Campus Style: Bandeau Tops

When one thinks of summer, some of the first things that probably pop into your mind are ice cream, road trips, fireworks, a hot summer fling, the beach and…bandeaus! Wait, bandeaus?! If you haven’t heard, bandeaus are a major “DO” this season. They’re young, fun and super easy to work into your daily style. Although these strapless crop tops may seem daunting at first, that’s only because you’re under the impression that they’re too revealing to be worn in public. Not true! When worn tastefully, bandeau tops are the splitting image of class and sophistication. While you may not want to wear a bandeau to a four-star restaurant, they are perfect for a trip to the Hamptons, a stroll on the beach or an evening out in town.

With back-to-back days of sweltering temperatures and humidity, summer is the quintessential time to test-drive this trend. From the catwalk to the boardwalk, bandeaus are appearing everywhere! Here are some outfit ideas to get you started!


Tracy Reese Spring 2012, Jill Stuart Resort 2013, Nina Ricci Spring 2012

As always, the best way to learn about new trends is to look through recent runway collections. That being said, bandeaus, bra-lets and crop tops showed up at the spring 2012 and Resort 2013 shows. Follow their lead and work them into your wardrobes today. For best results, pair your bandeau top with a high-waist skirt, heels and confidence. If you exude these three qualities, you can own this trend!

Lace Bandeaus:

Can’t figure out how to wear that lace top or sheer blouse that’s been hanging in your closet for ages? Don’t worry because a lace bandeau will solve all of your wardrobe woes! In the outfit above, a bright yellow-green bandeau adds a major punch to a teal-colored lace tank top. On a more sophisticated note, layer a black bandeau underneath a too-sheer blouse. Wear either of these tops with denim shorts and statement sandals for a summer-tastic look!

Whether your top is see-through or you just want to jazz up your look for the day (nothing’s cuter than a little lace peeking through!), a bandeau will do the trick!

Printed Bandeaus:

One of the best things about bandeau tops is that they come in nearly every print, color and style that you can imagine. In order to inject some personality into a white high-low skirt, try pairing it with an Aztec-printed bandeau. Add in a long necklace, gold cuff bracelet with dangling feather earrings, and you could pass as a model from a Free People catalog!

White Bandeaus:

When it comes to bandeaus, it doesn’t matter what your style is. You can be preppy, ultra feminine or even bohemian. If your style falls in the former category, then believe me when I say that you can pull this look off. It’s important to select pieces that define your signature style if you want to coordinate an outfit that doesn’t stray too far from your preppy roots. A nautical-inspired anchor skirt, lightweight cardigan, timeless bag and statement wedges will look marvelous with a classy, white bandeau.

From Budget-Friendly to Splurge-Worthy…

Aerie Printed Bandeau- $6.99 (American Eagle)

Some bandeaus are simply too pretty to be hidden away. For a fun, beach-inspired ensemble, pair this playful bandeau with a lightweight cardigan and denim cutoffs. If you’re looking to invest in a wardrobe full of cute bandeaus, then look no further: Aerie for American Eagle has got you covered!

Engineered Stripe Bandeau- $38 (Free People)

This gorgeous blue striped bandeau is begging to be paired with a white tulle skirt. If you’re hesitant to try out the bandeau trend, then this one is perfect for you. Instead of revealing a whole lot of skin, you’ll be showing just a smidge!

Fringe Bandeau by Boys + Arrows- $115 (Planet Blue)

Fringe is all the rage this summer! Whether you’re heading to a music festival or are just hanging out at the beach, a fringed bandeau is the way to go! This mesmerizing bohemian-inspired bandeau would look perfect with embellished shorts and gladiator sandals. Did I mention that Emma Roberts was spotted sporting this exact top at Coachella?

Fashion is all about trying new things and taking risks.

How do you plan on wearing your bandeau top this summer? Leave a comment to let us know!

By: Anjerika Wilmer | Images: Pinterest, Polyvore, Style, listed retail stores