Tank Top Sizing: Choosing The Right Fit For You

Tank tops are a versatile piece of clothing that can be worn as a base layer or on their own during hot weather. When choosing the right size, it's important to consider the fit you're going for. If you want a form-fitting tank top, choose a size that matches your chest measurement. For a looser fit, go one size up. It's also worth noting that some brands may vary from these measurements, so be sure to check their size charts. Additionally, if you plan to wash your tank tops in warm or hot water, consider sizing up as they tend to shrink.

Measure your body

To get the right size for a tank top, you need to measure your body. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:

Get the right tools

You will need a soft tailor's measuring tape and a notepad and pencil to write down the measurements. If you don't have a tailor's tape, you can use a piece of string or ribbon instead. Wrap the string around the body part you want to measure, mark it with a pen or marker, and then lay it out flat and measure it with a ruler or yardstick.

Prepare your clothing

For the most accurate measurements, measure your body in your underwear or form-fitting clothing. Make sure you remove any layers that could get in the way or affect the reading, like a bra or a thick jumper.

Measure your bust

Wrap the tape measure under your bust, ensuring it is level and snug. Round the measurement to the nearest whole number. If the number is even, add four inches. If the number is odd, add five inches. This is your 'band number'.

Now, wrap the tape measure around the fullest part of your chest, at nipple level. Again, round to the nearest whole number. This is your bust measurement.

Measure your waist

Find your waist by placing your thumbs at the base of your rib cage and your index fingers at the top of your hips. Your waist will be the narrowest part of your torso. Stand up straight and bring the measuring tape from your navel around your body, ensuring it is parallel to the floor and snug but not digging into your skin. Write down the number at the meeting point of the tape measure.

Measure your hips

Stand in front of a full-length mirror in your underwear. Place your feet together, with your toes pointing forward. Find the widest part of your hips and place the tape measure in the middle, securing it with your thumb. Bring the tape around your back to join at the starting point, ensuring it is level and snug but not too tight. Record the number at the meeting point of the tape.

Compare your measurements

Once you have noted down all your measurements, compare them to the size chart of your favourite brand to find your clothing size.

Tips:

• Pull the tape measure tight enough that it stays straight and level, but not so tight that it compresses the skin.
• Measure on bare skin rather than over clothing.
• Make sure you use the right units. Some brands' size charts give measurements in inches, while others use centimetres.
• Keep your measurements written down so you can refer to them when shopping.

Consider the brand

When choosing the right size for a tank top, it is important to consider the brand. Different brands have different size measurements, so it is worth checking the size chart for the specific brand you are interested in. Some brands may have a size guide on their website, which can help you determine the right size for you. For example, the ASOS brand has its own size chart, which provides measurements for the chest, waist, and hips. It is important to note that even within a single brand, different styles of tank tops may have different lengths, so be sure to check the specific product page for the item you are interested in.

In addition to size charts, reading reviews from other customers can also be helpful in determining the right size. Reviews can give you an idea of how a particular brand's sizing runs—whether it is true to size, runs small, or runs large. This can help you make a more informed decision about which size to choose.

Another factor to consider is the material of the tank top. For example, cotton tank tops tend to shrink when washed in warm or hot water, so it is recommended to size up when purchasing cotton tank tops. On the other hand, tank tops made with elastane or other stretchy materials may have a slightly more flexible fit, so you may want to choose your usual size or even size down for a more form-fitting look.

Finally, it is always a good idea to try on the tank top before purchasing it if possible. This will allow you to assess the fit and feel of the garment and determine if it is comfortable and flattering for your body type. Some brands may offer free returns or exchanges, so you can try on the tank top at home and send it back if it doesn't fit quite right.

Account for washing

When buying a tank top, it's important to account for the possibility of it shrinking in the wash. If you wash your clothes in warm or hot water, consider buying a tank top that is one size larger than your regular size. This is especially important if the tank top is made of cotton, as cotton items tend to shrink in the wash. By buying a larger size, you can prevent the armholes from becoming too snug around your armpits.

Additionally, if you want to preserve the delicate straps of your tank top, you can try tying them in a double-knotted bow before putting them in the washing machine. This will prevent the straps from getting twisted and tangled during the spin cycle. Alternatively, you can use a lingerie bag to wash your tank top, which will also help to keep the straps from unraveling.

Try it on

Trying on a tank top is the best way to ensure a good fit.

When trying on a tank top, it's important to keep it on for a few minutes. The form-fitting nature of the fabric means it can be quite flexible and a tank that seems like it doesn't fit well might turn out to be fine once the fabric conforms to your shape.

To choose the correct size for you, measure your body by wrapping the measuring tape around the fullest part of your chest, placing the tape close under the arms and making sure it is flat across your back.

If you plan to wash your tank top in warm or hot water, consider buying a size larger than what you regularly wear. Ribbed tanks tend to shrink in the wash because they're usually made of cotton. For example, if you wear a small, consider buying a medium. After you wash and dry it, it will likely shrink by about one size. This will prevent the armholes from becoming too snug around your armpits.

Check the length

The length of a tank top is an important factor to consider when determining the correct size. The length of a tank top can vary depending on the style and brand, so it is essential to measure your body and compare it to the size chart provided by the retailer.

To measure your body for the length of a tank top, you should start by measuring from the highest point on your shoulder to the bottom of your torso where you want the tank top to end. This measurement will give you an idea of the ideal length of the tank top that will fit you well.

Additionally, you can refer to the size chart provided by the retailer to determine the length of a particular tank top style. For example, ASOS provides a size chart for their men's tank tops, indicating that the average length of a size medium top is 27.5 inches or 70 cm from the collar to the hem.

It is also important to note that the length of a tank top can vary depending on the style. ASOS mentions that the lengths of their vests will vary from style to style, so checking the specific product page for length measurements is recommended.

By considering the length of the tank top and comparing it to your body measurements and the size chart provided by the retailer, you can make a more informed decision about the correct size to purchase.

Frequently asked questions