What is a tank top

Short answer: A tank top is a sleeveless top with wide straps and a round neck. It is worn either on its own in summer or as a thin layer under other clothes. Because it is so simple, it is one of the most versatile tops in the drawer.

Sleeveless with wide straps

A tank top has wider straps than a camisole, so it covers more of the shoulder. The wide straps spread the weight better and slip down less often. They also leave room for an ordinary bra strap underneath without it showing. See the bamboo hoodies for women if you want a soft layer on top.

Tank top or camisole

The difference is the width of the straps. A camisole shows more of the shoulder and feels lighter, while a tank top covers more and can be worn in more situations. At work or in town, a tank top often feels more practical. A camisole is mostly worn alone on warm days or as a discreet layer under a shirt.

As a layer under other clothes

Under a jumper or a hoodie, the tank top works as a thin layer that absorbs moisture close to the skin. That keeps the innermost layer dry while the jumper keeps you warm. With no sleeves, no fabric bunches at the elbow. See the bamboo joggers for women if you want something soft for days at home.

On its own in summer

On warm days the tank top is worn on its own, and then the weight of the fabric is the most important choice. A thin fabric is airy but can be see-through in light colours. A slightly heavier fabric covers better and drapes more calmly. For a day in the garden thin is fine, for a day in town a little more weight is often better.

A top for the whole year

The tank top is not just for summer. In winter it works as a thin inner layer that keeps the skin dry under the other layers. In spring and autumn you can wear it alone indoors and add a cardigan when you go out. That makes it one of the tops you reach for most often.

The fit is in the armholes

A tank top should sit close enough to lie neatly, but not so close that it pulls. Look especially at the armholes. If they are too big, your bra shows from the side, and if they are too small, they rub under the arm. Choose your usual size and read the fit description in the product text.

How to style it

For a calm day at home, the tank top goes well with soft trousers and a hoodie you can take on and off. Out and about, it pairs easily with jeans, a skirt or a loose shirt. See the bamboo sweatpants for women if you want a soft pair of trousers to go with it.

Washing and care

Wash the tank top at a low temperature, ideally inside out, and skip the tumble dryer. Ease it into shape while damp and let it dry flat or on a hanger. That way it keeps its length and the shape around the neck and armholes. Since it is worn close to the skin, wash it often.

Frequently asked questions

What is a tank top

A sleeveless top with wide straps and a round neck, worn on its own on warm days or as a thin layer under other clothes for the rest of the year.

What is the difference between a tank top and a camisole

The width of the straps. A tank top covers more of the shoulder, so it can be worn on its own in more situations, even where thin straps feel too light.

Can you wear a tank top all year

Yes. In summer on its own, in winter as a thin inner layer that keeps the skin dry under the other layers. In spring and autumn often with a cardigan on top.