British Vogue’s acting associate European fashion features director, Laura Hawkins, considers herself a tank top fanatic. “Blame an ’80s Vanity Fair image of Anjelica Huston posing on a dining chair in a white vest top,” she exclaims.
In fact, most members of the wider team are enthusiastic about tank tops – it’s rare to not see a tank top in the office on any given day (often paired with baggy jeans or tailored black trousers). Why? Because they’re a failsafe wardrobe staple.
Read more: The Best White T-Shirts For Women Available Now
From Toteme’s flattering organic-cotton ribbed tanks to trusty styles from Cos and Arket, read on to discover the best white tank tops that the Vogue editors swear by.
Eniola Dare, fashion editor
“Thanks to all the London heatwaves, I have a new purchase in my wardrobe, which is part of Marine Serre’s Borderline range of undergarments. It’s perfect with tailored trousers or jeans.”
Laura Ingham, deputy director, global fashion network
“It has to be a heavyweight cotton tank from Cos for me. It has a strong simple cut, holds its shape and is simply the most versatile piece in my wardrobe.”
Laura Hawkins, acting associate European fashion features director
“My ultimate go-to is by Swedish minimalists Totême – a slim, ribbed style in organic cotton with straps that flatteringly curve in towards the collarbone. I rotate the white, black and grey styles all summer long – and now so can you.”
Joy Montgomery, commerce editor
“I have always found Arket to be a reliable choice for wardrobe basics, and it was no different when I was looking for a white tank top. With its thick fabric and sturdy neckline, it has survived multiple washes without stretching out of shape (a boring consideration, but no less important). I’ve worn it with everything from tailored trousers to denim all through the summer months.”
Naomi Smart, commerce director
“I always find a recommendation for a basic goes a long way – there are so many on the market and it’s tricky to cut through the noise and find the best fit for you. I adore all of the graphic-cut versions of tank tops that have been passing me all summer, but unless they are in a great supportive fabric, you’re not going to be able to wear a bra, and that’s important for me. For my perfect fit, the tank straps have to be wide enough, and the back of the vest has to be high on the neck so that it elegantly covers my bra straps. This ribbed Uniqlo vest fits the bill and is super affordable too.”