The tank top, also known as a sleeveless shirt or a muscle shirt, is a type of garment that has become a popular clothing item in many parts of the world. It is a versatile piece of clothing that can be worn as a standalone top or as an undergarment. The tank top is defined by its sleeveless design, which allows for a greater range of movement and comfort, particularly in warm weather.
The origins of the tank top can be traced back to the late 1800s and early 1900s when it was first worn by athletes as an undershirt during sporting events. It was especially popular among boxers and wrestlers who needed a garment that would allow them to move freely while also providing some degree of protection. Over time, the tank top began to gain popularity outside of the sporting world, and it became a fashionable item of clothing in its own right.
The name “tank top” is thought to have originated from the fact that it resembles the top half of a tank suit, which was a type of one-piece bathing suit that was popular in the early 1900s. The tank top's defining features include its sleeveless design, which exposes the wearer's arms and shoulders, and its loose-fitting, lightweight fabric that makes it ideal for hot weather. Some tank tops also feature a racerback design, which exposes more of the back and can be particularly flattering on athletic builds.
In modern times, the tank top has become a staple item of clothing in many people's wardrobes, particularly during the summer months. It can be worn with a variety of different outfits, from casual shorts and flip-flops to more formal skirts and jackets. The tank top is a versatile garment that has stood the test of time and remains a popular choice for people of all ages and backgrounds.
Tank Tops Vs. Other Tops
Halter tops are similar to tank tops in that they are sleeveless, but they typically have a strap that goes around the back of the neck and ties or fastens there. This design puts more emphasis on the neckline and shoulders, as well as the back of the wearer. Halter tops can be worn with a variety of bottoms, but they tend to be more formal than tank tops and are often worn for evening events or occasions that require more dressed-up attire.
Spaghetti strap tops are also similar to tank tops, but the straps are typically thinner and more delicate. This design can be very feminine and flattering, but it may not offer as much coverage or support as a tank top. Spaghetti strap tops can be worn with a range of bottoms, from shorts to skirts, and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
V-neck tops are typically designed with a V-shaped neckline that exposes more of the chest than a tank top. This design can be very flattering on some body types and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. V-neck tops can be sleeveless or have sleeves, and they are often worn as a casual or dressy top with a range of bottoms.
Easy Tank Top Patterns For Women
We've put together a list of easy tank top patterns for you below. Despite the tank top being quite a simple garment, there are a surprisingly many ways to make yours unique. Different necklines, textile patterns, and fittings can greatly change the look and feel.
We'll continue to add to this list as we find and make new projects.
1) Flowy Tank Top
She modified a free dress pattern from last summer to make a tank top. The back yoke was cut on the fold instead of adding a keyhole, and she prefers it that way. She used a remnant from Joann's for the fabric, which is flowy and comfortable but hasn't held up its color well after multiple washes.
2) Free Racerback Tank Top Pattern
The author previously shared a free sewing pattern for a tank top in size S, which she had copied a few years ago. She has now added many sizes and improved the pattern by digitizing it. The author has provided a full photo and video tutorial for making the tank top. She recently made a new version of the tank top and loves it, and plans to make more with different fabrics and design variations. The free pattern allows for customization of any of the pieces to achieve the desired look.
3) Knitted top in DROPS Safran
This is a knitted v-neck design for all of our knitters in the community. I quite like the knitting projects that you can find on this site and it makes me want to explore knitting some more.
4) Belize Tank Dress
This pattern is named after the country Belize which is a small country on the northeast coast of Central America. The country boasts beautiful beaches, incredible snorkeling and scuba diving, and ancient Maya ruins.
5) Durango Tank
The Durango Tank is a sleeveless shirt with a vintage summer concert tee vibe. It has a higher neckline, high-cut shoulders, and a longer flared hem. The tank is fitted at the shoulder and bust but loose through the waist and hip for comfort. It's perfect for showing off cute cami or bralette straps and pairs well with a Sandbridge Skirt and flip flops for a great summer outfit.
6) V-Neck Tank For Women
This is a beginner-friendly tank pattern that requires only 1 yard of 60″ wide non-directional fabric. It features banded neck and armscyes, which provide a clean finish and shape and allow you to play with contrast colors. You can mix up your fabric for a variety of looks, and the shirt comes with a semi-fitted cut, V-neck, optional shirt tail hem, and petite cut lines for those under 5'4.
7) Swanky Tank For Adults
The recommended fabrics for this project are four-way stretch knits with at least 50% recovery, such as cotton spandex, brushed poly, French terry with rayon (stretch), ITY, rayon spandex, and stretch velvet. Two-way stretch fabrics with less than 50% stretch can also be used, but the recommended fabrics will have a nicer drape. For the neckband, cotton spandex is the best option.
8) Lago Tank Digital Sewing Pattern
The Lago Tank is a perfect summer tank top that can also be worn as an under layer on cooler evenings. It has a simple design that showcases your favorite knit fabric and features a relaxed fit, a comfortable scoop neck, and neck and arm bands. The pattern is available in sizes 00-20 and includes a large format file for printing at a print shop. The Lago Tank is a beginner-friendly project.
9) Free DIY Tank Top
10) Summer Breeze Tank
To sew a camisole with an elastic back and adjustable straps, one will need approximately one yard of fabric, half a yard of 3/8″ wide elastic, two yards of 1/2″ wide double fold bias tape, lingerie slides, and optionally, two yards of lace trim and a bodkin for pulling the elastic. The pattern is also required to make the camisole.
11) DIY Tank Tutorial
12) Racerback Tank T-Shirt Pattern
This article presents a racerback tank t-shirt pattern as part of our workout wardrobe series. The pattern is designed for comfort and functionality and can be made with any double jersey fabric. The tank is not tight on the belly and is higher at the front than the back. It goes well with the sports bra pattern previously shared and includes a box pleat on the back to accommodate a larger chest area.
Wow, with summer just ahead, this is what I needed to boost my mojo and get started. I’ let you know how many I did several are on the pile to cut right now! Thanks