Difference Between Camisole and Tank Top

Camisoles and tank tops are sleeveless upper garments that are worn during warm weather. Although they have similar patterns and uses, there is a fundamental difference between them. The key difference between camisole and tank top is that camisoles are worn only by women whereas tank tops are worn by both men and women alike.

What is a Camisole?

A camisole is a sleeveless upper garment worn by women. They are typically held to the shoulder by spaghetti straps. Camisoles can be short or long, and have a snug fit or loose fit. These tops usually have a very basic design – front, back, and two straps. These straps are sometimes adjustable. Silk, satin, nylon, polyester and cotton are some common fabrics used to make camisoles. Some camisoles have embellishments such as lace trimmings or bow ties.

Camisoles were originally worn as undergarments. But during the 1980s, they began to be used as a part of casual wear. Camisoles are worn like shirts or tank tops, matched with shorts, pants, or skirts, especially during warm weather. Today, camisoles are used as underwear with transparent or low cut blouses or as part of the main outfit. Some women even wear them under business suits, even though they are not really appropriate for office wear. Camisoles, if you are wearing them as part of your main outfit, is mostly appropriate for casual wear, especially during warmer climates.

What is a Tank Top?

A tank top is a sleeveless, collarless tight-fitting upper garment. Tank tops are worn by both men and women. They usually have wide shoulder straps and no front opening. The straps of tank tops are wider than that of camisoles. However, tank tops can have a wide variety different designs and styles. You can find different necklines such as V-neck, and scoop neck and various strap style such as spaghetti straps, racerbacks crisscross in the back, and halter tops tie behind the neck.

Tank tops can be worn with shorts, pants, leggings, and skirts; they can be also worn beneath jackets or cardigans. Tank tops can be also used as undershirts. Tank tops are mostly appropriate for warmer climates.

What is the difference between Camisole and Tank Top?

Camisole vs Tank Top

A camisole is a sleeveless upper garment worn by women. A tank top is a sleeveless, collarless tight-fitting upper garment.
Straps
Camisoles typically have spaghetti straps. Tank tops may have different types of straps, but their straps are usually wider than spaghetti straps.
Gender
Camisoles are worn by women. Tank Tops are worn by both men and women.
Use
Camisoles are often worn as undergarments. Tank Tops are accepted public casual wear in most regions.
Material
Tank Tops are usually made from cotton, polyester, or their blends. Camisoles are usually made from satin, nylon, silk, or cotton.
Designs
Camisoles typically come in solid colors and may have embellishments such as lace trimming, bows, etc. Tank Tops may have come in solid colors or with patterns.

Image Courtesy:

“White camisole” By User :Tulle Babydoll – Own work (GFDL) via Commons Wikimedia

“Woman Smiling While Wearing Blue Tank Top”  (Public Domain) via PEXELS