops, choose a style that is appropriate in workplaces. Go for a loose-fitting crop top with a design that enhances your workplace style, such as ties or collar necks. Pair it up with high-waisted trousers and pencil skirts.
Furthermore, try to show as little skin as possible to keep it suitable for an office. You may even accessorize it with light accessories and high heels for the ultimate professional appearance! In addition, for cold weather, pair your attire with a blazer or coat.
Sporty
If you're a person who participates in sports activities, you must know the importance of sportswear. Crop tops are considered to be a perfect outfit for workout sessions. They are highly comfortable to wear and can create flaunting gym looks.
You may style your crop top with gym shorts, leggings, or sweatpants. A neon top looks particularly good for working out as it creates an edgy look. Wear it with a pair of joggers and a headband, and you'll get the perfect gym look!
Party
Crop tops can also be worn as a party outfit or for classy events. Depending on the crop top and bottom you choose to wear, you can wear your outfit in various elegant styles. You may choose from the several party appearances mentioned below.
The first is the matching printed top and bottom combination, ideal for gatherings and even dancing. However, matching is crucial since even a minor variation between the two pieces of clothing may completely ruin your entire style.
Then there's the tie front crop top, which has a more traditional design yet is quite fashionable. Pair a short tight crop top with a long loose skirt, a mid-length skirt, or a pair of loose jeans, and you're ready to go! You may complete your ideal party style with heels or wedges and accessories such as necklaces!
You can also click here to visually understand the different ways you can style a crop top.
Conclusion
Recycling old shirts and turning them into crop tops is a wonderful way to add new styles to your fashionable wardrobe. You can continue to wear your favorite shirt by cropping it following the methods given in this guide. Not only is this approach economic, but it's also a creative way to transform your shirt instead of discarding it.
So, what are you waiting for? Get yourself a pair of scissors and an old shirt, and start cutting!
Ask Me Anything