We can’t scroll for two minutes on Instagram without seeing an outfit that brings all the nostalgia feels. Y2K fashion—including everything from mini skirts to body chains and coloured sunglasses—are back, but one trend that’s huge within this revival is "nice” tops. If you remember getting a call (on your home phone) from a friend asking what you’re going to wear for a night out and replying with "just jeans and a nice top”, then this is definitely a throwback for you. If not, Y2K trends may feel super fresh for summer 2022. Either way, it’s time to appreciate the easy styling credentials these tops have. And one that’s proving more popular as the temperatures rise is backless or open-back iterations.
Be it a halter neck, a one-shoulder or a puff sleeve style just like fashion influencer Lucy Williams in her Peony co-ord (above) it doesn’t matter as long as you’re flashing your back. We know what you’re thinking, what about a bra? There are so many underwear solutions out there now that, depending on the top style, you may be able to still wear a backless bra. Even if it’s just a stick-on. If not, embrace going braless because these tops are seriously worth it. Whether you style with jeans like the good old days, tailored trousers or a matching year 2000 mini skirt, here are 21 backless tops to try out this summer.
For the minimalists.
Naturally we want the matching linen trousers, too.
Yep, more casual versions do exist.
Imagine this with a pink silky slip skirt.
The halter neck is another style that's making us feel nostalgic.
No doubt you'll want to pair this with loose-fit jeans.
You should still be able to wear a bra with this one.
St.Agni is a cool brand to bookmark.
This would be so good on holiday.
Wear just like this, with white jeans and neutral heels.
Crochet everything gets a firm yes this season.
You'll have to be quick to get this one in the sale.
Because we all know pink is the colour of the year.
You'll want to wear this chain detail style for every night out.
This party-at-the-back top comes in so many colours.
You'll wear this one all year round.
You'll be ticking off two trends in one with this one-shoulder version.
Wear this one with high-waisted wide-leg trousers.
The summer way to wear the knit top.
Scarf tops work so well with denim.
This one is actually a bodysuit, but it's too pretty not to include.
Next up, the 2000s fashion trends everyone will wear this year
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