How to Wear a Ribbed Tank Top For a Stylish Summer

ribbed tank tops

Are you looking for a timeless wardrobe staple to last you all summer long? If so, you'll love the versatility and style of ribbed tank tops! These pieces are also perfect for fall — you can layer them with blazers, jackets, or cardigans. Anything but basic, this so-called ‘basic tank top’ is something you will absolutely live in. Once it’s raggedy and down to its bare threads (unless it’s high quality, then it should last you for years!), you’ll want to fill your drawers with these slim fit staples.

You can never have too many ribbed tank tops. Every color — especially the neutral ones like black, white, and grey — will match everything. If we were you, we’d double up on each color! Tank tops are often the first pieces of clothing to get dirty or be in the wash when you need it most.

Unlike t-shirts, tank tops are more fitted to the body and are sleeveless. Tank tops can feature many different necklines and strap sizes including spaghetti straps, v-necks, racerback, high neck, or wide straps. But, if you’re really looking for a typical ribbed tank top that checks all the boxes, then they’ll have an average neckline (not too low or too high, right at the collarbone) and an average sleeve length that scoops lower under the armpits.

With these tanktops, that offer full coverage, you can get away with wearing a regular bra and not have to worry too much about the straps showing. If you’re wearing a ribbed racerback tank or a tank with less coverage, you might want to consider a strapless bra. For exercise, we’d recommend wearing a sports bra underneath your tank. However, ribbed tank tops, are typically not meant for the gym or working up a sweat. Cotton, which most ribbed tank tops are made of, is slow to dry and doesn’t wick away moisture. For workout wear, you’d want to find materials made with polyester and not 100% cotton.

Instead, wear ribbed tank tops as a casual top with a pair of jeans or a fancy skirt. It’s a staple piece and wardrobe essential that can be worn as the main character or play a behind-the-scenes role.

Want to learn how to wear a ribbed tank top so you can look fashionable all year long? From pairing basics like mom jeans and sneakers to edgy accessories like chunky jewelry and sunglasses, we’ve got just the tips to help make your outfit stand out while still looking effortless. Read on to learn more about creating chic looks featuring the much-loved ribbed tank top!

Choose the Right Tank for Your Body Shape

Each body shape comes with its own set of challenges and desired outcomes. For instance, if you have an apple shape, you might consider a loose-fitting tank that skims over your midsection. On the other hand, a pear shape could try out a tank with wider straps to balance out their hips. With a little guidance, choosing the right tank for your body shape can be a breeze. Not only can the right tank top accentuate your best features, but it can also boost your confidence and leave you feeling beautiful all day long.

At the end of the day, the right tank top that fits your body shape is the one YOU love most and are most comfortable in. You can pair the tank with a high wasted bottom like shorts, jeans, or a skirt if you’re looking to cover your midsection. Or, you can let it nip your waist and leave it out without any tucking. Ribbed tank tops in general or more form-fitting, anyway, and can fit nicely over a waistband or under it.

Style a Ribbed Tank Top with Jeans or Shorts

perfect white tee tank top with jeans

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When it comes to summer fashion, nothing beats the classic combination of a ribbed tank top with jeans or shorts. This effortless and versatile look is perfect for a warm day spent running errands, meeting friends at a coffee shop, or lounging in the park. A ribbed tank top provides a comfortable yet flattering fit, thanks to its stretchy and form-fitting material. Pair it with your favorite pair of distressed denim shorts or high-waisted skinny jeans for a casual and chic look.

Accessorize with statement sunglasses, a delicate necklace, and sandals for a summertime vibe that's both effortless and stylish!

A ribbed tank top and denim bottoms may seem basic but it’s such an easy throw-on outfit. Remember: Just because it’s effortless does not mean it’s not chic!

Pair a Ribbed Tank and Sandals

tank top and sandals

As temperatures soar, finding the perfect summer outfit that's both stylish and comfortable can sometimes feel like a real challenge. But fear not, because the answer lies in pairing a simple ribbed tank with a chic pair of sandals. Not only will you stay cool and fresh in the summer heat, but you'll also look effortless and put-together. With endless color options and styles to choose from, you can easily dress this look up or down depending on the occasion. So take a cue from the fashion-savvy and embrace this classic yet trendy combination for the ultimate summer style that's both practical and fashionable.

Don’t be afraid to wear heeled sandals if you’re going out at night and pairing your ribbed top with an elevated bottom for a fancier evening, like a silk midi skirt or pleated silk shorts!

Wear a Ribbed Tank to the Gym With Leggings

vuori white ribbed tank top

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As we mentioned earlier, ribbed tank tops are not the best if you’re working up a sweat. So, if you do wear a ribbed tank top to the gym, make sure it’s not 100% cotton! With that being said...

Hitting the gym is already a task in itself, but picking the right workout gear can make all the difference. A ribbed tank top might be just the thing to add to your gym wardrobe. Not only is it practical, allowing for easy movement during exercise, but it also adds a stylish touch to your workout ensemble. Pair it with some comfortable leggings, and you're ready to tackle any workout routine that comes your way. If you’re confident about your arms and want to show off your strong muscles, ribbed tank tops are the way to go!

Gymwear doesn’t have to be luxe and can be as simple as a ribbed tank top and leggings or sweatpants. Whatever gets the job done, works! Plus, the ribbed texture of the tank top adds a bit of dimension to the look, ensuring you stand out in the best way possible. Next time you're getting ready for a gym session, consider incorporating a ribbed tank top into your outfit for both style and comfort.

Match a Ribbed Tank Top With a Skirt

charlotte mckinney skirt and tank top

Tuck it in or tuck it out! We love the casualness of a ribbed tank top with the sultry sophistication of a fun skirt. Whether you’re interested in a straight-line skirt or a pleated one, any neutral color tank top will pair perfectly with a printed skirt. Think of a cheetah print midi skirt in silk with a black ribbed tank top — an absolutely gorgeous pairing!

If you're looking to switch up your wardrobe and add a touch of bohemian flair to your everyday outfits, consider layering a ribbed tank top over dresses and skirts. Not only is this styling trick effortless and versatile, but it's also a great way to give new life to pieces you may already have in your closet. By adding a textured tank top layered over a flowy maxi dress or a sleek midi skirt, you'll achieve a chic and relaxed look that's perfect for those balmy summer days or crisp autumn evenings.

What kind of bra do you wear with ribbed tank?

If your tank top offers full coverage on the straps and back area, then you can definitely wear a typical bra without worrying about it showing. You can also opt for a nude bra with clear straps that are practically invisible if they peek out from your straps. Lots of people also like wearing a strapless bra or even breast petals that cover the nipples.

Are ribbed tank tops in style?

In 2023, ribbed tank tops are more stylish than ever. People are no longer wearing it as an easy throw-on shirt, but they’re giving the ribbed tank top a center-stage spot in their daily outfits. Ribbed tank tops are the main event and outfits are now curated around this staple piece.

A ribbed tank top is an ideal garment to wear all summer long. It easily transitions from workouts to nights out, and adds a playful style element to your attire. When styling a ribbed tank top, remember that jeans or shorts make for easy outfits with minimum effort. For summer days at the beach, sandals are the perfect footwear accessory with a tank top. Not only will you look fashionable but you’ll also stay comfortable throughout the day. To add a boho chic vibe to your wardrobe layer a ribbed tank over dresses or skirts and accessorize with statement jewelry! Effortlessly transition from leg day at the gym to dinner out with friends wearing nothing more than a great selection of ribbed tanks and great accessories!