Tank Tops Under Plunging Necklines: A Style Guide

Tank tops are a versatile piece of clothing that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. If you want to wear a tank top under a low-cut dress, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, consider the fit of the tank top. It should not be too tight and should hang about half an inch away from your body. The straps should also be at least three inches wide.

When layering clothing, it's important to consider the amount of skin you're showing. Try not to exceed the square inches covered by your tank top, and avoid revealing your nipples. The armholes of the tank top should not go past your first rib, and the neckline should end above your armpits.

To add a stylish touch to your outfit, opt for a tank top with a pretty lace or colourful design. You can also layer your tank top with a matching or contrasting colour cami or tank top underneath. If you want to cover up more skin, consider wearing a cropped tank top with spaghetti straps or a high-neck bra underneath your low-cut dress.

Additionally, you can modify your low-cut dress by sewing an insert into the neckline or using safety pins to close up the neckline. Wearing a scarf, shawl, or statement necklace can also help cover cleavage.

Choose a tank top with thicker straps if you have a large bust

If you have a large bust, opt for a tank top with thicker straps to provide more support. A strapless bra may not offer sufficient support, so a regular bra with straps is a better option. Wider straps will also help to conceal your bra straps. If you still want to wear a top with thinner straps, you can always throw on a cute cardigan to hide your bra straps.

The larger your bust, the more support you will need. If you want to wear a tank top with thinner straps, consider wearing a cardigan or blazer over it. This will help to balance out your figure and provide some extra coverage.

You can also try to match the width of your tank top straps to the width of your shoulders. If you have broad shoulders, go for thicker straps. This will help to create a more proportional look.

Additionally, consider the neckline of your tank top. If you want to draw attention away from your bust, choose a tank top with a higher neckline that ends right above your cleavage. If you want to emphasise your bust, choose a neckline with details such as ruching, pleating, or ruffles.

Opt for wide straps over thin

When deciding whether to opt for wide straps or thin straps, it's important to consider the level of support you need, the type of outfit you're putting together, and your own personal style and preferences. Here are some reasons why you might choose wide straps over thin straps when wearing a tank top inside a low-neck dress:

• Enhanced Support: Wide straps can provide more support for individuals with a larger bust. Thin straps may lack the necessary support and can leave uncomfortable red marks on the skin. Wide straps help distribute the weight of the bust across a larger surface area, reducing the strain on your shoulders.
• Reduced Slippage: Wide straps are less likely to fall off your shoulders, ensuring that your tank top stays securely in place. This is especially beneficial if you have a larger bust, as it prevents the need for constant adjustments throughout the day.
• Comfort: Wide straps tend to be more comfortable, especially for those with a larger bust. The wider surface area allows for extra padding, providing a cushioning effect on the shoulders. Thin straps, particularly those made of elastic or synthetic stretchy material, can dig into the skin and become uncomfortable over time.
• Versatility: While thin straps are easier to hide under camisoles and thin-strapped tops, wide straps offer more versatility in terms of outfit choices. They pair well with thicker strap tank tops, t-shirts, or sleeved tops. If modesty is a priority for you, wide straps can provide better coverage and reduce the need for constant adjustments to hide your bra straps.
• Ease of Wear: Wide straps tend to be more widely set from the neckline, creating a wider neckline. This feature is advantageous for individuals with upper mobility limitations, as it provides more space to get in and out of the bra. Additionally, wide-neckline clothes can be easier to slip on and off, requiring less movement and effort.
• Style: Wide straps can add visual interest and elegance to your outfit. They often come in a variety of materials and can include padding within the strap, enhancing the overall style of your ensemble.

While wide straps offer these benefits, it's important to consider your unique needs and preferences. Thin straps may be preferable in certain situations, such as when wearing a spaghetti strap dress or top, or when seeking a more casual or revealing look. Ultimately, the decision between wide and thin straps depends on your individual style, the level of support required, and the specific outfit you're creating.

