Tank tops have gone through a lot of changes since they began as simple shirts people wore under their clothes or for sports. The term “tank top” actually goes back to the 1920s, when people started calling one-piece bathing suits worn in public pools “tank suits.” Over time, the sleeveless upper part of swimsuits evolved into a popular fashion option on its own. Tank tops became popular among youth by the mid-20th century due to the hard, rebellious image Marlon Brando and James Dean gave to them in Hollywood.
Nowadays, tank tops are common in many fashion closets, and both athletes and influencers are happy to wear them. Due to how simple they are, how they feel, and all the ways you can mix them, t-shirts are often the starting point for putting together a new look. If you’re looking to stock up on a variety of affordable styles, consider exploring wholesale tank tops to build a versatile wardrobe or retail selection.
Let’s have a look at 12 different kinds of tank tops, starting with racerbacks that are great for working out and ending with halter necks that look sleek and fashionable. Knowing each style and how it looks best will help you select and style your tank tops.
What Makes a Tank Top a Wardrobe Icon?
The tank top is more than a sleeveless shirt; it embodies simple, stylish designs that match anything, making it a staple in today’s fashion. Essentially, a tank top has no sleeves, reveals the neckline, and fits loosely, providing versatility for various styles. Its true uniqueness lies in how it adapts to different styles, genders, and seasons.
You can go simple in a cotton tank top or follow the latest style trends; either way, they can be showcased in summer, warmed up in winter, or matched with your favorite style regardless of the season. Whether you prefer simple or bold styles, both minimalists and maximalists will adore these designs.
12 Types of Tank Tops
Tank tops come in many styles, from sporty to elegant, and they go with every shape and occasion. Below, you’ll find 12 key types of tank tops with guidelines for styling each one with poise.
1. Basic Tank Top
The basic tank is the most useful among all other tanks. T-shirts made from cotton or a mix of cotton often have wide straps, a scoop or crew neckline, and may be either fitted or relaxed in shape. This is for those days when simple comfort is all you need for layering, relaxing, or getting things done in casual attire.
Wear it with: To dress smartly casually during the day, try wearing a striped shirt under an open shirt or blazer, and complete the look with some casual joggers and slides.
2. Racerback Tank
With a Y-shaped back that shows the shoulder blades, the racerback tank is called sporty and has simple lines. Often used in activewear, it also looks great when mixed into everyday and street style clothes. Its cut looks great on both men and women with nice, defined shoulders and those with narrow shoulders.
Wear it with: Pair it with high-waisted leggings and sneakers when you’re going to the gym, or layer it under a cropped bomber jacket if you want to have a bit more edge to your look.
3. Spaghetti Strap Tank
Delicate and feminine, spaghetti-strap tanks are usually made from light fabric and don’t have a lot of extra detail. So you can wear it on a hot summer day, under big coats, or at a party. You’ll often find that these clothes are made from materials such as rayon, silk, or modal.
Wear it with: Tuck it into a satin mini skirt and put on some sandals for a nice date night look, or wear it under a see-through blouse to look chic and understated.
4. Muscle Tank
Initially inspired by gym clothes, the muscle tank has open armholes, goes higher on the neck, and fits a bit looser around the body. Both men and women like this style because it’s easy to wear, looks great just thrown on over your everyday clothes, and adds a bit of a simple, confident vibe. Whether cut-off or hemmed, it is a trendy pick for people wanting clothing for everyday use, workouts, or hanging out casually.
Wear it with: Pair with biker shorts and some oversized sunglasses if you want a simple, athletic look, or put it on over a fitted long-sleeve shirt if you want a little more edginess.
5. Halter Neck Tank
Halter-neck tanks have straps that go around the back of the neck and tie, showing off your shoulders and upper back. The necklace draws the eye to the collarbone and stretches the look of the neck, which is why it goes well with dressier or evening outfits.
Wear it with: Coordinate the shirt with trousers for evening wear, and complement it with a short skirt that falls just above the waist for daytime attire.
6. Cropped Tank
These tank tops are made shorter, stopping just above the waist for a stylish and flattering fit. Choosing this style makes your outfit youthful and trendy, especially in the warmer seasons or with lots of layers. Available in both fitted and boxy cuts, cropped tanks are versatile enough to dress up or down.
Wear it with: Match high-waisted jeans and a belt bag if you’re looking for a fashion look that younger people like nowadays, or try a fitted midi dress over the top for a different kind of layered outfit.
7. Built-In Bra Tank
A bra tank top offers both support and ease of use in a very simple style. If you prefer low-intensity workouts or want a comfortable look, this style helps you achieve shape and structure without adding a lot of layers.
Wear it with: Wear with joggers or leggings if you’re planning a quick errand, or under a zip-up hoodie on days when you need more warmth.
8. Asymmetrical Tank
The asymmetrical tank doesn’t look like the usual tank top because sometimes it has a single strap or is cut so the neckline is shifted to one side, which makes it stand out and look interesting right away. This style goes best with outfits that are trendy and when you really want to look different from others.
Wear it with: Tuck it into pants or a skirt that really fits you well, and put on some earrings that stand out to give yourself a stylish and confident look.
9. Double Strap Tank
Instead of one, the double-strap tank has two thinner straps on each shoulder. This design is great for those who want to stand out while enjoying style and practicality. Sometimes, straps are placed at slightly different spots or more spread out, which can make the neck look better or dress up the necklace.
Wear it with: Wear it with full-length linen pants and comfortable sandals to stay cool in summer, or team it with a cropped or blazer to look sharp from day to night.
10. High Neck Tank
The high-neck tank has a neckline that is higher up by the collarbone or neck, which gives it a clean and put-together look. This style is great for people who want a little more coverage on top but still like the free feel of not having sleeves. It’s popular for wearing underneath jackets or sweaters, or just on its own with a simple outfit.
Wear it with: Tuck it into wide-leg pants and pair it with loafers or heels to get a neat look for work or a casual event.
11. Tie-Front Tank
The Tie-front tank’s neckline is near the collarbone, giving it an elegant and trimmed look. It’s a good option for anyone who likes extra cover on top. Many like to pair it with blazers or cardigans, or simply wear it on its own for a creative and simple look.
Wear it with: Choose a pair of wide-leg trousers and top the ensemble with loafers or heels for a neat, business-casual outfit. Adding a long pendant necklace can help create balance in the outfit.
12. Swing Tank
A main feature of swing tanks is their free-flowing, straight shape that slightly widens at the bottom. Most often made of soft rayon or modal material, they support easy movement and keep the body cool. The cut looks great on all figures and could work as a more flowing, relaxed alternative to a regular tank.
Wear it with: Wear leggings or slim-fit jeans to control the extra volume created at the top. Toss a denim jacket over your shoulder and grab a tote bag to complete an everyday outfit.
Conclusion:
People see tank tops as easy outfit choices, but they can be far from ordinary. You can pick any style you like, depending on your own style, the mood you’re in, or the situation you find yourself in. There is always a tank top ready for you, whatever your day’s plans may be. Choose some pieces you really like and wear them with anything, any time of year.
