(Style)

The Evolution Of The White Tank Reveals A Rich Style History

The humble top is here to stay.

by Valerie Stepanova
Victor VIRGILE/Gamma-Rapho/Getty Images
Kaia Gerber wearing a white tank top from Prada.

The white tank’s history is filled with major moments in pop culture. Initially designed as a men’s undergarment, the humble top has now become the main character on fashion week runways. Ahead, trace the evolution of the white tank.

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1910s

The first white tank was designed in the 1910s as a men’s undergarment and was intended to be worn underneath shirts or while swimming. At the time, the sleeveless tops were a staple in men’s swimwear. (Women wouldn’t start wearing sleeveless swimsuits until the 1920s.)Kirn Vintage Stock/Corbis Historical/Getty Images
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