Transform Your Basic Black Tank Top: 8 Fun Diy Ideas

how to change a black tank top

A black tank top is a versatile wardrobe staple that can be styled in numerous ways. Whether you're aiming for a casual, sporty, or glamorous look, a black tank top can be the foundation of your outfit. With some simple alterations, such as cutting, sewing, or adding accessories, you can transform a basic black tank top into a variety of fashionable ensembles. From pairing it with denim shorts and Converse for a casual summer look to dressing it up with a blazer and silk pants for a city-chic vibe, the possibilities are endless. You can even get creative and cut your black tank top into a wrap top or add fringes to the bottom hem for a unique, personalised style.

Characteristics Values
Ways to style a black tank top With denim shorts and Converse shoes, with leggings, with distressed Levi's, with a cardigan, with a denim skirt, with joggers, with black leather pants, with a blazer, with jeans, with trainers, with a skirt, with Converse shoes, with sunglasses, with a leather jacket, with buttoned-centered black pants, with ripped jeans, with a vintage hat, with blue cropped jeans, with beige pants, with floral tiered skirt, with lace black tank top, with bow tie orange shorts, with cardigan, with flowy black basic tank, with denim jumpsuit, with a black cardigan, with black leggings, with a black skirt, with black leather jacket
Ways to cut a black tank top Cut wider straps into thin double straps, turn a tank top into a wrap top, refashion a T-shirt into a tank top, turn a T-shirt into a racerback tank, cut the sleeves and collar off, cut the front neckline and armholes wider, stitch the folded edges, cut the bottom hem off, cut the back of the armholes into a racerback shape, cut a deep V-shape into the back of the shirt, cut the bottom of the tank top to give it a high-low look

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How to style a black tank top

A black tank top is a versatile wardrobe staple that can be styled in numerous ways. Here are some ideas on how to style a black tank top:

Black Tank Top with a Blazer

A blazer adds structure to your silhouette and creates an elongated appearance with its vertical side panels. Pair it with beige high-waisted shorts for a trendy and cohesive look that contrasts lengths and proportions.

Black Tank Top with Neutrals

Neutrals create a simple yet sophisticated and elegant look. Beige pants, tailored to fit you perfectly, can be paired with a black tank top for an uncomplicated outfit.

Black Tank Top with Denim

Denim is a classic and relaxed choice to pair with a black tank top. Opt for denim shorts in a light wash or any style of jeans in your preferred shade. Add a stylish belt and a cute necklace to accentuate the waist and add detail to your look.

Black Tank Top with a Mini Skirt

Show off your legs with a mini skirt and nude heels, which will elongate your figure and add height. Keep the accessories simple, such as a cream bag and a silver bracelet. If you're a maximalist, consider a chunky necklace or a textured jacket.

Black Tank Top with White Pants

Black and white are a classic combination. Pair your black tank top with white pants for a high-contrast yet complementary look. Black shoes and a blazer can be added to create a balanced aesthetic.

Black Tank Top with Leopard Print

A black tank top can be paired with a leopard print midi skirt and high heels for a glamorous and feminine look. Add a chic hat to make it unique, perfect for a beach party or summer hangout.

Black Tank Top with Joggers

For a relaxed and casual appearance, pair your black tank top with joggers and sneakers. This combination is perfect for a comfortable and cute sporty outfit.

Black Tank Top with Cardigan and Leggings

This combination is ideal for the winter season. Any shade of cardigan will do, and you don't need to spend a fortune on an expensive one. Pair it with black leggings and trainers for a cosy and practical outfit.

Black Tank Top with Denim Shorts and Slippers

If you're heading to the beach, a black tank top with denim shorts is a simple and casual option. Slippers or flip-flops will complete the look, making it perfect for a Caribbean getaway or a day at the Bahamas.

Black Tank Top with a Buttoned Centre and Jeans

A centred buttoned black tank top can be dressed up or down, making it a versatile piece for your wardrobe. Pair it with jeans for a casual look, whether you're attending parties or casual school social events.

Black Tank Top with a Leather Jacket

To add a bit of edge to your outfit, throw on a black leather jacket over your black tank top. This combination is perfect for creating a simple yet stylish look.

Tank Top Heater: Indoor Use?

