Racerback Tank Top: A Fashionable Essential For Your Wardrobe

Racerback tank tops are a versatile garment that can be styled in various ways to achieve different looks, from sporty to chic and elegant. When wearing a racerback tank, it's important to consider what to layer underneath as the back and bodice are exposed. This article will offer tips on how to style a racerback tank top for a fashionable look, including choosing the right bra or tank top to layer underneath, and provide outfit ideas for different occasions, from casual drinks to elegant outdoor parties. Additionally, we'll suggest ways to accessorize and provide guidance on choosing the right fit to ensure you feel confident and comfortable.

Choosing the right bra

When styling a racerback tank top, it's important to consider the type of bra you'll be wearing underneath. Here are some tips on choosing the right bra to complete your look:

Choose a Racerback Bra

The racerback style bra is designed to match the shape of your tank top, ensuring that the straps remain hidden. Racerback bras are a great option if you want to avoid showing your bra straps. They provide a seamless look and can be found in both sports bra and regular bra styles.

Opt for a Bandeau

If you're looking for more coverage, a bandeau can be a good alternative. Bandeaus are strapless and typically cover a larger portion of your upper body. They provide a smooth silhouette and are perfect if you want to avoid any bra straps from showing.

Convertible Bras with Adjustable Straps

Another option is to look for bras with convertible or adjustable straps. These bras allow you to change the style of the straps to suit your outfit. You can often cross the straps at the back or adjust them to create a racerback style. This versatility can be handy if you want to wear a variety of tank top styles.

Layer with a Tank Top

If you're not concerned about showing a little extra layer, you can always wear a tank top under your racerback tank. This can be a good option if you're looking for a more casual or layered look. It also allows you to play with different colours and styles, adding a unique touch to your outfit.

Ensure a Proper Fit

Regardless of the bra style you choose, ensuring a proper fit is crucial. An ill-fitting bra can cause discomfort and ruin your look. Take the time to measure yourself and determine your correct band and cup size. You can refer to online guides or seek the help of a professional bra fitter. A well-fitting bra will provide the necessary support and enhance your overall style.

Remember, when wearing a racerback tank top, the focus is often on the back and bodice, so choose a bra that complements this feature. By selecting the right bra, you can create a stylish and comfortable outfit, whether you're going for a casual drink or hitting the gym!

Layering for an edgy look

If you're looking to layer your racerback tank top for an edgy look, there are several options to consider. Firstly, you can choose to layer it over another tank top in a contrasting colour. For example, pairing a black racerback tank top with a white tank top underneath can create a stylish and edgy contrast. Alternatively, if you're looking for a more subtle approach, opt for layering with a tank top in the same colour family as your racerback. This can include pairing a black racerback with a dark grey tank top or a white racerback with a light grey tank top.

Another way to layer your racerback tank top is by wearing it over a long-sleeved shirt. This could be a plain shirt in a complementary colour or a shirt with a fun pattern or design that peeks through the racerback cutouts. You can also try layering your racerback over a turtleneck, creating a stylish and edgy silhouette.

If you're feeling creative, you can even cut the sleeves off of a t-shirt to create a DIY tank top for layering. This allows you to control the width of the armholes and the length of the tank top, ensuring it pairs well with your racerback.

For an edgy and unique look, you can also try pairing your racerback with a bikini top that has cross-back straps. This adds an unexpected element to your outfit and can be a fun way to showcase your personal style.

Lastly, when it comes to choosing the right bra, opt for a racerback bra that matches your outfit's colour scheme. Racerback bras ensure that your bra straps remain hidden, creating a sleek and stylish look.

With these layering options, you can create an edgy and fashionable outfit while staying comfortable and true to your personal style.

DIY racerback tank tops

There are many ways to make your own DIY racerback tank top. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Using a T-Shirt

To make a braided racerback tank top, you will need a T-shirt that is 1 to 2 sizes larger than your usual size. You can use a blank T-shirt or one with a design on the front. It is important not to use a fitted shirt as it will make the racerback too small. Cut the sleeves off about 1 to 2 inches below the armpit, then cut the back armholes wider. Cut off the collar, and separate the top and bottom of the shirt by cutting across the back just below the collar. To create the braid, cut two vertical slits down the back of the shirt. Pull on the strands to make them longer, then braid them together. Sew or glue the end of the braid to keep it together. Reattach the braid to the collar, then wrap a strip of fabric from the sleeves around the top of the braid to conceal the stitching.

