Styling Tank Tops: Creative Ways To Dress Them Up

Tank tops are a versatile wardrobe staple that can be dressed up or down. While they are often overlooked in favour of more statement pieces, their simple silhouette means they can be worn with almost anything. From casual to formal, there are numerous ways to style a tank top.

Layer with a blazer or jacket

Layering a tank top with a blazer or jacket is a great way to dress up the humble garment. It's a simple way to create a chic, polished look that is perfect for both summer and winter.

For a more polished look, opt for a plain white or black blazer with a solid-coloured tank top. Alternatively, for a more summery vibe, go for a blazer with a pattern or bold embellishment. You can leave the jacket/blazer buttoned or unbuttoned, depending on your preference.

If you're looking for a more casual option, try pairing your tank with an oversized white button-up, a boxy denim jacket, or a knee-length duster coat. For an edgier vibe, add a leather jacket or leather shacket.

For a truly sophisticated outfit, add an oversized blazer or a power jacket over your tank top. This combination will instantly elevate your wardrobe essential, especially when paired with dark wash bootcut jeans for the ultimate boss babe outfit.

Wear with jeans

Tank tops are a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, making them a wardrobe staple. When it comes to wearing a tank top with jeans, there are several ways to style this classic combination. Here are some ideas to elevate your look:

Play with Colour Blocking

Try a monochromatic look with a white tank and jeans. Add a modern twist with a leather bomber jacket in a contrasting colour. Alternatively, go for a bold pop of colour with a red tank top and grey baggy jeans.

Layer Up

Layering is a great way to add dimension to your outfit. Drape a sweater over your shoulders, or for a more casual look, opt for an oversized white shirt over a black tank and jeans. You can also layer a relaxed cardigan over a white tank and straight-leg jeans for a chic and comfortable ensemble.

Add a Blazer

A blazer instantly adds polish to any outfit. Pair a black tank with straight-leg blue jeans and a double-breasted navy blazer for a sophisticated look. For a more casual take, try a baseball cap, retro sneakers, and a more relaxed blazer with wide-leg jeans.

Statement Accessories

Elevate your tank and jeans with eye-catching accessories. A bright-coloured belt can bring a fun element to an all-black outfit. Alternatively, add a stack of colourful beaded bracelets or a statement necklace to your look. For footwear, try a pair of sleek slingback pumps or Mary Jane flats to dress up your jeans and tank combo.

High-Waisted Jeans

Pair a high-waisted jean with your tank top for a flattering silhouette. This look works well with a cropped tank top, showing just a sliver of skin at the midriff. Finish the outfit with minimalist accessories and statement earrings for a trendy and grown-up look.

With these tips, you can easily dress up a tank top and jeans, creating stylish and versatile outfits for any occasion.

Add accessories

Accessories can make or break an outfit, and this is especially true when it comes to dressing up a tank top. Here are some ideas on how to accessorize a tank top to elevate your look:

Jewellery

Add a pop of sparkle and glamour to your tank top with some bold jewellery. The simplicity of a tank top means that it can be easily dressed up with jewellery without looking too gaudy. Try pairing your tank with large, hoop earrings, chunky bracelets, or long, dangling necklaces. If your tank top is made from a fancier material, such as lace or silk, jewellery can make it appear even more luxurious and elegant.

Scarves

A scarf can add a touch of colour, coverage, and style to your tank top outfit. Opt for a patterned scarf made from chiffon or silk, and loop it around your neck for a chic touch. You can also wear the scarf as a headband or tie it around your waist as a belt to mix up your look. Just be sure to avoid woollen scarves, as they can make your outfit look too wintery.

Handbags

Don't be afraid to go big and bold with your handbag when wearing a tank top. The simplicity of the tank means it can balance out a large, statement bag. Try adding a pop of colour or a bold pattern to your outfit with your handbag choice. If your tank top has a pattern, opt for a plain, solid-coloured bag to complement it.

Belts

Belts can add a touch of colour and interest to a tank top outfit, especially if your tank is in a neutral colour like black, grey, or white. A brightly coloured belt can be a great way to add a pop of colour to your look. If you're wearing a loose, flowing tank, try a wide belt to cinch in the waist and create a more defined silhouette. For a daytime look, go for leather, suede, or fabric belts, and for evening, shine with a patent leather belt.

