What makes the perfect tank top? Everything we put into ours

A tank top looks simple, which is exactly why most of them are made badly. When there's nothing to hide behind, every detail shows. Here's what we think makes a great one, and how we built the Respecter Tank.

1. Fabric with some weight

A good tank should feel substantial in your hand, not flimsy. Ours is a 250GSM organic cotton rib. The weight is what keeps it from stretching, fraying or going see-through after a few washes. More on what 250GSM means.

2. A 2x2 rib

A 1x1 rib is common on other fitted pieces, but a 2x2 rib is more durable, and it's what tanks were traditionally made in. It gives a close fit that moves with you and comes back to shape.

3. The neckline and the back

These were the two things we cared about most. It took three or four samples to get the men's tank right, and most of the changes came down to how the neckline sits and how the back looks.

"The neckline and the back were the most crucial part for us, because we thought that's what our customers would value."

Jerome, co-founder

4. A cut that shapes the body

The Respecter Tank sits close through the chest, shows off the shoulders and comes in at the waist. The women's version has a racer back and is cut to hold and hug the figure.

5. True to size

Wear your normal t-shirt size. Lukanda is 6'3" and wears an XL. Jerome is 5'11" and wears an L. Both have a muscular build. If you're between sizes, go up, and exchanges are free. Full details in our size guide.

6. No logo

The only mark on the outside is a small red stitch on the back. A great tank should make the rest of your outfit look better, not advertise someone else. Why there's no logo on the front.

7. It has to last

We wore our samples almost every day and kept washing them. The shape and fit stayed the same. One customer put it best:

"I love your tank so much that I had to wear it every day, and I need another because I can't be waiting for it to dry."

8. Colours that go with everything

Onyx (black), Porcelain (white) and Crete (grey). Three colours that work with anything else in your wardrobe. If you're after a white one, here's how to find a white tank that isn't see-through.

The details

The Respecter Tank comes in men's and women's. Mix your colours and you save when you buy more than one. Exchanges are free. To look after it, cold wash and line dry.

Quick answers

What makes a good tank top? A heavier fabric that holds its shape, a durable rib, a neckline and back that sit right, and a cut that fits close without being tight.

How should a tank top fit? Close through the chest and shoulders and in at the waist, without stretching the fabric. Wear your normal t-shirt size.

Are Basic Respect tanks true to size? Yes. Take your usual t-shirt size, and go up if you're between sizes.

How do I wash a ribbed tank? Cold wash and line dry.