Tank Top Tales: Should Have Known Better

The white tank top is a wardrobe staple, but finding the perfect one can be a challenge. It should be lightweight, versatile, and ideally, not see-through. There are a variety of styles to choose from, including ribbed, racerback, muscle, and halter neck. While some people prefer a tighter-fitting tank that hugs the body, others might opt for a more flowy option. The perfect tank top is as personal as a fingerprint, but there are a few that stand out from the rest.

What to wear with a white tank top

A white tank top is a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, making it a staple in anyone's wardrobe. Here are some tips on what to wear with a white tank top to create stylish and versatile looks:

Fit and Style

The fit of the tank top is important. Avoid tight tanks that cling to your body and show every lump and bump. Opt for a tank with a relaxed fit that hangs loosely about half an inch from your body. For a more casual look, go for a loose-fitting tank. If you want to create a layered look or wear the tank top under a jacket or blazer, choose a tank with medium-thickness straps, as thin spaghetti straps can make it look like an undershirt. Consider the length of the tank top as well; it should hit a little past your waist so you can tuck it in or leave it out as desired.

Bottoms

For a trendy and confident look, pair your white tank with beige or brown chinos. You can also wear it with black dress pants for a sleek, city-style outfit. If you're going for a more casual vibe, pair your tank with ripped jeans and sneakers, or leggings and a cardigan. For a summery feel, wear your white tank with jeans or shorts, or tuck it into a skirt and knot it at the centre for a unique look.

Layering

White tank tops are perfect for layering under light jackets, blazers, and shirts. For a polished look, add a light leather jacket, a blazer, or a cardigan. If you're feeling adventurous, try layering with a bucket hat, shirt, scarf, or a jacket. Play with textures and weights by layering your tank under a lightweight blazer or a fall cardigan.

Accessories

Accessorise your white tank top to elevate your look. Add bold statement bracelets, layered necklaces, or bold earrings. For a chic, polished look, pair your tank with a pencil skirt and small, delicate jewellery. If you're going for a more casual vibe, sneakers and a statement bag can complete your outfit.

Occasion

The beauty of a white tank top is its versatility for different occasions. It can be dressed up for the office, cocktails, or a date, and dressed down for the beach, travelling, or running errands. For a more formal occasion, try pairing your tank with a silky satin fabric.

Best white tank tops for women

The white tank top is a wardrobe staple, but finding the perfect one can be a challenge. Here is a list of some of the best white tank tops for women, focusing on the "should have known better" theme:

Best Overall: Reformation Lindy Knit Top, $68

This tank top is a wardrobe essential. With its mock-neck style and wide-cut, muscle-tee-inspired shoulders, it offers an elevated silhouette. The top also has ruching on the sides for a flattering fit. It comes in multiple colours and is perfect for layering or wearing on its own.

Best Budget: Old Navy Rib Knit Tank Top, $8

This affordable tank top is perfect for those who want a quality white tank without breaking the bank. For less than $10, it is thick enough to provide support and not see-through. It's a great option for those who want to go braless in the summer or want a more androgynous look.

Best Ribbed: Skims Cotton Rib Tank, $38

The Skims Cotton Rib Tank is a lightweight and breathable option that can be worn as an undershirt or solo. It features thin straps, a low-cut neckline, and a crop that hits at the natural waistline. The top also comes in an off-white colour called "Bone" for when you want a softer look.

Best Bodysuit: Aerie Smoothez High Neck Strappy Bodysuit, $30

The Aerie Smoothez High Neck Strappy Bodysuit is a great option if you're looking for something more form-fitting and supportive. It has a high neckline and is double-lined for maximum opacity. As a bodysuit, it also has a thong cut to avoid any unwanted underwear lines.

Best Built-in Bra Tank: Uniqlo Halter Neck Bra Sleeveless Top, $30

This Uniqlo tank top is a great choice if you're looking for a halter-style top with built-in support. The top can be dressed up or down, paired with sweats or a skirt. Reviewers recommend sizing up for a more loose fit.

Best for the Office: Abercrombie Asymmetrical Cotton-Modal Twist Top, $23

The Abercrombie Asymmetrical Cotton-Modal Twist Top is a trendy and unique option for the office. It features an off-the-shoulder design with a cropped waist and a single twist-shoulder strap, adding a touch of sex appeal while still being work-appropriate.

Best Muscle Tank: Zara Shoulder Pad Top, $26

For an edgier look, the Zara Shoulder Pad Top is a great choice. This tank top has a classic T-shirt-inspired design with built-in shoulder pads for a delightfully '80s-inspired, hard-core vibe. It pairs well with faux leather and chunky silver chains for a punkier look.

Best Layering Tank: Lululemon Ebb to Street Tank Top, $68

The Lululemon Ebb to Street Tank Top is perfect for those who want a workout tank with a built-in bra that isn't cropped. It's comfortable enough to wear regularly and works well as a layering piece under sweatshirts. It also has a flattering cut on the shoulder and has maintained its brightness even after multiple washes.

Best Cropped: Aritzia Contour Muscle Tank, $38

The Aritzia Contour Muscle Tank is a great choice for those looking for a shorter option. It has a sturdy material that can double as shapewear, and the length is perfect for layering under blazers or button-down shirts. The top also stays bright white after washing, making it a great investment.

Best white tank tops for men

Tank tops are a tricky piece of menswear to pull off, but they can be a great addition to your wardrobe. Here are some of the best white tank tops for men, with a focus on the "should have known better" or "wife pleaser" style.

