How to Apply Breast Tape: A Stylist's Guide for Backless & Strapless Dresses

By Belinda Birt

If you've ever fallen in love with a beautiful backless, strapless or plunging designer dress only to immediately think, "What bra am I supposed to wear with this?"  you're definitely not alone.

At Your Secret Closet, it's one of the questions we're asked almost every day.

Whether you're attending a wedding, black tie gala, race day, engagement party or formal event, the right undergarments can completely transform how a dress looks and feels. One of my favourite styling tools? Breast tape.

When applied correctly, breast tape gives you support, lift and confidence without compromising the design of your dress. It allows you to wear those stunning open-back gowns, halter necklines and plunging silhouettes exactly as they were designed to be worn.

Over the years I've helped style thousands of women, and while every body is different, these are the simple steps I always recommend.

Which Dresses Are Best Worn With Breast Tape?

Breast tape works beautifully with many of our most popular designer styles, particularly dresses where a traditional bra simply won't work.

Some of our favourites include:

• SONYA MODA Zephyr Gown
• STUDIO LEXI Fabienne Dress
• NOOKIE Portia Halter Maxi
• ONE FELL SWOOP Gaea Gown
• ONE FELL SWOOP Caira Gown
• SONYA MODA Sondrio Dress
• LEO LIN Rayna Bustier Maxi Dress

If you're unsure whether your chosen dress requires breast tape, our stylists are always happy to guide you.

My Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Breast Tape

This is exactly how I guide our clients in-store.

Step 1: Start With Clean Skin

This is completely non-negotiable.

Your skin needs to be clean and dry.

Avoid moisturiser, body oil or shimmer products beforehand as they reduce the adhesive.

If you want extra peace of mind, wipe the area with micellar water and allow it to dry completely before applying.

Step 2: Plan Before You Peel

Before removing any backing, put your dress on or hold it against your body.

Consider:

• Where your neckline sits
• How much lift you want
• How much coverage you need

I always recommend cutting all of your tape first so the application feels calm rather than rushed.

Step 3: Round Every Corner

This tiny trick makes a huge difference.

Rounded corners are far less likely to lift throughout the day than sharp edges.

Step 4: Create Your Foundation

For fuller busts especially, begin with one horizontal strip underneath the bust.

This creates a supportive base that distributes weight more evenly before you begin lifting.

Step 5: Apply Your Lift

Anchor the tape underneath first.

Lift gently upwards.

Stretch only the middle section of the tape.

Leave both ends completely relaxed.

This creates support without pulling on the skin.

Step 6: Stand Naturally

Before pressing everything firmly into place, stand upright and look straight ahead.

Most people instinctively look down while applying tape, which changes the natural position of the bust.

Check yourself in the mirror exactly as everyone else will see you.

Step 7: Fine Tune

Every dress is different.

Some necklines require one strip.

Others may require three or four.

Take your time.

You're aiming for confidence, not perfection.

Step 8: Activate The Adhesive

Once you're happy with everything, firmly press each strip for around 15 seconds.

The warmth of your hands activates the adhesive and helps it stay secure throughout your event.

Don't skip this step.

My Biggest Breast Tape Tips

After styling women for years, these are the little things that make the biggest difference.

✔ Always do a trial run before your event.

✔ Wear nipple covers underneath for extra comfort.

✔ Apply tape before hair and makeup.

✔ Pack a spare strip if you're travelling.

✔ Never apply breast tape to irritated or broken skin.

Small details create a much more comfortable experience.

How To Remove Breast Tape Safely

Removing breast tape should never be rushed.

I always recommend soaking the tape with body oil and allowing it to sit for several minutes.

Slowly peel the tape away while continuing to apply more oil underneath.

It's about caring for your skin the same way we care for every garment at Your Secret Closet with patience, care and respect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does breast tape really work?

Yes. When applied correctly, breast tape provides excellent lift and support while remaining virtually invisible under most occasionwear.

Can women with a larger bust wear breast tape?

Absolutely.

Many of our clients with fuller busts successfully wear breast tape.

The key is creating a supportive base first and using multiple strips where required.

How long does breast tape last?

Quality breast tape generally lasts throughout an entire event, including weddings, race days and evening celebrations.

Can I dance while wearing breast tape?

Definitely.

When applied correctly, breast tape is designed to stay secure while you move comfortably throughout the day and evening.

What dresses work best with breast tape?

Breast tape is perfect for:

• Strapless dresses
• Halter neck gowns
• One shoulder dresses
• Backless dresses
• Deep V necklines
• Cut-out dresses

Many of our SONYA MODA, ONE FELL SWOOP, STUDIO LEXI, LEO LIN and NOOKIE styles are ideal for breast tape.

Our Stylists Recommend

Every dress is different, and so is every body.

If you're hiring a dress from Your Secret Closet and you're unsure whether you'll need breast tape, simply ask us during your appointment or send us a message before your hire.

We'll happily recommend the best solution for your chosen style, because our goal isn't simply to help you hire a beautiful dress.

It's to help you feel incredible wearing it.

Find Your Perfect Designer Dress

Looking for the perfect dress to pair with breast tape?

Explore our curated collection of designer dresses from LEO LIN, SONYA MODA, STUDIO LEXI, ONE FELL SWOOP, NOOKIE, BY JOHNNY, ACLER, and more.

Whether you're attending a wedding, black tie event, gala, engagement party or race day, our expert stylists are here to help you find a dress that fits beautifully and makes you feel confident from the moment you put it on.

Browse our Wedding Guest Dresses, Black Tie Dresses, Race Day Collection, Backless Dresses, Strapless Dresses, and New Arrivals, or visit our Melbourne showroom for personalised styling advice.