As I write this, the day’s weather forecast includes a high of 29 degrees and my instantaneous thought is: What am I going to wear in the heat? Dressing for warm temperatures in London, of course, is easier said than done. For me, the easiest thing to do when needing outfit inspo is to take to the shops. Every year around this time, I make my annual summer purchase of a single chic top option that can be worn over and over through the current season and beyond. Once fueled by sales and frivolous purchases, the older I get, the smarter my buys have become. I aim to buy less and buy better, and am always on the lookout for a trendy yet timeless piece that will work hard for me. This year, one style continues to draw my attention: the halterneck.
Finding the perfect piece for the stereotypical jeans-and-a-nice-top outfit (or leather shorts and a nice top as Bella Hadid stylishly proves) is a dilemma that probably everyone has faced. But, both celebrities and fashion people alike have made their decision and keep turning to the halterneck top again and again. With a Parisian elegance, the halterneck top has re-emerged as a wardrobe staple whilst simultaneously maintaining its party girl, Y2K roots.
In 2025, we’ve seen many Y2K styles come to the forefront once again. Think Bermuda shorts or the Micro-skirt, think chunky thong sandals and low-rise jeans. But halterneck tops are arguably one of the most popular trend to date. I know, a massive statement to make, but at this point, there's not a day that goes by where I don’t spot it worn by a stylish person on my Instagram, a celeb at some sort of sparkling event, or on the streets, both at home in London and abroad.
Paris Hilton wears a diamante halter neck top and matching skirt at the 2008 American Music Awards.
So what is it that makes the halterneck top so popular? The design is simple—sleeveless, with an open-back silhouette—but its impact is simply sublime. From its glitzy glam noughties era—a time you can't think about without thinking of Paris Hilton and her multiple outfits, for her 21st birthday parties—to its evolution into a refined basic like a halter vest, the halterneck top is one silhouette that has consistently stood the test of time. Re-entering the fashion scene in the autumn/ winter 2023 season, the shape was revitalised with fresh, contemporary twists, such as a thick neck white strap and jewelled bodice at Chanel, to a fuchsia ribbed iteration with a knot front detail at Simkhai. These tops are perfect for any summer capsule wardrobe, as they’re made for sipping a drink at the pub, wearing when out and about on holiday on the Amalfi Coast, or just running some errands at the weekend (yes, a halterneck top can look casual!)
As for creating the perfect halterneck top outfit, I’ve looked to the experts. Unsurprisingly, fashion people are creating flawless summer looks, all with a halterneck top at the forefront. Keep scrolling to see the halterneck looks I'm going to recreate this summer.
See the 6 Halterneck Top Outfits I’m Recreating This Summer:
1. Halterneck Top + Genie Trousers + Crochet Mules
Style Notes: I’ll be in the crochet mood for the rest of the summer after seeing just how effortlessly chic Jeanette Madsen looks in this halter! The addition of genie trousers creates a light and breezy vibe that's perfect for a getaway, but this outfit works just as hard at home, too. For an elevated take on the look, pair your crochet with a crisp poplin skirt, a sandal and a blazer.
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With a thicker crochet, this is perfect to wear both at home and abroad.
These are a trouser you’ll wear again and again when away.
Featuring intricate lace broderie and a square toe, this mule elevates every warm-weather outfit.
2. Halterneck Top + Jeans + Pointed Toe Heels
Style Notes: After seeing Amy Lefevre in this halterneck top and jeans combo, I was instantly sold. By pairing her halter with a slouchy low-waisted jean and a sharp pointed toe, she creates a lo-fi, throw-on-and-go vibe that’s exactly what I’m after for cooler days—and it’s a look I’m already itching to recreate. I probably won’t look quite as cool, but I’ll be giving it my best shot.
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As much as I would love to wear Amy’s cross-over halter, with a large bust, that’s pretty much impossible. I would choose something like this top from Reformation, which has the same cool vibe whilst being slightly more covered.
Agolde produces jeans that I wear again and again.
With a respectable heel, you’ll get so much wear out of these slingbacks.
If you're yet to dip your toe in the teardrop earring trend, this expensive looking pair £6. The perfect price to dive in.
3. Halterneck Top + Maxi Skirt + T-bar Heels
Style Notes: I’ve been a fan of Ilirida Krasniqi's style for a good few years, so the moment I saw her dabble in the halterneck trend, I knew it was a look I’d need to recreate immediately. With an elevated, minimalistic colour palette, she oozes elegance. Best of all, the outfit is made up of pieces you'd likely already have in your summer capsule wardrobe, an added bonus.
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Simply sublime.
Will a white tailored maxi ever be out of style?
Our news editor, Natalie Monroe wore these the other day and I am obsessed!
I'm a big fan of a ring stack. An this one from By Pariah is one of the best to date. Made from natural Botswana agate and diamonds, if you're looking for a signature investment piece this is hard to beat.
4. Halterneck Top + Tailored Skirt + Colour-blocked Heels
Style Notes: When I need to pull together a look that fits the business casual brief, I’ll be recreating Emily Nitta’s outfit in a heartbeat. Channelling a touch of 90s dandyism through a form-fitting pinstripe midi, paired with a relaxed halterneck and a colour-blocked heel, this look has a cool edge that deserves to be studied.
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I love the fit of this bodysuit.
This has gone straight into my basket.
Two-tone heels can be hard to style, but this pair from Miu Miu couldn't be easier. In warm weather, pair with Bermuda shorts and in cold weather, style with tailored trousers.
For my next investment purchase, I have been eyeing these sunglasses from Bottega Veneta. Their sculptural sardine shape is refreshingly unique, with a classic oval face. I know I'll wear them again and again.
5. Halterneck Top + Mini Skirt + Strappy Sandals
Style Notes: The easiest way to wear a halterneck is abroad. In warmer weather, my motto is the fewer clothes the better, but in the chicest way possible. Sabrina Socol proves just that and more. By pairing a simple halter with a playful skirt and sandals, she creates an outfit that’s as weather-appropriate as it is fun. This is definitely a look I’ll be taking inspo from on my next trip away.
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This is available in 8 shades.
When recreating this outfit, this is the type of mini I would go for.
I’d opt for a respectable block heel especially when wearing heels away.
6. Halterneck Set + Metal-detail Sandals.
Style Notes: For me, a matching set is the easiest way to beat the heat while staying stylish, andBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing US fashion editor Anna Laplaca does it flawlessly. By pairing her top with a coordinating skirt, she creates a look that’s as elevated as it is on trend, perfect for strolling through the city or sipping wine in the South of France.
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How chic!
This has gone straight into my basket.
I’ve seen so many fashion people in Amanu sandals this summer, and this is my favourite pair to date.
This has gone straight on my wishlist.
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