7 Things That Make a Basic Tank Look Exceptionally Cool

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No matter how many buzzy new trends summer 2020 may be giving us, there are plenty of reliable seasonal staples we haven't given up on (nor do we plan to). Despite this summer looking different than last year (or maybe because of it), a renewed emphasis is being given to these forever style staples and if you ask us, there's one that stands apart from the rest. Basic tank tops like the ribbed and racer neck iterations that are currently trending are arguably the most important staples to own, and since we've already done a number of stories on how and where to shop for them, today's focus is all about styling ideas.

You're probably thinking that, yes, obviously you already have one (or several) in rotation, so here's how to wear a tank top in the most summer 2020 way. Fashion girls are all about a few trendier pieces to pair with their tanks that give them a fresh feel, from accessories like chain necklaces to styling tricks like draping a sweater over your shoulders. Ahead, discover the seven things they're wearing to make even the most basic of tanks look exceptionally cool.

All the Necklaces

Plain tank tops may be plain on their own, but they also make a great canvas for all your accessories. One of the easiest ways to add style to yours is by adding on a few stacked chains or one bold necklace.

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Wide-Leg Pants

Pro tip: You don't have to spend much on a tank top for it to look like you did. Tuck it into a pair of high-rise, wide-leg jeans or trousers (opt for a bodysuit to get that perfect tuck) and finish it off with sandals or sneakers, depending on your mood.

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Drape a Sweater Over Your Shoulders

The "sweater drape" styling trick is a quick and easy way to make your basics look more current, whether you throw on a chunky knit over your shoulder or tie one diagonally over one shoulder.

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'90s Accessories

Strappy sandals! Shoulder bags! Slip skirts! So many of the hallmark trends from the '90s work flawlessly with a basic white tank.

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Briefs

Fashion girls have recently invented a new kind of outfit trend that's ideal for lounging around in, and it involves a simple tank and briefs, one of the summer's most unexpected trends to emerge.

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Bucket Hats

While summer 2020 is seeing brand new trends, there's a handful that have stuck around from years past, bucket hats being one of them. This summer, though, punchy colors and eye-catching prints are updating the hat and—you guessed it—basic tank tops easily complete the look with shorts and sandals.

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Sweatshorts

This one may be the last, but it's a personal favorite. Sweatshorts and sporty drawstring shorts are trending hard this summer. When thrown on with a tank and sneakers, it's the casual outfit I find myself wearing on repeat these days.

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Next up, eight trendy new basic that are just *chef's kiss.*

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Senior Editor

Anna is an NYC-based senior fashion editor who has been a member of the Who What Wear team for over seven years, having begun her career in L.A. at brands like Michael Kors and A.L.C. As an editor, she has earned a reputation for her coverage of breaking trends, emerging brands, luxury shopping curations, fashion features, and more. Anna has penned a number Who What Wear cover interviews, including Megan Fox, Julia Garner, and Lilly Collins. She also leads the site’s emerging travel vertical that highlights all things travel and lifestyle through a fashion-person lens.