Briana's Tank Top: A Message In Few Words

Brianna Reynolds, a student at Beaverton High School, has been wearing tank tops to her Team Sports class to rebel against her teacher's anti-tank top dress code. Brianna couldn't find anything in the dress code that said she couldn't wear a tank top, and the PE dress code was inaccessible online. She was dress-coded two days in a row by the same PE teacher, but she continued to wear tank tops to PE. The teacher's concern was that tank tops would allow for wardrobe malfunctions, specifically exposed body parts. However, this rule didn't seem to apply to girls' sports teams or other PE classes. So, what does Brianna's tank top say? It says I hate when girls die.

Tank tops and dress codes

Tank tops are often the subject of debate in the context of school dress codes. While some people argue that they should be allowed as a comfortable and practical option, particularly during hot weather, others believe that they can be revealing and distracting. This disagreement has resulted in varying dress codes among schools. Some schools permit tank tops without restrictions, while others ban them completely. Still, others implement specific rules regarding tank tops, such as requiring straps to be a certain width or prohibiting spaghetti straps and strapless tops.

The discussion surrounding tank tops in school dress codes often revolves around issues of gender equality and body positivity. Critics of tank top bans argue that similar standards are not applied to male students, and that dress codes often target and sexualize female students. Additionally, body image and self-expression are considered, with some arguing that students should be allowed to wear whatever makes them feel comfortable and confident. On the other hand, proponents of dress codes that restrict tank tops may argue that schools are a professional environment where certain standards of dress should be maintained.

The debate over tank tops and dress codes extends beyond schools, with some workplaces and other formal settings having their own dress codes that may include restrictions on tank tops. Ultimately, the appropriateness of tank tops depends on the context and the specific dress code or social norms of the environment in which they are worn.

In conclusion, the discussion surrounding tank tops and dress codes is complex and multifaceted. While some advocate for the freedom to wear tank tops without restriction, others believe that they can be inappropriate or distracting in certain settings. This has resulted in varying dress codes and social norms regarding the acceptability of tank tops in different environments.

Tank tops and sports

Tank tops are a versatile garment that can be worn during workouts or as casual wear. They are typically sleeveless and feature a variety of necklines, such as scoop necks and racerbacks, offering a full range of motion for the wearer. When choosing a tank top for sports or workouts, it is essential to consider the type of activity you will be engaging in. For example, those who enjoy running may prefer a streamlined fit with extra support, while yoga enthusiasts might opt for a flowing silhouette that provides comfort and ease of movement.

Moisture-wicking technology is an important feature to look for in sports tank tops, as it helps to keep the wearer dry and comfortable by drawing perspiration away from the skin. Additionally, anti-microbial finishes can prevent the growth of odour-causing bacteria, ensuring that your tank top stays fresh even after a strenuous workout. Mesh panels or perforated detailing can also enhance breathability, keeping you cool during intense exercise.

For outdoor workouts, it is worth considering tank tops with UV-ray blocking properties to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays. Built-in bras or cups can provide additional support and coverage, and flatlock seams can help prevent chafing and irritation. Finally, some tank tops come with graphic designs or brand logos, adding a stylish touch to your athletic wear.

When styling a workout tank top, you can either pair it with matching leggings or shorts for a coordinated gym look or mix and match with other pieces for a more casual, everyday outfit. Layering with a hoodie or jacket is also an option, providing an extra layer of warmth that can be easily removed as your body temperature rises during exercise.

Tank tops and fashion

Tank tops are a versatile garment that can be dressed up or down, making them a staple in any wardrobe. They are typically sleeveless and vary in style, from casual and comfortable to chic and sophisticated. Tank tops can be worn as a base layer under other clothing items or as a standalone piece.

Tank tops come in a variety of styles, including ribbed knit, high neck, racerback, and scoop neck. They can be loose-fitting or form-fitting, with various necklines such as V-neck, crew neck, and halter. Tank tops are often made from lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton or silk, making them ideal for warmer weather.

