In the Tank!

Summer is officially here tomorrow and the piece of clothing that best represents summer to me, aside from a pretty sundress, is a great tank. Chic, versatile and a great way to keep your cool, tanks offer a multitude of ways to wear them. But the best part is that you can snatch up a a handful in your favorite shades for just a few bucks, adding to your style quotient while keeping your pocketbook happy.

Wearing a tank is a fun and simple way to get dressed this summer, but something I feel I must point out is that it is never in good taste to let your bra straps show. I see this far too often and it simply takes away from your look. If you need to wear a bra then opt for a tank with wider, fuller straps that keep your skivvies under wraps.

Also, this brings me to another important point. Size matters when it comes to choosing the best tank for you. Tanks can be extra skimpy or offer full coverage, so choose the style that gives you what you need. If you wear too little, or too much, of a tank it will be unflattering to you and will do nothing to enhance your image. Conversely, if you select a tank that is in proportion to you (i.e. strap size should complement your overall size) and it gives you the coverage you need, you will look nothing short of fabulous!

One more tip I'd like to share is that wearing a tank can actually be more flattering than wearing a short sleeved shirt if you're busty. It seems counterintuitive, but try it and see for yourself. When short sleeves hit you parallel to your bustline, they visually make it appear larger (and your arms, too). The good news is that a tank can create a slimmer illusion. You can thank me later:)

Here are some of my favorite ways to wear a summer tank top:

1/ Pair them up: Wear not one but two of your favorite tanks to create a layered look. Mix bold, tropical hues together for a festive look, or layer up different shades of pale neutrals for a more understated mix. Let the bottom layer peek out at the hemline for fun, and layer straps for best effect. Try a thin, stretchy nylon tank as an underlayer to give you a sleek and chic look.

2/Layer it on: A tank can be a fun layer beneath a skimpy sundress and enough to give you the coverage you need. If you're full-busted and you must wear a bra with a plunging maxi-dress or strappy sundress, try layering a tank underneath to keep everything under wraps.

3/ Office chic: Layer a tank under your favorite jacket or cardigan in place of a blouse to keep your cool. Try a jacket with 3/4 sleeves to further your cool factor.

4/ To create balance: If you're upper body dominant, a simple tank can help you to create balance on top when paired with a full skirt on bottom. Try one of the seasons full maxi skirts to stay on trend.

5/ A shot of color: You don't think I could leave this out, do you? I love a tank for the simple fact that gives you the chance to add a bold hue to your look, bring color around your face and add in a little something special in such a simple way.

So grab a few tanks to get you through the summer and you'll love how they can help you keep your cool. Plus, they make packing a breeze!

Insider's tip: Want to stock up on a few tanks in stripes, bolds or neutrals? Then plan to hit your local Old Navy store this Saturday, June 25th. All tanks will be just $2 and up, giving you a great opportunity to boost your summer style EQ for less than a five spot!