The weather has driven me to a constant rotation of shorts and dresses or skirts--maxi, if you want to be more covered up. I don't think I can last a day wearing tight-fit pants in this heat. Just the thought of it already makes my legs sweat. Not a very ideal piece, but sometimes necessary. However, since I have been resorting to more casual looks as the season changes, I try to find ways to spice it up by throwing in a cropped top instead of a regular muscle tee. Also, throwing on any form of cover-up (blazers, button-downs, lightweight cardigans, etc) whenever needed.

Speaking of cropped tops, they are one of spring/summer 2013's hottest trend. And as a way to share with you how you can take the trend from the runway to reality, here's a little tip for those of you who aren't sure if purchasing your first cropped top is worth it.

You may want to "test drive" the trend a little bit first. No scissors needed here either! Unless you're a master at cutting up old shirts and making them 10x more fab, then I suggest you try the folding trick for the mean time.

Step 1: Begin sporting your makeshift cropped top by using a slightly fitted top of your choice.
Step 2: Fold the lower half inwards, up until you reach your desired length for the top. Voila! In this way, you will also be comfortable with the length the top is at.
Step 3: (OPTIONAL) If your fold has the tendency to become undone, grab your needle and thread (in the same color as your top) and do a temporary stitch inside, at the side seams of the top.

I have done the same trick a few times before, such when I attended one of the Philippine Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2013 shows back in October.