Tank tops with midriffs are known as crop tops. They are tops that expose the waist, navel, or abdomen. Crop tops are usually short and cut off just above or below the waistline. They can be sleeveless or have short sleeves. Crop tops can be worn by both men and women and are available in a variety of styles, including halter tops, tied-up tops, and knotted shirts. They are typically considered casual attire, but can be dressed up with the right accessories.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Name | Tank tops (also known as half shirts, midriff tops, belly shirts, or cutoff shirts) |
Description | Tops that reveal and expose the waist, navel, or abdomen |
History | First appeared in the 1930s and 1940s, largely as women's underwear. Gained widespread acceptance in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Experienced a revival in the 2010s due to the popularity of 1990s fashion. |
Variants | Tied-up top, knotted shirt, athletic tank tops, backless tank tops, designer tank tops, halter-top tank tops, etc. |
What You'll Learn
Midriff tops can be sleeveless
Midriff tops, also known as crop tops, are garments that expose the waist, navel, or abdomen. They come in a variety of styles, including sleeveless or with short, capped, or long sleeves. Sleeveless midriff tops are often referred to as tank tops or halter tops.
Tank tops are characterised by their lack of sleeves and are typically form-fitting. They can be worn as casual or athletic wear and are suitable for a range of occasions, from workouts to cocktail parties. Tank tops can be paired with various bottoms, such as leggings, shorts, or skirts, and can be dressed up or down with accessories like scarves and jackets.
Halter tops are sleeveless midriff tops that feature a halter neckline, which consists of two straps that meet around the neck. This style was especially popular in the 1960s and 1970s but has made a comeback in recent years. Halter tops are often short, ending just above or below the waistline, and are considered sexy and stylish.
Sleeveless midriff tops can be found in a range of materials, including cotton, polyester, silk, and spandex. They are typically stretchy and form-fitting, emphasising the wearer's figure. These tops are commonly worn for workouts or as casual attire, depending on the style and fabric.
Midriff tops can be purchased from various retailers, including Amazon, Etsy, and Target, offering a wide range of colours, styles, and price points.
Rocking the Tank Top and T-shirt Combo: Style Guide
You may want to see also
They can be worn by men
Tank tops with midriffs are called crop tops. They can be worn by men and have been since the 1970s. In fact, the early Rocky films feature Sylvester Stallone and Carl Weathers wearing crop tops while working out. The protective gear of American football players, who do not wear shirts, also resembles a crop top. Men also started to wear crop tops regardless of sport, and they have been worn by various rappers and American football athletes.
In the 2010s, the crop top experienced a revival due to the popularity of 1990s fashion, and they remain popular today. The male crop top has seen a major resurgence in popularity, with celebrity figures such as football player Ezekiel Elliott, rapper Kid Cudi, rock star Josh Kiszka, and actors Matthew McConaughey and Zac Efron all sporting the look.
Sheer or mesh tank tops are see-through tops that are made to show off your figure or physique. They can be worn by men and are usually worn for sports or bodybuilding. However, they are not typically worn for formal events.
Business Casual Conundrum: Tank Tops, Yay or Nay?
You may want to see also
They can be worn as casual or formal attire
Tank tops with midriffs are known as crop tops. They are tops that expose the waist, navel, or abdomen. Crop tops can be worn as casual or formal attire. For example, a flowing crop top, which flares out at the bottom, can be dressed up with a skirt or a pair of jeans and heels for a cocktail party. Similarly, a backless crop top, which shows off most of the back, can be dressed up with the right accessories and worn to a party, the corporate office, or even a wedding.
On the other hand, crop tops can also be worn as casual attire. For instance, a tight crop top is often worn casually in layers with a pair of shorts or jeans. Thick-strap tank tops are also mostly worn casually, such as when lounging around or going to the mall.
Tank Top Etiquette: Navigating Japanese Cultural Norms
You may want to see also
They can be worn for sports
Tank tops with midriffs, also known as crop tops, are great for sports. Athletic tank tops are designed to provide support and comfort during workouts. Their built-in bras eliminate the need for additional sports bras, reducing jiggling and discomfort. The tight fit of athletic tank tops ensures they stretch when needed and remain comfortably loose during exercise. They are perfect for tennis, running, or any other sport that requires ample support.
Crop tops are also ideal for yoga, as they allow for a full range of motion without restricting movement. The lightweight and breathable fabric of athletic crop tops helps keep you cool during intense workouts. Their moisture-wicking properties quickly draw sweat away from the body, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable.
Crop tops are versatile and can be worn for various sports and activities. They are perfect for a casual workout session at the gym or an intense yoga class. You can also layer them with a sports bra for added support or a lightweight jacket for a stylish post-workout look.
Additionally, crop tops are a great option for sports enthusiasts who want to make a fashion statement. They come in various colours, styles, and designs, allowing you to showcase your personal style while staying active. Whether you prefer solids or prints, sleeveless or thick straps, there is a crop top to suit your taste and keep you comfortable during your workouts.
Tank Top Professionalism: Dress Code Dilemma
You may want to see also
They can be paired with jeans
Tank tops with midriffs are known as crop tops. They are tops that expose the waist, navel, or abdomen. Crop tops can be paired with jeans in a variety of ways to create different looks, from casual to dressy. Here are some ways to style crop tops with jeans:
Double Layer Tank Tops
Double-layer tank tops are made with materials such as cotton or silk, giving them a stylish and elegant look. They pair well with jeans and heels, creating a dressy and fashionable outfit. The soft fabrics like chiffon can make the look even more elegant and flattering for various body types.
Flowing Tank Tops
Flowing tank tops have a unique and comfortable design, flaring out at the bottom. They are usually made of soft materials like cotton or silk and can be easily paired with jeans for a casual or semi-formal look. The soft fabric and flowing design make them comfortable and flattering for most body types.
Tight Tank Tops
Tight tank tops, often found in bright and eccentric colours, pair well with jeans for a casual look. Their form-fitting nature complements a perfect figure, and they can also be layered for a more dressed-up style.
Basic Tank Tops
Basic tank tops, such as those in solid colours or simple prints, can be paired with jeans for a casual and comfortable outfit. They are usually made with thick straps and can be either tight or loose, depending on your preference.
Designer Tank Tops
Designer tank tops are made to keep up with the latest fashion trends and often include special features like zippers, sequins, or fur. They can be dressed up or down and are a lot of fun to style. Pairing them with jeans can create a casual yet stylish look.
Transform Your Old T-Shirt into a Rocker Tank Top
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Tank tops with midriffs are called crop tops. They are also known as half shirts, belly shirts, or cutoff shirts.
The early history of the crop top intersects with cultural views towards the midriff, starting with the performance of Little Egypt at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair. The crop top first gained prominence in the fashion industry during the 1930s and 1940s, largely confined to women's underwear at the time. It achieved widespread acceptance in the late 1960s and early 1970s, with celebrities such as Barbara Eden and Jane Birkin wearing them.
There are various styles of crop tops, including tied-up, knotted, and cut-off. They can be made from different materials such as lace, cotton, or silk, and can be tight-fitting or loose.
Crop tops can be styled in various ways depending on the occasion. For a casual look, pair it with jeans or shorts. For a dressier look, wear it with a skirt or slouchy pants. Accessorize with scarves, jackets, or statement jewellery to elevate your outfit.