Shoes

The right pair of shoes can take your tank top outfit to the next level. For a casual look, pair your tank with jeans and sneakers or sandals. If you're going for a more dressed-up look, try pairing your tank with high-waisted shorts and heels, or a long, flowing skirt and strappy sandals. For a fun and flirty vibe, go for a white tank with a black slip skirt and add some chic accessories to take your look from day to night.

Pair with a skirt

Tank tops are a versatile piece of clothing that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. Here are some tips to elevate your tank top and skirt combination:

Fit and Proportion:

The most important aspect when pairing a tank top with a skirt is to pay attention to fit and proportion. Ensure that the tank top is not too tight or too loose and that the skirt complements your body type. If you have a larger bust, opt for a tank top with thicker straps to provide more support. Choose a skirt that balances out your silhouette. For example, if you have narrow shoulders, a skirt with a fuller shape can help create the illusion of broader shoulders.

Accessories:

Accessories can take a basic tank top and skirt combination to the next level. Consider adding statement jewellery, such as chunky bracelets, long necklaces, or hoop earrings. A colourful scarf can also add interest to your outfit, especially if you feel your neckline is too revealing. Belts are another great way to accessorise and define your waist. Try a wide belt with a loose, flowing skirt or a thin belt with a more fitted skirt.

Layering:

Layering is a great way to elevate a simple tank top and skirt combination. For cooler days, pair your outfit with a cardigan or a blazer. Opt for complementary colours or patterns to add interest to your look. If you want to create a more professional ensemble, layer your tank top under a power jacket or a vest.

Footwear:

Complete your look with the right footwear. For a casual vibe, pair your tank top and skirt with sandals or sneakers. To dress up your outfit, opt for heeled mules, sleek slides, or cushy sandals.

Colour and Pattern:

Don't be afraid to play with colour and pattern when pairing a tank top with a skirt. A monochrome colour scheme can create an elegant and sophisticated look. Alternatively, mix and match colours and patterns to create a unique and eye-catching ensemble. Just remember to maintain a balance between the two to avoid a cluttered appearance.

By incorporating these tips, you can easily elevate a simple tank top and skirt combination, creating a stylish and put-together outfit.

Wear under a sheer shirt

Tank tops are a versatile piece of clothing that can be dressed up or down. Here are some tips on how to wear a tank top under a sheer shirt:

Choose the Right Tank Top Style and Fit:

• Opt for a fitted tank top as it will provide more coverage under a sheer shirt.
• Consider the width of the tank top straps in proportion to your shoulders. If you have broader shoulders, choose thicker straps, while narrower shoulders can be flattered by skinny spaghetti straps.
• Match the tank top's neckline to your chest size and preferences. A detailed neckline with ruffles or pleats can draw attention to your bust, while a higher neckline can provide more coverage.
• If you want to create a streamlined look, select a tank top that matches your skin tone.

Layer with Purpose:

• Play with colours and textures when layering. For a sportier or more minimalist look, stick to solid colours, and if in doubt, black or white are always safe choices.
• If your sheer shirt is detailed with embellishments like fringe or sequins, opt for a simpler tank top in a complementary colour to avoid clashing.
• Conversely, if your sheer shirt is plain, you can add interest by choosing a brightly coloured or patterned tank top underneath.

Consider the Occasion:

• The occasion you're dressing for will influence your choices. For a formal or work setting, a plain tank top or cami in a neutral colour can provide coverage and professionalism under a sheer shirt.
• For a more casual or playful look, experiment with bolder colours, patterns, or lingerie-style tank tops that peek through the sheer fabric.

Complete the Outfit:

• To balance the outfit, consider pairing the sheer shirt and tank top combination with high-waisted bottoms. This can include trousers, skirts, or shorts that complement the overall style.
• Add a blazer or jacket over the sheer shirt for an extra layer of coverage while still showing a hint of skin.
• Accessorise with bold jewellery, a statement handbag, or a colourful belt to elevate the entire ensemble.

Frequently asked questions