Crop tops exemplify fashion resilience. Case in point: They majorly worked in the 1980s, then they disappeared for a while. But now, the crop top is back in business. When the sea of crop tops initially reappeared, we wondered: isn’t it too revealing to show so much skin? We felt slightly aghast, a little shy, but all the while: curious. Could we pull off this trend, too?

But, during its time on the sidelines, crop tops evolved in a major way. They laid their former aerobics ties to rest and grew up to become a chic fashion staple. Here are a few ways that may sway you to the cropped side—or if you’re already here, convince you to stay.

• Get High-Waisted

Since the hem of your top is cut short, add height to the waist of your bottoms so only a coy glimpse of skin is on display.

• Opt For A Bright Midi

A voluminous midi in a vivid color steals attention away from the crop top and any visible skin.

• Take Baby Steps

If you’d rather stay on the more modest end of crop tops, look for one made of a thicker, sweater material and/or one with a slightly longer length.

• Get Loose

Crop tops don’t need to be skintight! One with a baggier fit might decrease any crop top induced nervousness.

• Be Business-Ready In A Blazer

Add some contemporary edge to a typical work outfit by wearing a crop top with your blazer. When you wear a crop top with high-waisted, tailored pants, you’ll be the most fashion-forward person in the office.

• Make It Flirty In A Maxi Skirt

A fun, patterned maxi skirt is a must-have for this spring and summer. Paired with a solid-colored crop top, it’s an easy look to dress up or down.

• Add A Statement Necklace

Adding a statement necklace to a crop top makes the look stylish and effortless. A statement necklace instantly glams up a look; it’s an easy way to take a crop top from day to night. It can be worn with a shirt with a high neckline or even with a simple cropped tank for some more dimension.

• Wear It With High-Waisted Shorts

High-waisted shorts are one of the easiest looks for spring and summer. When you pair high-waisted shorts with a crop top, you’ll be both music-festival- and beach-ready. Denim shorts are a classic look, but you could also try a printed pair that’s perfect for warm weather.

• Flaunt It In A Peplum Pant

Peplum pants are a unique fashion choice that not many collegiate may have in their closet. However, these pants are a super-chic style that’s perfect for a summer cocktail party or a nice dinner. The peplum adds some shape to the look and breaks up the top and bottom of the outfit.

• With Your Favorite Boyfriend Jeans

Looking for a way to amp up your favorite slouchy denim look? Wear it with a cropped chiffon blouse that ties in the front so you have control over how much midriff you show. It’s a comfortable, relaxed look that’s still feminine and put-together.

• Be Chic In Palazzo Pants

Palazzo pants are comfortable, flowy and versatile, and they’re complemented amazingly by a crop top. Try a bustier top to take the chic pants to a new level.

• Throw It On Over A Dress

Throw a loose, cropped tank over a bodycon dress. The contrast between the loose top and the tight dress underneath can have a super slimming effect. This look is also great for those who want to wear a bodycon dress but feel uncomfortable in something so tight.

• Pair It With A Pencil Skirt

You might think your pencil skirt should only be reserved for the office, but think again! A patterned pencil skirt that hits at the knees and above the belly button can be a super chic look when paired with a crop top. Because you’ll be covered up below the waist, you can wear a riskier crop top, perhaps with some daring cutouts.

• Toss On A Vest

Try throwing on a vest over your favorite crop top this spring. Adding a denim vest over a bustier top or tank crop top is an easy way to jazz up your outfit.

• Layer It

Crop tops are great for layering, and one of the best looks is under a sheer top. A sheer top and a crop top can be daring choices on their own, but when put together, they create a more conservative and tasteful look.

• Glam It Up

When done right, crop tops can even be formal attire! A gorgeous metallic top or an elegant black top can be sophisticated enough for a nice date or formal event. When you accessorize with the right jewelry, you’ll be ready for a night out.

How do you plan on rocking a crop top this spring and summer? Let us know in the comments below!