PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
EDIT Edit this Article
EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games Arts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and GardenRelationship Quizzes Cars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and StyleSports and Fitness Computers and ElectronicsHealthPets and AnimalsTravel Education & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and ReligionWork World Family LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationshipsYouth
LOG IN
Log in
Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. FacebookGooglewikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
RANDOM
Home
Random
Browse Articles
TrendingNew
Quizzes & Games
All QuizzesHot
Love Quizzes
Personality Quizzes
Fun Games
Dating Simulator
Learn Something New
Forums
Courses
Happiness Hub
Explore More
Support wikiHow
About wikiHow
Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow
Categories
Personal Care and Style
Fashion
Fashion Fixes
How to Tape Your Boobs for a Backless Dress Download ArticleExplore this Article IN THIS ARTICLE 1 Use gaffer tape or medical tape. 2 Do a patch test before wearing boob tape. 3 Clean and dry your skin. 4 Cover your nipples with cotton pads or pasties. 5 Cut 4 to 6 strips of tape. 6 Lift your breast up with one hand. 7 Apply the tape just above the base of your breast. 8 Smooth out wrinkles with your hands. 9 Add more strips as needed. 10 Trim the tape so it doesn’t show behind your dress. 11 Use oil and hot water to remove the boob tape. + Show 8 more... - Show less... Other Sections Expert Q&A Video Related Articles Expert Interview References Co-authored by Susan Kim and Hannah Madden
Last Updated: September 25, 2025 Fact Checked
Download Article X
This article was co-authored by Susan Kim and by wikiHow staff writer, Hannah Madden. Susan Kim is the owner of Sum+Style Co., a Seattle-based personal styling company focused on innovative and approachable fashion. She has over 5 years of experience in the fashion industry, and received her AA from the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 281,994 times.
Finally have an event to wear that backless dress to? Using boob tape to keep everything in place ensures you’ll be looking your best the entire time without dealing with annoying stick-on or plunging bras. Plus, using boob tape lets you choose the amount of lift and support you want. In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know to tape your boobs and look stunning in that backless dress.
Steps
1
Use gaffer tape or medical tape.
Download Article
Gaffer tape and medical tape offer the most support. “Boob tape” can describe anything from duct tape (no thanks) to boob adhesives. But if you’re looking for comfortable support that lasts all day, go for gaffer tape or medical tape. Gaffer tape is slightly stronger, but it does hurt a little more to remove. If you have sensitive skin, opt for medical tape.
Looking for the boob tape that Kim K loves? She used gaffer tape in most of her iconic plunging neckline dresses.
Advertisement 2
Do a patch test before wearing boob tape.
Download Article
The adhesives in tape can irritate your skin, so test it out beforehand. If you’ve never worn boob tape before, cut a small piece off the roll and put it on your chest for 24 hours. If your skin gets red or starts itching, take the tape off right away and find an alternative to using tape. However, if your skin is fine after a full day, you’re good to go.[1]XResearch source
If you know you’re allergic to adhesives already, stay away from boob tape or any kind of adhesive tapes.
3
Clean and dry your skin.
Download Article
Make sure your skin isn’t slippery so the tape sticks well. Take a shower and use a mild cleanser to remove any dirt or oils from your skin. Pat your skin dry, and avoid putting on any lotions or sunscreens, since that can make tape less likely to stick.
Advertisement 4
Cover your nipples with cotton pads or pasties.
Download Article
Tape can be a little painful, so protect your nipples beforehand. You can use nipple covers or pasties, or you can simply use a cotton pad. This will help keep your nipples protected to avoid any pain or irritation when you take the tape off.[2]XResearch source
Plus, covering up your nipples helps them become less visible when you put your dress on. If that’s a concern for you, nipple covers or cotton pads are your friend!
5
Cut 4 to 6 strips of tape.
Download Article
Use scissors to cut strips that are about 12 in (30 cm) long. This will help you apply your tape much faster. Make sure your strips are about the length of the area from the bottom of your breast to just underneath your shoulder.[3]XResearch source
Most boob tape has an adhesive backing on it, so it won’t be sticky until you peel that off. If yours doesn’t, you can stick the edge of your strips onto a countertop or table to have them at the ready.