Tank tops can be paired with jeans, skirts, or shorts for a casual look. They can also be dressed up with a blazer or a skirt for a more formal occasion. Additionally, tank tops are versatile in terms of layering, as they can be worn under sweaters, blouses, or jackets for added warmth or style.

Some popular brands that sell tank tops include Amazon, Maurices, and Evergreen Boutique. These retailers offer a range of styles, colours, and sizes to suit different tastes and body types. Tank tops are a timeless piece that can be adapted to suit various fashion trends and individual preferences.

Tank tops and rebellion

This act of rebellion might seem small, but it's a way for Brianna to exert control over her body and what she wears. It's also a way to push back against a rule that feels pedantic and unfair, especially since tank tops are comfortable and easy to exercise in. And she's not alone in her experiences of getting dress-coded; many feminine-presenting people have similar stories of being dress-coded, both in PE and other classroom settings.

So, what's the deal with tank tops? A tank top is a soft cotton shirt with no sleeves, collar, or buttons. It's usually close-fitting and low-cut, with shoulder straps, and made of lightweight, knitted fabric. They're called tank tops because they were originally worn in swimming tanks or pools. Tank tops are a summer staple and can be styled in endless ways, from casual to chic.

But why are tank tops so often the subject of dress codes and rebellions? In the case of Brianna's school, the PE teacher's concern is about potential wardrobe malfunctions during physical activity. However, this rule doesn't seem to apply to other sports, like track and basketball, where tank tops are common and don't seem to cause any issues. So, is it really about safety, or is it about controlling how girls dress and policing their bodies?

The answer likely depends on who you ask. Brianna's teacher may have a different opinion than the students who are being dress-coded. And while changes to the school's rule against tank tops can't be made without the input of the Beaverton School District committees, it doesn't have to be enforced so strictly. Trusting students to wear tank tops safely and respectfully might be a better approach. After all, as Brianna says, "chances are, they won’t wear a tank top that they know they can’t exercise properly in."

Tank tops and control

Tank tops are a staple of summer wardrobes, but they can also be a source of controversy. Tank tops are sleeveless shirts, often made of lightweight, knitted fabric, with wider shoulder straps than undershirts. They are typically casual garments, but they have also been rebranded as luxury items by designer brands. While tank tops can be comfortable and practical for physical activity, they have also been the subject of debate and dress code restrictions, particularly for women and girls.

The tank top's name originates from its association with swimming pools, also known as "tanks," in the 1920s. Despite their casual nature, tank tops have been subject to scrutiny and restrictions in certain settings, such as schools. This is especially true for girls and feminine-presenting students, who are often held to different standards than their male peers when it comes to dress codes. The enforcement of these dress codes can feel like a way to control and restrict students, particularly when the rules seem arbitrary or unfairly targeted towards a specific group.

In the case of Brianna Reynolds, a high school student, wearing tank tops to her Team Sports class became an act of rebellion against her teacher's anti-tank top dress code. Brianna could not find any explicit mention of tank tops in the school's dress code or syllabus, and the rule seemed disproportionately enforced against girls. The PE teacher, Melissa Merrick, argued that tank tops could lead to wardrobe malfunctions during physical activity, but this concern was not universally shared by other sports coaches or students.

The debate around tank tops in schools highlights a broader issue of control and the policing of students' bodies, particularly those of girls and feminine-presenting individuals. While some argue that dress codes are necessary to maintain a safe and appropriate learning environment, others feel that they are often unfairly targeted towards certain groups and can create a sense of indignation and rebellion among students.

In conclusion, tank tops occupy an interesting space in fashion and society. They can be both a source of comfort and self-expression, as well as a point of contention and control. The discussion around tank tops invites a broader conversation about dress codes, body image, and the differing expectations placed on individuals based on their gender presentation.

Frequently asked questions