The Sheer Tank: Wear And Layering Guide

See-through tops are a bold fashion choice, but they can be difficult to style. If you want to wear a completely see-through tank top, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Firstly, consider the occasion and choose an appropriate level of coverage. You can pair your tank top with a camisole, tank top, or bra in a neutral colour that matches your skin tone for a seamless look. Alternatively, you can be more daring and choose a colourful or lacy bra for a sexy and bold look. If you want more coverage, you can wear a lightweight top or a blazer over your tank top. Experiment with different fabrics and styles to find what works best for you.

Choosing the right tank top style

There are many different types of tank tops, and the right style for you will depend on the occasion and your personal preferences. Here are some popular styles to consider:

• Athletic Tank Tops: These are designed for performance and usually feature moisture-wicking fabrics, making them ideal for workouts and sports activities. They often have a built-in bra for added support.
• Basic Tank Tops: A timeless classic that can be dressed up or down for any occasion. Basic tank tops are usually made from cotton and can have regular or spaghetti straps.
• Racerback Tank Tops: The racerback design offers extra freedom of movement, making it a popular choice for athletic activities. The distinctive T-shaped straps at the back give this style a sporty yet elegant look.
• Backless Tank Tops: Backless tank tops offer a bold and stylish option, often featuring a short fabric strip or lace at the back. They can be dressed up for parties or paired with jeans and boots for a classy look.
• Cut-Out Tank Tops: These tank tops feature stylish cut-out patterns and usually require another top underneath. They are perfect for those who want a tank top for the gym but don't like the racerback style.
• Custom Tank Tops: With custom tank tops, you can design your own unique top with personalised graphics, colours, and patterns. They often feature interesting details such as sequins, fur, or zippers.
• Double-Layer Tank Tops: These tank tops offer extra coverage and texture with their double-layer design. They are typically made from cotton or silk, but can also be found in softer fabrics like chiffon for a more elegant look.
• Muscle Tank Tops: Muscle tank tops have larger armholes and a relaxed fit, making them a cool and effortless choice. They are often favoured by those who want to show off their muscles.
• Halter Tank Tops: Halter tank tops have straps that meet around the neck, and they can be low-cut or high-cut. They are a versatile choice, suitable for both casual and dressy occasions.
• Printed Tank Tops: Printed tank tops come in a variety of designs, from florals and polka dots to stripes and shapes. They offer an easy way to add a pop of colour or pattern to your outfit.
• Sheer/Mesh Tank Tops: Sheer or mesh tank tops are perfect for those who want to show off their physique. They are often paired with tube tops or spaghetti tops underneath for more coverage. Black is a popular colour choice for this style.
• Spaghetti Strap Tank Tops: These tank tops feature thin straps and are known for their comfort and breathability, especially during the summer. Some styles also include built-in bras for added convenience.
• Thick Strap Tank Tops: Thick strap tank tops offer more coverage for the shoulders and upper chest area. They come in various neck styles, such as scoop-neck or v-neck, and can be loose or tight-fitting.

When choosing a tank top style, consider the occasion, your personal style, and the level of coverage you desire. With so many options available, you can find the perfect tank top to suit your unique taste and needs.

Opting for a built-in bra

If you're looking to wear a completely see-through tank top, you might be concerned about what to wear underneath. One option is to choose a top with a built-in bra, providing coverage and support without the need for an additional bra. Here are some tips for opting for a built-in bra when styling your see-through tank top:

Choose the Right Fit

Selecting the right fit is crucial when opting for a built-in bra. You want to ensure that the tank top provides adequate support and coverage while still feeling comfortable. Look for a style that fits snugly but isn't too tight, as you want to avoid any unwanted bulges or seams showing through the see-through fabric.

Consider the Occasion

Think about the occasion when choosing a built-in bra. If you're wearing the see-through tank top for a casual outing or to the beach, you might opt for a more relaxed fit with light padding or no padding at all. On the other hand, if you're dressing up for a party or a night out, you might prefer a more structured built-in bra with underwire or thicker padding to provide extra support and enhance your silhouette.

Opt for Seamless Styles

When wearing a completely see-through tank top, it's essential to consider the style of the built-in bra. Opt for a seamless style to ensure that the bra doesn't create visible lines or bumps under the sheer fabric. Look for smooth, continuous fabric that will lie flat against your skin, creating a sleek and polished look.

