Tank tops are a staple in many wardrobes, offering a lightweight and comfortable option for both men and women. Typically characterised by a V-shaped neckline and narrow or wide shoulder straps, tank tops are a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down. The name originates from the one-piece bathing suits of the 1920s, known as tank suits as they were worn in tanks or swimming pools. Tank tops are often worn as undershirts or athletic wear, but they have also become a fashionable piece in their own right, with various styles available such as athletic, backless, basic white, cut-out, and double-layer.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Name | Tank Top |
Other Names | Sleeveless shirt, athletic shirt, A-shirt, muscle shirt, singlet, vest, beater, wifebeater, guinea tee, dago tee, shooter shirt |
Description | A shirt without sleeves, or with sleeves that have been cut off |
History | Derived from the one-piece bathing suits of the 1920s, which were known as "tank suits" |
Gender | Unisex |
Use Cases | Sports, casual wear, undershirts, lounge wear, athletic wear |
Fabric | Cotton, spandex, polyester, nylon, bamboo, silk, satin, lycra |
Design | Collarless, buttonless, pocketless, V-neck, scoop neck, ribbed, racerback, spaghetti straps, thicker straps |
What You'll Learn
Athletic Tank Tops
When choosing an athletic tank top, it is important to consider the type of fabric. Polyester, for example, is a popular choice due to its moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties, while still feeling soft and comfortable. Nylon is another great option as it provides natural stretch and cooling abilities. Blended fabrics that combine these materials are ideal for athletic individuals as they offer the benefits of both.
The fit of an athletic tank top is also an important consideration. A slim fit design hugs the torso and is muscle-friendly, often preferred for undershirts. A classic fit, on the other hand, is loose and relaxed, providing more room to move and is suitable for wearing on its own. Additionally, the length of the tank top can vary, with some designed to be short and others longer, allowing for easier tucking into pants.
In addition to the functional aspects, athletic tank tops can also be fashionable. They are available in various colours, patterns, and designs, allowing individuals to express their personal style. Some tank tops even feature unique elements such as zippers, sequins, or rhinestones, adding a touch of glamour to athletic wear.
Overall, athletic tank tops are a versatile and comfortable option for individuals looking for performance-enhancing sportswear or simply a stylish piece to add to their wardrobe.
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Backless Tank Tops
When styling a backless tank top, it's important to consider the workplace dress code if you plan to wear it to the office. To make it work in a professional setting, pair the top with a jacket or sweater. To elevate your look, draw attention to the elegant, open neckline with a delicate choker or a dramatic waterfall pendant. Statement earrings or a bold necklace can also enhance the allure of your ensemble.
For a night out, a backless bodysuit paired with a cute skirt and lace-up boots will surely turn heads. If you're going for a chic look, try a monochromatic outfit with an open-back top and matching high-waisted pants. For a cool and casual vibe, pair a twist-back tank with straight-leg jeans and dad sneakers for a '90s-inspired outfit.
With their versatility and range of styles, backless tank tops are a must-have in any wardrobe, allowing you to confidently show off your shoulders and back while staying comfortable and stylish.
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Basic White Tank Tops
White tank tops are a wardrobe staple that can be dressed up or down. They can be worn alone or layered under other clothing. For a casual look, they can be paired with leggings or sweatpants and a pair of white sneakers. To dress them up, they can be tucked into denim or tailored pants and styled with a blazer or cardigan.
There are many different styles of white tank tops available on the market, from slim-fit to loose and flowy. They can be found at a variety of price points, from affordable multi-packs on Amazon to luxury options from designers like Prada and Loewe.
When choosing a white tank top, it is important to consider the neckline. A wide neckline can help to obscure bra straps, while a scoop neck or v-neck can be more flattering on some body types. White tank tops are a great addition to any wardrobe, offering both style and versatility.
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Cut-Out Tank Tops
One popular style of cut-out tank top is the racerback, which has a unique back with straps that come together in the middle of the back, leaving the shoulder blades exposed. These tops often provide extra support and are commonly worn during workouts. Another style is the halter neck, which has straps that go around the neck, leaving the upper back uncovered. This style is typically worn by women and is often considered more seductive or entertaining.
When it comes to styling cut-out tank tops, there are several options. They can be dressed up with a scarf or jewellery or worn casually on their own. For a business casual look, they can be layered under a cardigan or blazer with a pencil skirt or maxi skirt. Cut-out tank tops also work well with athleisure styles, pairing nicely with leggings or sweatpants and a pair of white sneakers.
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Thick Strap Tank Tops
The thick strap tank top is a great option for those who want to feel confident while showing a little less skin. They are a comfortable option, especially when compared to some other tank tops that may be made from less comfortable fabrics or expose more skin than some may feel comfortable with. Thick strap tank tops are a great option for the office or work, and they can also be dressed up for a night out.
These tank tops are also perfect for layering, as they can be worn under blazers, cardigans, or jackets. The thicker straps mean that you can also wear them with different types of bras, such as a bandeau, racerback, or bralette, without the straps being visible. This makes them a versatile option for a range of occasions.
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Frequently asked questions
A tank top is a type of sleeveless shirt. It is named after the one-piece swimming costumes of the 1920s, which were known as "tank suits".
Tank tops are usually made from cotton, but can also be made from other materials such as spandex, polyester, nylon, bamboo, silk or satin.
Tank tops come in a variety of styles, including athletic tank tops, backless tank tops, basic white tank tops, cut-out tank tops, double-layer tank tops, halter tank tops, printed tank tops, racerback tank tops, spaghetti strap tank tops and thick strap tank tops.
Tank tops are typically worn with jeans, skirts, shorts, leggings, sweatpants, jackets, blazers and sneakers.
Tank tops have historically been referred to by a number of inappropriate names, including "wife-beater", "beater", "guinea tee" and "dago tee". These terms are now considered offensive and should be avoided.