Wondering how boob tape actually works? If you’ve ever slipped on a beautiful outfit only to be met with awkward bra straps, you’ll know the struggle. If you have big boobs, visible bra straps, painful red marks, and an overall lack of support can quickly turn a dream dress into a fashion nightmare. Luckily there’s an easy solution: boob tape.

If you do not know your bra size, this magical little invention has become a game-changer because it fits all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re looking for a subtle lift, some serious cleavage, or simply want to ditch the bra altogether, boob tape can help you achieve your desired look with confidence and comfort.

If you’ve never tried this handy solution, taping up your boobs might feel a little nerve-wracking. Below, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to how to wear boob tape. But before you go diving headfirst into a roll of tape, you might want to check out our guide for the body shape calculator that will help you find out your body shape in minutes or read about the tell-tale signs you’re wearing the wrong bra size.

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When to use boob tape

Boob tape offers a great solution to a number of fashion dilemmas, including:

• Backless dresses. You’ll either need to go sans bra or you’ll be left with your straps showing, potentially ruining the look of your dress.
• Low-cut dresses. To avoid any wardrobe malfunctions, it might be a good idea to strap yourself in (literally).
• Visible nipples. There’s nothing wrong with showing your nips, but if you’d rather not, this can be a really handy solution.

How to wear boob tape

Before you start taping anything, get organised. Gather everything you need and ensure your skin is clean and dry. Remove any moisturisers to ensure the tape doesn’t just slide off.

To achieve your desired look, you’ll need to cut and apply the tape strategically and there are various techniques you can use. You might want to try criss-cross strips or mermaid cups, and you can consider optional nipple covers for added discretion.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to boob tape application:

Preparation

1. Gather your supplies: you’ll need boob tape, scissors, optional nipple covers, and a mirror.
2. Clean the skin: Make sure your skin is clean from lotions or moisturisers so the tape sticks.
3. Give yourself a sensitivity test: Apply a small tape piece on your inner arm to check for irritation.

Application

1. Determine the look you want to achieve: Decide on your lift and cleavage preferences before you start cutting and sticking. It might be a good idea to lightly draw lines on the skin to show where you need the tape to stop to avoid it showing under your clothes. You can use eye liner or lip liner for this and removed easily with make up remover afterwards.
2. Cut tape: Tailor strips for lift or cleavage and start snipping. Be careful not to use more than you need, as boob tape can be expensive!
3. Apply the tape: I recommend using nipple covers to avoid causing unnecessary pain and then you can start sticking! You’ll need to create two individual bra cups, and it’s a good idea to start by putting tape underneath your boobs and pulling it upwards towards your nipple to lift your bust. You can pull the tape inwards to create cleavage too. Press the boob tape with your hand and hold it down for a few seconds to ensure it’s properly stuck down. Repeat this on the second breast, and voila! Outfit woes, be gone.

Is boob tape painful?

Boob tape’s discomfort is subjective; it depends on things like your skin’s sensitivity, how you apply it, the removal process and how long you wear the tape for. To minimise the pain, use medical-grade tape, prep the skin properly, apply gently, remove carefully with oil, and avoid wearing it for longer than necessary. Wearing nipple covers with the tape will avoid any unnecessary pain too when taking the tape off.

Does tape work as a bra?

Tape can be a good stand-in for a bra in certain situations, but it’s not a perfect replacement. If you need strong support or plan to be active, a traditional bra is still the best choice. However, if you want a specific look for a special occasion or just prefer the feel of tape, it can be a viable option.

Explore these fantastic boob tape choices that I genuinely adore…

Best for dark skin: Nubian Skin Boob Tape

Boob Tape, £19, Nubian Skin – buy now

This boop tape from Nubian Skin comes in four different skin tones, making it one of the most versatile options. It stretches by up to 180% and caters to bust sizes A – G.

Best for big boobs: NOOD Shape Tape

Shape Tape, £29, NOOD – buy now

I adore the Shape Tape by NOOD, especially with its 3in or 4in width options and suitability for all bust sizes (A-G/DDD+), plus it’s sweatproof and waterproof.

Best for creating shape: DCleavage Sculpting Tape Strips Beige

DCleavage Sculpting Tape Strips Beige, Now £10.39, Perky Pair – buy now

This is perfect for extra side support and sculpting, designed to complement their Original lift and Shape Tape.

Most affordable: Magic Body Fashion Boob Tape

Boob Tape, Now £9, Magic Body Fashion – buy now

This is my go-to for lifting the breasts without a bra, providing invisible styling under any backless or daring outfits while supporting and creating the perfect cleavage. It comes in five different skin tones too.

Best for support: Buub Shop The Original Braless Styling Kit

The Original Braless Styling Kit, £21, Buub Shop – buy now

These offers for various cup sizes, offering a wide range if size options, each designed with different widths.

Best all-rounder: Booby Tape In Black

Booby Tape In Black, £16, Booby Tape – buy now

This one is my solution for achieving a breast lift with proper support, especially when struggling to find a suitable bra for a cute outfit.