Hanes Tagless Cotton Tank

The Hanes Tagless Cotton Tank is an excellent choice for those seeking a cost-effective option that delivers on quality. While it may not hold its shape as well as other options over time, it is lightweight, breathable, and perfect for layering under a button-up shirt. At $17 for a pack of 6, it offers exceptional value, and it is widely available.

CDLP Rib Tank Top

If you're seeking a classic tank top that can do it all, the CDLP Rib Tank Top is an excellent choice. It is crafted from a blend of Tencel and Pima cotton, giving it a luxurious heft that drapes beautifully. While it is a bit more heavyweight than others, it is incredibly soft and can be worn on its own or as a base layer.

Mack Weldon 18-Hour Rib Tank

The Mack Weldon 18-Hour Rib Tank is the top choice if you prioritise softness above all else. It is crafted from a blend of cotton, modal, and spandex, resulting in an ultra-soft and comfortable tank top. The extra length ensures it stays tucked in, and the low neckline makes it ideal for wearing under a button-up shirt.

Calvin Klein Cotton Classic Fit 3-Pack Tank Top

The Calvin Klein Cotton Classic Fit Tank Top is a great option if you're seeking a form-fitting undershirt that can also be worn as an exposed base layer. The fit is just right, with a slightly deeper neckline and well-proportioned armholes. The soft and breathable 100% cotton fabric makes it a comfortable and stylish choice.

Uniqlo Dry Color Ribbed Tank Top

The Uniqlo Dry Color Ribbed Tank Top is a fantastic option if you're seeking a quick-drying tank top to keep you cool during the summer. It features Uniqlo's DRY technology, a fabric treatment that wicks away moisture. The flattering fit and range of neutral colours make it a versatile choice for pairing with various shorts styles.

Tips for Wearing Tank Tops:

• Ensure the fit is not too tight and that the tank top hangs about half an inch from your body.
• Opt for wider straps, ideally no thinner than three inches, for a more flattering silhouette.
• Avoid excessive skin exposure. The amount of skin shown should not exceed the square inches covered by the tank top.
• Choose colourful or printed tank tops to add a swerve to your casual style.
• Tank tops are great for layering under light jackets, blazers, and shirts.

So, whether you're hitting the gym or layering up, these white tank tops will have you looking and feeling your best.

Country music references to white tank tops

Country music is a genre that often celebrates the simple things in life, and that includes fashion choices. The humble white tank top has been referenced in several country songs, most notably in Dierks Bentley's debut single "What Was I Thinkin'"?

Released in 2003, the up-tempo track recounts a wild night with a "beauty from South Alabama" named Becky. The narrator, mesmerised by Becky, finds himself committing all sorts of foolish activities. The song includes the line, "I was thinkin' 'bout a little white tank top/ Sittin' right there in the middle by me".

This line proved memorable enough that Bentley began seeing female fans wearing white tank tops to his concerts. The song's music video also features the leading lady, Becky, wearing a white tank top.

Beyond this song, a search of country music lyrics reveals several other references to white tank tops. For example, the song "Sweet Little Somethin'" includes the line, "There's just one thing missing, baby, right about now/ I need a sweet little somethin' like you got/ Standing there red hot, tied up little tank top".

Another song with the lyrics, "I like the girl with a tank top west side/ And she got that little snoopy vibe gang sign/ Call her up on a fucking face time on the late night/ I know", suggests a more modern take on country, referencing FaceTime.

White tank tops are a versatile garment, perfect for a summer day or a wild night, and it seems that country music agrees.

White tank tops as a layering piece

White tank tops are a versatile wardrobe staple that can be worn year-round and styled in various ways. When it comes to layering, white tank tops can be a great base layer or a final touch to elevate your outfit. Here are some tips and ideas on how to style white tank tops as a layering piece:

• Under light jackets and blazers: Tank tops are perfect for layering under light jackets or blazers. This combination allows you to stay comfortable in various settings, from casual outings to more formal occasions. You can play with different colours and styles of jackets to create a range of looks.
• Over shirts: Don't be afraid to layer your tank top over a shirt. This style can add a casual, relaxed feel to your outfit. Experiment with different colours and patterns for the shirt underneath to create unique looks.
• Under suits: For a more formal look, you can layer a white tank top under a suit. Just make sure the tank top is classy and appropriate for the occasion.
• With denim: White tank tops and denim go hand in hand. Try pairing your tank with a denim jacket, or layer it over a denim shirt. For a more casual look, style it with denim shorts or jeans.
• With joggers: For a comfortable and stylish outfit, pair your white tank top with joggers. To elevate the look, add a trench coat or a slouchy blazer.
• With cardigans: White tank tops are perfect for layering under cardigans, especially during the cooler months. Go for a lightweight tank and a cosy cardigan, and you'll be both comfortable and stylish.
• With midi skirts: For a casual yet chic look, pair a white tank top with a midi skirt and a printed cardigan. This combination is perfect for transitioning between seasons.
• With blouses: Layer your white tank top under a blouse for a unique and stylish look. The tank can act as a base layer, providing extra coverage or a pop of colour under a sheer or low-cut blouse.
• With sweaters: In the colder months, layer your white tank top under a sweater. Look for lightweight tanks that won't add bulk under your sweater.
• With scarves: Don't forget to accessorise! Scarves can add a stylish layer to your white tank top outfit. Try an infinity scarf or a lightweight scarf draped over your shoulders.

When layering white tank tops, it's important to consider the fit, fabric, and opacity. Go for tanks that are form-fitting but not too tight, and be mindful of the fabric and opacity if you're layering under sheer or lightweight tops. White tank tops are a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, so have fun with your style and experiment with different layering combinations!

Frequently asked questions