Advertisement 6
Lift your breast up with one hand.
Download Article
Hold your breast as high as you’d like it to sit in your dress. Stand in front of a mirror so you can see, then hold your breast with one hand. Lift it up gently and keep your boob in place as you apply your tape.[4]XResearch source
If you’re having trouble finding the perfect position for your boobs, put on a bra you love and see how much lift it gives you.[5]X Expert Source Susan KimProfessional StylistExpert Interview Then, take off the bra and replicate that lift with your hand.
7
Apply the tape just above the base of your breast.
Download Article
Support your breast by going from the bottom up. Peel the backing off of the tape, then gently apply the bottom of the tape to the base of your breast. Press the tape down to secure it onto your skin, stopping once you get to your collarbone.[6]XResearch source
Keep supporting your breast with one hand as you apply the tape to make sure it stays lifted.
Advertisement 8
Smooth out wrinkles with your hands.
Download Article
Keep the tape wrinkle-free so it doesn’t show through your dress. As you apply your tape, use your hand to smooth it as you work your way upward. Don’t worry about small wrinkles—just pay attention to big ones, as those might show through a sheer dress.[7]XResearch source
When your first piece of tape is smooth and wrinkle-free, you can apply a second piece of tape to your other breast.
9
Add more strips as needed.
Download Article
Depending on your dress and cup size, you may need more tape. If 1 piece of tape gives you the support you need, then you’re good to go! However, if you need more support, add a second and third piece of tape, starting from the base of your breast and going upward. This will give you more lift and support to keep your boobs up all night long.[8]XResearch source
The placement of your tape depends on the straps of your dress. If your dress has wide, thick straps with a plunging neckline, keep the tape on the outer portion of your breasts (near your armpits).
If your dress is strapless, tape your boobs horizontally instead of vertically.
Advertisement 10
Trim the tape so it doesn’t show behind your dress.
Download Article
Put your dress on and carefully cut the tape so it doesn’t show. Once your boobs are secured, it’s time for the finishing touches! Use a pair of scissors to carefully cut away pieces of tape until your straps cover the tape completely.[9]XResearch source
This can be a little tough to do on your own, so don’t be afraid to ask a friend for help with this step.
11
Use oil and hot water to remove the boob tape.
Download Article
When the night is over, steam or baby oil will help with removal. Take your dress off and stand in the shower for about 5 minutes. Get out of the shower and carefully peel the tape off, starting from the top and working your way down. Apply baby oil or olive oil to your skin underneath the tape to help it slide off.[10]XResearch source
Boob tape is usually single-use, so unfortunately, you can’t reuse it for another night out.
Advertisement
Expert Q&A
Search Add New Question
Question What can you wear to cover a backless dress? Cassandra Sethi Personal Stylist & Image Consultant Cassandra Sethi is a Personal Stylist, Image Consultant, and the Founder of Next Level Wardrobe, a luxury personal styling service for busy professionals. With over 20 years of fashion industry experience, Cassandra helps people transform their confidence by creating a work wardrobe they love to wear. Cassandra holds a BA in Fashion Merchandising from California State University, Long Beach, and a Postgraduate Certificate in Fashion Buying and Merchandising from the London College of Fashion. She created Soulcycle's retail business and was the Senior Buyer for 90+ Equinox gyms. Cassandra has been featured on New York’s PIX11 in an interview about how to achieve great work-from-home style as well as in Men's Health, Business of Fashion, and NYMag. Cassandra Sethi Personal Stylist & Image Consultant Expert Answer That depends on the type of event you are going to. For a more formal event, you can wear a blazer. For a more casual event, opt for a soft cardigan. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 13 Helpful 4
Question How can I hide my backless bra? Susan Kim Professional Stylist Susan Kim is the owner of Sum+Style Co., a Seattle-based personal styling company focused on innovative and approachable fashion. She has over 5 years of experience in the fashion industry, and received her AA from the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising. Susan Kim Professional Stylist Expert Answer If you don't want to use tape, there are actually stick-on bras that you hook in the front but stick on the sides. They hug you and give you a push-up feel, but they don't have a back. If you have a smaller chest, there are also silicone nipple stickers that can give a bit of support. These are the options that will give you most support and create an illusion of wearing a bra without the bra showing. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 17 Helpful 14
Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement
Video
Tips
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
You Might Also Like
How toTape Your Boobs for a Strapless DressHow toTape Your Breasts to Make Them Look Bigger9 Ways to Wear a Bra with a Backless Dress (No Exposed Straps)How toDress With No BraHow toWear a Backless BraHow to Hide Your Nipples without Wearing a BraHow toKeep a Strapless Dress UpHow toGet Great CleavageHow toWear PastiesHow toUse Fashion TapeHow toWear Off the Shoulder Tops with a BraHow toMake Breasts Look Firm Under Clothes Without a BraHow to Easily Fix a Low-Cut Dress: Tips, Tricks, & MoreHow toKeep a Strapless Bra Up Advertisement
Expert Interview
Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about fashion, check out our in-depth interview with Susan Kim.
