Let’s face it – cropped tops are so 2020. If you’ve been working hard for your summer body, or are in dire need of a change from sweatsuits, midriff flossing is the new SS21 trend that you need to get on board with.
What is it exactly? They’re tops, skirts or ensembles with tie fastenings, string details that wrap around the chest, ribs, waist or hips. Scroll down for some inspiration from our favourite summer labels.
Jacquemus
We may not be travelling to the South of France this summer, but we can certainly dress the part. Jacquemus’ SS21 collection is filled of separates and dresses that evoke the carefree spirit of a European summer holiday. How to dress the part? Soft separates in warm weather linens and cozy knits. Stylist’s tip? If you’re bearing your midriff, be sure to add some extra inches to your skirt hemlines. It’s all about the balance.
Dion Lee
We’re lusting over Dion Lee’s SS21 collection in a big way – from the beach-friendly crochet dresses to the low-waist flares with side fastenings (that pay tribute to the early 2000s), there are playful hide-and-seek elements throughout the collection. From ruched midi-dresses, crochet cut-outs and corset-wrapped knit dresses, Lee shows that bearing a midriff can be much more complex than wearing a crop top.
Jonathan Simkhai
A collared shirt dress may sound more boardroom than beach walk, but by adding a subtle cut-out with waist ties and unbuttoning the sleeves, Jonathan Simkhai proves this wardrobe staple can seamlessly work both ways. Add closed-toed shoes and a leather tote for a look that suits Summer Fridays, or wear with a straw hat and sandals for the weekend.
Christopher Esber
Arguably one of the masters of midriff flossing, Australian designer Christopher Esber has been playing with tie fastenings and creative cutouts for seasons. His dresses in both shirting and ribbed knits have become a favourite amongst fashion insiders (don’t miss out on his new line of swimwear too.) A stylist’s tip? His bikini tops and one-pieces that can double up as bodysuits can be easily worn with high-waisted jeans.
Nensi Dojaka
Recent Central Saint Martins graduate, Nensi Dojaka, may be a new designer on the scene, but her creations have been worn by everyone from Bella Hadid and Adwoa Aboah to Emma Louise Corrin. The Albanian designer takes a more layered, early ’90s approach to her creative cut-outs, and we’re loving the spaghetti-strapped cut-out body suits, mini dresses and sheer stockings from her latest collection.
