Summer is almost upon us, and I am determined to find a good quality, non-see through white tank top. Why exactly is it so hard? I mean seriously? We watch television on our phones, sent a rover to Mars, but we can’t make a tank top that isn’t see-through?
A white tank top is a wardrobe staple. It is a blank canvas to build many outfits upon, and every year I hunt for an excellent white tank that will last more than one season. In years past, I would just layer two Gap tank tops to get an opaque look. Being 50, the idea of adding an extra layer when it is already hot is not happening! So, I decided to try out a bunch of options and share my results with you.
White Tank Wish List
There are so many styles available. Preferably, I would like a ribbed tank with a racerback style that covers my bra straps. But I am not a picky girl. Honestly, I would be happy if I could just find a quality tank that doesn’t show my belly to the world. From years of experience, I know this is no easy task.
To find the perfect one, I ordered several to try. Our current situation made for varying shipping times, and I was super impressed when online retailer Shopbop got my package here first. Hello Gap! I am still waiting. I ordered several from Bloomingdale’s, which usually is incredibly fast on shipping, but they didn’t arrive in time for photos.
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Tank Top Try-On
1. Three Dots Heritage Rocker Tank
The Three Dots tank fabric is pretty thick. At $40, it was the least expensive tank I tried. As you can see from the picture, I definitely need a smaller size. I ordered all of the tank tops in large because I absolutely cannot stand being sausaged into stretchy fabric. The lightweight jersey of this tank doesn’t have much stretch. The cut wasn’t exactly what I wanted, either. This tank would be a good option for someone wanting maximum coverage or someone who wants a more traditional cut.
2. rag & bone/JEAN The Ribbed Tank
You all know, I love r&b! I am a devotee of their clothes, shoes, and bags, but this tank is just so disappointing. I had high hopes for this one. At $90, I figured the quality would be impeccable and the chance of being see-through low. Alas, the rag & bone/JEAN Ribbed Tank is see-through.
The cut of the tank is perfect with ribbed fabric and racerback styling. If you are going for the edgy black bra showing through look, then this would be a great tank. Since r&b is the brainchild of two men, that may be precisely what they were going for.
3. L’Agence Drew Racerback Tank Top
I recently purchased a denim jacket from the brand, and I love it. The Drew Racerback Tank Top is currently on sale, so I decided to give it a try. This tank is 93% rayon & 7% spandex with a racerback style. I found the fabric to skew more toward workout wear. The tank is crazy soft and has just the right amount of stretch. A couple of things: a. I feel like the large is too big, but I am worried the medium would cling too much. b. I think the tank is a bit short and might ride up because of the stretch. Overall, it is a good option if you like the smooth finish and don’t run in between sizes as I often do.
4. James Perse Brushed Jersey Long Tank
I thought this James Perse tank might be the one but, alas it wasn’t. I mean, the company is known for its cotton tees. James Perse launched the company with a t-shirt collection focused on casual lux! Of course, the fabric is lux brushed jersey of mostly cotton and some elastane, but the tank is super see-through. The material is also really thin, so it shows every lump and bump.
5. Alix Classic Collection Mia Thong Bodysuit
This tank top bodysuit retails for $175. I decided I had to see if a crazy expensive option was better than the rest. I am not a big fan of bodysuits. Admitting that makes me laugh since I lived in them in the early nineties, but what I found acceptable then, I often don’t now – high heels, late nights, and too much alcohol.
The Alix Thong Bodysuit has racerback styling, and the fabric is 90% nylon & 10% spandex. That means it is basically polyester, which is not my favorite fabric for summer. The tank has a nice cut, and the thong isn’t too uncomfortable. The material has a fair amount of stretch, and it sucks you in at all the right spots.
Not Worth the Price
Honestly, it wasn’t a bad option, but the price just seems way out of whack. If you want a good bodysuit tank and have $175 to spend on a tank then this might be the one for you. Surely, there is a less expensive option that fits my criteria. Actually, there is.
6. Good American Modern Tank Thong Bodysuit
If you are looking for a bodysuit tank, I recommend the Good American Tank. At $119, it isn’t considered inexpensive, but compared to the Alix bodysuit, it is a bargain, and I dare say a higher quality product. I am going, to be honest, I have avoided Good American because of the Kardashians. They are just too much!
Ultimately, I decided to give this tank a go because I am willing to compromise my morals for a good quality piece of clothing. Not really, but I have recently been hearing good things about Good American denim, and so I said, “What the hell! I’m giving it a try.” But don’t ask me to eat at Chik-Fil-A! Hell, to the No!
I’ll Admit When I am Wrong
I loved the fit of this bodysuit. It is has a built-in shelf bra and comes with pasties should you want to wear without a bra, which is pretty nice but again reminds me it is a Kardashian product so a necessity for them. This tank is also basically polyester, but the fabric seems airier than the Alix, and the product is made in the U.S.A! Who doesn’t love that? Overall, this one is a good option.
The Runner Up
7. Susana Monaco Everyday Tank
I ordered all of these tanks from Shopbop, and at the time, they were having a big sale. Unfortunately, this Susana Monaco tank wasn’t on sale. If it were, I would likely keep this runner up style also. Remember, my goal was to find a tank that wasn’t see-through, preferably ribbed and racerback styling. This Susana Monaco tank is not see-through. The cut isn’t racerback but similar to the Good American thong, but as I mentioned, I prefer not a thong. I like the scoop neck on this tank.
Again, I am torn on size. If I were keeping, I would get both the medium and large for comparison. This top is more versatile than my favorite pick. It can be layered easily or worn alone. This cut would work perfectly under your favorite blazer or suit jacket. Geez! I have almost talked myself into keeping this tank. It is good, and maybe I do need it since it is different than my winner. This tank is one of my top two picks.
The Winner
8. AMO Long Ribbed Tank
I thought it would be impossible, but I found the perfect white tank top. The AMO Long Ribbed Tank fits all of my requirements, including racerback styling, ribbed fabric, and it is not see-through. At $79, it is a steal. I knew immediately it was the one. I love it so much that I didn’t take it off once I tried it on, and I immediately went online and ordered the black.
The large fits perfectly and the tank has the perfect amount of stretch. Alas, it is only offered in two colors. I highly recommend this cool tank top for your summer wardrobe.
The Bloomingdale’s Tanks
I ordered these three tanks from Bloomies:
- Pam & Gela Ribbed Tank Top – Thin, see-through, and runs incredibly small.
- rag & bone The Tank – Looser fit, not ribbed, and see-through.
- Splendid 1×1 Ribbed Tank – Another tank I thought would work but just doesn’t work.
Gap….I’m still waiting. Hasn’t even shipped yet.
In the end, I am excited I found a tank that works and isn’t see-through. I also found a reliable alternate option for when I want to layer or wear more of a scoop neck. I find myself reaching for basics all summer long to build everyday, casual outfits. A good, white tank has been a glaring hole in my wardrobe. So glad I can finally fill that void. Next up, I am tackling my favorite ways to wear a white tank top because now I can!
I would love it if you followed me on Instagram for my everyday outfits or on Pinterest for my fashion inspiration. StyleDahlia is a fashion and lifestyle website with a modern take on midlife. We hope to inspire you to step out of your comfort zone, try new things, and live your life in full bloom.
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