The Cleave Top reimagines the elegance of the cheongsam through a sharper, abbreviated silhouette. Its name comes from the asymmetric line that appears to cleave through the upper front, opening the otherwise controlled surface into two precisely placed cut-outs.
A high Mandarin-style collar frames the neck, while Chinese-inspired knot ties secure the diagonal opening and fall freely over the body. Short cap sleeves, curved shaping seams and a clean cropped hem complete the construction.
The result is refined but direct: a top that carries the discipline of traditional form while expressing itself through modern proportion, exposed space and movement.
INSPIRATION : The Cleave Top draws inspiration from the standing collar, asymmetric opening and knotted closures traditionally associated with cheongsam design.
Insane Shell has separated these elements from the conventional dress silhouette and rebuilt them as a contemporary crop top. The length is reduced, the opening becomes more graphic and the closures are extended into long, fluid ties.
It is a modern interpretation shaped through Insane Shell’s design language, not a reproduction of a traditional or ceremonial garment.
FABRIC : Crafted from premium fabric selected for its refined surface, comfort and ability to hold the top’s clean, shaped construction.
The material has sufficient structure to support the standing collar, cap sleeves and asymmetric panels while remaining comfortable against the body. Its smooth finish allows each colour to appear rich and uninterrupted.
ASYMMETRIC CONSTRUCTION : The front is built through shaped panels rather than a conventional centre opening. A diagonal line moves from the collar across the upper chest, creating two controlled keyhole openings.
These openings reveal measured areas of skin while preserving the top’s composed structure. Their placement is intentional and central to the meaning of Cleave—the surface appears divided, yet every section remains connected through its closures.
Curved vertical seams shape the body and guide the garment towards the waist.
CHINESE KNOT TIES : Two Chinese-inspired knotted ties secure the asymmetric front. The first sits beneath the collar, while the second connects the lower section of the opening.
Long tonal cords extend from the knots and fall vertically over the cropped body. They introduce movement against the structured top and may be arranged loosely according to the wearer’s preference.
Each closure is individually formed and positioned during construction.
COLLAR & SLEEVES : A high Mandarin-style collar creates a clean frame around the neck and opens subtly at the centre.
Short cap sleeves extend gently over the shoulders without adding unnecessary volume. Their minimal shape balances the long ties and graphic cut-outs at the front.
SHAPE : Designed with a fitted, waist-baring body, defined shoulders and a clean cropped hem. The top follows the torso through curved seam work while retaining enough structure to preserve its architectural shape.
The compact length is designed to sit above high-waisted trousers and skirts, leaving a controlled space between the two garments.
FIT : Close and shaped through the shoulders, chest and waist. Select your regular size for the intended tailored silhouette.
All standard sizes are available. If you require adjustments to the bust, waist, shoulder width, armhole or body length, select the CUSTOM option so the top can be created according to your measurements.
COLOUR OPTIONS :
Void — A deep, uninterrupted black that emphasises the cut-outs through shadow and gives the top a commanding, minimal presence.
Pacific — A rich oceanic blue with a calm but vivid character.
Carmine — A saturated red that gives the traditional references a bolder, more expressive energy.
Cloud Dancer — A soft, warm white that reveals every seam, curve and construction line with clarity.
Gunmetal — A deep metallic grey positioned between charcoal and black, offering a quieter alternative to Void.
The construction remains identical across all five colours; each shade offers a different emotional expression of the same design.
STYLING : Pair the Cleave Top with high-waisted wide trousers to balance its fitted crop, or style it with a long skirt for a more elongated silhouette. It may be worn as a monochromatic set or contrasted against a different colour from the palette.
The trousers, footwear, jewellery and accessories shown in the imagery are not included.
ORIGINAL DESIGN : The Cleave Top is an original Insane Shell creation. Its asymmetric keyhole openings, extended knot ties, shaped cap sleeves and cropped proportions have been developed specifically for this garment.
MAN HOURS / PRODUCTION TIMELINE : Each Cleave Top is made only after an order has been placed and requires approximately 5–7 days to create. Time is dedicated to cutting and shaping the front panels, constructing the collar, aligning the cut-outs and individually forming and positioning the knot ties.
CUSTOMISATION OPTION : Conscious of our environmental responsibility, Insane Shell is a 100% made-to-order brand. Every piece ordered through our website is created specifically for you.
The Cleave Top is available in all standard sizes. If you require personalised alterations, select the CUSTOM option while placing your order, and our team will contact you for the necessary measurements and details.
DELIVERY TIMELINE : Once the product has been completed and shipped, delivery requires approximately 3–15 days, depending on your location and the applicable courier service. We deliver across India and internationally.
The 5–7 day production period is separate from the delivery timeline.
EXPEDITED DELIVERY : If you require expedited shipping with an estimated transit time of 2–3 days, please contact our customer care team with your delivery location and required date before placing your order. We will review the current production schedule and available courier services and assist you wherever possible. Expedited delivery is subject to production feasibility, courier availability and destination.
PLEASE NOTE : The cut-outs and exposed space across the upper chest are intentional elements of the design. Their appearance may vary slightly depending on the wearer’s individual proportions.
Due to the made-to-order construction and individually finished knot ties, minor variations may occur between pieces. These are not imperfections; they reflect the human process behind every garment.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS : Professional dry cleaning only. Do not wash, soak, wring or tumble dry. Do not pull directly on the decorative cords when opening the top. Handle each knotted fastening gently.
Iron from the reverse side at a low temperature using a protective cloth. Store on a padded hanger with the ties loosely fastened to preserve the collar and front construction.
EXCHANGE & RETURN : We offer a free exchange within 30 days of delivery in case of sizing issues or damage. We do not accept returns because every garment is created specifically after an order has been placed. When a made-to-order piece is returned or left unaccepted, it risks becoming waste—and that is something we do not wish to promote.
