Wearing crop tops might seem like a modern trend, but this midriff-baring garment has a history that traces hundreds of years back. Before it even reached the Western fashion scene, it was already a staple in the East, where climates are typically hotter or more humid.
Later on, crop tops were adopted into European and American fashion for the summer season. In the late 1990s, crop tops’ popularity skyrocketed as famous artists and celebrities started donning them regularly. Today, classic crop tops, such asYellowberry’s crop tops, have become a wardrobe essential everywhere for girls of all ages.
The History of Crop Tops
Here’s a brief timeline of how crop tops became a closet staple:
Ancient Cultures
In various ancient cultures, the crop top was a commonly-worn garment. People in the East would wear shorter tops to stay cool in warmer climates.
For example, in India, the traditionalsari ensemble is often worn with a crop top underneath called acholi. It was also used in some Western traditions, like in Greece, where locals would wearchitons, or draped garments that left the midsection bare.
Late 1800s
In the late 1800s, the crop top generated interest among Westerners through belly dancers’ two-piece costumes that showed the midriff for performances. The crop top debuted at the World’s Fair in Chicago in 1893, introducing the concept of the short top to the Americas. Still, it was generally considered improper and went against a culture with a more conservative dress code.
1940s
In the 1940s, crop tops finally gained popularity in the West. Fashion designers took on the style as a response to rationing fabric in World War II.
Crop tops became common in swimwear and casual wear, which people opted for when going to the beach. They eventually became regular outerwear, characterized by short sleeves and high collars. These were often paired with high-waisted midi-skirts for classier looks.
1960s
Crop tops continued to hit mainstream popularity in the 1960s during the feminist movement. The style was symbolic of women embracing their freedom and expressing their individuality through more rebellious and playful clothing. Celebrities started wearing them often, cementing the trend.
Late 1900s
The 1980s and 1990s were the golden age of crop tops and belly shirts. They became a mainstream fashion trend as pop culture icons like Britney Spears, Madonna, and The Spice Girls often wore them in their performances. During this time, crop tops were typically worn with high-waisted jeans, skirts, or leggings.
Early 2000s
The crop top persisted until the early 2000s, but its popularity dropped compared to the previous years. Still, fashion designers experimented with variations in different lengths, styles, and fabrics.
2010s
The 2010s marked the ultimatecomeback of crop tops. In this decade, these tops took on various forms and were seen on both the runway and in street fashion.
Today
Nowadays, crop tops have become a staple in every girl’s wardrobe. They are versatile and work for multiple occasions–whether it’s a beach day, a sports activity, or even a formal event.
Crop Tops for Girls
As your daughter explores her sense of style, she might want to wear crop tops. Get your budding fashionista started by checking out Yellowberry’s new collection of crop tops for girls today!