Mini Doll Tank Tops

Tank tops are the layer that makes other layers work. A sleeveless top takes up almost no room under a jacket, gives you a base colour when the outer piece is busy, and keeps the neckline tidy when the layer over it is left open. Eight versions are listed here. The high-neck, turtleneck cut comes in white and black. The plainer sleeveless cut comes in white, black, red, yellow, grey and Klein blue. None of them carry a logo, so they behave as a neutral rather than a graphic statement.

On its own, a tank top is enough for a warm-weather look, especially with shorts or a short skirt and a pair of small shoes. Underneath, it is the piece that stops a hoodie or an open shirt from looking unfinished at the neckline, and it keeps an outfit looking deliberate. Worn as a base layer it stays flat under a jacket, which is what keeps a layered outfit in proportion.

At $3.99 each, shown against $4.99, this is the cheapest way into the outfit range, and three for $9.99 is the bundle to use if you want a few base layers in different shades. Clothing for a display doll is changed far more often than it is worn out, so the pieces we price lowest are the ones you will handle most. Single tops work fine with trousers, hoodies or jackets bought separately, so there is no need to buy a whole outfit at once.

Which colour you pick changes the outfit more than you might think. White and grey disappear under a bright jacket, which is often what you want. Black gives a sharp edge and looks good with light denim. Red and Klein blue are the strong colours of the group and carry a whole outfit on their own. Yellow is the warmest of the set and sits happily with browns, plaids and plain white. Two of the same top in different shades is often more useful than one in a colour you reach for only occasionally.

Eight photos show all eight versions, including the difference between the high neck and the standard neckline, so the two cuts can be compared side by side before you choose.

Wash these by hand in cool water, then dry them flat rather than hanging them by the straps, and press the shape back into place with your fingers while they are still damp.