Tanks and muscle tees are simple Summer tops we see every season because they are thought of as wardrobe essentials. There can be fitted silhouettes that contour the body, fluid fits with an easy drape, boxy cuts that look a little architectural, and everything in-between. Some styles are sleek and minimal, while others feature ruching, ribbing, asymmetrical details, or sporty shoulder lines. Lengths vary from cropped to hip length. Muscle tees have a little more shoulder coverage than tanks, which might be more to your liking. Necklines vary enormously too, from high crew necks and halters, to scoops, V-necks, square necks, turtlenecks, and racerbacks. They come in every colour, from crisp neutrals, greyed tones, and earthy tones to brights and pastels. Most are solid, although stripes and florals feature too.
They’re versatile because they can be worn in many ways. On hot days they work on their own with pants, shorts, jeans, jorts, culottes, and skirts for a breezy and relaxed look. They are equally useful as layering pieces under tops worn open like button-down shirts, lightweight blouses, jackets, track tops, and gauzy cardigans. Some people wear them under open-weave pullovers and very sheer tops for coverage. They also layer well under open waistcoats and vests, and can be worn under spaghetti strap dresses for a practical integrity.
Here’s a selection of tanks and muscle tees that have worked well on my clients, or have good reviews. Most are cotton or cotton-rich. Notably, tanks and muscle tees from PACT have particularly good reviews. Tanks from AllSaints are super if you want them fitted with ruching. The short West Side Ruched Tank is great to wear with skirts. There’s a good Washable Stretch Silk Shell Tank from Quince if you’re after something neutral and dressier.
These very lightweight navy Massimo Dutti Cotton Blend Wide-Leg Trousers are worth a look too. They’re wide, swooshy, avant-garde, and surprisingly crease-resistant. Dramatic, drape like a dream, and very comfortable. Easy to hem for petites if they’re too long. They look great with tank tops and muscle tees.
