We’re Calling It: This Is the Summer of the Halter-Top Revival

After a long year of limited social life, getting dressed to go out might seem a little daunting. Not sure what to wear on a date? To a bar? A club? Remember those? With the return of nightlife, you’ll certainly need something fabulous to wear. And if crop tops feel too revealing and you’re not quite ready to jump straight into a tight minidress, consider something a bit more subtle that still feels dressed up for an evening out. Perhaps the halter top?

Unlike a tummy-baring crop top, a halter silhouette feels like an elegant step up, as well as being rather flattering. With its shoulder-revealing cut, the top, of course, isn’t extremely modest, but it’s all about balance; the garment conceals the décolletage, so it all seems to even out, and it makes for a grown-up take on the going-out top.

When it comes to the halter top, there are a few styles from which to choose. There are relaxed and low-hanging cowl necks, high halter vests, or more simple versions with back-tie closures. For a fun twist, consider a top with exactly that—twisted straps that show a little extra skin while still feeling elevated. Plus, the top can be worn with any of your favorite bottoms, be it a pair of shorts, vintage jeans, or mini- or maxiskirts.

If you’re still not convinced, take styling cues from the spring 2021 and most recent resort collections, where designers delivered many elevated takes on the shoulder-baring style. Altuzarra’s open-back pleated tops went well with a low ponytail and statement pearl drops, accentuating the high neck and open back. Rejina Pyo paired a lime green halter with a khaki midiskirt and added summery accessories like flat slide sandals and a netted bag for the ultimate laid-back vacation look. For evening-ready attire, look to Ulla Johnson’s resort 2022 collection, where models dressed in monochrome ensembles with cheeky cutout halters and billowing skirts. And Wales Bonner’s spring 2022 collection featured cool knit halter-top-and-skirt co-ords in a colorful chevron stripe.