The Tank Top And Chain Style Guide For Men

Tank tops are a tricky piece of menswear, but there are ways to style them to make them fashionable. One way to do this is by pairing them with accessories like chain necklaces. The bigger the chain, the bolder the look. A wide gold chain will help you achieve a luxurious look, while silver tends to be more subtle. You can also wear multiple chains with different textures and lengths to draw attention to your neckline. The length of the chain is also important—most chains are between 18 and 20 inches, sitting just beneath the collarbone, but you can also opt for a longer chain that falls around the sternum.

Layering: Wear a tank top under light jackets, blazers, and shirts

Tank tops are a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, making them a great option for layering. Here are some tips for layering a tank top for a stylish and put-together look:

Light Jackets

When pairing a tank top with a light jacket, look for contrasting fabrics and styles to create visual interest. For example, a structured denim or leather jacket can be a great complement to the soft and stretchy fabric of a tank top. This combination works well for transitional weather, providing an extra layer of warmth without being too heavy.

Blazers

For a more formal take on layering, try pairing a tank top with a blazer. This combination is perfect for a business casual look or for dressing up a simple tank. Opt for a well-fitting blazer that skims your frame, and play with textures and colours to create a unique ensemble. A blazer can elevate your tank top, especially when paired with tailored trousers or a sleek pencil skirt.

Shirts

Layering a tank top under a shirt is a great way to add interest and depth to your outfit. Try wearing a crisp, button-down shirt open over a tank, or layer a tank over a collared shirt for a more relaxed feel. This combination is perfect for transitioning from day to night, and it can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

Accessories

When layering a tank top, don't forget to use accessories to elevate your look. A simple chain necklace can add a stylish touch, especially when paired with other necklaces for a layered effect. You can also add a sweater draped over your shoulders for a stylish and functional layer, or throw on a bucket hat for a trendy accent.

Fit and Proportions

When layering, it's important to consider the fit and proportions of your tank top. Opt for a tank that falls just below your belt loops and hangs about half an inch from your body. This will ensure your layers sit comfortably and flatteringly, without appearing too tight or revealing.

Colour and Pattern

Tank tops are a great base for playing with colour and pattern. When layering, don't be afraid to experiment with graphic stripes, colour-blocking, or repeating tonal patterns. You can also use layering to add a pop of colour to your outfit, whether it's a bright tank top under a neutral blazer or a colourful jacket over a plain tank.

In conclusion, layering a tank top under light jackets, blazers, and shirts is a stylish way to transition your tank top from casual to dressy. By playing with textures, colours, and proportions, you can create unique and fashionable outfits that are perfect for a range of occasions.

Fit: The tank top should hang about half an inch from the body, with straps no thinner than three inches wide

When it comes to the fit of a tank top, it should hang about half an inch from your body. This allows for breathability and helps to conceal sweat patches. A good tank top should not be skin-tight, but rather have a relaxed drape.

The width of the straps is also important. No thinner than three inches is the recommended minimum width, as demonstrated by Ryan Gosling, the spirit guide for tank-top wear. Wider straps provide more coverage and can be more flattering, especially if you have broader shoulders. Gosling's tank top is an excellent visual reference for this.

If you find that your tank top straps are too long, you can shorten them by following a simple DIY adjustment. You will need some straight pins or safety pins, and a sewing machine or needle and thread. First, pull the shirt up at the shoulder seam until the strap is the desired length, and then pin and cut accordingly, ensuring the straps are the same width. You can then stitch across the strap, and press the seams flat. This adjustment works well for wider straps, while thinner straps may be better shortened at the back of the tank.

Skin exposure: The amount of skin exposed should not exceed the square inches covered by the tank top

When wearing a chain with a tank top, it's important to consider the amount of skin you're exposing. Here are some tips to follow to ensure you don't show too much skin:

Firstly, the golden rule of showing skin applies here: the amount of skin exposed should not exceed the square inches covered by your tank top. In other words, keep it moderate. This means that the armholes of your tank top should not extend beyond your first rib, and the neckline should end above your armpits.

Additionally, the fit of your tank top plays a crucial role. It should fall just below your belt loops and hang about half an inch from your body. This will help to keep any sweat patches discreet. The straps of your tank should be at least three inches wide, as thinner straps can be more revealing.

When it comes to the chain itself, consider the message you want to convey. A wider gold chain will give a bolder statement, while a simple steel chain with a medium length of 20 inches and a slim width of 5mm will give a more understated look. You can also choose to wear your chain with or without a pendant. Pendants typically work better with slimmer chains.

If you're wearing a plain T-shirt, you can let your chain peek out from underneath, resting on top of your shirt. Alternatively, you can wear a gold necklace with just the upper part showing at the back of your neck, creating a stylish and mysterious vibe.

Grooming: Make grooming adjustments before wearing a tank top in public

Before you step out in a tank top, there are a few grooming adjustments you should consider to ensure you're looking and feeling your best. Here are some tips to help you get ready:

• Skin Care: Start by understanding your skin type—oily, dry, combination, or sensitive. Cleanse your skin regularly to remove dirt and excess oil, exfoliate to shed dead skin cells, and moisturize to maintain skin hydration. Don't forget to apply sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays and prevent signs of aging.
• Nail Care: Well-maintained nails are essential. Keep your nails short, clean, and trimmed. Consider a professional manicure or pedicure to take care of your hands and feet, and don't forget to moisturize your hands and cuticles to prevent dryness or cracking.
• Beard Care: If you have a beard, keep it well-groomed. Wash it regularly with a specialized cleanser, and hydrate the skin underneath. Trim your beard to maintain a tidy and intentional look, and use natural beard oils or balms to condition it and give it a healthy sheen.
• Oral Hygiene: Practice good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing to remove plaque and food particles, and using mouthwash to maintain fresh breath and oral health. Don't forget to regularly clean your tongue, as it can also harbor bacteria and contribute to bad breath.
• Body Hair Maintenance: Decide what to do with your body hair—trim, shave, or wax. Focus on areas like the chest, back, underarms, and groin, and use quality grooming products to minimize skin irritation or ingrown hairs.
• Hair Care: Choose a hairstyle that suits your face shape and lifestyle. Use the right shampoo and conditioner for your hair type, and schedule regular haircuts to maintain your style and prevent split ends. Don't neglect scalp care, as a healthy scalp promotes hair growth and reduces issues like dandruff.
• Posture: Stand up straight to create a sense of confidence and pride. Good posture not only makes your tank top look better but also showcases your confidence and self-assurance.

Metal type: Gold chains achieve a luxurious look, while silver is more subtle

When it comes to the type of metal, gold chains achieve a luxurious look, while silver is more subtle. Gold is a status symbol and tends to attract more attention. It also has the benefit of not tarnishing over time, retaining its colour for decades and maintaining its value. Silver, on the other hand, is considered a precious metal and has an attractive, classic finish. It is also durable and can last for decades with only occasional polishing.

The choice between gold and silver depends on factors such as skin tone and the other accessories being worn. For those with olive skin, gold is a better choice, while those with pale or fair skin may prefer silver. It is generally advised to match metals, so if wearing a silver watch, for example, it is best to pair it with a silver chain. Mixing metals is considered a fashion faux pas.

When it comes to men's jewellery, it is important to remember that less is more. A single chain, whether gold or silver, can make a statement without being overwhelming. This is especially true for men's necklaces, which can be considered less attractive as men get older. A simple chain, perhaps with a charm, can be a significant and sexy piece of jewellery for men under 30.

Frequently asked questions