The Evolution Of Tank Tops: A Style Guide

Tank tops are a popular clothing item, especially during the summer months. They are sleeveless shirts, usually with wide shoulder straps and no front opening. Tank tops were originally designed for athletic wear but evolved into a fashionable outfit for both men and women in the late 1970s. Today, tank tops come in various styles, including racerbacks, cut-out designs, ribbed, flowy, and more. They can be worn casually, for athletic activities, or even dressed up with a blazer or light jacket.

Tank tops for men

Tank tops are a versatile garment that can be dressed up or down, making them a staple item for men's wardrobes. While tank tops were originally designed for athletic wear, they evolved in the late 1970s to become a classy and casual outfit option.

There are several types of tank tops for men, each serving a different purpose and offering a unique style. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Athletic Tank Tops

Athletic tank tops are designed to keep men comfortable during workouts. They are typically made from stretchy and breathable fabric, allowing for ease of movement and moisture-wicking. These tank tops often have a fitted and low-cut style to showcase the wearer's muscles and biceps. They are commonly paired with shorts, track pants, or sweatpants for a gym-ready look.

Basic Tank Tops

Basic tank tops for men are minimalistic in design, featuring narrow shoulders and a fitted or loose silhouette depending on personal preference. White and black are the most popular colours for this style. Men often wear these tank tops as undershirts or on their own during hot weather.

Stylish Tank Tops

Designers have created stylish tank tops for men, incorporating various materials, designs, and hues. These tank tops can range from metallic and glittery styles to sleek and fitted silhouettes. They can be dressed up with a blazer or paired with cardigans, sweaters, flannels, and plaid shirts for a more casual look.

Hooded Tank Tops

Hooded tank tops offer a casual and edgy aesthetic, resembling sleeveless hoodies. They are perfect for the gym or for those who want to achieve a rapper-inspired look. Hooded tank tops can be styled with denim for a carefree vibe or layered under cardigans for cooler days.

V-Neck Tank Tops

V-neck tank tops offer a distinctive style that works well for both day and night. They provide a fashionable cut and excellent breathability, making them ideal for workouts or for layering under a blazer for a night out.

Sleeveless Tank Tops

Also known as muscle shirts, sleeveless tank tops offer maximum breathability and comfort during hot weather. They feature wider armholes and often have larger necklines. These tank tops are perfect for workouts or for men who want to showcase their upper body.

When choosing a tank top, it's important to consider the fit, colour, and style that align with your personal preferences and the occasion you'll be wearing it for. Additionally, tank tops can be layered under light jackets, blazers, or shirts for a more versatile look.

Tank tops for women

Tank tops are a versatile garment that can be dressed up or down, making them a staple in any woman's wardrobe. Here are some popular types of tank tops for women:

Racerback Tank Tops

Racerbacks are a sporty and stylish variation of the traditional tank top. They feature a T-shaped strap that sits behind the shoulder blades, providing excellent ventilation and a full range of motion. This design makes them ideal for layering, casual wear, and athletic activities. Racerback tank tops offer a fashionable silhouette, perfect for outdoor activities or gym workouts.

Cut-Out Tank Tops

Cut-out tank tops are a modern twist on the classic tank, featuring well-placed cutouts and openings. They offer a stylish way to show some skin while maintaining the comfort and adaptability of a traditional tank top. Cut-out designs can range from modest and basic to intricate and edgy, making them a versatile wardrobe staple for those who want to blend comfort and style.

Custom Tank Tops

Custom tank tops allow individuals to showcase their unique sense of fashion or company identity. These tanks can be personalised with custom images, logos, text, or artwork, making them a distinctive addition to any outfit. With various styles, colours, and fabric options available, custom tank tops combine comfort and customisation to create eye-catching designs perfect for casual wear, workouts, or special occasions.

Muscle Tanks

Muscle tanks have gained popularity in recent years due to their relaxed and athletic aesthetic. These tanks have a looser fit, with wider designs and lower-cut armholes, making them comfortable and easy to wear. Muscle tanks are perfect for casual outings, outdoor activities, and even gym sessions for women over 40. They can be styled with joggers, leggings, shorts, or a denim jacket for a chic layered look.

Ribbed Tank Tops

Ribbed tank tops offer a unique textured appearance and are a durable wardrobe essential. The fabric features vertical lines or ribs, creating a casual look with a hint of refinement. Ribbed tanks provide a tight, flexible fit that flatters the body and enhances comfort and flexibility. They can be worn alone on hot days or layered under a jacket, making them a trendy and functional piece. With various necklines and colour options, ribbed tank tops are a versatile choice.

Flowy Tank Tops

Flowy tank tops combine style and comfort with their loose, flowy silhouette. The lightweight fabric drapes effortlessly, often featuring wider cuts for added comfort. This style is perfect for warm weather and informal gatherings, adding a feminine touch to any ensemble. Flowy tank tops are versatile and can be dressed up with fashionable accessories or worn casually for daily use.

Tank tops for layering

Tank tops are a versatile garment that can be dressed up or down and are perfect for layering. They are a staple in any wardrobe and can be worn in multiple ways.

