A wardrobe staple that works across all seasons, for all ages, and that can be styled in countless ways is my idea of a fabulous buy. That’s why I thought we should explore 4 unique ways how to style black tank tops.
Quote of the day: “Your first task is to find what feels effortless to you. Your second task is to put maximum effort into it.” James Clear
In today’s thoughts on how to style black tank tops, I had each of us take a different approach. I wanted to showcase how you could:
1-Layer over it
2-Layer under it
3-Wear it alone
4-DIY your own
While my mom and I rarely wear black near our faces because it isn’t great for our complexion, in the past, I’ve talked about 5 ways to counteract a “bad” color. Heck, just creating a focal point is an easy option.
Insider tip: Black tank tops are like any other piece of clothing. They aren’t all created equal. There are so many different shapes and materials that can make them better/worse for your liking.
Putting together my daily emails is an exercise in fun sharing. I consider my emails an extension of my blog that is chock-full of positive inspiration that one friend calls a “Variety Show.”
I include articles, videos, and posts that strike my fancy, and since I have no siblings to share with, I share them with you.
Laryssa: Layering a Black Tank Under a Statement Piece
The advantage of layering an item over your black tank is that you can cover your arms if it’s cold or you just want the extra coverage. Laryssa styled her black tank under a stunning, long crochet duster.
Layering this way is ideal if you want a lightweight base that lets your outerwear take center stage. Her tank acts as a neutral foundation, letting the texture and intricate pattern of the duster shine.
Insider tip: If you have a topper that is any type of open weave, wearing a top that matches it will create a solid look. If you wear a contrasting color, then the pattern will show more.
It all depends on your goal.
She finished the look with paper bag-waist pants and platform sandals, which make it breezy and perfect for warmer weather.
Style Tip: A longer cardigan like this is one that works perfectly for wearing it upside down to make it a cropped version. Here’s a video showing me doing this with 3 different cardigans, it is sped up. If you want to see it done slowly, this would be the video to watch.
Details:
-Even though Laryssa’s outfit is all neutrals, she added some color with her purse.
-Did you notice that she’s layering 2 different necklaces?
-I love how the distressing on her pants mirrors the open weave of her cardigan.
Charlotte: Wearing a Black Tank Over a Button-Up
Now for something totally unexpected—Charlotte styled her black tank over a leopard blouse, and the results are fabulous. You might not think to wear a tank over another top, but it’s a trendy, functional way to reimagine your wardrobe basics.
By layering her knit tank over the animal-print blouse, Charlotte created a sort of “vest” effect. It adds warmth, interest, and extra dimension to the outfit.
Style Tip: Think of your tank top or any sleeveless top like a vest. Try it over a blouse, a dress shirt, or even a dress and give your outfit new life.
Details:
-My mom also created a fun mix of prints with her purse. It goes to show that different animal prints can co-exist.
-I love the pop of color with the pink purse strap.
-Because you can see the print of the shirt through the tank top slightly, it gives off a lacy design, which makes it textural-looking.
Lesley: Keeping It Simple by Wearing the Black Tank Alone
Lesley opted for the classic route and wore her black tank on its own. She paired hers with a floral mini skirt, black sandals, and a chunky red necklace for contrast.
I know many older women veer away from bare arms because their skin has changed appearance. While I understand being shocked at how our bodies change over time, it seems sad to have it change the way we think about our bodies.
This look is easy, stylish, and approachable. It’s the kind of outfit you can throw on for brunch, errands, or even a casual dinner. And the best part? The black tank keeps it grounded while the accessories and skirt bring the personality.
Style Tip: Prints are fabulous for a couple of reasons.
1-They are great at hiding bumps and bulges.
2-You can spill on them and no one will notice.
Details:
-I love how Lesley incorporates print mixing with her tote and skirt.
-The proportions are great. Even though Lesley’s top is longer and untucked, it’s 2/3 of the outfit in proportion because the skirt is above her knees.
Jodie: A DIY Tank Top With a Twist
I took a little creative liberty and DIYed my black tank from a short-sleeved ruffle top. You may ask why I would do that. Well, I wanted to use these cardigan pins, and this was the best top for that.
It gives the appearance of a tank top with metallic details, and it instantly feels sassy.
This look is the epitome of taking something you already own and giving it a new identity. Plus, I paired it with a tan maxi skirt, floral sneakers (because I can’t resist a fun shoe), and a large orange woven tote that added a punch of color.
Style Tip: Don’t be afraid to modify your clothes to fit your mood or the moment. Tuck in sleeves, tie up hems, or clip on accessories. Your closet is full of possibilities—you just have to get playful with them.
Here is the video of how I transformed my sleeves.
Details:
-Not only did I use cardigan pins for my shoulder decoration, but I hung anklets from them. That’s why they aren’t exactly the same.
-The belt is made up of the chain belt below, with the necklaces strung through it. (It would have been more of a focus on a darker skirt.)
-The black tank gapes open, so I wore one of my Shapeez bras that is lace-covered, so it looks like a cami.
Why You Should Have a Black Tank Top in Your Closet
Not only are there reasons this should be a basic in your closet, but I wanted to point out other great information that we showcased in this post.
A-Black tank tops deserve space in your wardrobe because they are:
- Seasonless. Layer them under cardigans in the winter, or wear them solo in the summer.
- Versatile. Dress them up with pearls and a blazer, or down with denim and sneakers.
- Blank slates. Meaning they pair well with literally anything: prints, textures, and bold accessories.
B-Notice how all 4 of us used our purses to either add a pop of color or an additional print. Purses are functional to carry things, but also can be used as a stylish detail. This means putting some thought into what you carry can make your outfit even better.
C-It’s nice to have a variety of colors in your closet, even if something isn’t your “best” color. There are always ways to change the focus of your look.
Final Thoughts: Fashion is Personal, and Tank Tops are the Canvas
We always say style has no age limit, and that definitely applies here. Whether you’re layering up, going minimal, or adding your own twist, the black tank top could be a very adaptable piece in any wardrobe.
And did you notice? We each brought our own personalities into the look. That’s what makes style fun—not just wearing clothes, but telling your story through them.
So the next time you’re wondering what to wear, take these ideas of how to style black tank tops and experiment. Whether you wear it under, over, alone, or DIYed, there’s no wrong way to make them part of your look.
My Goal
Thank you for visiting my space on the internet. I like to showcase how it’s never too late to look great for women of any age, size, or working with any kind of budget.
I feel I’m here to help move beyond the fashion rules of yesterday and evolve. Style and clothes are made to give you joy. Not cause us stress because we are worried about what others think.
My hope is that you get ideas and inspiration from my crew and me. It’s not about copying what we wear, but about using what you already have and updating items along the way.
Most of all, it’s getting us to think differently and dare I say, have fun.
Welcome to Jodie’s Touch of Style. I’m here to prove that it’s never too late to look great. Clothing and style are meant to showcase your inner personality. So let’s have fun and try new things.
It’s not just about me on this blog, but also my mother and friends. We get to showcase not only different decades of life but also different body shapes and unique personal styles.