Creating a Racerback Shape

Another method involves drawing a racerback shape onto your T-shirt with fabric marker or chalk. Cut about half an inch beyond the lines you drew, then fold and pin one of the armholes along the chalk line, hiding the raw edges inside the shirt. Sew along the pinned edge, then repeat on the other side. Cut a rectangle from the leftover sleeve material and fold it in half with the right sides together. Sew the ends together to form a tube, then turn it right side out and iron it with the seam in the centre. Wrap this loop around the fabric at the back of the shirt and sew the ends together. Turn the loop right side out, then twist it so that the seam is towards the inside of the shirt.

Cutting the Back of a Tank Top

You can also make a racerback tank top by cutting the back of a regular tank top. Cut down the centre of the back of the tank top, stopping about 2 inches from the bottom. Then, cut a straight line horizontally across the back, about 2 inches from the top. This will create two flaps. Take the right flap and bring it across to the left side, then take the left flap and bring it across to the right side, creating a criss-cross design. Sew the edges of the flaps to the tank top, and you're done!

Styling for summer

Racerback tank tops are a versatile piece to have in your wardrobe, perfect for the warmer months. They are a great way to stay cool in the summer heat, and can be styled in a multitude of ways. Racerback tank tops can be dressed up or down, and are a fun way to experiment with layering.

Styling a Racerback Tank Top

The racerback tank is a great basic item to have in your wardrobe. It is a simple, flowy piece, often made from an elastic material, which means it can be worn when training or working out. It is also a good option for hot summer days, as the wider armholes at the back prevent sweat from accumulating on your shoulders.

A racerback tank top can be styled in a casual way, by pairing it with denim shorts, or skinny jeans. For a monochrome look, pair a white racerback tank with a black pencil skirt, and add high-heeled sandals or pointed-toe shoes. For a more elegant look, wear a black racerback tank with bell-bottom trousers and pointed-toe stilettos or ankle boots.

If you want to layer your racerback tank, try wearing it over a regular tank top in a contrasting colour. For example, a black racerback tank could be worn with a grey or white tank top underneath. This is a good way to cover bra straps, and add interest to your outfit.

Bra Options

When wearing a racerback tank, it is important to consider your bra options, as a large part of your back and bodice will be exposed. A racerback bra is an obvious choice, but ensure the straps are not too thin, as these can still peek out from under your tank. A bra with multiple straps can add interest to your outfit, especially if you choose a contrasting colour to your tank.

DIY Racerback Tank

If you want to try making your own racerback tank, you can transform an old t-shirt. Look for a t-shirt that is one to two sizes larger than your usual size, and ensure it is long enough, as you can always cut it shorter if needed. Cut the sleeves off, and then cut the back armholes wider, before reassembling the shirt with a braided effect. There are many online tutorials to guide you through this process.

Racerback tank tops are a fun, versatile piece, and perfect for summer styling. They can be dressed up or down, and are a great basic to have in your wardrobe.

Racerback tank tops for men

Racerback tank tops are a tricky piece of menswear to pull off. The line between great and gross is very fine, and the presence or lack of fabric can make all the difference.

If you are going to wear a racerback tank top, the first rule is that it should be a good fit. Like a t-shirt, it should fall just below your belt loops and hang about half an inch from your body. This will help to keep your sweat from showing. The straps should be around three inches wide, and it should not be too revealing.

The golden rule of showing skin is that the amount of skin you are showing should not exceed the square inches covered by your tank top. No skin below the first rib or in the pits region should be on display.

A tank top can be a great way to add a bright spot to your summer wardrobe. Avoid wearing tanks that reference lifting or gym mottos. Instead, opt for colour and prints such as graphic stripes, colour blocking, or repeating tonal patterns.

You can also layer your tank top under light jackets, blazers, and shirts. If wearing a tank under a suit, make sure it is classy enough for the occasion.

Finally, make sure you are prepared with any necessary grooming adjustments before going out in public in your tank top!

Frequently asked questions