Style Tights And Tank Tops: A Guide To Layering Comfortably

Tank tops and tights are a great combination, but there are some things to keep in mind when wearing them. Firstly, it's important to choose the right type of tank top and bra to ensure you get the desired level of support and coverage. If you're wearing a tank top with thin straps, for example, you might want to opt for a strapless or bandeau bra. The type of neckline you choose can also make a difference in how your bust appears. A more detailed neckline will draw attention to your bust, while a higher neckline can help to conceal it.

When it comes to tights, it's best to avoid anything too busy or outdated. Simple, unfussy styles with minimal patterns and details are generally more flattering and modern. You also want to make sure your tights are the right length. They should be long enough to cover your backside and groin.

To complete the look, you can layer your tank top and tights with other pieces such as a jacket, cardigan, or scarf. Just remember to keep the overall outfit simple and elegant.

Choosing the right top and bra

When choosing the right top and bra to wear with tights and a tank top, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, if your tank top has thin spaghetti straps, it is best to wear a bandeau or strapless bra. This will provide support without the extra straps of a regular bra showing. If you can't find a strapless bra that fits well, you can also opt for one with clear straps. However, if you plan to wear a shirt or cardigan over your tank top, you have more flexibility in your choice of bra.

The type of tank top you choose will also depend on your bust size. If you have a large bust, thicker straps will provide more support. In this case, you may need to wear a regular bra with wider straps, which can be concealed by choosing a tank top with wider shoulders or by layering a cardigan over your tank top. Additionally, the width of the straps on your tank top should be proportional to the width of your shoulders. If you have broad shoulders, go for thicker straps, and if you have narrow shoulders, stick with skinny spaghetti straps.

The neckline of your tank top can also help to flatter your figure. If you want to draw attention away from your bust, choose a tank top with a neckline that ends just above your cleavage. On the other hand, if you want to accentuate your bust, opt for a neckline with details such as ruching, pleating, or ruffles. To make your body appear longer and narrower, those with narrow shoulders can choose a rounder or straighter neckline, while those with wide shoulders can opt for a V-neck or scoop neck.

It is also a good idea to have a variety of basic tank tops in neutral or earth tones, such as black, white, grey, brown, tan, or olive green. These can be easily layered and paired with other garments. In contrast, embellished tank tops with lace, sequins, beading, or ruffles can be perfect for dressing up or going out. Finally, consider printed or embellished tank tops with specific details like ruffles, crocheted lace, or tribal prints to create unique outfits.

Working with layers

Layering is a great way to style a tank top, and there are many ways to do it.

A simple way to layer is to wear a jacket or blazer over your tank top. This can be left buttoned or unbuttoned, depending on your preference. For a polished look, opt for a plain blazer in a neutral colour such as black or white, and pair it with a solid-coloured tank top. For a more summery outfit, choose a jacket or blazer with a bold pattern or embellishment.

If you want to create a more feminine outfit, layer a cardigan over your tank top. Again, this can be left unbuttoned so that the tank top is still visible. This is a great way to stay warm in cooler weather, and it can help you get more wear out of your summer clothes in the autumn and winter. Choose a cardigan in a different colour to your tank top—for example, a pink cardigan over a white tank top.

If you want to make a statement, add a vest to your outfit. This could be a suit vest, a woollen vest, or even a leather one. You can button it up or leave it unbuttoned, and choose a colour that complements the rest of your outfit. Neutral colours such as black or grey tend to go well with everything. For a subtle look, pair solid colours together, or pair prints with solids for a more interesting style.

You can also layer a tank top underneath a shirt with short or long sleeves and a scoop or V-neck. Tank tops with lace along the neckline or bottom hem work particularly well for this, as the lace will peek out from under the shirt for a feminine touch. Try to use a neutral colour for at least one of the layers—for example, 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 might not want to be seen. You can match the colour of the tank top to the shirt, or use a contrasting colour. For example, you could wear a black tank top under a black lacy shirt.

