Tank tops are a versatile wardrobe staple that can be dressed up or down and styled for any season. They can be layered under shirts and jackets or worn on their own with a variety of bottoms. The key to rocking a tank top is to choose the right style for your body type and to pair it with the right accessories and layers to create a look that's perfect for the occasion.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Bra | Strapless, seamless, or a colour that matches your skin tone |
Straps | Wider straps for larger busts and broader shoulders, thinner straps for smaller busts and narrower shoulders |
Neckline | Detailed to draw attention to the bust, plainer to draw attention away from the bust; V-neck or low scoop neck for broader shoulders, rounder or straighter for narrower shoulders |
Style | Basic, printed, embellished, graphic, etc. |
Layering | Under jackets, blazers, cardigans, vests, shirts, transparent tops, etc. |
Accessories | Jewellery, scarves, belts, handbags, etc. |
Bottoms | Jeans, shorts, skirts, leggings, etc. |
What You'll Learn
Choosing the right top and bra
Tank tops are a versatile piece of clothing, perfect for layering and creating a unique, casual look. Here are some tips for choosing the right top and bra to rock a tank top with confidence:
Bra Choice
- If your tank top has thin spaghetti straps, opt for a bandeau or strapless bra. If you can't find a strapless bra that fits well, try one with clear straps instead. These options provide support without drawing attention to your bra straps.
- For knit, form-fitting tank tops, choose a seamless bra. Underwire bras can create visible bumps and lines, so a wireless, seamless bra will create a smoother, more flattering silhouette.
- If you have a larger bust and need more support, consider a tank top with thicker straps to accommodate a regular bra. Alternatively, you can layer a cute cardigan or jacket over a tank top with skinny straps to conceal the bra straps.
Tank Top Choice
- Match the width of your tank top straps to your shoulders. If you have broad shoulders, go for thicker straps, and if you have narrow shoulders, skinny spaghetti straps will suit you best.
- Choose the neckline of your tank top based on your chest size and the look you want to achieve. A detailed neckline with ruching, pleating, or ruffles can make your bust appear fuller, while a simpler neckline can help draw attention away from your bust.
- Consider the occasion and your personal style when choosing a tank top. Basic tank tops in neutral or earthy tones are perfect for layering and creating a casual look. Dressy, embellished tank tops with lace, sequins, or ruffles are great for dressing up or going out. Printed or embellished tank tops can add a unique touch to your outfit.
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Layering with jackets and cardigans
Layering a tank top with a jacket or cardigan is a great way to transition your outfit from summer to fall or winter. Here are some tips for layering with jackets and cardigans:
Cardigans
Cardigans are a classic layering piece that can be worn over a tank top for a feminine and chic look. Choose a cardigan in a different color than your tank top—for example, a pink cardigan over a white tank top. Leave the cardigan unbuttoned to show off the tank top underneath. This combination is perfect for cooler days and for extending your summer wardrobe into fall or winter.
Blazers
A blazer can be layered over a tank top for a polished and sophisticated look. For a more put-together appearance, opt for a plain white or black blazer with a solid-colored tank top. If you're going for a more summery vibe, choose a blazer with a pattern or bold embellishment. You can leave the blazer buttoned or unbuttoned, depending on your preference.
Leather jackets
A leather jacket is a great way to dress up a tank top and add an edge to your outfit. Leather jackets pair well with jeans and boots, and a simple white tank top can balance out the edginess of the jacket. This combination is perfect for those who want to exude confidence without trying too hard.
Sweaters
Draped sweaters are another layering option for tank tops. Throw a chunky knit over your shoulders or tie one diagonally over one shoulder for a stylish and current look. This trick works with any type of sweater, from a lightweight knit to a chunky cable-knit.
Denim jackets
Denim jackets are a versatile layering piece that can be paired with a tank top for a casual and trendy look. For a simple outfit, pair a denim jacket with a tank top, leggings, and a tote bag. You can also dress up a tank top and denim shorts combination by adding a tailored blazer and open-toe heels.
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Styling with accessories
Accessories are a great way to elevate a tank top. Here are some tips for styling with accessories:
Jewellery
Add a pop of colour and texture with jewellery. Tank tops are relatively simple, so you can afford to go bold with your accessories. Try large hoop earrings, chunky bracelets, or long, dangling necklaces. Jewellery will make tank tops made from fancier materials, such as lace or silk, appear even fancier than they are.
Scarves
If you want to cover your cleavage, or simply add a bit of colour and style to your outfit, try a scarf. Opt for a patterned scarf made from chiffon or silk, and loop it around your neck. You can also wear a scarf as a headband, or tie it around your waist as a belt.
Handbags
Tank tops are simple, so you can get away with carrying around a large handbag. Try to add some contrast: if your tank top is a solid colour, try a bag with a bold pattern, and vice versa.
