Fashion can often be distracting. Bright colors, bold prints, and new trends can pull focus and sometimes cause us to overlook the hardworking basics our wardrobes need to thrive. In the past, when I’ve prioritized statement pieces over anything else, I’ve always felt as if I had nothing to wear. The appeal and shine of maximalist dresses or exciting shoes would quickly fade, and I’d soon be on the hunt for another buy that got my pulse racing. Recently, however, I’ve shifted my focus to honing my basics. Now, with drawers and rails lined with pieces that are truly versatile and interchangeable, I never feel as if I have nothing to wear. And one of the most worn items in my wardrobe is the vest top.
Tank tops are having a moment right now. In fact, I’d go as far as to say that they’re defining 2022’s aesthetic. Once a second-thought purchase for many, the tank top has never been more appreciated than it is now, with influencers regularly centering their outfits around them and high-end brands serving up their own covetable iterations of the staple. (I’m still dreaming about Loewe’s logo-embroidered tank).
However, much like anything else, when you wear something a lot, you risk becoming fatigued by it, which is why I’m sharing easy examples of how to style a tank top below—to help you keep the spark alive. Keep scrolling to unlock a whole host of vest-top outfit inspiration.
Style Notes: Take the simple approach by pairing a white vest top with 2022’s other key buy: a pair of wide-leg tailored trousers.
A solid racer-back vest option.
The perfect finishing touch to any minimalist outfit.
A great entry point if you’re yet to invest in a pair of wide-leg trousers.
Style Notes: For a low-key summer outfit, wear your trusty denim cut-off shorts with a tank. Then, match the colour of said tank top to that of your shoes to seamlessly pull it all together.
I always stock up on Nordstrom basics.
Influencers can’t get enough of Agolde denim.
In my opinion, these are the perfect mules.
Style Notes: Is there anything as elegant as a slip skirt? Styling yours with a basic white vest will instantly give it a downtime spin, as will the addition of chunky, any-terrain boots.
As the model proves, racer vests look great with short hair or hair up.
So versatile.
It’s never too early to invest in a strong pair of boots.
Style Notes: Bermuda shorts keep cropping up this season, so consider this your sign to invest in a pair now if you haven’t already done so. As Tracey shows, they look the chic part worn with a vest top and an unbuttoned overshirt.
Although the white is classic, this faultless shirt comes in an array of colourways.
Elevate your basics with this premium white tank.
The elasticated waistband on this pair ensures they’re incredibly comfortable.
Style Notes: What could be more classic than a tank top, blue jeans and a cardigan? I’ll wait…
I’ll throw this over everything from floral dresses to, well, tank tops.
Nordstrom has more vest tops than any other retailer.
I love the cut and colour of these jeans.
Style Notes: Lean into the sporty aesthetic of your tank top with a pair of sweatershorts—grey marl will always feel classic—and a breezy linen shirt in a bold color.
A lightweight staple that’ll work just as hard on the beach.
An easy add to your next Shopbop order.
A frugal way to re-create the look.
Style Notes: This is perhaps one of the more directional vest-top outfits on my list. Camille gives this glamorous minidress an offbeat overhaul by layering it over a white vest top and finishing with black heeled boots.
Sienna Miller wore this exact Mango dress at Glastonbury.
This neckline will look great under a strappy minidress.
Rag & Bone is my go-to for expensive-looking accessories and shoes.
This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK.
