For many of us, ‘jeans and a nice top’ has been our unofficial uniform for years, no matter the occasion. Swap in suit trousers for more formal affairs, denim shorts for summer or a midi skirt to bring a more bohemian vibe, and suddenly, a large proportion of your wardrobe will start to slot into cookie-cutter categories. Of course, this is a very simplified summary of anyone’s style, but the common denominator remains: one trusty top. And I can’t be alone in forever searching for the perfect one.

A striped shirt can sit on the smarter side of smart-casual, while a second-skin top keeps me cosy and a camisole will dutifully see me through from day to night. But never could I find a top option that truly worked for every occasion, difficult dress codes included. Until, that is, I stumbled – or more accurately, scrolled – upon the Toteme tank top.

For fashion fans who are also quite invested in Instagram, this probably doesn’t come as a surprise. It’s rare that I go a week without seeing some very stylish person pop up on my feed wearing the tank as part of an enviable outfit. 

But before you roll your eyes at the £80 price tag, I should say that my love for this top is less about its label and more about its signature shape, which can also be found elsewhere for a fraction of the price. And the original is also often on sale: I own Toteme’s version in four colours, all of which I snapped up half-price three years ago (thanks, Matches Fashion). While the tank is available with boldly stamped branding, I prefer the block-colour options – we are in the era of quiet luxury, after all.

So, what makes the Toteme tank so special? If you ask me, it’s all about the cut. Though it’s named the ‘curved rib tank’, it’s a far cry from your typical gym-style sleeveless T-shirt or even a scoop-neck spaghetti-strap vest. 

Instead, it sits high on the chest with thick straps falling on either side of the neck. There’s no cleavage, no pesky shoulder-strap slippage, and most importantly, it just looks incredibly elegant. I find it seems to elongate my arms, accentuate my shoulders and draw attention to my neck – all attributes I’m rather fond of enhancing as I stand on the shorter side at 5ft 3in. And as the fabric is a rib knit, it stretches to adapt to your body shape throughout the day.

Famous for creating failsafe, luxurious basics, Toteme describes its pieces as forming a “modern uniform” – a look that is “precise and considered, defined by distinct silhouettes, perfected cuts and elevated fabrics”. This certainly describes its cult tank. Ostensibly just a vest, I’m regularly reminded just how recognisable it is: fashion stylists and editors often ask me if I’m wearing the Toteme tank top, while inevitably knowing the answer.

In my view, the Stockholm-based label also offers an alternative to trend-driven, consumerist fast fashion. The simplicity of Toteme’s collections means that every piece will subtly refresh older items already hanging in your wardrobe. Even better, these are clothes built to last. The curved rib tank is crafted from organic cotton and elastane; having it in multiple colours means I’ve worn the design about three times a week for the last three years. And I see no need to slow down, as it washes beautifully (as well as feeling super soft against skin). 

But it’s not just Toteme that offers a take on this timeless design. Reformation’s Tasha tank (£38) comes in a range of neutral shades. The fitted jersey tank top (£17) by & Other Stories has a slightly different cut, with wider shoulders and a lower neckline. Look to Arket’s rib racer tank (£17) if you prefer bright and bold colours or Everlane’s cropped Pima micro-rib short tank (£37) for a very similar shape to Toteme’s. 

Finally, in terms of styling, the tank really is an all-rounder. Tuck into wide-leg trousers and add ballet flats for office environments. Wear with denim shorts or a midi skirt for a more laidback look or layer under cosy cardigans and knits once the colder weather starts to come through. 

Not only will a sleek tank look more elevated than your everyday T-shirt and offer a more formal fit than a basic vest, but it will work for any occasion. It’s never let me down yet.

Images: supplied; courtesy of brand