Wear a bandeau or strapless bra if your tank top has thin, spaghetti straps

If your tank top has thin, spaghetti straps, opt for a bandeau or strapless bra. This will give you the support you need without drawing attention to your tank top with visible bra straps.

A bandeau bra is a strapless strip of stretchy fabric with a thick band on the top and bottom for better hold. It is similar to a strapless bra but does not have any closure. Most bandeaus have pockets to insert pads, making them versatile enough to be worn under body-hugging outfits without revealing your nipples. They are usually made from elastic material to stop them from slipping down, or are tied or pinned at the back or front.

When shopping for a bandeau bra, it is important to determine your proper bra size by accurately measuring your chest size using measuring tape and comparing it to the brand's sizing guide. Pay attention to the details, including the materials the bra is made from, whether it has padding or underwire, and how elastic the band is, as these elements will impact your comfort. Although most bandeau bras are not adjustable, some come with convertible elements like expansive bands and removable straps, making them easier to tailor to your body.

If you cannot find a strapless bra that fits, try getting one with clear straps instead. Additionally, if you plan on wearing another shirt or cardigan over your tank top, you can wear any bra you want without worrying about visible straps.

Wear a seamless bra if you are wearing a knit, form-fitting tank top

When wearing a knit, form-fitting tank top, it's best to opt for a wireless, seamless bra. This is because tight tank tops will reveal every bump and lump, including the shape of standard underwire bras, which may not be the look you're going for. Seamless bras are designed to offer support without being visible under clothing. They are crafted from soft, stretchy fabrics like nylon, cotton, and spandex, offering next-level comfort and support without the cumbersome underwire and clasps.

When choosing a seamless bra to wear under a form-fitting tank top, look for one with adjustable straps and a seamless finish. It should be made from a stretchy fabric with a high percentage of elastane for durability. The fabric should feel soft and luxurious on the skin, with two layers of fabric for added support and lift. Moulded cups will give your bust separation and depth, while supportive wide side slings will provide shape and comfort. The shoulder straps should be comfortable and not too stretchy, and the bra should have at least four rows of hooks and eyes for expansion and contraction, as well as a wide back band for comfort and support.

• Calvin Klein Invisibles Comfort Seamless Bralette
• Everlane The Invisible Bra
• Warner's No Side Effects Wire-Free Contour Bra
• Negative Underwear Sieve Non-Wire Bra
• Hanes Comfy Support Wire-Free Bra
• Skims Fits Everybody Scoop Bralette
• Bali Comfort Revolution Wire-Free Bra
• Neiwai Barely Zero Your-Size-Is-the-Size Wireless Bra

Choose the right neckline for your chest size

Choosing the right neckline for your chest size can make a huge difference to your overall look. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect neckline to flatter your figure:

• Smaller chests can pull off a variety of necklines, including crew necks, V-necks, scoop necks, and turtlenecks. These necklines can help elongate the neck and draw attention to the face.
• For those with larger busts, it's important to avoid necklines that are too high or too low. High necklines can make the breasts look saggy, while low necklines may expose too much skin. The ideal neckline for a larger bust is a V-neck, which strikes the perfect balance by elongating and flattering the silhouette.
• If you want to create the illusion of a fuller bust, opt for a tank top with a detailed neckline, such as ruching, pleating, or ruffles. On the other hand, if you wish to draw attention away from your bust, choose a tank top with a simpler neckline that ends just above your cleavage.
• The width of your straps should also be considered. If you have a large bust and require more support, thicker straps are a good option. Additionally, matching the width of the straps to your shoulders can create a more proportionate appearance. For example, if you have broad shoulders, go for thicker straps, and if you have narrow shoulders, stick with skinny spaghetti straps.
• When it comes to accessorising, you can add a pop of colour and texture with jewellery. A statement necklace that mirrors the shape of your neckline can also enhance your look, especially with a V-neck.

Frequently asked questions