Creative Ways To Style Your Tank Top

Tank tops are a versatile garment that can be dressed up or down, making them a staple in anyone's wardrobe. They can be worn on their own or layered under shirts, jackets, and blazers. Tank tops can be styled in a variety of ways, from casual to chic, and can be paired with almost anything, including skirts, shorts, jeans, and trousers. They are also perfect for layering, providing extra warmth, and can be used to protect fancier shirts from sweat and oil stains.

If you're feeling creative, you can even make your own tank top by repurposing an old T-shirt. It's a simple project that requires minimal sewing skills and can be completed in less than an hour. Whether you're looking to update your wardrobe or simply stay comfortable in the summer heat, tank tops are a great option to consider.

Wear a tank top with jeans for a casual look

Tank tops are a versatile piece of clothing that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. If you're going for a casual look, wearing a tank top with jeans is a great option. Here are some tips to style a tank top with jeans:

• Choose the right fit: Ensure that your tank top fits well and is not too tight. It should hang about half an inch from your body and have straps that are at least three inches wide, like Ryan Gosling's.
• Consider the neckline: If you want to draw attention away from your bust, choose a tank top with a neckline that ends right above your cleavage. On the other hand, if you want to accentuate your bust, opt for a neckline with details like ruching, pleating, or ruffles. Additionally, consider your shoulder width when choosing a neckline. Go for a rounder or straighter neckline if you have narrow shoulders, and a V-neck or scoop neck if your shoulders are broader.
• Match it with the right bra: If your tank top has thin straps, wear a strapless or bandeau bra to avoid multiple straps showing. If you're wearing a form-fitting knit tank top, choose a seamless bra to avoid visible lumps and bumps.
• Accessorize: Add a pop of colour and texture with bold jewellery, such as large hoop earrings, chunky bracelets, or long necklaces. You can also tie a scarf around your neck, especially if you want to cover your cleavage.
• Layer it up: Tank tops are perfect for layering. You can wear them under a jacket, blazer, or cardigan for a more polished look. Alternatively, layer a tank top under a transparent shirt or a scoop/V-neck shirt for added coverage and style.
• Choose the right jeans: Depending on your preference, you can pair your tank top with any style of jeans, from skinny jeans to boyfriend jeans. If you want to elongate your legs, opt for high-waisted jeans. You can also roll up the cuffs of your jeans for a more casual, laid-back look.
• Complete the outfit: Finish off your casual tank top and jeans look with a pair of comfortable shoes, such as sneakers, sandals, or loafers. You can also add a belt to accentuate your waist or add a pop of colour.

By following these tips, you can easily create a stylish and casual outfit with a tank top and jeans.

Layer a tank top under a blazer for a polished look

Tank tops are a versatile garment that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. One way to style a tank top is to layer it under a blazer for a polished and elegant look. Here are some tips to achieve this style:

When layering a tank top under a blazer, opt for a well-fitting, opaque tank top in a classic colour or print. A slim, conservative fit is best, avoiding low necklines or armholes. This ensures that the tank top doesn't reveal too much skin and keeps the overall look sophisticated.

The blazer you choose should also fit well. You can scrunch back the sleeves to give it a more casual feel. A structured blazer will elevate the entire outfit, making it perfect for the office or a dressy event.

To complete the look, you can pair the tank top and blazer with tailored trousers or a midi skirt. For footwear, loafers or lace-up shoes will give a polished finish, while white sneakers can add a sporty touch.

When accessorising this outfit, less is more. Avoid excessive jewellery to maintain a sleek and elegant aesthetic.

This styling option is ideal when you want to create a put-together look that is both comfortable and stylish. It's a great way to transition your tank tops from casual to dressy, and it can be adapted for various occasions by changing up the colours, prints, and accessories.

Wear a tank top with a vest for a bold statement

Tank tops are a versatile garment that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. One way to make a bold statement with a tank top is to pair it with a vest. This combination allows you to play with proportions and create a unique, utilitarian look. Here are some tips on how to wear a tank top with a vest for a stylish and confident outfit:

When pairing a tank top with a vest, opt for a vest that is more fitted to the body. This will create a nice contrast with the looser fit of the tank top and give you a more defined silhouette. You can also experiment with different vest styles, such as a single-breasted or double-breasted vest, to find the one that suits you best.

The tank top you choose to wear underneath can be a simple, solid colour or something more fun and bold, like a graphic print or stripes. If you want to make a statement, try choosing a tank top in a bright colour or with an interesting pattern. You can also play with proportions by pairing a longer tank top with a shorter vest, or vice versa, to add visual interest to your outfit.

For a more casual look, you can pair your tank top and vest with jeans and sneakers. To elevate the outfit, try wearing it with tailored trousers, a statement belt, and heels or loafers. You can also layer a blazer or light jacket over the vest for a more polished and sophisticated look, perfect for the office or a night out.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different colours, patterns, and textures when pairing your tank top and vest. You can also mix and match different styles to create a look that's unique to you. Remember, fashion is all about self-expression, so have fun with it and make it your own!

