Halter tops – From scandalous to stylish

Halter tops have come a long way since they first caused a fashion sensation in the 1960s, when many viewed the look as something scandalous. Today, top fashion houses are featuring halter tops in their couture lines, with clever and stylish reinterpretations, and today’s versatile bras make wearing a halter top easier than ever.

Available in a variety of fabrics, flattering for just about any figure, the halter top is fast becoming a wardrobe staple.

(Click on any Top to view price, sizing and colors.)

Wrap-around Sophistication

Yves Saint Laurent’s Spring 2012 collection presented shimmering halters tucked into slim, cropped trousers, for a casually sophisticated look.

The collection’s palette was a hit, with richer jeweled tones than have been seen this year. The deep teal, rich purple, slate gray and intense navy colors look great in any season, and are sure to dominate fashion for some time.

Designer Stefano Pilate wrapped the halters across the chest and around the neck, a look that pairs well with a blazer, making a halter top into attire that works well for the office, with neck detail that is flattering to women of all ages.

Stylish scarves

Massimiliano Giornetti, creative director for Salvatore Ferragamo, was inspired to include halters in his collection after spotting Jerry Hall, the American model most known for her long-term relationship with Mick Jagger, wearing a scarf as a makeshift halter top. Giornetti’s tops are made from bright, animal print scarves.

Celebrity Chic

A number of celebrities are sporting black halters. It’s a sophisticated look that draws attention to the shoulders. Kim Kardashian looked stunning in a blousy black halter top, tucked into a nude colored skirt. The bare shoulders flattered her long, sultry locks. Eva Longoria wore her black silk halter top over shiny trousers.

Nicole Kidman wowed onlookers with a sheer, gold jewel-encrusted halter top at the Mission Impossible premier earlier this year, proving that a halter top is sometimes all that is needed to make a fashion statement.

Even Her Royal Highness, the Duchess of Cambridge, turned heads when she wore a green, sequined halter top at a fundraising event with a roller disco theme. Kate paired the top with yellow shorts.

Halter tops can be low and plunging, or feminine and prim, making them a comfortable and chic option for almost any occasion. When wearing halter tops, accessories should be kept simple. A strong handbag or bracelet is all that is needed to complete the look.