Styling Shirts Under Tank Tops: A Guide For Layering

Tank tops are a versatile wardrobe staple, perfect for layering and adding a unique, casual touch to any outfit. They can be dressed up or down, offering endless stylistic opportunities. From chic and polished to fun and flirty, the humble tank top is a must-have for any fashion-conscious individual. Whether paired with a blazer, jeans, or a maxi skirt, the tank top is a simple yet powerful piece that can elevate your look. With a range of styles, from ribbed to logo-emblazoned, and an array of colours, including classic white and cheerful yellow, the tank top is a timeless essential for all seasons.

Bra and binder choices

When styling a shirt under a tank top, it is important to consider your bra and binder choices. If your tank top has thin, spaghetti straps, opt for a bandeau or strapless bra. This will give you the necessary support without the extra straps peeking out. Alternatively, you can choose a bra with clear straps. If you plan on layering another shirt or cardigan over your tank top, you have more flexibility with your bra choice.

For knit, form-fitting tank tops, a seamless bra is a good option as it will blend with your torso and appear invisible underneath. If you have a large bust, consider choosing a tank top with thicker straps to accommodate a regular bra. A wider strap will help conceal the bra straps. You can also layer a cute cardigan over a tank top with thinner straps to hide the bra straps while adding a feminine touch to your outfit.

When selecting a bra, it is also important to consider the neckline of your tank top. If you wish to draw attention away from your bust, choose a tank top with a neckline that ends just above your cleavage. On the other hand, if you want to emphasise your bust, opt for a tank top with a detailed neckline, such as ruching, pleating, or ruffles. Additionally, the width of your shoulders should be taken into account when choosing strap thickness. Wider straps generally pair better with broader shoulders, while narrow shoulders are complemented by skinny spaghetti straps.

Tank tops for layering

Tank tops are a versatile piece of clothing that can be worn in many different ways. They are perfect for layering, especially during the fall and winter seasons when you need extra warmth. When layering with tank tops, you can create a variety of looks, from casual to dressy. Here are some tips to help you style tank tops for layering:

• Choose the right type of tank top: Opt for basic tank tops in neutral colours such as black, white, grey, or earth tones like brown, tan, or olive green. These colours will go with almost anything and are perfect for layering under other garments. You can also find tank tops with lace detailing along the neckline and bottom hem, which can add a feminine touch to your outfit.
• Layer with jackets or blazers: Pairing a tank top with a jacket or blazer is a chic and polished look. You can leave the jacket unbuttoned or buttoned up, depending on your preference. For a more professional look, go for a plain white or black blazer, while a patterned or embellished jacket can add a summery touch.
• Cardigans for a feminine touch: Layering a cardigan over a tank top is a great way to keep warm while still looking stylish. Choose a cardigan in a complementary colour to your tank top and leave it unbuttoned to show off the tank top underneath.
• Vests for a bold statement: Adding a vest over your tank top can bring a unique twist to your outfit. You can try a suit vest, a woolen vest, or even a leather vest. You can button it up or leave it unbuttoned, and choose a colour that complements your tank top and the rest of your outfit.
• Layer under scoop or V-neck shirts: Tank tops with lace detailing can be layered under scoop or V-neck shirts with short or long sleeves. Only the lace will peek out from under the shirt, adding a delicate, feminine touch to your outfit.
• Wear under transparent shirts: Tank tops can provide coverage and modesty when worn under transparent shirts. You can match the colour of the tank top to the shirt, or you can use a contrasting colour for a bolder look.
• Add accessories: Tank tops are simple, so you can accessorise with bold jewellery, scarves, belts, and handbags to add a pop of colour and texture to your outfit.

Tank tops for a chic, polished look

Tank tops are a versatile piece of clothing that can be dressed up or down, making them a great addition to any wardrobe. Here are some tips on how to style a tank top for a chic, polished look:

