13 best tank tops for women that your wardrobe will thank you for
Tank tops can lend themselves to any outfit, and no wardrobe is complete without them, but why are they so hard to actually source when it comes to finding the best ones?
They're versatile, easy to throw on, reliable, and, as some would say, essential to a summer capsule wardrobe (me, I’m someone), but finding one that isn't see-through, sits right on your shoulders and bust, is just the right length, and that goes with all your other basics is a challenge. To say the least.
Much like a classic white t-shirt or a pair of trusty jeans or black leggings, the humble tank top adds a laid back charm to any outfit. Regardless of the trend cycle or time of year, it’s the ultimate layer. It doesn’t hurt that they look chic with pretty much everything; just ask ‘90s Jennifer Aniston who constantly wore them layered, or Kendall Jenner who’s off-duty model looks rely on them.
The best tank tops for women, at a glance
- Best overall: Uniqlo Built in Bra Top
- Best ribbed: Lululemon Ribbed Crop Tank Top
- Best value: H&M Ribbed Tank Top
- Best for layering: ARKET Ribbed Tank Top
Whether you’re one to free the nip or prefer a bit of discreet support like Uniqlo offer with their built-in-bra tank, we’ve tracked down, tried and tested the best options from the high street to high-end brands.
From ribbed tank tops that look great with straight-leg jeans to seamless vests for women that you can layer under blazers or shirts, all of these picks come with a seal of approval from Glamour editors who actually wear them.
This article originally appeared on Glamour US. For more from GLAMOUR UK's Ria Wolstenholme, follow her on Instagram @riawolstenholme.
Ahead, the best tank tops for women 2024.
Sometimes the basics don’t need to break the bank to pack a punch. If you’re looking for a staple tank top that comes in a range of colours, fits snugly without constricting and isn’t overly cropped, this is the one for you. We love the ribbed jersey material and seam detailing around the rounded racer-style neckline that brings some structure.
Sizes: XS-XXL / Colours: 9 options / Material: Cotton 95%, Elastane 5%/ Fit: Slim snug fit.
Pros: Affordable, versatile colour ways and breathable fabric.
Cons: May be longer on petite builds.
Save when you shop for the best tank tops for women with these H&M discount codes at checkout.
We LOVE a seamless top here at GLAMOUR. They help you feel supported and streamlined. Chef’s kiss. This tank from Free People gives a lower rounded neckline, perfect if you want to bare a little more skin, and comes in this woven-esque fabric in a cropped fit. Perfect for laid-back looks or for pairing with your trusty going-out jeans for a flawless, timeless look.
Sizes: XS-XL / Colours: 14 options / Material: 82% Nylon, 10% Poly, 8% Spandex / Fit: Tight fit.
Pros: Thick straps, seamless fabric.
Cons: Lower neckline and cropped fit may make it less versatile for some.
Looking for something slightly compressive but totally discreet? Good American's Micro Rib tank is where you should set your sights. It comes in a variety of colours, from black and white to blue and pink, but it's the broad size range and inclusive imagery that we love the most about this design.
Sizes: XS-XXXXXL (5XL) / Colours: 6 colour options / Material: 100% Cotton / Fit: Compressive.
Pros: Multiple sizes, fun colours as well as ‘basic’ hues.
Cons: It's over £50.
Abercrombie & Fitch Paloma Mock Neck Tank Top
This may well be a marmite kind of product - but for us, it's LOVE. The high neck, the ruched sides, the cropped fit? Hello, new jeans and a nice top. Perfect for the office, brunch or cocktails with the girls, the taupe-grey colour lends itself to be ideal for layering, too. Think under blazers in the winter or with high-waisted trousers for business chic, or some low-rise jeans or midi skirts with your Birkenstocks in the summer. You’ll be cinched in and ready for anything.
Sizes: 2XS-XL / Colours: Loads / Material: 46% Cotton, 46% Modal, 8% Elastane / Fit: Snug cropped fit.
Pros: Perfect for any outfit.
Cons: Mock neck is a crowd divider.
Save when you shop for the best tank tops for women with these ASOS discount codes at checkout.
If you haven’t seen these on your tiktok for your page, where have you been? These built in bra tops have taken the girls by storm this summer, becoming a staple item in everyone’s wardrobe. Gone are the days you’d need to wear a clunky strapless bra or one of those stick on ones you probably haven’t touched since your year 11 prom back in the day. It’s hard to find much wrong with these, as the built in support, durable yet breathable fabric and the variety of sizing and colours makes it a brilliant all-rounder. 5 stars from us!
Sizes: XXS-XXL / Colours: 6 colour options / Material: 97% Cotton, 3% Elastan / Fit: Slim fit cropped to the navel.
Pros: Two birds one stone with the built in support.
Cons: Some bolder colours could be good.
Veronica Beard Myrick Striped Cashmere Tank
Looking to nail that old money trend? We’ve got you covered. Luxury and cashmere go hand in hand, and this bold striped tank from Veronica Beard ticks all of our boxes. Cut in a slim, slinky fit but retaining that buttery cashmere feel this piece gives the ultimate elegant laid-back vibe. Pair it tucked into trousers or skirts for a sophisticated look with a ballet pump for good measure.
Sizes: XS-XL / Colours: 1 colour options / Material: 100% cashmere / Fit: Slim fit.
Pros: Luxury feel and fit.
Cons: Spenny.
Save when you shop for the best tank tops for women with these Net-A-Porter discount codes at checkout.
The Soft Lounge line from SKIMS has some of the softest fabric we've ever felt, funnily enough, and the reviews on this tank specifically speak for themselves. People have said it's super stretchy and not constricting at all which is exactly what you want when it comes to reliable staples.