Belts
Add a cute belt to bring some colour to your outfit, or to break up monotony. If you're wearing a loose, flowing tank top, a wide belt will cinch in the excess fabric and make you look slimmer. Leather, suede, and fabric belts are great for the daytime, and shiny patent leather belts are perfect for the evening.
Hats
Bucket hats are a great accessory to pair with a tank top. This summer, punchy colours and eye-catching prints are updating the hat, and basic tank tops easily complete the look with shorts and sandals.
Shoes
When wearing a tank top, you can pair it with any type of shoe. High-waisted shorts and sandals or heels will give a touch of chic and glamour. A midi skirt and sandals will give a sweeter look, and a long skirt and wide, leather belt will give a boho look.
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Pairing with skirts and shorts
Tank tops are a versatile piece of clothing that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. Here are some tips for pairing them with skirts and shorts:
With Skirts
Tank tops can be paired with skirts of any length, from short and chic to long and boho. For a classic, effortless look, pair a tank top with a denim midi skirt. To add a touch of elegance to a casual tank top, opt for an A-line skirt, which will create a voluminous silhouette. If you're feeling bold, go for a textured skirt with fringe, sequins, or lace.
With Shorts
For a casual, summery look, pair a tank top with shorts. High-waisted shorts and a tank top can be dressed up with sandals or heels and some accessories. For a more laid-back, sporty look, go for sweatshorts or drawstring shorts. To channel your inner skater girl, pair low-rise shorts with a tank top and a dopamine-inducing hat.
Styling Tips
- Layering is a great way to elevate a tank top outfit. Try wearing a jacket, blazer, or cardigan over your tank top.
- Tank tops are a great base for accessories. Try adding a statement necklace, large hoop earrings, or a chunky bracelet.
- Belts and scarves can also be used to accessorise and add a pop of colour to your outfit.
- When choosing a tank top, consider the width of the straps in relation to your shoulder width. If you have broad shoulders, go for thicker straps, and if you have narrow shoulders, stick to skinny straps.
- If you want to create a particular silhouette, choose a tank top with that in mind. For a fitted look, taper the sides, and for a flared silhouette, widen the bottom.
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Wearing with jeans
Tank tops are a versatile garment that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. Here are some tips on how to rock a tank top with jeans:
Choose the Right Style for Your Body Type
The key to rocking a tank top is to choose a style that flatters your figure. If you have broad shoulders, opt for a tank with wider straps, while narrower straps look best on those with narrower shoulders. If you have a large bust, go for thicker straps to provide more support, and consider wearing a regular bra with a strapped tank top. You can also choose a neckline that either emphasises or minimises your bust—a detailed neckline with ruching, pleating, or ruffles can make your bust appear fuller, while a simpler neckline can help draw attention away from your bust.
Layer with a Jacket or Cardigan
Layering a tank top with a jacket or cardigan is a great way to create a more polished look. For a chic and feminine outfit, try pairing your tank with a cardigan in a complementary colour, leaving it unbuttoned to show off the tank underneath. Alternatively, a blazer can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. For a more casual look, opt for a plain white or black blazer, while a patterned or embellished blazer can add a touch of glamour.
Accessorise with Jewellery and Scarves
Tank tops are relatively simple, so you can add interest with bold accessories. Try adding a pop of colour with some statement jewellery, like large hoop earrings or a chunky bracelet. A scarf is another great way to add colour and style to your outfit—opt for a patterned silk or chiffon scarf, and tie it loosely around your neck to hide any cleavage.
Pair with High-Waisted Jeans
High-waisted jeans can elongate your legs and create a chic silhouette when paired with a tank top. For a casual look, wear your tank top with blue jeans, or go for black or ivory slacks to dress it up a bit. To add a bit of edge to your outfit, consider distressed denim and boots.
Tuck into Wide-Leg Jeans
Tucking your tank top into a pair of high-rise, wide-leg jeans is a stylish way to show off your figure. This look is especially flattering when paired with a bodysuit-style tank, as it creates a seamless tuck. Finish the outfit with sandals or sneakers, depending on your mood and the occasion.
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Frequently asked questions
If your tank top has thin, spaghetti straps, wear a bandeau or strapless bra. For knit, form-fitting tops, opt for a seamless bra. If you have a large bust, choose a tank with thicker straps and a regular bra.
If you want to draw attention away from your bust, choose a tank top with a neckline that ends above your cleavage. To make your bust appear larger, choose a detailed neckline with ruching, pleating, or ruffles. If you have narrow shoulders, opt for a round or straight neckline, and if you have wide shoulders, go for a V-neck or scoop neck.
Tank tops are versatile and can be dressed up or down. For a casual look, pair your tank with jeans, shorts, or a skirt. You can also layer it with a cardigan, jacket, or blazer.
Tank tops are a simple canvas that can be dressed up with bold accessories. Try adding a statement necklace, scarf, or large handbag. A belt can also add interest and help define your waist.
To dress up a tank top, pair it with high-waisted shorts or a long, flowing skirt. You can also layer it under a power jacket, blazer, or corset for a more polished look.