The Versatile White Tank: Bra-Friendly Styling Tips

Tank tops are a versatile piece of clothing that can be dressed up or down, but they can be a little tricky to style with a bra. If you're wearing a spaghetti-strap tank, you'll want to avoid regular bra straps, which can be visible and ruin the look. Instead, opt for a strapless bra, a bandeau, or a bra with clear straps. If your tank top is form-fitting, you'll want to avoid a bra with visible wiring, so go for a seamless bra instead. For larger busts, a strapped bra will offer more support, so you may want to choose a tank top with thicker straps to hide them. If you're happy to go braless, nipple covers are also an option.

Strapless bras or bandeaus for smaller busts

If you have a smaller bust, you can opt for a strapless bra or bandeau to wear under your white tank top. Strapless bras are designed with a silicon band to keep them in place, and some have flexible underwires for added support. If you want to wear a bra with straps, a convertible bra is a good option, as it can be worn in multiple ways to suit different tops.

Bandeaus are made from stretchable, moisture-wicking material and are a good option for those with smaller busts. They usually don't offer much support, but you can find bandeaus with padding and soft underwire for more lift and shape.

When choosing a bandeau bra, it's important to determine your proper bra size and pay attention to the details, such as the materials used, the presence of padding or underwire, and the elasticity of the band. Look for adjustable features, such as convertible elements like removable straps, and read reviews to get an idea of the bra's fit, comfort, and quality.

Seamless bras for tight, form-fitting tops

When wearing a tight, form-fitting top, it's best to opt for a wireless, seamless bra. This will help to create a smooth, invisible look under your clothing. Seamless bras are crafted from soft, stretchy fabrics like nylon, cotton, and spandex, which offer next-level comfort and support without the need for cumbersome underwire and clasps.

Best Everyday:

Eberjey Pima Goddess Everyday Plunge Bra

This bra is made with ultra-soft, lightweight fabric and features adjustable straps. While it may not be ideal for larger busts, it provides a good fit and holds everything in place without cups or padding.

Best for Lift:

Bali Comfort Revolution Wire-Free Bra

This wireless bra provides lift and support without discomfort. It features ultra-thin foam cups and thick, supportive straps. While some reviewers say the bra is poorly made, it has still garnered over 51,000 customer reviews on Amazon.

Best Bralette:

Skims Fits Everybody Scoop-Neck Bralette

Skims' Fits Everybody fabric is incredibly soft, supportive, and comfortable. It provides a seamless look under clothing and supports all bust sizes. While some say the band can be tight, it's still a great option for those who have struggled to find a comfortable bra after a double mastectomy and reconstruction.

Best Smoothing:

Warner's Easy Does It Wire-Free Bra

This supportive, wire-free bra has garnered over 27,000 five-star reviews. It features smoothing panels to eliminate bulges and adjustable straps. However, it lacks separate cups, which can create a "uniboob" effect, and some reviewers say it's not the most flattering for summer tops.

Best Plunge:

Parade Support Lift Plunge Bralette

This seamless bralette provides all the lift of a plunge design without the discomfort of underwire. It comes in a range of sizes and is perfect for low-cut tops and summer dresses. While some customers report spillage, it still has a four out of five-star rating.

In addition to these options, there are many other seamless bras on the market that can provide comfort and support while remaining invisible under tight, form-fitting tops.

Tank tops with wider straps for larger busts

If you have a larger bust, you will need to wear a bra that offers more support. This means that strapless bras are probably not a good option for you. Instead, opt for a bra with wider straps. If you want to wear a tank top, choose one with wider straps, too. This will conceal your bra straps and ensure you feel supported.

There are plenty of wide-strap tank tops available to buy, in a range of colours and fabrics. You can find them in most clothing stores, as well as online. Etsy, for example, has a large selection of wide-strap tank tops, including basic styles, vest tops, and ribbed options. Target also stocks wide-strap tank tops.

If you want to wear a white tank top, you may want to consider wearing a black bra underneath. This combination can look chic and stylish, and you don't have to worry about your bra showing through.

Convertible bras with hidden hooks and eyes

When wearing a tank top, it's important to consider the type of bra you'll be wearing underneath. If you're going for a seamless, invisible look, a convertible bra with hidden hooks and eyes can be a great option. These bras are designed to be versatile and can be worn in multiple ways to suit different styles of tops, including tank tops.

Some convertible bras also come with additional invisible silicone straps. These clear straps are designed to blend with your skin tone, making them almost unnoticeable. This feature ensures that you can wear a variety of tops, including those with unique styles like racerback or halter neck, without worrying about your bra straps showing.

When choosing a convertible bra, it's important to consider the cup style, colour, and level of padding. Look for options that provide a natural shape and adequate support for your bust. Additionally, consider the material and fabric to ensure comfort and durability.

Convertible bras are a great solution for anyone who wants the convenience of a bra that can adapt to different styles while providing the necessary support and coverage. They are especially useful for summertime or occasions when you want to wear a tank top without exposing your bra straps.

Built-in bras for support and coverage

If you're looking for support and coverage, a built-in bra is a great option. These tank tops have a bra-like structure incorporated into their design, so you don't need to wear a separate bra. They often feature adjustable straps and hook closures, allowing you to customise the fit. When choosing a tank top with a built-in bra, ensure the bra portion fits properly and offers adequate support. Look for features such as underwire, adjustable bands, and removable padding for added comfort and versatility.

Some tank tops have built-in bras designed for light support, while others provide more structure and coverage suitable for high-impact activities. It's important to try on the tank top and move around to ensure the built-in bra offers the desired level of support and avoids any discomfort. If needed, explore different brands or sizes to find the perfect fit.

Built-in bras are a convenient option when you need to change tops frequently, such as when going from yoga to the beach to a night out. They can also be a good choice if you're tired of constantly readjusting your bra or feeling self-conscious about your undergarments showing.

When choosing a tank top with a built-in bra, consider the level of support you need. If you have a larger bust, look for tank tops with thicker straps and wider bands to provide better support and distribute the weight of your breasts. Additionally, opt for tank tops made with thicker, less see-through materials to camouflage your bra.

Frequently asked questions