J.Crew: Pleated Cotton Strati Tank Review

This is J.Crew's Pleated Cotton Strati Tank (item #16711), which is also available in petites (item #16712) and tall (item #16714). It retails for $88, and is available in dark mushroom, ivory, and warm shell. It is numerically-sized. J.Crew describes the tank as such:

Layers of horizontal pleats add character and texture to this simple tank silhouette. Completely flattering with a classic fit—we love it dressed up or down. Cotton. Sleeveless. Hits at hip. Import. Machine wash.

I tried this top on in a size 0, mainly for a fit comparison, as I tried on the metallic version of this tank in a size 2. As mentioned in the review of the metallic version, I usually wear a size 0 or 2 in sleeveless tanks, and I found that this one fit more true to size. As a reference, I wear a size 2 in the Tuxedo-Front Cotton Cami.

I liked the fit of this tank much better than that of the metallic tank. It was still fairly difficult to get on and off, and is also still fairly fitted at the bottom, but the fit is not as shapeless. It is definitely more fitted on the bust, but not uncomfortably so. The armholes on the size 0 are shorter than those on the size 2, and I think teh overall fit is just a bit cleaner. There is some shape at the bust area, and the cut is a bit more flattering on the midsection, in my opinion.

I think that the side zipper/inability to tuck in this shirt is a bit less noticeable in the smaller size, and while it is still fitted at the bottom, because the fabric is not as stiff, the tank lies a little better on the body.

The fabric itself is a very nice, light cotton, similar to that of the Tuxedo-Front Cami. This fabric is soft to the touch, and is thin enough to make the detailing delicate, but without being sheer or see-through (plus the tank is lined, which is always a plus).

As mentioned before, I like the pattern on this tank. I have to say that I prefer it in the non-metallic pattern, but I that is just my personal taste. As with the metallic tank, I think you can easily dress this tank up or down, and all of the colors it's offered in a nice neutrals, so you can pair it with a lot of colors and styles.

I left this tank behind because I already have a few of the Tuxedo-Front Camis from earlier this season, and I've learned my lesson now that they are all on sale! I will consider picking this one up if it does on sale later at some point though, as I think it's a pretty cute and versatile tank.

What do you think? Do you like this tank? Have you seen it or tried it on? Which colors do you like it in? Do you prefer this style or the metallic one?