What Is The Difference Between A Tank Top And A Cami Top?

There are essentially two main kinds of sleeveless tops with shoulder straps. The one is the more robust tank top and the other is a delicate cami top. Knowing the differences allows you to choose the best option for every occasion.

The key difference between a tank top and a cami top is the shoulder straps. Tank tops resemble cut-off T-shirts with wide shoulder straps and reinforcing around the neck and armholes. Cami tops evolved from lingerie and have thin delicate shoulder straps and are often made of silky sensuous fabric.

Let’s take a closer look at these two garments and see why you need both in your wardrobe.

What Is The Difference Between A Tank Top And A Cami Top?

Both are wardrobe staples but the main and most obvious difference between the two is the size and width of the shoulder straps. Cami tops or camisoles typically have delicate, thin straps, popularly known as spaghetti straps or noodle straps because of their resemblance to the thin pasta strings. On the other hand, tank tops or sleeveless shirts have wider straps.

Cami tops are also generally made from light and sensuous materials, the likes of satin, nylon, or silk owing to the style’s original intended usage as undergarments. Women dominate the usage of the camisole. In comparison, tank tops are generally worn by both women and men, with the neck and armhole reinforced for added durability.

What Are The Significant Features Of A Tank Top?

A popular garment among all genders, the tank top has a characteristic large arm and neck holes. Men’s tank top necklines can be really low, reaching down as far as the bottom of the chest. Women’s versions do away with this cut to maintain decency by concealing the breasts.

As a general design, tank tops are collarless, buttonless, and have zero pockets. Traditionally, they have been used as undershirts for outerwear such as suits and dress shirts. They are classified as casual clothing, perfect for very warm or humid weather.

What Are The Significant Features Of A Cami Top?

Since cami tops are originally meant to be worn as undergarments, they are manufactured from light materials. Originally worn over a bra, recently produced camisoles now come with a built-in underwire or padded bra to eliminate the need for separate underwear. The fit of the cami tops ranges from tight-fitting to looser styles.

Bows and lace trimmings are also added to enhance the camisole. Some varieties also come with adjustable straps for ease of fitting. Due to the feminine design, this top is popular and almost exclusively worn by women.

When Should You Choose A Tank Top Over A Cami Top?

Owing to the stronger and sturdier material used in tank tops such as cotton and polyester, it is favored over cami tops when engaging in highly physical activities. In colder weather during the winter months, tank tops can be worn underneath your sweater or jacket for added warmth. Males favor this variation over camisoles because of the style.

On its own, a tank top can be word as outerwear. Women who might be skittish in the prospect of thin shoulder straps and weak support can consider the tank top as an alternative, with its wider straps and reinforced neck and armholes. In terms of designs, if you favor solid colors with printed designs, a tank top is perfect for you.

When Should You Choose A Cami Top Over A Tank Top?

If you want to go for a softer and sultrier look, cami tops are the way to go. The soft and sensuous feel of the satin, nylon, or silk fabric can be enhanced by added details such as lace, bow ties, and pearls which lends the style an overall soft and feminine look. The spaghetti-thin straps tend to look sexier than thick ones so if you want to go that route, wear a cami top.

The sleeker and thinner straps can be easily concealed when the camisole is worn as innerwear. The lightweight material also provides utmost comfort to the wearer, making the cami top perfect for lounging and relaxing.

If you are looking to shop for a cami top, start with Amazon where they have this one for example.

If you are looking to shop for a tank top, start with Amazon where they have this one for example. I have picked a racer-back tank top as it looks more feminine.

If you do wear a racer-back tank top, be sure to wear your racerback sports bra with it (also on Amazon) to minimize the chance of showing bra straps at the back. An alternative to wearing a sports bra can be this gorgeous lacy racerback bra (available on Amazon) that will feel even more feminine when you wear it.

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