Match the Colour

Colour is also an important consideration when choosing a built-in bra for your see-through tank top. Opt for neutral colours like black, white, or nude that will blend seamlessly with your skin tone. If you're feeling bold, you can also choose a bright colour that pops against your skin, creating a fun and unexpected look.

Layer with Confidence

Don't be afraid to layer your see-through tank top with other pieces to create a stylish and covered-up look. You can wear a jacket, cardigan, or blazer over your tank top to keep warm and feel more comfortable. Experiment with different fabrics and textures to create a unique and fashionable outfit.

Accessorise with Ease

Finally, remember that accessories can be your best friend when wearing a see-through tank top with a built-in bra. A statement necklace or scarf can draw attention and add interest to your outfit while also providing a bit of extra coverage. Don't be afraid to play around with different accessories to find the perfect finishing touches for your look.

Wearing a strapless or convertible bra

A completely see-through tank top can be a bold fashion choice, but it can be difficult to know what to wear underneath. One option is to wear a strapless or convertible bra. Here are some tips for rocking this look with confidence:

When choosing a strapless or convertible bra, opt for one that fits you well and provides the support you need. It should stay in place without slipping or sliding down. You may want to go down a band size and up a cup size to ensure a snug fit.

Convertible bras come with detachable straps that can be adjusted to suit different styles of tops. If you're wearing a completely see-through tank top, you can remove the straps for a seamless look. Just be sure to adjust the straps accordingly so that your bra fits securely.

If you're concerned about the bra staying in place, you can also opt for a style with silicone grips along the edges, which will help it adhere to your skin. This can be especially helpful if you have a larger bust or prefer extra support.

When wearing a strapless or convertible bra under a see-through top, consider the colour that will be most discreet. A nude or neutral shade that matches your skin tone can be a good option for creating a seamless look. Black or white bras can also work, depending on the colour of your top and your personal preference.

To enhance the look, you can pair your see-through tank top and strapless bra with other items in your wardrobe. Layering a blazer, jacket, or cardigan over your tank top can provide coverage while still showing off the see-through fabric. You could also wear a sheer shirt over your tank top for a playful, punk-inspired look.

Using nipple covers or petals

Nipple covers, also known as petals, are a great option for wearing a completely see-through tank top. They are small, circular or flower-shaped adhesive coverings that stick directly onto your nipple, providing a barrier between your nipple and your clothing. They are designed to cover only your nipples, so they are perfect for low-cut tops and thin or sheer fabrics.

When choosing nipple covers, opt for a colour that closely matches your skin tone for the most discreet look. You can also find nipple covers in various shapes, such as hearts and flowers, which can add a fun and flirty touch to your look.

• Wash the covers with gentle soap and water after each use and store them in their original packaging to maintain their adhesiveness.
• If you are hesitant about the adhesive, opt for non-adhesive covers, such as the Wacoal's No Peeks, which are thin moulded cups that you place inside your bra cups.
• For a cheap, one-time solution, you can cut a panty liner in half and stick the adhesive side directly onto your nipples.
• If you want to enhance the look of your nipples, you can try nipple enhancers, which come in various shapes and sizes.

Nipple covers provide a comfortable and discreet way to wear a completely see-through tank top, ensuring that you feel confident and covered.

Layering with camisoles or bralettes

Layering a camisole or bralette under a completely see-through tank top is a great way to style this piece. This method can add a bit of modesty to the outfit, which is especially helpful if you are wearing the tank top to a work event. Layering with a camisole or bralette can also add texture or visual interest to an otherwise plain outfit.

If you are looking for a seamless look, opt for a lightweight, neutral-coloured camisole or bralette. Black, grey, and nude are all colours that will work well under a see-through top. You can also choose a camisole or bralette that matches the colour of your tank top for a seamless finish. For example, if you are wearing a sheer black top, pair it with a black camisole.

If you want to add a little edge to your outfit, pair a black camisole with a midi skirt and heels. Alternatively, for a more romantic look, opt for a camisole or bralette with lace trim. You can also wear a net or mesh camisole under a white t-shirt for an edgier vibe.

If you are wearing a sleeveless shirt, pick a lightweight camisole or bralette so that it isn't noticeable under your shirt. You can also wear a sports bra under your camisole or bralette for extra support in the chest area.

There are many affordable options for camisoles and bralettes. Old Navy, for example, offers a variety of colours and sizes for casual wear. Similarly, Forever21 has a great variety of nude tones, and their camisoles are inexpensive. If you are looking for a fancier option, you might want to try Aritzia.

Frequently asked questions