I know I shouldn't speak for everyone, but I feel confident in saying that many of us take our tank tops for granted. In truth, this nifty basic is one of the most versatile items you'll find in a wardrobe. Yet I'm sure we're all guilty of treating it as a mere extra layer to hide under knitwear and sheer blouses. Most of us own one, but few consider it a piece worth shouting about.
That's all changed in 2023; the tank top has finally been granted its moment in the spotlight. Now, it's hard to scroll through Instagram without spotting a polished tank top outfit—whether it's styled with classic blue jeans, a midi skirt or tailored trousers. The options are endless. You can pick this essential up for under £10 on the high street (though you might decide to invest in a premium iteration), but paired with the right pieces, it can look so much more expensive.
Don't just take my word for it. Below, I've collated six incredibly chic outfits featuring the humble tank top. With summer just around the corner, these easy throw-on looks are just what you need to enter the new season in style. Enjoy!
1. White Shirt + Pencil Skirt + Mules
Style Notes: For top-tier tank inspiration, all you need to do is check out Sylvie's page. Here, she styles the staple with a sophisticated pencil skirt, a relaxed shirt and mules. So elegant.
Shop the look:
The longer cut and exaggerated cuffs make this shirt look so luxe.
A great starter tank top.
Perfect for the office and the weekend.
Black block-heel mules will serve you for all manner of occasions.
2. Indigo Jeans + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Dark denim looks more expensive than lighter washes, in my opinion. Pair it with a white tank top and ballet flats for a summer afternoon.
Shop the look:
This essential comes in sizes XXS to 4XL.
I can't believe I found these jeans on the high street.
I may or may not have just added these to my basket. In more than one colour.
3. Shirt-and-Short Set + Woven Bag
Style Notes: Matching shirt-and-short sets are a key buy for summer 2023. When you're not wearing yours over a bikini on the beach, try layering an easy tank top underneath.
Shop the look:
This comes in five neutral shades.
A lilac dream.
How comfy do these look?
We still haven't tired of this influencer-favourite accessory.
4. Bomber Jacket + Wide-Leg Trousers + Trainers
Style Notes: Tank tops and wide-leg trousers might just be my favourite combination on this list, and one you can carry with you through the seasons. Wear it sans jacket on warmer days, then chuck on a bomber when the temperature drops.
Shop the look:
Wear this with dresses, skirts, jeans—you name it.
It's worth splurging on basics you'll wear forever.
This fit is so elevated.
The Sambas are sold out everywhere, but I think these Gazelles are just as cool.
5. Slip Skirt + Court Shoes
Style Notes: Going out-out? Slip on a slinky midi skirt and some pretty pink pumps to give your tank top an evening overhaul.
Shop the look:
Nope, that price isn't a typo.
If I were to recommend just one slip skirt, it would be this Ghost number.
Very Elle Woods.
6. Blazer + Slim-Fit Jeans + White Trainers
Style Notes: When you're feeling uninspired, this is a formula you can pull out of your wardrobe and look chic every time. Opt for a camel blazer, blue jeans and white trainers to keep the palette classic.
Shop the look:
This blazer is a bestseller for a reason.
Can't decide between a black or white tank top? Now you don't have to.
Wear-everyday denim.
Perfectly chunky.
Opening image: @nlmarilyn
Next Up, Every Editor On Our Team Bought This Specific Style of T-Shirt This Week
-
4 Anti-Trend Outfits I Spot Every Time I'm in EuropeClassic looks that are always in style.
-
3 Non-Holiday Ways to Wear Velvet This WinterYou're welcome.
-
Hailey Bieber Just Used the TikTok Styling Hack That Will Actually Go the DistanceI'm going to use it this weekend.
-
After 15 Years as a Fashion Writer, I Know These Free Style Tweaks Will Make a Big ImpactHow to give your wardrobe a new lease on life.
-
4 Dated Sweater Trends I'm Purging From My Small NYC Closet by the Year's EndAnd the chic knitwear I'm making room for.
-
Law Roach's World: His New Book, Bag of Choice, and What He Grabs on a Target Run"[Styling] has made my world so much bigger."
-
I'm in My 20s—Here Are 6 Style Lessons I Learned to Look More Polished and Grown-UpSophisticated styling 101.
-
8 Copenhagen Street Style Trends I Plan to Replicate in New YorkPared back yet never boring.
