Celebs try their hand at crop top trend

Crop tops are to fashion what Miley Cyrus is to pop culture: controversial, unavoidable and hands-down the most ubiquitous trend of 2014. I’ve personally endorsed the crop top for a good long while and can’t get enough of ‘em — these itty bitty tops are (surprisingly) the freshest way to flatter your look. But how does one actually wear such a tricky trend? Take a cue from these celebs who’ve mastered the art of cropping it like it’s hot — or not:

Taylor Swift: Do

The songbird’s got a killer body for sure, but the focus here is how Tay worked her crop at a formal affair: by wearing no-fuss tones and minimal jewels, her slender waist and gams take center stage. Day-um.

Nicole Richie: Don’t

If you’re gonna crop that short on top, even it out with a bottom that sits high on your waist. I normally dig Richie’s “don’t care” sensibility, but this overall look feels a little too . . . fleshy.

Mindy Kaling: Do

Fashion’s favorite funny girl works her curves in a serious way: by matching her short-sleeve crop to a high-waisted skirt (the latter is key to nailing this trend), Kaling stylishly flaunts a sexy hint of skin.

Kim Kardashian: Don’t

A prime example of proportion gone wrong: Kim’s curves lose all sensibility in a crop that’s way too boxy for her otherwise petite frame.

Kim Kardashian: Do

Solid proof that you can keep it covered in a crop: there are a lot of good elements at play here, notably Kim’s high-waist skirt, harmoniously styled solid colors, and an ever-so-slightly oversize jacket that keeps Kim’s look on the cool side.

Jennifer Lawrence: Don’t

When bad skirts happen to good people: From the waist up, J. Law’s look is a win, but the droopy waist and middle-of-nowhere hemline on her skirt does nothing for the actress’ figure. A full tea-length skirt — or a high-waist pencil — would’ve turned this into an instant “do.”

Eliza Doolittle: Do

Ms. Doolittle has potential to walk a fine line with her itty bitty leather bra top and cheetah-print slit skirt. But her cozy blanket coat and neutral shoes balance it out — and elevate her look from street to chic.

Selena Gomez: Don’t

Big hair, boxy crop, booty shorts and call-girl boots? Too much, girl. High tops would’ve kicked this sporty look up, like, ten style notches.