Finding the perfect basics for a fashion person with high standards is like finally discovering the treasure you've spent decades searching for. Price, quality, and style all play a role, and rarely does each category impress. Usually, you have to compromise on at least one: high-quality, high price or great price, subpar style. It's something I experienced only a few times until, at last, I found a pair of vintage 501s in my dream wash that fit like a glove and later when I discovered Uniqlo U T-shirts. Just a few weeks ago, it happened again, and the feeling of unwrapping a tank top to rival all tank tops was sublime, especially since it cost just $16. Consider Zara's Stretch Ribbed Top to be my Royal Merchant (yes, I'm making an Outer Banks reference), and I'm a Pogue.
I want to preface this by saying that I own over 15 variations of tank tops. In my life, I've probably tried over 100 from different brands, including designer versions and $5 multi-packs. I've enjoyed and gotten great use out of some and absolutely hated others, but I've never truly loved a tank top until now.
I stumbled upon the aforementioned Zara treasure on one of my biweekly scrolls through the brand's website. I never miss one just in case there's something really good because it will sell out forever. Immediately upon seeing it, I could tell it would check off the style and price boxes. A $16 tank top with a subtle ribbed texture, thick shoulder straps, and a high V-neck that looks cool and expensive? Say less. Of course, an item like this needs to be seen in person and worn before you can really tell if it's a find or not, so naturally, I ordered the white colorway for store pickup at the Zara by my office.
Before it could even arrive, I found myself stopping into the location one day after work, only to find the black style in my size. I have a good eye for these things, but even I was shocked at the quality. It's thick with strong, body-hugging stretch. It felt like one of the $200 to $400 tanks I've been impressed by in the past. I quickly bought it, packing it for a trip to Seoul, South Korea, that I was heading on the next day.
When I tell you that I've never gotten more compliments on an item in my wardrobe, I'm not kidding. Everyone wanted to know where I'd gotten this top and was shocked when I told them where it was from. When I eventually picked up the white top after my trip, I heard the exact same thing at brand previews, store cocktail hours, and fashion dinners. Since I got them, I've worn both colors at least four times each. Neither has lost its stretch or pilled, and for that, I give Zara's Stretch Ribbed Top a 10/10 rating. I'll probably order at least two more and add the dark-green option too.
Intrigued? Scroll down to shop my holy-grail tank top before it's gone for good.
Shop Zara's Stretch Ribbed Top:
Shop more can't-miss Zara buys for summer:
I picked up this tank when I bought the white version I mentioned above. It's also incredible—the scoop in the back is very sexy but sophisticated.
These are the tiniest bit sheer, making them perfect beach pants if you hate shorts.
I feel like these give off Alaïa vibes. They're so sexy and chic while also being simple and versatile.
Viral-top alert. Get yours before it's gone.
I'm such a sucker for plaid, and this color combo is too cool to pass up. I'd probably tuck this shirt into vintage jeans or wear it open with a tank underneath.
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A cool alternative to basic white tees.
Kate Moss knows how to do a great miniskirt, and this suede version is proof.
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These are great because they don't have any hardware and, therefore, don't need to be matched to your jewelry.
This set is practically begging to be styled with moto boots.
Shop the matching Lace Pleated Skirt ($90).
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Stunning.
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Top your bikinis this summer in the chicest way possible.
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