Halter Tops

For some reason halter tops can do things that other necklines just can’t. They open up your shoulders completely, make a crisp line across the collarbone, and turn going backless from an accident into a choice. They’re some of the easiest things to throw on but also happen to look effortlessly styled, which is a rare combo that you shouldn’t take for granted. We’ve been choosy about what we add to this list because we feel like the halter category is broader than most people realize. They range from sleek and minimal cuts that look great under a blazer and paired with wide leg trousers for dinner, to floppy, bohemian styles that are perfect for a beach bar or rooftop in July. There are ones with actual boning that fall into structured “occasion wear” territory, that you grab when you want to feel like you’re wearing a dress but don’t want to commit to the dress. We’ve included all of those because honestly they solve totally different problems and we feel like they all have value. Fit is crucial with halter tops in ways that it just isn’t with other staples like crewnecks or T shirts. The tie at your neck has to stay put without feeling constrictive. The back has to lie flat. The front needs enough structure to smooth over whatever you have going on underneath without needing its own complicated bra situation. We’ve been ruthless about this when going through options. If a halter top rides up, gapes at the chest, or otherwise doesn’t fit like it should we just haven’t included it. We don’t want to make anyone’s day harder. You’ll find things in this list that have the perfect fabrics to drape but move with you at the same time. Pieces that look great whether you’re tall or short, busty or flat. Halter tops that can go from a night out to weekends with minimal swaps. Some will obviously become your basic that you wear ten different ways. Some will be the only thing you wear for that one special night out. Either way is good. When it’s done right the halter top is one of the most flattering silhouettes for summer dressing. These are done right.