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(We Got To Have It)

If You’re Not Stocking Up On This Transitional Top Yet, Start Now

These are our favorite knit tanks.

by Kelsey Stewart

July 30, 2023

With Jéan knit tank top

We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

If you haven’t heard, some parts of the country have had record-breaking heat waves this summer. Hang in there though, because before you know it, fall will be here — Sept. 23, to be precise. Speaking of, have you started prepping your autumn wardrobe yet? If not, consider stocking up on transitional pieces, aka those items that are meant to go from one season to the next. One summer-to-fall staple our team swears by is a knit tank top. You can wear the versatile piece with a miniskirt on hot August days and layered over a fitted long-sleeve turtleneck come October — the styling potential is infinite.

Should you need some sartorial advice, team TZR is here to assist. Ahead, we’ve highlighted our go-to knit designs, which run the gamut from super casual to office-ready. For instance, some of the picks below (here’s looking at you, Veronica Beard Nabella Knit Wavy Tank) are excellent candidates for a chill Sunday afternoon ‘fit to grab coffee in. Others, like St. Agni’s Fine Strap Knit Top, would make for a chic work look, especially when worn underneath a sharp blazer.

Have we sold you on the closet essential? If yes, conquer between-season style by shopping TZR editors’ favorite knit tanks, ahead.

Netty Easy Waistcoat

Netty Easy Waistcoat

“Although knit tops typically conjure thoughts of cozy soft fall sweaters, this tank from YanYan is the exception. Its boxy, draped fit and lightweight cotton cord yarn allows for easy ventilation during the warmer months. I love that this pairs nicely with a range of separates from cutoff denim and cargo pants to linen skirts.” — Angela Melero, executive editor, TZR

Nabella Knit Wavy Tank

Nabella Knit Wavy Tank

“I love the beachy, ‘70s feel of a knit tank top, which makes me naturally drawn to versions made with bright, happy colors and fun patterns. This Veronica Beard piece is breezy and lightweight enough for August's upcoming heat, while the criss-crossed knit textures and summery colors keep it from feeling too much like a swimsuit coverup. I can already think of so many different ways to wear it.” — Amanda Ross, beauty editor, TZR

Fine Strap Knit Top

Fine Strap Knit Top

“I've recently discovered that I lack basic summer tops in my closet, thus making it harder for me to match a top with a bottom while getting dressed. I want a more robust knit tank collection and currently have this St. Agni number in my shopping cart. It feels very '90s and no-frills, which is what I love about it.” — Marina Liao, senior fashion news editor, TZR

Cameron Ribbed Cashmere Tank Top

Cameron Ribbed Cashmere Tank Top

“Lisa Yang makes the most beautiful cashmere pieces that look and feel luxurious, and this lightweight summer knit tank is the perfect addition to my collection. I adore the ribbed detailing, vest-like style, and ivory color. It’ll look great paired with everything from trousers to denim cutoffs and transitions seamlessly into fall.” — Rebecca Iloulian, director of newsletter revenue and marketing, BDG

Ana Racer Tank

“This is essentially a more luxurious, grown-up version of the tissue thin Hanes tank that you (or at I) used to have on hand for high school track practice — with, thankfully, thicker and more bra-friendly straps. I love how it's polished enough to wear with wide leg khakis or a long denim skirt, but still feels a little rakish and cool.” — Alison Syrett, deputy fashion editor, TZR

Rose Top

“The more I see this With Jean rose-adorned halter top on my Instagram feed, the more I want — sorry, need — it. EmRata is also a fan of the look, which is another sign it’ll soon reach It status. And with its deep red shade and soft fabric, the top can easily transition into the colder months ahead.” — Kelsey Stewart, associate fashion editor, TZR

Arthus Top

“While I don't have any European summer travel plans, I will bring a bit of the South of France to NYC via my outfits. I plan on channeling my inner Jane Birkin with this Rouje ecru knit top with darling buttons and a drawstring waist. While it will pair nicely with my seasonal white pieces, it can easily be worn with denim and layered come fall.” — Erin Lukas, deputy beauty editor, TZR

Alcudia Knit Crop Top

Alcudia Knit Crop Top

“I like a knit tank that can span a few seasons and play well with both casual and dressed-up outfits. This cropped option from Sandro is all that and more. I was first drawn to the flattering cut and seam detail on the bodice but fell in love with the rich brown “Clay” color. I’d wear this with light-washed brown denim shorts (a current favorite of mine) now and olive green cargo pants come September.” — Jessica Fields, beauty writer, TZR