Deborah Baic / The Globe and Mail
Not since the Spice Girls endorsed girl power with their special combination of high kicks and toned abs have crop tops had as big a resurgence as they do right now. While bare midriffs were on display all over spring's runways, though, you don't need to flash skin to sport the trend. Here's how to rock it at work, with an added bit of news that you'll really, really want: no sit-ups necessary.
1. Unless your workplace is a gym, stick to the everyday working girl's trick of crafty layering. A crisp button-down shirt with plenty of coverage in a solid shade serves as the perfect pairing for a potentially racy crop top. (Even if you have the abs of a personal trainer, it's a no-brainer to keep them out of sight in the boardroom.)
2. Pick a boxy, tailored top, as at Preen's spring/summer presentation, where short, boxy tees were paired with matching tailored trousers. Pair your structured top with a soft blouse for a modern – and covered-up – rendition.
3. Add further polish to the look with well-cut trousers in wool or cotton (skip Sporty Spice's track pants) and a sleek pair of pumps to amp up the professional attitude. After all, isn't that what girl power is about now anyway?