Sizes: XXS-XXXXL (4XL) / Colours: 7 colour options / Material: 91% Modal, 9% Elastane / Fit: Classic.
Pros: It comes Kardashian-approved.
Cons: Sizes often sell out.
A classic for a reason. GAP has long been a household name brand, so if you’re one to borrow some bits from your mum we bet you can find something like this in her drawers. This classic cut tank top with the medium length, tapered in shoulder straps and scoop neckline make for the ultimate tried and tested design. A looser fit than the others we’ve featured, this would be best for those of you who want something not so snug fitting that can be worn loose over leggings or shorts, or tucked in for a more formal look.
Sizes: 2XS-XL / Colours: 4 colour options / Material: 58% Cotton, 38% Polyester, 4% Elastane / Fit: Regular fit.
Pros: Perfect for layering, comes in regular, petite and tall sizes.
Cons: Basic colourways.
The brand describes this as a tank that can be perfect for work or a day off, and we agree. With a high neck and V style back, it lends itself as the perfect office to drinks top, paired with high waisted trousers or jeans for a smart casual look or worn underneath a linen shirt and shorts set for an on trend city style. Our favourite colourway is the oasis blue, but we do wish it came in more monochrome shades to make it more office attire suitable.
Sizes: UK 4 - 24 / Colours: 3 colour options / Material: 67% Recycled Polyester, 28% Lenzing Modal, 5% Elastane / Fit: Snug contour fit.
Pros: The high neck and cropped design make it perfect to pair with high waist bottoms.
Cons: High price point for a basic.
Cotton On Float Your Boat Rib Knit Tank Top
This tank took us by surprise. Whilst a knit fabric may not be for everyone, we think this light-weight version is the perfect versatile option that’ll suit any season. Paired with a pair of blue jorts in the summer and worn over top a white tee and a pair of dark jeans in the colder months, the pop of tomato red is a staple to keep in your rotation to bring life to any ‘fit.
Sizes: XS-XL / Colours: 1 option / Material: 56% Cotton, 44% Polyamide / Fit: Regular fit.
Pros: Ribbed knit perfect for all seasons.
Cons: Lack of colour options.
Fashion girls, step forward. Your new staple piece has entered the chat. We adore this longer-length, edgier take on the humble tank top. The racer cut does a full 360 here, sitting both front and back for an elusive shape that compliments the longer length perfectly. Of course, the signature draped panel that falls to roughly knee length is also worth a nod of approval, but it’s the lightweight stretchy fabric that is the big seller for us. The olive green hue is perfect for summer, too. Big fans.
Sizes: XS-XXL / Colours: 1 colour options / Material: 100% cotton / Fit: Slim fit.
Pros: Unique take on a classic.
Cons: It's expensive.
If you don’t get weak at the knees when you walk past an ARKET, you’ve got better willpower than us. We love the brand for its high quality but affordable basics, and this ribbed tank top is no exception. The high neckline, the wide trim and body hugging fit make it the perfect choice for a multi purpose tank top. From weekend antics to presentations, the variety of colours make for the perfect rotation of tanks fit for any occasion. We love how it’s been styled with high waist trousers and culotte style shorts for ultimate office chic.
Sizes: XXS - L / Colours: 7 colour options / Material: 100% cotton / Fit: Close fit.
Pros: High quality for a reasonable price point.
Cons: Not as cropped as we’d like it to be.
Save when you shop for the best tank tops for women with these Arket discount codes at checkout.
Levi's Sporty Central Logo Stripe Rib Tank Top
Ringer vests like these are timeless. With a 90’s feel and laid back vibe, they fit into any rotation. We love the subtle, small stripe design paired with the dainty logo centre. The round neck and thicker straps are super flattering in the way they sit on the collarbone and shoulder area, making for a softer look. We’d pair it with - guess what - some trusty jeans, or even a mini cargo style skirt for casual cool summer vibes.
Sizes: 2XS-XL / Colours: 2 colour options / Material: 96% Cotton, 4% Elastane / Fit: Slim fit.
Pros: Flattering cut and length.
Cons: Lack of staple colourways.
Tory Sport Grosgrain and Mesh-Trimmed Stretch-Jersey Tank
Take tennis-core a la Challenger’s and make it day to day. This tank was designed for hot days on the court, made from moisture-wicking stretchy jersey fabric paired with mesh sides for maximum breathability. While this may be designed for sports and movement, we think this could be a great staple in anyone’s wardrobe who’s looking for something simple and practical to chuck on in the summer. Complete with built-in bra-like support and cut in a way that hugs your body, it’s super flattering and the perfect accompaniment to a pair of denim shorts or a linen trouser for a chic summer look.
Sizes: XS-XL / Colours: 1 colour option / Material: 80% polyester, 20% elastane; Trim: 82% polyester, 18% elastane / Fit: Close fit, built-in support bra.
Pros: Multi-use for sport or day to day.
Cons: Pricey.
If you want a tank top that sits more like a dainty cami, something with a thinner strap and a rounded neck such as this Hollister option would work best for you. The micro rib fabric lends itself to being flattering and supportive, and with their multi-length options, you can shop in a way that makes it so your purchase suits your exact needs and body structure. We love the variety of colour ways, too, particularly this forest green.
Sizes: XXS-XXL / Colours: 10 colour options / Material: 94% Cotton, 6% Elastane / Fit: Slim fit with adjustable straps.
Pros: Comes in multiple lengths.
Cons: Some reviews said lighter colours were see through.
Save when you shop for the best tank tops for women with these Hollister discount codes at checkout.
