Style Tank Tops Modestly: Tips For A Chic Look

Tank tops are a versatile garment that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. While they are a great way to stay cool in hot weather, some people may want to wear them modestly without exposing too much skin. One way to do this is by layering – for example, wearing a tank top with a higher neckline underneath a lower-cut top, or wearing a jacket, blazer, or cardigan over the tank top. You can also wear a vest over a tank top for a bolder look. Another option is to choose a tank top with thicker straps and a higher neckline, or to wear a scarf to cover your cleavage. In terms of styling, you can pair a tank top with high-waisted shorts, skirts of any length, or jeans for a casual look.

Layering

For a chic, polished look, layer a jacket or blazer over the tank top. You can leave the jacket/blazer buttoned or unbuttoned. For a more polished look, opt for a plain white or black blazer with a solid-coloured tank top. For something more summery, opt for a jacket/blazer with a pattern or bold embellishment.

You can also wear a cardigan over the tank top for a more feminine look. Leave it unbuttoned so that the tank top is visible underneath. This is perfect for cooler days and for extending your summer wardrobe into the autumn and winter.

A vest is another option to layer over a tank top. You can wear a suit vest, a woollen vest, or even a leather one. Whether you choose to button it up or leave it unbuttoned is up to you. Choose a colour that complements your tank top and the rest of your outfit. Neutral colours, such as black or grey, go well with almost everything.

Tank tops can also be layered underneath scoop or V-neck shirts with short or long sleeves. The best tank tops for this type of layering have some sort of lace along the neckline or bottom hem. When worn under a regular shirt, only the lace will peek out from behind the upper shirt, adding a girlish, feminine touch. Try to use a neutral colour for at least one of the shirts. For example, you could wear a pink tank top under a creamy white shirt, or a white tank top under a navy shirt.

Tank tops can also be worn under transparent shirts to cover private areas that you don't want people to see, such as your bra. You can match the colour of the tank top to the shirt, or use a contrasting colour. For example, you can wear a black tank top under a black lacy shirt.

Additionally, tank tops can be layered for additional warmth. They can also be worn under fancier shirts to protect them from sweat and oil. In this case, the tank top should match your skin tone and should not be visible once you put on your dress shirt.

Bra straps

Tank tops are a versatile piece of clothing, perfect for layering and expressing your personal style. When it comes to wearing a tank top modestly, one of the main concerns is often the visibility of bra straps. Here are some tips to help you style your tank top without exposing your bra straps:

• Opt for a Strapless Bra: If you don't require significant bust support, a lightweight strapless bra can be an excellent option to pair with your tank top. Strapless bras are designed to stay in place without the need for straps, ensuring your bra remains invisible under your tank top.
• Choose a Convertible Bra: Convertible bras offer versatile strap configurations, allowing you to adjust the straps to match the style of your tank top. For example, you can convert the straps to a racerback style, effectively hiding them under your top.
• Select a Tank Top with a Built-in Bra: Some tank tops are designed with a built-in bra, eliminating the need for a separate bra altogether. These tank tops provide both support and coverage, ensuring that your bra remains concealed.
• Adjust Bra Straps and Band: If you prefer to wear your regular bra, you can make some adjustments to minimise strap visibility. Shorten the bra straps so that they fit closer to your body, reducing the chances of them peeking out. Additionally, consider crossing the bra straps at the back to create a racerback effect, pulling the straps away from your shoulders.
• Choose a Tank Top with Wider Straps: If you have a larger bust and require more support, opt for a tank top with wider straps. This will provide better coverage and reduce the likelihood of your bra straps becoming visible.
• Match Bra Strap Colour: When wearing a thin-strapped tank top, opt for a bra with straps that match the colour of your top. This will help the bra straps blend in with your top, making them less noticeable.
• Try Adhesive Bras or Tape: For complete invisibility, consider using adhesive bras or tape. Adhesive bras are made of silicone and adhere directly to your skin, providing support without the need for straps. Adhesive tape can also be used to secure the edges of your breasts, preventing accidental bra exposure.
• Layer with Camisoles or Bralettes: Layering your tank top with a camisole or bralette can be a stylish and practical way to conceal your bra. Camisoles provide an extra layer of coverage, helping to smooth out any visible bra lines or straps. Bralettes offer a comfortable and fashionable alternative to traditional bras, providing coverage and support while adding a trendy element to your outfit.