Sew a tank top from an old T-shirt

Sewing a tank top from an old T-shirt is a great way to upcycle clothing and create a unique wardrobe piece. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Materials and Preparation:

• Choose an old T-shirt: Select a T-shirt that you don't mind cutting up. It's best to use a pre-washed shirt to ensure it won't shrink later. You can also choose a T-shirt that is a size larger if you want a looser-fitting tank top.
• Find a tank top template: If you have a tank top that fits you well, use it as a template. Alternatively, you can draft your own pattern by taking basic measurements (bust/chest, armhole depth, neck depth, and neck width) and sketching the outline on paper.
• Prepare the T-shirt: Wash and dry the T-shirt if it's new. Then, iron it to remove any wrinkles and make it easier to work with.
• Gather your tools: You will need scissors, pins, a sewing machine or needle and thread, and optionally, chalk or a fabric pencil.

Cutting the T-shirt:

• Place the tank top template: Lay the T-shirt flat on a table and place the tank top template on top, aligning the shoulders. If you don't have a template, you can use the measurements you took earlier to sketch the outline directly onto the T-shirt.
• Pin the template in place: Secure the template to the T-shirt with pins along the edges to prevent it from moving while cutting.
• Cut the T-shirt: Use scissors to cut the T-shirt, following the template's armholes and neckline as a guide. Leave a seam allowance of about 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) if you plan to finish the hems.
• Remove the template: Once you've cut the T-shirt, remove the pins and set the template aside.
• Adjust the neckline and armholes (optional): If desired, you can cut the front neckline and armholes wider for a more relaxed fit. Just remember to leave enough seam allowance if you plan to hem these edges.

Sewing the Tank Top:

• Fold and press the raw edges: Fold the bottom hem, armhole openings, and neckline inward by 1/4 inch (0.6 cm), and then fold again by another 1/4 inch to hide the raw edge. Press the folds with an iron and secure them with pins.
• Pin the front and back pieces together: Place the front and back pieces of the tank top together, right sides facing each other, ensuring that the straps, armholes, and side seams are aligned.
• Sew the shoulders and sides: Machine stitch along the top of the shoulder straps and down both side seams using a zigzag stitch, which gives the fabric more stretch and helps prevent fraying.
• Hem the remaining raw edges: Machine stitch along the bottom, neckline, and armholes using a straight stitch. Sew only the front and back pieces together, not attaching the sides or shoulders.
• Try on your new tank top: Your tank top is now ready to wear! Try it on and make any necessary adjustments to the straps, neckline, or length.

Feel free to add your own creative touches, such as darts for a better fit or a button loop/button at the back for added detail. You can also experiment with different fabrics and colours to create a unique and personalised tank top.

Wear a tank top with a skirt for a chic look

Tank tops are a versatile piece of clothing that can be dressed up or down, making them a valuable addition to your wardrobe. When paired with a skirt, they can create a chic and stylish look. Here are some tips to help you rock this combination with confidence:

Choose the Right Tank Top

Select a tank top that complements your skirt. Opt for a sleek and simple silhouette in a neutral colour like white or black. If you want to make a statement, choose a tank with bold logos or fun embellishments. You can also play with different necklines, such as a high-neck or U-neck silhouette, to add interest to your outfit.

Select a Flattering Skirt

The key to achieving a chic look is to balance the simplicity of the tank top with a more textured or voluminous skirt. You can try pairing your tank with a midi skirt, whether it's a silky slip skirt or a textured option with fringe, sequins, or lace. If you want to create an elegant silhouette, go for an A-line skirt that adds a touch of sophistication to your ensemble. Don't be afraid to experiment with different lengths, from mini to midi, to find the style that suits you best.

Complete the Look

To elevate your tank top and skirt combination, pay attention to your choice of footwear and accessories. Heeled mules or sandals can instantly add a touch of glamour to your outfit. For a more casual vibe, opt for sleek slides or comfortable sneakers. When it comes to accessories, a statement choker necklace, gold jewellery, or an oversized button-down shirt can complete your look. You can also try styling your hair in a slicked-back bun and adding glowing makeup to enhance the overall chic aesthetic.

Play with Colours and Patterns

When pairing a tank top with a skirt, you have the opportunity to create a monochrome colour scheme or play with contrasting hues. A black tank and skirt combination is a timeless and elegant choice. Alternatively, you can mix and match colours and patterns to make a bold statement. Try pairing a striped tank with a solid-coloured skirt or experiment with psychedelic prints and floral designs.

Layer for Warmth or Interest

Don't be afraid to layer your tank top with other pieces to create a more complex look. For a streetwear vibe, consider layering your tank under a sultry corset or a power jacket. You can also pair it with a vest or an oversized button-down shirt for a more utilitarian feel. Layering can not only add visual interest to your outfit but also provide extra warmth on cooler days.

Frequently asked questions