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How to cut a tank top

There are several ways to cut and refashion a black tank top. Here is a detailed guide on how to cut a black tank top with wider straps into thin double straps.

Firstly, you will need to get a ribbed black tank top with wide shoulder straps. The exact width of the straps does not matter, but they should ideally be at least one inch wide. Choose a tank top that has a binding around the armholes and collar, rather than hems. This will make the cutting process easier.

Next, cut a small notch into the shoulder seam, within the collar and armhole hems. It is important not to cut straight across the top of the shoulders, as this will cause the shirt to fall apart. Instead, cut a small notch that stays within the hems on the armhole and collar. Try to make the notch go across the entire shoulder, as this will make cutting the fabric easier in the next steps.

Now, starting at the notch you just made, cut down the front of the tank, using the armhole binding as a guide. Stop cutting when you reach the same level as the bottom edge of the collar, or just below it. Use the edge of the binding or stitching as your guide. Repeat this step for the back of the tank, keeping in mind that the collar in the back will be higher up.

The next step is to cut around the collar in a similar fashion, but stop just before it curves. Begin cutting at the top of the collar, at the shoulder notch, and finish at the bottom, just before the collar starts to curve out horizontally. Remember to cut the collar side of the strap shorter than the armhole side, as you will be cutting the final piece at an angle.

After you have cut around the collar and armhole, you will have loose fabric strips in the front and back of your tank. Cut these strips off at an angle where they connect to the rest of the shirt. This will give you two thin straps that are intact at the shoulder.

Finally, clean up the cut edges with small scissors for a neater finish. Cut as close as possible to the fabric wrapped around the edges of the collar and armholes. This will help the straps look more like slender spaghetti straps. Repeat this process for the other side, and your black tank top with thin double straps is now ready to wear!

  • Turn it into a wrap top by cutting the side seams and back panel, and wraping the front ties around your torso.
  • Refashion a T-shirt into a black tank top by chopping off the sleeves and cutting off the collar. You can also add a fringe to the bottom hem for a stylish touch.
  • Create a racerback tank by cutting off the sleeves and collar of a loose-fitting T-shirt and wraping the cut-off hem around the back.

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How to alter a tank top

There are many ways to alter a tank top, whether it's too big, too small, or you're just looking for a new style. Here are some methods to help you get started:

Take in the Sides

This method involves sewing along the side seams to remove excess fabric and create a slimmer silhouette. It is a straightforward alteration that can be done by hand or with a sewing machine. Put on the tank top inside out and pin or mark how much fabric needs to be taken in. Then, turn it right side out and sew along the marked line, backstitching at the beginning and end to secure the thread. Finally, trim any excess fabric and press the new seam with an iron.

Create Darts

Darts are triangular folds that can be added to the fabric to improve the fit and shape, especially around the bust area. Mark where the darts will start and end, then draw a straight line connecting each pair of points. Fold the fabric along this line and pin it in place. Sew along the pinned line, tapering the stitch as you approach the top point of the dart. Trim any excess fabric and press the darts with an iron to set them in place.

Add Elastic to the Waist

If your tank top is loose around the waist, adding elastic can help create a defined waistline. Measure your desired waistline and mark a line along the waist of the tank top. Cut a piece of elastic to match this measurement. Fold the fabric along the marked line, creating a casing for the elastic, and pin it in place, leaving a small opening to insert the elastic. Attach a safety pin to one end of the elastic and thread it through the casing. Overlap the ends of the elastic and sew them together, then close the opening in the casing.

Cut and Reconstruct

For more advanced alterations, you can cut and reconstruct the tank top to change the style, shape, or length. Put on the tank top and visualize the desired style, then mark the areas to be cut using fabric chalk or a disappearing ink pen. Carefully cut along the marked lines, then finish any raw edges with bias tape or a rolled hem. Try on the tank top and make any necessary adjustments. Press the reconstructed garment with an iron for a polished finish.

Other Simple Alterations

There are also some simpler alterations you can make to refresh your tank top:

  • Adjust the Hem: If your tank top is too long, you can simply cut off the bottom hem and create a new hem by folding and sewing the fabric.
  • Add Embellishments: Consider adding lace, sequins, beads, embroidery, or fabric paint to make your tank top unique and stylish.
  • Change the Straps: You can cut the existing straps and create new, thinner straps by cutting and sewing the fabric.