Necklines

When it comes to wearing a tank top modestly, the neckline you choose can make a big difference. Here are some tips to help you select the right neckline for a modest look:

• If you want to draw attention away from your bust, opt for a tank top with a higher neckline that ends just above your cleavage. This will provide more coverage while still keeping you cool in warm weather.
• On the other hand, if you want to accentuate your bust, choose a tank top with a detailed neckline. Look for styles with ruching, pleating, or ruffles, as these elements will add visual interest and draw the eye towards your chest.
• Consider your shoulder width when selecting a neckline. If you have narrow shoulders, straight or rounded necklines will complement your frame. For those with broader shoulders, a V-neck or low scoop neck can help create a slimming effect, making your body appear longer and narrower.
• To create a balanced silhouette, match the width of the straps to your shoulder width. If you have broader shoulders, thicker straps will look more proportionate, while narrow shoulders are flattered by skinny spaghetti straps.
• For a versatile layering piece, invest in some basic tank tops with simple necklines. These can be worn under scoop or V-neck shirts, providing extra coverage and a feminine touch of lace or embellishment.
• If you have a large bust and require more support, thicker straps are a practical choice. Strapless bras may not provide enough support, so consider a tank top with wider straps that can accommodate regular bra straps. Alternatively, you can layer a cardigan over a tank top with thinner straps to conceal the bra straps while staying comfortable.
• If you're looking for a modest layering option, consider wearing a tank top with a higher neckline underneath another tank top. This will give you the coverage you need while still allowing you to wear a stylish outer layer.
• For a dressier option, choose a backless tank top with a unique neckline. These often feature a strip of fabric running down the back, showing off your skin while maintaining elegance and modesty.

Accessories

Jewellery

Add some jewellery to your outfit to add a pop of colour and texture. Tank tops are relatively simple, so you can get away with adding some bold jewellery to make a statement. Try large, hoop earrings, chunky bracelets, or long, dangling necklaces. If your tank top is made from a fancier material, such as lace or silk, adding jewellery can make it appear even fancier and more suitable for special events.

Scarves

If you want to cover your cleavage, tie a scarf around your neck. Choose a patterned scarf made from chiffon or silk, and loop it around your neck for a chic touch. You can also wear the scarf as a headband, or tie it around your waist as a belt. Avoid woollen scarves, as they may make your outfit look too wintry.

Handbags

Carry a large handbag to add some contrast to your outfit. If your tank top is solid-coloured, try a handbag with a bold pattern. If your tank top has a pattern, opt for a plain, solid-coloured handbag.

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 around your waist can cinch in the excess fabric and make you look slimmer. Leather, suede, and fabric belts are great for daytime, while shiny, patent leather belts are perfect for the evening.

Shoes

Tank tops can be paired with a variety of shoes, depending on the desired look. Sandals or heels can add a touch of chic and glamour, especially when paired with high-waisted shorts. Flats or sneakers can also be a good choice, depending on your mood.

Bottoms

When styling a tank top, the bottom piece of clothing you choose can make a big difference in the overall look of your outfit. Here are some tips for choosing bottoms to wear with a tank top:

• Balance loose and tight pieces: Tank tops that are more fitted can be balanced out by pairing them with voluminous bottoms such as wide-leg jeans, relaxed denim, or flowy skirts. On the other hand, a super tight tank top paired with skinny jeans can be a lot to handle, so if you want to rock skinny jeans with a tank, consider adding an oversized layer over the tank top.
• Play with colours and textures: You can wear a tank top at any time of year, so have fun with colours, fabrics, and textures depending on the season. Try sweater tanks in the fall and winter, and cotton and linen tanks in the spring and summer. You can also play with ribbed, knit, or plain fabrics to add interest to your outfit.
• Pair with jeans: Tank tops can be dressed up or down with jeans. For a casual look, pair a tank with relaxed jean shorts or mom shorts. For a dressier look, try a nice fitted tank with straight-leg jeans.
• Try a skirt: Tank tops can be styled with skirts of any length. For a chic look, try a tank with a denim midi skirt. For a sweeter look, go for a midi skirt. A long skirt will give a more boho vibe, especially when paired with a wide, leather belt.
• Go for high-waisted shorts: Tank tops can be paired with high-waisted shorts for a touch of chic and glamour. Finish the look with sandals or heels to lengthen your legs.

Frequently asked questions