woman in silver sequin dress putting on lipstick in the mirror
Image via @oliviadipede

Your strapless, backless, and/or low-plunge dress is ready to make an appearance, perhaps for homecoming or a glam wedding. So what bra do you wear with your RSVP-ready look? Answer: a self-adhesive bra.

Sometimes a strapless bra just won’t do and going bra-less isn’t an option–we hear you. Ahead, your best options for sticky bras–and what you need to know before wearing one.

Stick With You Nude Backless Strapless Bra

stick with you nude backless bra

Great for backless/open back clothing. This bra gives you lift, support and separation, just like a regular bra. The molded cups also give you nip coverage. Everyone needs one of these sticky bras: It’s as useful for black-tie events as it is for summer tops. Follow the washing/storage directions and this can last for years.

*Tip: Scoop your breasts into the cups first. Then, while leaning forward a bit, stick the wings firmly to your sides.

Nubra Seamless Adhesive Bra

nubra adhesive bra

When your outfit is open at the back and sides, or it’s low-cut under the arm and maybe even has a plunge front, this super minimal bra covers just the front of the breasts. With the clip in the front, it gives some lift and shaping, but mainly provides nip coverage and smoothness.

*Tip: While leaning forward, put each adhesive cup on separately. Then clip them together at the front and you’ll see the lift and support magically happen.

Hollywood No-Show Petal Concealers

hollywood no show petal concealers

When no self-adhesive bra will work with your look, concealers do just that–conceal the nips. They’re like super-thin adhesive paper strips that cover nip texture and color.  The center is not sticky and they don’t hurt when removed (don’t worry). Inexpensive and disposable, these belong in everyone’s styling kit.

*Tip: After unpeeling the paper backing, put the adhesive free center of the petal over the center of your nipple first. Then press it outward from the center to get the petal to lay as flat as possible. 

Hollywood Breast Lift Tape

hollywood lift tape

This tape is great paired with the No-Show Petal Concealers when you need a little lift. These adhesive strips go at the top of your breast to literally lift the breasts up by about ½-1 inch. 

*Tip: These are not great for large-breasted girls (or those with heavy breasts), but they are awesome for those of you that just need a little extra oomph.

What to remember about self-adhesive bras:

Adhesive bras only work on clean dry skin. It’s the adhesive to skin contact that keeps them adhered. Do NOT use the following products where the adhesive will touch. (If you don’t follow this tip, the bra will slip!)

  • Oils
  • Lotions
  • Deodorants
  • Perfume
  • Powder

Have a question about sticky bras or any other intimates? Ask Jenny in the comments!

 Jenny Altman is an intimates expert and writer based in New York.