Hands up who doesn’t want to spend hours in the gym in an attempt to gain washboard abs? Yep, us, too. But luckily, in today's increasingly body-positive age - you don't need to in order to enjoy a cropped silhouette.
With the news that stomach-baring is firmly off the fashion radar and the midriff has muscled in (HR, look away now), it's prime time to show off some summer-ready skin. The style set certainly think so, with belly-boasting outfits peppering fashion month from runway to street style.
One of the most popular areas to showcase, the ‘upper midriff’ was especially hot property - the 4 inch section of skin above the waist. Importantly - and what separates this from previous midriff trends - is that the belly button is nowhere to be seen. Making it more demure, and accessible than the Y2K full belly baring version popularised by Bella Hadid that has become a Gen Z favourite (we’re looking at you Miu Miu skirt set), as well as being flattering at every age.
© ImaxtreeHowever, for those who love a low-rise situation, never fear, as several stars, influencers and designers made a case for full-frontal stomach displays for confident dressers to toy with in time for the warmer climate to set in.
© GC ImagesJust this month alone, Emily Ratajkowski showed hers off to aplomb during the Loewe Womenswear AW26 show, sporting a wraparound knit over her shoulders. Amelia Gray slipped into a cropped tank and leather bomber during a mid-Milan Fashion Week shopping spree at Gucci, and Diane Kruger dazzled in a satin bralette co-ord at Givenchy AW26 show during day five of Paris Fashion Week. Celebrity stomachs were truly out in force.
Which makes perfect sense - given they have the approval of top designers. For AW26, Roberto Cavalli, Prada, Chet Lo and McQueen incorporated midriff-boasting looks into their runways, continuing the legacy of SS26 when Miu Miu, Blumarine, Patbo, Aje and Marco Rambaldi did the same.
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© ImaxtreeThe beauty of this look is that less is more. Whether you're opting for just a hint of midriff or full blown bikini style, this trend is the body positive fad fashion is currently cooing over. So here’s to the upper midriff - fashion’s new favourite body part.
Discover our favourite midriff looks below:
How to style a midriff-baring look:
Preppy Chic
The perfect example of mixing themes, this preppy chic grey skirt-blazer set pairs effortlessly with a Rabanne-inspired paillette bralette.
The Bralette
Bralettes are the ultimate party piece - and this modish attendee styled hers with a low-rise pair of skirt trousers.
Snake Print
Lean into animal prints this season - as so perfectly demonstrated above. We love the combination of this sleek 'n' sexy snake print bodysuit with a sand-hued midi skirt trimmed with lace and a leather jacket.
Victoriana Style
Chloé never misses when it comes to bohemian style, so naturally a cropped silhouette or two always shows face outside the brand's shows. Here, a guest wears a beautiful Chloé outfit featuring a cropped, Victoriana lace bolero and a tiered ruffled skirt in a rich shade of rust.
Button Detailing
Trust Daniel Roseberry to produce the midriff-showing 'fit of dreams. This Schiaparelli set is major, complete with a dramatically high-waisted pair of jeans, matching jacket and bralette - all dotted with glinting gold buttons.
Dressed To Impress
Midriff dresses are indeed, a thing. Zhuzh your dress collection this season by investing in frock featuring a striking cut-out across the middle. Perfect for catching a summer breeze.
Statement Sequins
Sequin skirts took 2025 by storm, and they're very much here to stay for 2026 too. Teamed with a simple top, and you have yourself the ultimate party combo. Proof that sometimes, you only need two pieces to conjure up sartorial magic.
Sheer Overlay
Not completely sold on the trend? Take a leaf out of Lacoste's book. The brand's popular white mesh dress is dotted with green floral detailing - ideal for a whimsical aesthetic that leaves them wanting more.
Clean Co-ord
Minimal effort - maximum impact. That's the beauty of the humble co-ord. Not only do they look clean and composed, but they also playful, especially when punctuated with a cropped silhouette.
