The search for the perfect white tank is over! Classic, comfortable white tank tops are a staple in any closet, but the good ones are hard to find. With options like high-neck, ribbed, and cropped tanks, the world is your oyster (and the choice can be overwhelming).
We searched high and low for the best high-quality white tank tops, so whether you’re styling your tank under a blazer, overalls, or with a pair of well-fitting jeans, you’ll look chic in every setting and season.
If you’re looking for a basic tank perfect for layering or wearing alone, the Chico’s Microfiber Tank is an easy add-to-cart. The microfiber material smooths, so it makes a great layer under button-down tanks and sweaters. A bra is undetectable under the fabric, so this tank can also fly solo. (This tank was so popular, Chico’s now makes it in a high-neck silhouette!)
Size Range: XS-XXL | Material: 92% Nylon, 8% Spandex
It doesn’t get more classic than a Hanes white tank top. Not only are these affordable, but you can even buy them in packs with multiples, so if you’re always staining your white shirts with ketchup or wine, you’re in luck. Celebrity stylist Kim Appelt suggests cutting one into a crop version, too.
“They are on the more sheer side but throw a blazer on with them or just over a bikini top on the beach, and you can make them work,” Appelt says.
Size Range: XS-3X | Material: 100% cotton
Abercrombie is back and better than ever — and this buttery soft tank top is proof. Made from 96 percent soft and stretchy cotton, this ribbed tank falls right above navel length. The thick, clean seam lines give it a structure that pairs perfectly with high-waisted boyfriend jeans (which you can also find among Abercrombie’s boatload of adorable captions).
Size Range: XXS-XL | Material: 96% cotton, 4% elastane
When you’re in the market for high-quality fabric, there’s no better place to shop than Lululemon. These Align tanks are our favorite in the sporty category, perfect for yoga, running errands, or just hanging around the house.
The buttery fabric and tight fit are super flattering, while the length works well with mid-rise and high-waisted pants. (Plus, fans of this tank include women with smaller and larger chests, so it suits many body types).
Size Range: 0-14 | Material: 89% Nylon, 11% Elastane
Our fashion experts agreed that the Easy Standard tank tops are some of the best on the market. This particular top is also one of the favorites of style and lifestyle expert Adylia-Rhenee Gutierrez.
“This is the perfect throw-on white tank for those days you want more coverage,” Gutierrez says. “The straps’ thick edges and structure just make this white tank a favorite. The material is great and not too clingy.”
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: 48% Supima cotton, 47% modal, 5% spandex
Our editors love this ribbed tank thanks to its high-quality look and feel at a fraction of the price. The thick, ribbed fabric is slightly compressive and super comfortable. Not only does it come in XS-4X, but there are also tall and petite options, too.
Size Range: XS-4XL | Material: 48% cotton, 47% polyester, 5% spandex
There’s a reason Gap is known for its basics. This simple white cami makes the perfect layer, with a lightweight cotton fabric and adjustable straps. We appreciate the full length of this cami, which means you’ll always have the right amount of coverage. Need a little more or less length? These camis also come in tall and petite sizes.
Size Range: 2XS-2XL | Material: 95% cotton, 5% spandex
If you want a little extra support, go for this J. Crew shelf-bra tank. One reviewer who wears a 38D says this tank is more supportive than others they have tried. But you won’t be sacrificing looks with this comfortable pick: The classic ribbed design and curved hem also give this tank an elevated look that transitions well from day to night.
Size Range: 2XS-3XL | Material: 57% cotton, 38% modal, 4% elastane
Shopping for tank tops (and clothes in general) can be a little more complicated for people who have larger chests, but it’s not impossible. Appelt suggests the Skims Cotton Ribbed Tank for anyone who has a larger chest or an hourglass body shape.
“It’s tight, smooths everything, cut short so [it’s] perfect to highlight a great waist,” Appelt explains, noting that it’s low cut enough that it’ll not only fit a larger chest, but it will highlight it, too.
Size range: XXS-4X | Material: 95% cotton, 5% spandex
Level up a basic ‘fit with this cut-out white tank from Amazon that instantly brings a coolness factor to any ensemble. The high-neck cut and stretchy ribbed material feel modern and make this top flattering on anyone, and the strategically placed cut-out is slightly sexy without actually showing much skin. Pair it with black bike shorts and some bold accessories, and you’ve got yourself the perfect brunch outfit.
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: 93% polyester, 7% elastane
What to Know About White Tank Tops
Material
When it comes to picking the right white tank top, it’s all about assessing what works best for your style and wardrobe and then considering details like fabric thickness. “When looking for a good white tank top, make sure it is not too thin or cheap looking,” says fashion expert Andréa Bernholtz of Swiminista. Malarkey also recommends paying close attention to fabric quality and style as well as “stretch and fade factors” and strap-thickness.
Bra Compatibility
Many white tank tops require a nude, strapless bra for a seamless fit, but if you opt for a style with thicker straps, you may be able to wear a standard bra with straps.
“The thickness of the tank is worth considering since white can be unintentionally sheer,” says stylist Samantha Brown. “Having the right undergarments like a nude strapless or seamless bra will help with this.”
Cut
There are many cuts and styles of white tank tops: V-neck, cropped, scoop neck, and more. The best cut for you comes down to your preference and how you plan to style it. Celebrity stylist Liv Schreiber recommends looking for a slightly cropped tank top to pair with high-waisted pants and skirts. If you prefer lower-rise pants and want a top that will cover more of your midsection, a longer-cut tank might be what you need.
No matter which white tank top you choose, we’re sure you can find something in your closet to pair with it. “The options are endless,” says Malarkey. “They are the perfect piece to wear alone or layered. Toss on a linen shirt, a jean jacket, a leather jacket or even a blazer.”
Frequently Asked Questions
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How should a white tank top fit?
Much like the fit of a T-shirt, you might prefer a form-fitting silhouette or a loose, boxy fit. When in doubt, go for a more traditional classic white T-shirt fit. “It’s important for the tank top to fit your body, not squeeze you, but to lay on your body,” Gutierrez explains.
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What are the different types of white tank tops?
There are scoop neck, V-neck, high neck, cut out, cropped, ribbed, and many more types of tank tops — and there’s likely a place in your wardrobe for all of them, as Brown points out. “I recommend having a range of loose-fitting, form-fitting, crew, scoop, and V-neck with various thicknesses in the straps. Having the right fit for different outfits is important.”
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How much should I spend on a white tank top?
There are white tank tops available at any price range, from $5 to over $100. Hanes Tanks are a great, budget-friendly choice, and though they might not keep their shape as well as some more expensive options, the Hanes tanks also come in packs of 10 so you can always have a fresh one on hand. We love more substantial options, like the Skims Cotton Rib Tank, because they keep their shape wash after wash, which might make them the more eco-friendly option (and long term, could be a cost-saving investment).
Why Trust PEOPLE?
Olivia Muenter is a freelance writer who has written for numerous outlets such as Refinery29, Glamour, and Byrdie. She is also a co-host of the lifestyle podcast Bad on Paper. For this piece, she aimed to cover retailers for all budgets. She evaluated specific, expert-backed recommendations and insight, reviews, materials, versatility, and design. Additionally, Cai Cramer and Genevieve Cepeda updated this piece to incorporate more options from various retailers.