Co-authored by: Susan Kim Professional Stylist This article was co-authored by Susan Kim and by wikiHow staff writer, Hannah Madden. Susan Kim is the owner of Sum+Style Co., a Seattle-based personal styling company focused on innovative and approachable fashion. She has over 5 years of experience in the fashion industry, and received her AA from the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising. This article has been viewed 281,994 times. 10 votes - 80% Co-authors: 6Updated: September 25, 2025 Views: 281,994 Categories: Fashion Fixes In other languages Dutch Hindi Vietnamese Spanish French Portuguese Japanese
Print
Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 281,994 times. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission.
Did this article help you?
Yes No Advertisement If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission.Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Susan Kim Professional Stylist Co-authors: 6Updated: September 25, 2025 Views: 281,99480% of readers found this article helpful. 10 votes - 80% Click a star to add your vote
Quizzes & Games
What Makeup Should I Wear QuizTake QuizWhat Is My Kibbe Body Type QuizTake QuizWhat Piercing Should I Get QuizTake QuizMakeup Quiz: Discover The Perfect Stye For YouTake QuizWhat Skin Type Do I Have QuizTake QuizWhat Should I Wear Today QuizTake Quiz
You Might Also Like
How toTape Your Boobs for a Strapless DressHow toTape Your Breasts to Make Them Look Bigger9 Ways to Wear a Bra with a Backless Dress (No Exposed Straps)How toDress With No Bra
Trending Articles
Am I Good at Flirting QuizHow Sexual Am I QuizHow Many Secret Admirers Do I Have QuizRank My Attractiveness Quiz5 Different Types of Butts: Find Your ShapeWhat Would My Nickname Be Quiz
Watch Articles
How toImpress a Girl on a First DateWhat Are Tear Burns on TikTok and What Causes Them?How toWear a HoodieHow toChiffonadeHow toMake a Fabric RoseHow toConfront a Bully
Trending Articles
What Is My Intelligence Type Quiz210+ Shower Thoughts: Funny, Deep, Weird & Mind-BlowingHow toTell That Your Crush Likes You BackDepression Test for TeensSCP Fight Simulator: Who Will Win?Am I Autistic Quiz
Quizzes & Games
What Color Should I Dye My Hair QuizTake QuizAm I Hot QuizTake QuizAm I Good at Flirting QuizTake QuizWhy Can't I Sleep QuizTake Quiz
Categories
Personal Care and Style
Fashion
Fashion Fixes
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
Home
About wikiHow
Experts
Jobs
Contact Us
Site Map
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
Do Not Sell or Share My Info
Not Selling Info
Contribute
Follow Us
×
wikiHow Tech Help Pro:
Develop the tech skills you need for work and life
Download Article Explore this Article IN THIS ARTICLE 1 Use gaffer tape or medical tape. 2 Do a patch test before wearing boob tape. 3 Clean and dry your skin. 4 Cover your nipples with cotton pads or pasties. 5 Cut 4 to 6 strips of tape. 6 Lift your breast up with one hand. 7 Apply the tape just above the base of your breast. 8 Smooth out wrinkles with your hands. 9 Add more strips as needed. 10 Trim the tape so it doesn’t show behind your dress. 11 Use oil and hot water to remove the boob tape. + Show 8 more... - Show less... Other Sections Expert Q&A Video Related Articles Expert Interview References Co-authored by Susan Kim and Hannah Madden 
Advertisement 
Co-authored by: Susan Kim Professional Stylist This article was co-authored by Susan Kim and by wikiHow staff writer, Hannah Madden. Susan Kim is the owner of Sum+Style Co., a Seattle-based personal styling company focused on innovative and approachable fashion. She has over 5 years of experience in the fashion industry, and received her AA from the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising. This article has been viewed 281,994 times. 10 votes - 80% Co-authors: 6 Updated: September 25, 2025 Views: 281,994 Categories: Fashion Fixes In other languages Dutch Hindi Vietnamese Spanish French Portuguese Japanese 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
568 
Gaffer tape and medical tape offer the most support. “Boob tape” can describe anything from duct tape (no thanks) to boob adhesives. But if you’re looking for comfortable support that lasts all day, go for gaffer tape or medical tape. Gaffer tape is slightly stronger, but it does hurt a little more to remove. If you have sensitive skin, opt for medical tape. 