• Layering is key: Tank tops are perfect for layering, whether it's under a blazer, jacket, cardigan, or blouse. For a more polished look, opt for a plain white or black blazer paired with a solid-colored tank top. Alternatively, choose a patterned or boldly embellished jacket for a more summery feel.
• Choose the right bra: If your tank top has thin straps, go for a strapless or bandeau bra to avoid extra straps peeking out. Seamless bras are also a good option, especially under form-fitting tank tops, as they provide a smooth look with no visible lines.
• Consider your body type: If you have a large bust, choose a tank top with thicker straps to provide more support. To balance out broader shoulders, opt for a tank top with a V-neck or scoop neck. If you have narrow shoulders, go for skinny straps and brighter colors to create the appearance of more proportionate shoulders.
• Accessorize: Add a pop of color or texture with bold jewelry, such as large hoop earrings or chunky bracelets. A scarf can also be a great accessory to pair with a tank top, especially if you want to cover up your cleavage. Don't forget to finish the look with a cute belt or a large handbag!
• Pair with different bottoms: Tank tops can be dressed up or down depending on the bottoms you choose. For a chic look, pair a tank top with high-waisted shorts or a long, flowing skirt. You can also try styling a tank top with a suit vest and trousers for a more professional ensemble.

Tank tops with skirts

Tank tops are a versatile piece of clothing that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. When it comes to styling a tank top with a skirt, the options are endless! Here are some ideas to get you started:

Length

The length of your skirt can significantly impact the overall look of your outfit. For a chic and glamorous look, pair your tank top with a high-waisted midi or maxi skirt. This combination will give you a put-together and elegant appearance. On the other hand, if you're going for a fun and flirty vibe, opt for a mini skirt that sits at or above the knee.

Style

Tank tops can be styled with various skirt styles to create different looks. For a romantic, bohemian outfit, choose a skirt with tiers, ruffles, or a wrap style. If you're aiming for a more polished and sophisticated vibe, go for a pleated or pencil skirt. A-line skirts are also a great option for a classic and feminine silhouette.

Fabric

The fabric of your skirt can also play a role in the overall aesthetic of your outfit. For a casual and comfortable look, choose a skirt made from lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, or viscose. If you're dressing up, consider a skirt made from silk, satin, or a fabric with a bit of shine or texture, like brocade or lace.

Colour and Pattern

Don't be afraid to play with colour and pattern when pairing a tank top with a skirt. For a bold statement, choose a printed or brightly coloured tank top and skirt. If you want to create a more subtle look, opt for neutral or complementary colours in your tank top and skirt. You can also try mixing and matching patterns and textures to create a unique and interesting outfit.

Layers and Accessories

Tank tops and skirts can be the perfect base for layering and accessorising. In cooler weather, layer a cardigan, blazer, or vest over your tank top. To add interest to your outfit, consider adding a statement belt, a scarf, or some eye-catching jewellery. When it comes to footwear, you can go for a casual look with sandals or sneakers, or dress things up with a pair of heels.

Occasion

The beauty of a tank top and skirt combination is that it can be dressed up or down for any occasion. For a casual daytime look, pair a simple tank top with a denim skirt and sneakers. If you're heading to the beach, try a flowy tank with a tiered maxi skirt and sandals. For a night out, style a silk tank with a satin midi skirt and heels for a sleek and elegant ensemble.

Remember, these are just a few ideas to get you started. The key to styling a tank top with a skirt is to have fun and experiment with different looks to find what makes you feel confident and comfortable!

Tank tops with shorts

Tank tops are a versatile piece of clothing that can be dressed up or down. Here are some tips on how to style them with shorts:

• Choose the right fit: Opt for a tank top with thicker straps if you have a large bust as they offer more support. If you have narrow shoulders, go for skinny straps, and if you have broad shoulders, choose thicker straps.
• Consider the neckline: You can make your bust appear larger or smaller depending on the neckline. If you want to draw attention to your bust, choose a style with a detailed neckline, such as ruffles or pleating. If you want to draw attention away from your bust, choose a tank top with a neckline that ends just above your cleavage.
• Layer with a blazer: For a chic and polished look, pair your tank top with a blazer. You can leave the blazer buttoned or unbuttoned. For a more polished style, go for a plain blazer in a neutral colour. If you're going for a more summery vibe, try a blazer with a pattern or bold embellishment.
• Add accessories: Tank tops are relatively simple, so you can get creative with accessories. Try adding a pop of colour with a statement necklace, some chunky bracelets, or large hoop earrings. A big handbag can also add some extra interest to your outfit.
• Pair with high-waisted shorts: For a stylish and glamorous look, pair your tank top with some high-waisted shorts. This will also help to lengthen your legs. Finish off the look with a pair of sandals or heels.

Frequently asked questions