Finally, tank tops can be used as an extra layer to provide additional warmth without changing your outfit. They can also be used to protect fancier shirts from sweat and oil—choose a tank top that matches your skin tone so that it isn't visible, and it will absorb your body's sweat and oils, helping to keep your nicer shirt clean.

Pairing with accessories

Accessories are a great way to elevate your tank top and tights outfit. Here are some ideas to help you style this look:

Jewellery

Add a bold statement piece such as large hoop earrings, chunky bracelets, or long, dangling necklaces. Jewellery will make your outfit more interesting and can make a tank top appear fancier, which is great for special events. Gold or silver jewellery is always a safe choice as these colours go well with most other colours.

Scarves

Scarves are a great way to add colour, coverage, and style to your outfit. Opt for patterned scarves made from chiffon or silk, and loop it around your neck for a chic touch. You can also use scarves as a headband or tie them around your waist as a belt. However, avoid woollen scarves as they may make your outfit look too wintry.

Handbags

Carry a large handbag to add a bold statement to your simple tank top outfit. Try to add some contrast by pairing a solid-coloured tank top with a handbag with a bold pattern or pairing a patterned tank top with a plain, solid-coloured handbag.

Belts

Add a cute belt to your outfit to bring in some colour or break up monotony. If you're wearing a loose, flowing tank top, try wearing a wide belt around your waist to cinch in the excess fabric and make your silhouette appear slimmer. For daytime looks, opt for leather, suede, or fabric belts, and for evening looks, choose shiny, patent leather belts.

Shoes

Complete your tank top and tights outfit with a pair of shoes that suit the occasion. For a casual look, wear your tank top and tights with a pair of sandals or sneakers. To dress up your outfit, opt for heels or boots.

Choosing the right tights

When choosing the right tights to wear with a tank top, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the occasion will determine the style of tights you should opt for. For a casual look, colourful or opaque tights can add a fun and playful touch to your outfit. If you're going for a dressier look, sheer tights in a neutral colour like black or nude can give an elegant finish to your ensemble. The denier of the tights will also make a difference; the higher the denier, the thicker and more opaque the tights will be. So, if you want your legs to be covered but still visible, go for a lower denier, and if you want a legging-like look, choose a higher denier.

The fit of the tights is also important. Make sure to check the size chart to find the right size for your height and weight. Ill-fitting tights can be uncomfortable and unflattering. It's also essential to consider the colour of your tights in relation to your skin tone and the rest of your outfit. Nude tights can help cover blemishes and give the illusion of bare legs, while coloured tights can add a pop of colour and personality to your look.

Additionally, the style of your tank top can help determine the type of tights you should wear. If your tank top has thin straps, you might want to opt for a strapless bra or one with clear straps to avoid multiple straps showing. If you have a larger bust, thicker straps on your tank top and tights can provide more support.

Lastly, don't forget to consider the weather and the level of warmth you need. Fleece-lined tights can be a great option for colder days, while sheer tights might be more suitable for warmer temperatures.

Styling for the occasion

Casual

For a casual look, wear your tank top with jeans, shorts, or a skirt. If you want to add a little something extra, try a cute belt for colour or to break up the monotony of the outfit. You can also layer your tank top with a jacket, blazer, or cardigan. For a more unique outfit, wear one or two accessories that match your clothes in style and colour.

Work

For a business casual look, try a dressy tank top with a blazer. You can also wear a tank top under a blouse or button-down shirt. If you want to add a bit of flair, try a statement necklace or scarf.

Going out

For a night out, pair your tank top with high-waisted shorts, a skirt, or trousers. You can also dress up a simple tank top with bold jewellery. Try large, hoop earrings, chunky bracelets, or long, dangling necklaces.

Layering

Tank tops are perfect for layering. For a simple look, try layering your tank top under a shirt or jumper. You can also layer a tank top over another shirt, such as a long-sleeved shirt or turtleneck. In colder weather, you can layer a tank top under a dress for extra warmth.

Frequently asked questions