The adhesives in tape can irritate your skin, so test it out beforehand. If you’ve never worn boob tape before, cut a small piece off the roll and put it on your chest for 24 hours. If your skin gets red or starts itching, take the tape off right away and find an alternative to using tape. However, if your skin is fine after a full day, you’re good to go.[1] 
Make sure your skin isn’t slippery so the tape sticks well. Take a shower and use a mild cleanser to remove any dirt or oils from your skin. Pat your skin dry, and avoid putting on any lotions or sunscreens, since that can make tape less likely to stick. Advertisement 
Tape can be a little painful, so protect your nipples beforehand. You can use nipple covers or pasties, or you can simply use a cotton pad. This will help keep your nipples protected to avoid any pain or irritation when you take the tape off.[2] 
Use scissors to cut strips that are about 12 in (30 cm) long. This will help you apply your tape much faster. Make sure your strips are about the length of the area from the bottom of your breast to just underneath your shoulder.[3] 
Hold your breast as high as you’d like it to sit in your dress. Stand in front of a mirror so you can see, then hold your breast with one hand. Lift it up gently and keep your boob in place as you apply your tape.[4] 
Support your breast by going from the bottom up. Peel the backing off of the tape, then gently apply the bottom of the tape to the base of your breast. Press the tape down to secure it onto your skin, stopping once you get to your collarbone.[6] 
Keep the tape wrinkle-free so it doesn’t show through your dress. As you apply your tape, use your hand to smooth it as you work your way upward. Don’t worry about small wrinkles—just pay attention to big ones, as those might show through a sheer dress.[7] 
Depending on your dress and cup size, you may need more tape. If 1 piece of tape gives you the support you need, then you’re good to go! However, if you need more support, add a second and third piece of tape, starting from the base of your breast and going upward. This will give you more lift and support to keep your boobs up all night long.[8] 
Put your dress on and carefully cut the tape so it doesn’t show. Once your boobs are secured, it’s time for the finishing touches! Use a pair of scissors to carefully cut away pieces of tape until your straps cover the tape completely.[9] 
When the night is over, steam or baby oil will help with removal. Take your dress off and stand in the shower for about 5 minutes. Get out of the shower and carefully peel the tape off, starting from the top and working your way down. Apply baby oil or olive oil to your skin underneath the tape to help it slide off.[10] 
Cassandra Sethi Personal Stylist & Image Consultant Cassandra Sethi is a Personal Stylist, Image Consultant, and the Founder of Next Level Wardrobe, a luxury personal styling service for busy professionals. With over 20 years of fashion industry experience, Cassandra helps people transform their confidence by creating a work wardrobe they love to wear. Cassandra holds a BA in Fashion Merchandising from California State University, Long Beach, and a Postgraduate Certificate in Fashion Buying and Merchandising from the London College of Fashion. She created Soulcycle's retail business and was the Senior Buyer for 90+ Equinox gyms. Cassandra has been featured on New York’s PIX11 in an interview about how to achieve great work-from-home style as well as in Men's Health, Business of Fashion, and NYMag. 
Susan Kim Professional Stylist Susan Kim is the owner of Sum+Style Co., a Seattle-based personal styling company focused on innovative and approachable fashion. She has over 5 years of experience in the fashion industry, and received her AA from the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising.