Why is it called a tank top?

It is called a tank top because swimming pools were once called 'swimming tanks' in the 1920s. The sleeveless swimwear worn in those pools was called a 'tank suit,' and the top half eventually became known as the tank top.

Who named the tank top?

There is no single person credited with naming the tank top. The name developed naturally from public pool terminology and later became common through fashion and retail use.

What is considered a tank top?

A tank top is considered a type of shirt that is sleeveless, collarless and designed with shoulder straps. It does not have cap sleeves or a traditional shirt collar.

Is it tanktop or tank top?

The correct spelling is tank top, written as two separate words.

What do the English call a tank top?

In the UK, a casual or athletic tank top is often called a vest or singlet. However, in British fashion, 'tank top' can also refer to a sleeveless knitted sweater vest.

Is a tank top casual wear?

Yes, a tank top is usually considered casual wear. However, versions made from silk, satin, thick ribbed cotton or structured knits can be dressed up for smart-casual outfits.

Tank Tops for Women | Workout, Casual & More

TANK TOPS FOR WOMEN

All the stylish and functional tank tops you need for all your workout sessions, or even just a lazy day. Match it with leggings, cycling shorts, or even just a pair of shorts for a casual day out. We've got it in basic plains, bright neons, and even playful prints - there's a design made for every mood and every woman. Browse ZALORA's collection and shop your favorite tank tops now.

What Is A Tank Top?

A tank top is one of fashion’s most uncomplicated pieces, which is exactly why it has lasted. At its simplest, it is a sleeveless, collarless shirt with shoulder straps, designed to expose the arms and shoulders while keeping the body covered. The name comes from the 1920s term “swimming tank,” an old phrase for a swimming pool, because the style began life as swimwear before becoming a fixture of everyday dressing.

The Anatomy of a Tank Top

The classic tank top is defined by its clean, stripped-back construction. It has no sleeves, no collar and very little fuss, usually finished with a scoop neck, U-neck or square neckline. The straps can shift the entire mood of the piece, from wide and practical to thin and delicate. That small design difference is what separates a gym-ready tank from a camisole, an undershirt from a summer top, and a basic from something that feels deliberately styled.

FOR YOUR SPORTSWEAR AND EVERYDAY WEAR NEEDS

Make working out easier by having the prettiest sportswear to work out in. Go for modern designs with touches of twists and knots, open back strappy tanks, or little cropped tanks that come in breathable, dry-fit fabric. We also have tank tops for casual wear like a dressy sleeveless mock neck tank top and neon rib crop tanks you can match with denims!

