How To Measure Tank Tops

measuring tank top chest

Chest Measurement

Measure from the widest and fullest part of your chest for the ideal measurement.

measuring tank top length

Tank Top Length

Start from the highest point of the strap to the bottom hem of the tank top.

measuring tank top shoulders

Shoulder

Measure from one outer edge of one strap to the outer edge of the other strap.

measuring tank top armhole

Armhole

Measure from the top edge of the strap to the bottom armhole seam.

measuring tank top neck

Neck

Measure from one inner edge of the tank top to the other one.

measuring tank top front neck drop

Front Neck Drop

Measure from the top of the strap to the the place where the neck drop ends.

Tips for Accuracy

Measure from the shoulder seam down along the armhole to the side seam. A deep armhole on a loose tank can expose the side of your torso unexpectedly.
Note the strap width. Measure the strap at its narrowest point. Thin spaghetti straps and wide straps offer different coverage and bra compatibility.
Measure neckline width across. Shoulder seam to shoulder seam across the front tells you how wide the front panel is and how much the neckline scoops.
Measure the bottom hem width for silhouette. A hem much wider than the chest indicates a flowy, relaxed cut; close to the chest width means fitted.
Stretch athletic tanks before measuring. Gently stretch the fabric to its natural limit and measure — this gives you the effective fit width on your body.

FAQ

My shoulders are narrow — will a regular-sized tank top fit well?

Not always. Check the shoulder width (distance between strap attachment points). If straps slide off or the armhole gaps too much, look for tanks with adjustable straps or petite-cut options.

Look for a shallow armhole (under 7 inches from shoulder to side seam base) and straps wider than 1 inch. Racerback tanks are also designed to conceal bra straps reliably.

Chest width will generally match, but armhole depth, strap width, and neckline cut are tank-specific and won’t appear on t-shirt charts.

Chest width (to avoid bunching), body length (to stay tucked), and strap width (thin straps are less visible under dress shirts).

Yes. Measure the back width at the widest point under the armholes, and for straps, measure from the center of the back to the front edge to account for the unique cut.