This Is the It Girl–Approved Way to Wear Summer's Easiest Wardrobe Essential

On what feels like an annual basis, a new layering trick arrives on the fashion scene, bringing forth fresh and exciting ways to arrange our clothing and accessories. From layering necklaces for a bold and edgy look to combining turtlenecks with button-down shirts for a practical and stylish appearance, there is always an innovative take on layering lying in wait for someone chic to discover (or rediscover) it. This season, for example, there has been a notable resurgence of the layered-tank-top trend from the early 2000s.
Before conjuring outdated images of iconic figures like Hilary Duff, Kristen Stewart, and Christina Aguilera sporting this trend on the red carpet, it's important to note that the contemporary layered-tank-top look is quite distinct from its predecessor. The trend has made a refined and elegant comeback, aligning with the sophisticated fashion aesthetics of 2024.
This revival has taken the fashion world by storm, especially on platforms like TikTok (with 27 million posts and counting) and Instagram. It revolves around the idea that wardrobe basics need not be basic; they can be chic and relevant. To nail this look like the many well-dressed women on the internet, investing in tops made from high-quality yet thin fabrics such as a soft-stretch elastane blend or lightweight ribbed cotton is crucial as it avoids a bulky and messy look. And, rather than merely layering the same colored tanks, fashion enthusiasts are opting for bright and neutral solid-colored camisoles and racerback tanks. Then, they coordinate them with different colored tops that are within the same color family to evoke a sophisticated and put-together look. Of course, these women are also taking black tank tops and layering them over white ones for a fool-proof luxe ensemble.
Brands have even embraced the increasing popularity of the layered-tank-top look, with Mango, COS, and Grlfrnd all offering pre–layered tank tops, thus doing the hard work for you.
Below, you will find a thoughtfully curated selection of the best tank tops and camisoles, perfect for mastering the art of layering in 2024. We've also included the best double-layered tanks, which help you effortlessly achieve this stylish look.
Shop our favorite tank tops that are perfect for layering:
For a polished look, wear this over a white tank top with black wide-leg pants and mesh flats.
Nikki Chwatt is an associate fashion editor based in New York City. She joined Who What Wear in 2024 after writing fashion, beauty, and lifestyle content for WWD, Well+Good, Editorialist, and more. With a passion for personal style and the creativity that comes with it, one of Chwatt's goals is to help others understand that there is no such thing as a “good” or “bad” style; it’s just about putting an outfit together that makes you feel confident in yourself. When she's not writing, you can find her taking a Pilates class, reading a powerful romance novel, or exploring a new wellness spot in Manhattan.
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