ICYMI: The ‘90s are having a major moment, so if you’re still hung up on mid-century style essentials (and we totally don’t blame you — cropped flares and crochet pieces? We’re there), it’s time to fast forward a few decades and embrace the pre-Y2K era with open arms (and closets). That means ushering in summer with a halter top (or two) in tow. The iconic throwback style has come a long way over the last few decades — with its clean lines and minimalist vibe, the halter has gotten a bit more sophisticated. Translation? The wear-anywhere factor is so there. This week’s Style Resolutions is zeroing in on a tried-and-true topper, unveiling its desk-to-dinner potential. Keep scrolling for three new ways to rock one now.
How to Wear a Halter Top at Work
With a little bit of clever styling, you can rock previously risqué pieces on the job, nearly doubling your work-week wardrobe without spending a single cent. Take the halter, for example — the back- and shoulder-baring top isn’t likely to earn you any brownie points with HR, but pair it with a structured sleeveless jacket and it instantly feels polished and professional. Easy, right? Play with proportion for a high-fashion feel by balancing out the streamlined top with wide-leg culottes that promise to breathe new life into your on-the-job attire. Bright printed pumps add texture and dimension to the look as well as a fresh pop of color, while a metallic choker is all about those girl boss vibes. For a serious dose of down-to-business ‘tude, paint your lips a commanding shade of red and toss all your everyday essentials in a studded structured tote that isn’t messing around.
Mango Halter Neck Top ($46) + Warehouse Split Side Wide Leg Culottes ($80), Topshop Belted Sleeveless Jacket ($95), J.Crew Elsie Pumps ($298), Urban Outfitters Forever Choker Necklace ($34), Charles & Keith Stud Detail Oversized Tote ($89), Smashbox Always on Matte Lipstick in Thrill Seeker ($24)
How to Wear a Halter Top for a Night Out
When you’re tired of your LBD routine, shake things up with an OMG-worthy skirt and blouse combo. Tuck your airy halter top into a sequin-studded mini skirt that is 100% dance floor-ready, then proceed to pull out all the stops with swingy chandelier earrings that catch and sparkle in the light. Turn the glam factor all the way up to 11 by sliding into a pair of gilded lace-up block heels and getting your shine on with a glitzy mani — the dance floor is your stage, after all. Keep the essentials (cards, keys and phone) tucked away in a modern croco clutch in a vibrant hue, and complete the look with the ultimate glam goddess topper — a ladylike lace caftan. Gorgeous, dahling.
Mango Halter Neck Top ($46) + Opening Ceremony Sequin Circle Skirt ($594), Mango Lace Trims Caftan ($50), Yazi Croco Clutch ($221), Zara Pineapple and Palm Tree Earrings ($20), Jinsoon Nail Polish in Gala ($20), Vicenza Beatriz Heels ($158)
How to Wear a Halter Top for the Weekend
Come Friday, your inner lazy girl is ready to reveal herself, so bust out the good ol’ uniform of t-shirts, sneakers and jeans — with a few slight changes in the lineup, that is. Instead of your signature band tee and boyfriend jeans, up the ante on your off-the-clock style with fringed cropped denim and a swingy halter top with major day-to-night potential. Leave the leather jacket at home and hit the ground running with a sunny suede jacket any It-girl would swoon hard for (bonus points for cheeky pins). Step into a pair of fresh dino kicks (seriously!) that can easily be swapped out for strappy block heels after sunset. Impromptu picnics in the park and trips to the farmers’ market call for a roomy straw tote with plenty of panache, and this pom-flecked stunner won’t disappoint. Before heading out the door, pop on a single statement stud for just the right amount of bling, and round mirrored sunnies for a subtle note of ’70s flair.
Mango Halter Neck Top ($46) + New Revival Denim Fringe Jeans ($114), Topshop Boutique Suede Harrington Jacket ($370), ASOS Dixie Lace Up Sneakers ($30), Urban Outfitters Famous Metal Round Sunglasses ($18), Margova Jewelry Just Hanging One ($168), Anthropologie Pomaria Tote ($118)
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