Layering tank tops are a must-have for any woman, offering endless styling possibilities. They can be worn as a simple, chic top or layered under other garments for added style and coverage. Racerback tank tops, for example, are a versatile wardrobe essential that works well for layering, casual wear, and athletic activities. The racerback design provides a fashionable silhouette, making it ideal for those seeking a comfortable and stylish top for outdoor activities or casual wear.

Layering tanks can be paired with jeans and a cardigan for a casual and comfortable look. For a more formal look, a layering tank can be worn under a blazer or tailored jacket. They are also perfect for adding coverage under sheer blouses or low-cut tops while maintaining a sophisticated look. With their versatile design, layering tanks can easily transition from day to night, making them a wardrobe essential for any fashion-conscious woman.

There are various types of tank tops available for layering, such as the ribbed tank top, which has a unique textured appearance and is a durable wardrobe staple. The ribbed design creates a casual look with a hint of refinement, and the sleeveless top provides comfort and flexibility. Another option is the flowy tank top, which has a loose and lightweight design, making it perfect for warm weather and informal gatherings. It adds a feminine touch to any outfit and is adaptable for both fashionable accessory dressing and daily use.

Tank tops are also great for layering under light jackets, blazers, and shirts. They can be worn under suits, but it is important to choose a classy tank top that suits the occasion. Additionally, spaghetti strap tank tops with built-in bras can be worn alone for a casual look or layered under mesh tops for a fashionable style.

Tank tops for sportswear

Tank tops are a versatile garment that can be worn for sports and exercise, casual outings, or as part of a classy outfit. Originally designed for athletic wear, tank tops are now a staple in many wardrobes and can be styled in various ways. Here are some tips and considerations for choosing tank tops for sportswear:

Fabric and Breathability

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a tank top for sportswear is the fabric and its breathability. Look for tank tops made with lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton, polyester, or rayon. These fabrics help wick away sweat and keep you cool during intense workouts. Some tank tops also feature moisture-absorbing technologies like Adidas' AEROREADY, which is designed to keep you dry and comfortable.

Fit and Comfort

Built-in Support

When choosing a tank top for high-impact activities, consider whether you need built-in support. Some tank tops come with a built-in bra, providing additional support and coverage. This can be especially useful if you plan to wear the tank top on its own, without a sports bra. However, for low-impact activities or if you prefer more support, you can opt for a looser tank top and pair it with a sports bra.

Style and Design

Tank tops come in various styles and designs, allowing you to choose one that suits your personal taste and the type of workout you engage in. For example, if you play tennis, Y-strap tank tops offer excellent shoulder movement and often include an integrated bra for comfort and confidence during those intense volleys. Additionally, consider the length of the tank top. Cropped tank tops offer a modern look, while longer tank tops with a droptail hem give you the option to leave it loose or tuck it in.

Colour and Prints

Tank tops come in a wide variety of colours, prints, and patterns, allowing you to make a stylish statement during your workouts. You can opt for cool prints, bright colours, or muted neutrals like black or grey. Choose colours and designs that make you feel confident and motivated to tackle your fitness goals.

Tank tops for casual wear

Tank tops are a versatile garment that can be dressed up or down, and they are suitable for both casual and dressy occasions. They are a great choice for layering, and their sleeveless design makes them ideal for warmer weather. When choosing a tank top for casual wear, there are several factors to consider, such as fit, fabric, colour, and style.

Firstly, it is important to find a tank top that fits well. The top should hang loosely on the body and not be too tight or revealing. The neckline should not drop past the pecs, and the armholes should not be too low, ending just above the first rib. For a more relaxed look, opt for a classic or muscle fit, which will provide more room to move and help hide any areas you may wish to conceal. If you are using the tank top as an undershirt, a slim-fit option may be preferable, and the length should be long enough to tuck into your pants.

The fabric of the tank top is also important, as it will affect the comfort and breathability of the garment. Cotton is a popular choice for tank tops as it is soft, breathable, and comfortable. However, cotton may not be the best option for very hot days, as it can retain moisture and leave you feeling clammy. Synthetic fabrics such as polyester, nylon, and spandex are often used in tank tops for their moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties. Blended fabrics that combine natural and synthetic fibres can offer the best of both worlds in terms of comfort and performance.

When it comes to colour, choose a shade that complements your skin tone and features. Neutral colours such as beige, brown, and black are always a stylish choice and can be easily dressed up or down. If you want to add a pop of colour to your casual look, opt for a tank top in a bright or bold shade, or choose a fun print or pattern.

There are several styles of tank tops to choose from, depending on your personal preference and the occasion. Racerback tank tops, with their T-shaped straps, are a versatile option that is suitable for layering, casual wear, and athletic activities. Cut-out tank tops offer a modern and edgy look, with well-placed cutouts that show some skin while still providing coverage. Muscle tanks have a looser fit and wider armholes, making them a comfortable choice for casual outings or workouts. Flowy tank tops have a loose, lightweight design that adds a feminine touch to any ensemble, while ribbed tank tops feature a unique textured appearance and can be dressed up or down.

When styling a tank top for a casual look, don't be afraid to layer! Tank tops can be worn on their own or paired with light jackets, blazers, shirts, or sweaters. Accessories with boots, heels, statement jewellery, or a belt to elevate your look. Tank tops can also be paired with various bottoms, from jeans and trousers to shorts and skirts, depending on your personal style and the weather.

Frequently asked questions