Trends such as backless tops and cutout dresses [1] are more prominent than ever — and finding the right boob tape is a necessity. Even though skin-baring designs are so popular, your favorite strapless bra [2] may not always work for them. If you decide against going braless [3] and freeing the nipple entirely, there's a handy invention you need ASAP. We're talking about breast-lift tape, which helps you comfortably and confidently step out in the cutout dress of your dreams.
Boob tape is a popular alternative to bras because it can shape your breasts into your preferred form. The tape's strong adhesive holds your breasts in place, making it essential for braless outfits. The ideal breast tape shouldn't irritate your skin or feel painful, but it might take several tries before you find "the one." Not sure how to use boob tape or where to find the best one on the market? Keep reading for all the need-to-know info, with expert advice from Victoria's Secret [4] Chief Design Officer Janie Schaffer, who helped launch the lingerie giant's boob tape for the Bare collection.
How to Find the Right Boob Tape
Schaffer recommends starting with skin tone. "Body tape is meant to act as an extension of your skin, so choose tones that are complementary. If your tape were to accidentally show, you know at the very least that a tape is not so obvious," she says. Next, experiment with different tapes and the outfit you wish to wear. This will help you determine how seamlessly your top layers over the strip and whether you spy any wrinkles. This will also be a great test for the amount of support you require.
Does Boob Tape Work For Small Breasts?
A common misconception is that boob tape only works for large busts [5]. In reality, breast tape can support other chest sizes, whether they match small, medium, large, or extra-large bras. "If used properly, it's a great essential for all different-size breasts," Schaffer says. "The most important thing to consider is placement, support, and the amount of coverage. It's all in understanding your proportions and utilizing the tape in a way that suits your needs."
What's the Best Boob Tape For Plus-Size Women?
For someone with a curvier shape, a boob tape with a stronger adhesive is preferable, as this can offer support and lift. Again, it's all about testing a range of products to find the most form-flattering option for you.
How to Apply Boob Tape
Apply boob tape on clean, dry skin that's free of lotion and skin-care products that contain alcohol or skin-irritating ingredients. Protect the areola and nipple with nonadhesive padding, such as cotton rounds or nursing pads. Apply the breast tape (which should easily stick to your skin), and tada — half the battle is won!
The removal process involves loosening the adhesive by massaging a cotton ball dipped in olive oil or Vaseline on the edge of and underneath the tape. A warm shower may do the trick. Once the tape is removed, be sure to rehydrate your skin with your go-to moisturizer.
How to Style Boob Tape
While it's best to only use it for special occasions to reduce the risk of potential skin damage, the best boob tape will help you achieve your desired look. Any top with a plunging neckline or revealing cutout — from a V-neck blouse to an open-front cardigan — will pair well with breast tape, as do open-back dresses and tops. Schaffer suggests employing the when-in-doubt mentality and opting for boob tape over a bra when it feels right: "Even when a bra can be worn, body tape offers a backless, line-less, strapless solution that can be customized for every wearer."
How to Wear Nipple Covers
Certain strapless or asymmetrical styles might call for nipple covers, which can be worn in addition to boob tape or on their own (see Lady Gaga's hot take on pasties at the 2022 Critics' Choice Awards [6]). Nipple covers typically take up less surface area than boob tape, often covering only the areolas.
Ahead, shop the best boob tape for any occasion. We vetted each option to make sure they're effective, easy to apply, and as painless as possible to remove.
— Additional reporting by Sarah Wasilak
Best Boob Tape For Large Busts
Okela Boob Tape [8] ($10)
This boob tape also contains nipple covers. Made of 95 percent cotton and five percent spandex, the breast tape is designed to feel soft and comfortable. It's a great choice for deep-V-neck dresses or tops, sports bras, or strapless pieces.
Best Boob Tape For All Busts
Nueboo Nipple Cover Disposable Pasties [9] ($11, originally $13)
These pasties come in an oval shape that can uniquely structure your breast. They provide lift and support to a range of bust sizes, and customers love that they are easy to apply and don't tear the skin.
Best Boob Tape For Sensitive Skin
Booby Tape Brown [10] ($16)
This tape will lift most bust sizes, letting you rock your dream cutout dress freely. It is latex-free and hypoallergenic and features a five-meter roll for repeated use. It's waterproof, perfect for dark skin tones, and painless to remove.
Best Boob Tape For Reusable Wear
Pinsy Nipple Covers [11] ($18)
At such a great price point — and offered in three different shades — you can reuse Pinsy's nipple covers over 30 times. We tested them out and can confirm they stay sticky and are long-lasting, so long as you store them properly back in the case. These are also water resistant, so you can wear them while swimming, and they are 3.25 inches in diameter.
Best Boob Tape For Swimming
Nueboo Breast Lift Boob Tape [12] ($19)
This top-rated boob tape comes in several color shades, so you're sure to find your perfect skin match. Customers praise how comfortable it is and how long it lasts (typically up to eight hours). It's also waterproof, in case you need to wear it with a swimsuit top. The tape is two inches wide, and the entire roll is 16.4 feet long.
Best Boob Tape For Extra Lift
Victoria's Secret Bare Boob Tape [13] ($25)
Victoria's Secret's new boob tape comes with a guide for fashioning the strips in a number of ways, and it has an ultrastrong hold and adhesive, making it a great alternative for a bra — only without the distracting lines and straps.
Best Boob Tape For Brides
Nue Breast Tape [14] ($25)
Brides who need boob tape for under their wedding dress should look for products that are long lasting and fit just right. Nue has some of the best reviews on the internet and is available at Revolve in five different shades. You can also buy it in precut strips in case you're on the go or in need of a last-minute touch-up.
Best Boob Tape For All Busts
Nippies Nipple Covers [15] ($27)
With more than 28,000 reviews for an average rating of 4.7 stars, these nipple covers are a favorite among shoppers. One reviewer wrote, "Total game changer. Very smooth taper, seamless transition for layering under the most challenging tops. . . . like silk and super soft lightweight t-shirts." Built with silicone, they offer comfort and support as you go about your day, with adhesive tape that will delicately stick to the surface of your breast. The best part? They're easy to clean with lukewarm water and soap.
Best Boob Tape For Small Busts
Brassybra 33-Pack Adhesive Bra [16] ($38)
This boob tape is water- and sweat-resistant, making it an ideal choice for all-day wear. Made with 97 percent cotton and three percent polyurethane, it is designed to be hypoallergenic and features cups that will feel like a second skin.