It’s official: the crop top is back. And this time it’s not just for tees and tanks. Chic, polished crops are gracing the pages of fashion mags and have won over the front-row fashion crowd. This time it’s all about crops with high-waisted pencil skirts or wide-leg pants. A classic silhouette on the bottom tones down the bold top and reveals just a hint of skin.

As with any big trend, getting the look right is about balance. When trying something more daring, keep the rest of the look simple. Mixing trends on trends on trends rarely works out to your advantage, and it pays to find the right pieces.

When I came across this faux-leather crop at a boutique in my neighborhood, I knew it was the one that would lead my journey into the intimidating bare-midriff territory. While it took a while to find the right skirt to pair it with, this color-blocked black and white pencil style eventually made its way into my life (via a Zara blowout sale – go now!) and the final outcome makes it clear that it was worth the wait.

What do you think of my cropped look? Are you willing to give it a try?

Top: Olivaceous. Skirt: Zara. Sunglasses: Gucci. Bag: Zara. Shoes: Alexander Wang.