This season’s hottest, celebrity-approved item isn’t a designer bag or a shoe just off the catwalk. Instead, it’s a classic vest. As summer heats up, stars like Rihanna, Kim Kardashian and Irina Shayk head out in sleeveless wardrobe essentials. They wear it in everything from athleisure like Rihanna to button-downs and dress pants by Kendall Jenner.
Given the versatility of the classic top, this is an obvious must-have – own this summer: You can pair the tank top with anything, dressy or casual, and your look will feel instantly Light and easy. The only problem is, finding the perfect vest isn’t as easy as it sounds.
In my own search for the perfect summer tank top, I’ve learned that there’s an art to finding the perfect style. It had to have the right profile and a durable material (because, let’s face it, they don’t last long.) Starting my research, I decided to start by identifying the ideal profile. I looked to the spring runways for inspiration: the new catwalk tanks I saw at Bottega Veneta, Coperni and Dion Lee were all form-fitting and made of thin (and sticky) material. Some feature sexy cutouts or asymmetrical hems like Lee’s, but classic fitted styles are best for maximizing styling options. However, what you can have fun with is the neckline; after trying a few styles, from scoop necklines to V-necks, I found that square necklines actually work best for me .
Bottega Veneta Spring479
Photo: Filippo Fior / Gorunway.com
Dee Ong Lee Spring 890
Photo: Isidore Montag / Gorunway.com
Now that you have the profile, it’s time for a durability test . You’ll want to look for a tank made of materials that are washable and durable. (Because tanks fit so well against the body, they soak up every inch of sweat—which means washing them often!) Fashion tanks in silk or crochet are fun, but not a great investment because they don’t wash well. Conversely, you can never go wrong with a durable cotton vest. After a few test drives, I found that ribbed cotton is particularly durable, and it also has more stretch. (However, cotton tanks will always shrink after the first wash – please consider a size up.)
2(X)IST Men’s Square Cotton Tank Tops (2-Pack)
these parameters Led me to my winning formula: a cotton square neck tank top I’ve been wearing from 2(X)IST. They hug the body and are slightly more stretchy than your standard cotton vest, but won’t suffocate you. The square neckline feels modern and flattering. Best of all, they’re even available in a convenient 2-pack ($ for two, they are a cost-effective staple). While there are certainly more luxurious options on the market – see: $87 Frankie Tank – my perfect summer tank to prove you It doesn’t take a lot to fall in love with – the trend. And, like Riri or KKW, I wear them with almost everything, including under my usual dress shirt or blazer. Now, too, is the time to find your perfect fit.
Shop Below More vests for summer .
Dion Lee Men’s Harness Vest
Reformation Women’s Knit Tasha Tank Top
K.ngsley Unisex Hollow Vest
Loewe Women’s Embroidered Rib Tank Top
The Row Ladas Rib Knit Tank Top
13048201 Toteme Compact Rib Sweater Vest
Acne Studios Men’s Cotton Jersey Tank Top
Women’s skim cotton jersey tank top
97700000007631122 Hanes Cotton for Men Vest (3-Pack)
Dion Lee Men’s Harness Vest 
