Spring has Arrived: Tank Top Takeover 

After what felt like a six-month-long Syracuse winter, the sun has finally returned—and so have our warm-weather wardrobes. With temperatures rising and layers shedding, students all over campus are ditching ditch coats and chunky knits for something much breezier: the tank top. Yes, it’s officially tank top season.

It’s a full-on Tank Top Takeover. Whether you’re heading to your last few classes or sunning on the quad pretending the UV is higher than it is, a yoga class, or a friend’s birthday dinner, there’s a tank top for it all.

But here’s the best part: tank tops are the ultimate blank canvas. You can dress them up, down, sideways—however you’d like. 

A must in every wardrobe is a white and black tank top. On a day when you just don’t have the time to put together an outfit, just grab one, throw on a pair of jeans, an open button-down or sweater over your shoulders, maybe a belt, some accessories, sneakers or ballet flats, and you’re good to go. 

Luxury labels like Marine Serre, Loewe, Acne Studios, and Chloé have spotlighted the tank top this spring, inspiring contemporary brands to embrace the staple more than ever. Trending shades like terracotta, butter yellow, and baby blue are dominating department store racks and online shops alike. This season, tank tops in every hue offer endless opportunities for fun and playful styling.

Once you’ve stocked up on the essentials—classic black and white tanks—it’s time to expand your palette with versatile neutrals like beige, taupe, and rich browns, along with a hint of soft pastels. With this curated collection of tank tops, your spring wardrobe is set; all that’s left is to elevate each look with the right accessories.

I’ve put together an affordable, high-quality shopping guide to refresh your spring wardrobe—featuring style breakdowns, outfit inspiration, and some of the best budget-friendly tank tops you can find online right now.

The everyday essentials

Think fitted basics for a day to day, easy to match with a casual pair of jeans or cozy striped boxer pants. The beauty of a tank top is that it goes with everything. Make your pants, sweater, accessories, skirt, shorts, and shoes the statement. 

• Zara

Zara thrives on stylish basics, consistently refreshing its selection of tank tops on the website each week—offering everything from classic staples to elevated, fashion-forward versions for a more put-together everyday look. 

• Cotton On

Cotton-on is laid-back and affordable, with soft cotton tanks in every color under the sun.

• Amazon

Amazon, as we all know, offers endless options at your fingertips—multi-packs, ribbed textures, and speedy shipping.

• H & M

At H&M, trendy meets practical—tons of color choices and cuts that layer easily and are everyday essentials but can be styled for any occasion.

• Nordstrom

Nordstrom can be hit or miss–elevated basics with reliable quality, from in-house labels to designer picks.

Going out tops

Now for the fun stuff– a little more of an elevated tank here. Whether you’re going to grab a few drinks at a local bar with friends, a dinner with a boyfriend, a birthday, or a family dinner, these clothing brands have you covered. 

• Princess Polly

Princess Polly is a ​​fun, feminine, and always-on-trend brand—expect playful cuts, bold hues, and tanks from a range of sequin, halter, tube top, corsets & bustiers, and more. It even has a party and going out section to find your picks seamlessly.

• Bershka

Bershka, under the same owner as Zar, thrives on trend-driven styles with a Euro edge—think asymmetry, metallics, and fun details.

• Mango

Mango is elegant, trendy, and has good quality, ranging from timeless tanks to the perfect going-out statement tank.

• Motel Rocks

Motel Rocks is edgy and Y2K-inspired; their tanks bring an endless possibility of fashionable pieces.

• Lioness

Lioness, an Australian brand, brings anything from a neutral, pastel, and patterned look to the table. Their chic and timeless selection makes it easy to feel good about your outfit on a night out. 

Workout tank

• Free People Movement
• Golden Activewear (Aritzia) 
• TNA Aritzia Collection
• Set Active
• Alo Yoga (More expensive but a one-time investment, very timely)

For tanks that can handle a workout and still look cute for post-gym errands, these brands have your back. Free People Movement delivers breathable, boho-inspired, and elevated pieces with a comfortable fit.  Golden by Aritzia and the TNA collection offer supportive options that double as everyday basics and offer a flattering fit. Set Active is all about matching sets and clean aesthetics, while Alo Yoga—though a bit of a splurge—is a long-lasting staple that nails performance and style in one.

The bottom line? Tanks are winners this Spring

From class to weekend plans, tank tops are claiming their moment—and for a good reason. They’re effortless, versatile, and easy to personalize, no matter your style or budget. Whether you lean toward everyday basics, a going-out vibe, or activewear, there’s a tank top waiting to level up your spring wardrobe.

So go ahead—lean into the Tank Top Takeover. Your closet will thank you.