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Much like a white cotton T-shirt or the perfect pair of jeans, the best layering tank tops are worth having in multiples. They might not be the most thrilling items to shop for, but having your basics covered will pay dividends when you no longer have to rummage through your hamper looking for that one tank you always need. There’s something to be said for having these everyday essentials covered, especially when you find some really good ones worth stocking up on.
For such a simple top, there are, surprisingly, dozens of options out there. The hallmarks of a great layering tank include a close fit without any thick seams to finish the armscye or hem so they disappear under cardigans and shirts, but some will function better as strictly a base layer while others are pretty enough to wear on their own.
A breathable cotton tank top — in varying degrees of sheerness — is the backbone of any dresser drawer whether it has spaghetti straps or wider ones that will cover a bra. And if you want to forgo the tyranny of underwires (or prefer extra support for sleeping) a cotton tank top with a shelf bra might be a good solution.
Expanding beyond the basics, if you’re always at the gym you may prefer a layering top you can also workout in — a racerback cut gives you extra range of motion and won’t slip off a shoulder in the middle of your overhead press. Buy those in a soft, synthetic knit that won’t absorb sweat like cotton does. For a layering tank top you intend to dress up, though, nothing beats silk. It’s gorgeous all on its own and won’t bunch under sweaters. In a dainty camisole, the luxury fabric is pleasantly affordable.
The biggest luxury, however, is the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have the essentials in line. With that in mind, these are seven basic layers that are truly worth buying in multiples.