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How to make a T-shirt into a tank top

Turning a T-shirt into a tank top is a fun and simple DIY project that can give new life to an old piece of clothing. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make a T-shirt into a basic tank top:

Preparation:

First, decide on a T-shirt that you are happy to cut up. It is best to choose one that has been washed and dried, as fabric tends to shrink after the first wash. If you are using a new T-shirt, it is recommended to wash and dry it before starting.

Step 1:

Iron your T-shirt to remove any wrinkles and create a smooth surface to work with. This step will make it easier to cut and handle the fabric.

Step 2:

Find a tank top that fits you well and use it as a template. Place the tank top on top of the T-shirt, aligning the shoulders. If you don't have a tank top to use as a template, you can still proceed by cutting the sleeves and collar off the T-shirt.

Step 3:

Pin the tank top to the T-shirt to keep it from moving. Place straight pins along the edges of the tank top, securing all layers of fabric. This will ensure a more accurate cut.

Step 4:

Using fabric scissors, cut the T-shirt along the armholes and neckline of the tank top. If you want a finished hem, leave a 1/2-inch (1.27 cm) seam allowance. Alternatively, if you don't have a tank top template, cut the sleeves and collar off the T-shirt, considering folding it in half first for a more symmetrical cut.

Step 5:

Unpin the tank top from the T-shirt. If desired, cut the front neckline and armholes wider, but remember to leave enough fabric for the hem if needed.

Step 6:

Fold and pin the cut edges: Fold the edges down by about 1/2-inch (1.27 cm), secure them with straight pins, and press them flat with an iron. This step can be skipped if you prefer raw, unhemmed edges.

Step 7:

Stitch the folded edges: Sew along the folded edges using a sewing machine or by hand. If using a sewing machine, consider using a stitch intended for knit fabrics.

Step 8:

Remove the pins and turn the tank top right side out. Try on your new tank top!

With these steps, you can easily transform a T-shirt into a basic tank top. For a more creative option, you can also make a racerback tank top or add embellishments like ribbon or lace.

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How to twist tank top straps

To twist the straps of a tank top, you can use a few different methods, depending on the look you want to achieve. Here are some options:

Using Ribbon or Lace

  • Cut a ribbon or lace to your desired length. It should be long enough to tie a few knots and have some extra length left over.
  • Tie the ribbon or lace onto the front strap of your tank top. You can do this by tying the ribbon or lace around the strap itself, rather than making the ribbon the primary strap.
  • Tie a few knots to secure the ribbon or lace in place, and then cut off any excess material from the last knot.
  • Repeat the process for the other strap, ensuring that the length of the ribbon or lace, and the number of knots, is similar to create a symmetrical look.
  • You can melt the ends of the ribbon or lace with a lighter to prevent them from fraying or coming untied.

Using Fabric from the Tank Top

  • Cut off the bottom of the tank top, including at least a half-inch of fabric above the hem.
  • Cut the seams from the strip of fabric you just removed so that you have a seamless fabric strip.
  • Stretch out the fabric strip.
  • Tie the strip of fabric in a knot around the straps at the back of the tank top.
  • Wrap the strip of fabric around the straps, spiralling down towards the lower back.
  • Tie another knot at the other end to secure the strip in place.

Creating a Racerback Style

If you want to turn your tank top straps into a racerback style, you can use a string, clip, or pin to secure the straps together at the back. For a more elegant look, you can use a long, fluid ribbon to cinch the straps together. This will not only help with strap security but will also give your tank top a stylish update.

Frequently asked questions

If your tank top is a little too low-cut for the office, adjust the straps until you find a comfortable fit, then stitch along the seams to secure them in place.

To give your tank top a new look, try twisting the straps. Cut along the existing seam on both straps, twist the front straps in the opposite direction to the neckline, and then stitch the shoulder seam back in place.

If your tank top is too big, try it on inside out and pin the fabric to the desired fit. Then, take the top off, lay it flat, and sew along the pins to secure the new fit.

To crop your tank top, measure how much fabric you want to remove, then cut along this line. You don't need to hem the new edge as the fabric won't fray.

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