Types Of Tank Tops

Category	Tank Top Type	Defining Details	Common Fabric / Construction	Best For	Styling Notes
Classic & Casual Styles	Ribbed Tank / A-Shirt	A classic form-fitting tank with a ribbed texture, scoop neckline, and simple sleeveless cut.	Usually made from stretchy ribbed cotton or cotton-blend fabric.	Everyday casual wear, streetwear styling, layering, and warm-weather outfits.	Works well with denim, cargo pants, skirts, open shirts, or under jackets for a clean casual look.
	Camisole / Cami	A delicate tank top with thin spaghetti straps and a soft, lightweight silhouette.	Often made from cotton, silk, satin, lace-trimmed fabric, or soft jersey.	Layering under sweaters, sheer tops, blazers, or wearing as sleepwear.	Choose silk or satin camisoles for dressier outfits, and cotton camisoles for daily layering.
	High-Neck Tank	A polished sleeveless top with a neckline that sits close to the collarbone or throat.	Can be made from ribbed knit, cotton jersey, ponte, or stretch fabric.	Smart casual dressing, office layering, dinner outfits, and minimalist styling.	Pairs especially well with trousers, long skirts, tailored shorts, blazers, and structured jackets.
	Crop Tank	A short tank top that usually ends below the bust, at the waist, or above the belly button.	Commonly made from cotton jersey, ribbed knit, stretch fabric, or athletic blends.	Summer outfits, casual streetwear, beachwear, workouts, and lounging.	Style with high-waisted jeans, wide-leg pants, shorts, or skirts for balanced proportions.
Athletic & Performance Styles	Racerback Tank	A workout tank with straps that meet in the upper-middle back, forming a T-shape or Y-shape.	Usually made from sweat-wicking, breathable stretch fabric.	Gym workouts, running, training, yoga, and sports that require full shoulder movement.	Best when you need secure straps that stay in place during movement.
	Muscle Tank	A sleeveless top inspired by cut-off T-shirts, with wide shoulder coverage and deep armholes.	Often made from cotton jersey, mesh, performance fabric, or lightweight blends.	Weight training, bodybuilding, athleisure, and hot-weather casual wear.	Great for breathability and easy movement, especially during upper-body workouts.
	Stringer Tank	A gym-focused tank with very thin straps, a deeply cut chest, and an open back design.	Usually made from lightweight stretch cotton, mesh, or moisture-wicking workout fabric.	Bodybuilding, weightlifting, and workouts where showing shoulder and back definition is preferred.	Best suited for gym environments rather than conservative casual settings.
	Built-in Bra Tank	A fitted athletic tank with an internal shelf bra, elastic support band, and sometimes removable cups.	Typically made from compression fabric, stretch jersey, or sweat-wicking activewear material.	Low-to-medium impact workouts, yoga, Pilates, walking, and casual activewear.	Useful if you want light support without wearing a separate sports bra.
Unique Cuts & Fashion-Forward Styles	Halter Tank	A sleeveless top with straps that tie, fasten, or wrap behind the neck, exposing the shoulders and upper back.	Can be made from jersey, ribbed knit, satin, crochet, or dressier stretch fabric.	Night-out outfits, resort wear, summer parties, and dressier casual occasions.	Pairs well with wide-leg trousers, maxi skirts, denim, or tailored shorts.
	One-Shoulder / Asymmetrical Tank	A statement tank with only one shoulder strap, leaving the opposite shoulder bare.	Usually made from fitted stretch knit, ribbed fabric, jersey, or sleek evening fabric.	Dinner looks, parties, fashion-forward casual outfits, and elevated weekend styling.	Keep accessories simple so the asymmetrical neckline remains the focus.
	Square-Neck Tank	A tank top with a straight horizontal neckline and vertical straps that frame the collarbones.	Commonly made from ribbed knit, cotton stretch fabric, ponte, or fitted jersey.	Minimalist outfits, smart casual dressing, date nights, and everyday polished looks.	Flattering under blazers and cardigans because the neckline looks clean and structured.
	Flowy / Trapeze Tank	A relaxed tank that fits closer around the chest and flares loosely toward the hem.	Often made from rayon, chiffon, cotton voile, jersey, or lightweight woven fabric.	Lounging, hot summer days, beach trips, casual brunch, and relaxed daytime wear.	Best for an airy, breezy fit; pair with slim bottoms to balance the loose silhouette.

SHOP TANK TOPS ONLINE ON ZALORA PHILIPPINES

Shop ZALORA's latest collection of women's tank tops. You can easily browse through different styles, colors, and sizes from the best local and international brands, choose and order your new favorites, and have them delivered straight to your house or office. You'll also enjoy other perks like free shipping over P1295, 30 days free returns, convenient payment methods like cash on delivery, and exclusive deals and discounts. Online shopping has never been easier!

Tank Tops at ZALORA Philippines - FAQs

Why is it called a tank top?: It is called a tank top because swimming pools were once called 'swimming tanks' in the 1920s. The sleeveless swimwear worn in those pools was called a 'tank suit,' and the top half eventually became known as the tank top.
Who named the tank top?: There is no single person credited with naming the tank top. The name developed naturally from public pool terminology and later became common through fashion and retail use.
What is considered a tank top?: A tank top is considered a type of shirt that is sleeveless, collarless and designed with shoulder straps. It does not have cap sleeves or a traditional shirt collar.
Is it tanktop or tank top?: The correct spelling is tank top, written as two separate words.
What do the English call a tank top?: In the UK, a casual or athletic tank top is often called a vest or singlet. However, in British fashion, 'tank top' can also refer to a sleeveless knitted sweater vest.
Is a tank top casual wear?: Yes, a tank top is usually considered casual wear. However, versions made from silk, satin, thick ribbed cotton or structured knits can be dressed up for smart-casual outfits.