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When A Bra Won't Do The Job: 5 Bra Alternatives for Tricky Dresses

Mellicia in one of her favorite Mara Hoffman dresses with Poplin client, Rhonda. Mara Hoffman is known for making dresses that present bra challenges.

Editor's note: Below you'll find another blog post from Jessica Burton. Jessica brings her wealth of knowledge including an expertise in undergarments and her warm personality to this post. Love her and you will, too. Enjoy!

With warm summer days ahead, it’s time to break out your favorite sun dresses and sleeveless tops. While backless, one-shoulder and strappy dresses are a great option, it can sometimes be tricky finding the right type of bra to pair with them. Well, fear not. Your personal stylist is here to help! You can rock these looks while feeling supported regardless of your bust size. Say goodbye to the days of feeling limited with purchases just because finding the right type of bra can be intimidating. Below is a list of fun and functional alternatives to help take the place of a traditional style bra.

5 Bra Alternatives For Those Super Intricate Outfits

Nubra Silicone. $65. Available in Pale Peach and Clear. Sizes A-C.

  1. adhesive bra

    It’s amazing just how many choices Nubra offers for adhesive bras. I’ve always loved the silicone and recommend it as the #1 choice for clients. If a demi cut, seamless or more padded bra is needed for your wardrobe, Nubra has you covered. Over the years, I’ve heard countless success stories from clients who found that they can dance and sweat in these all night long without the bra slipping. The silicone creates a natural breast shape and offers a light lift. Washing and caring is easy as well; simply take a damp cloth with cold water, a little sensitive soap (Dove Sensitive Skin Beauty Bar is a great choice), gently wipe down the inside of the cups and air dry. It is important to note this is only necessary if you get really sweaty. These can be reworn about 5 or 6 times depending how much you tend to sweat.

Nippies Skin Reusable Covers. Nordstrom. $26.

2. Small Adhesive Breast Covers (AKA pasties)

If you’re only needing to conceal the nipple, this type of coverage is perfect. These small adhesive breast covers are minimal, light in weight and offered in three different skin tones. They’re sold in sets of two, providing opportunity to be reworn with multiple outfits. The stick-on adhesive helps ensure that your most sensitive areas are covered. The same care is recommended for washing just like the adhesive bra above.

How To Style Booby Tape. $16.99 per roll. Available in colors Brown, Black, White, Nude.

Booby Tape. $16.99. Available in colors Brown, Black, White, Nude.

Booby Tape. $16.99. Available in colors Brown, Black, White, Nude.

3. Breast Tape

Picture Kim Kardashian wearing one of her signature looks: A bodycon style dress, form fitted with a deep plunge at the neckline. This type of tape is the perfect solution for how to wear a dress like that which requires a little more thought about coverage. This truly impressive product is hypoallergenic, latex free, and works well for anyone with sensitive skin. Not to worry, the removal process is painless for any bust size. For just $16.99 one roll can be utilized for multiple occasions and you can simply cut the tape to your desired length. What a steal. This waterproof material comes in handy whether you’re tearing it up on the dance floor or going for a swim (think of all the cute bathing suits you can now buy).

Fashion Forms U Plunge Backless Strapless Bodysuit. $32. Available in Black and Nude. Sizes S-XL.

Fashion Forms U Plunge Backless Strapless Bodysuit. $32. Available in Black and Nude. Sizes S-XL.

4. Bodysuit

A bodysuit that also works as shapewear? Sounds like heaven. While you can’t go wrong choosing a traditional strapless bra, sometimes you need a little extra help. Since the shapewear is form fitted, the firmness of the material helps ensure your breasts stay in place and smooths away any unwanted curves around the stomach and hips. The removable, adjustable straps work for many different types of clothing, and the open back with attached thong is meant to prevent panty lines from showing. Getting into this little number is easy, just step in and lift your breasts into the cups. The “wings” on the bodysuit are adhesive, so simply stick them to your skin where your bra would normally go. Pull your breast tissue in and adjust accordingly. Lastly, press down for a couple seconds to secure the cups and adhesive sides.

Bravo Bridal Triangle Plus Push Up Sew In Bra Cup. $16. Available in Natural color way. A/B (S/M) and B/C (M/L).

5. Sew In Cups

For the DIY crowd who are good with needle and thread, sewing cups into your garments is a creative trick that can be done easily enough. If sewing is not in your skillset, then reach out to your local tailor to create the coverage you desire. What’s particularly interesting with these cups is that they are specifically designed for triangle shaped dresses and tops. There are no shortage of choices between shape and push up enhancement. Not just for brides, they can be applied to everyday outfits and occasions, and do a fantastic job of supplying women with different aesthetic choices. If the garment you’re altering does not require sewing, a quick solution is to pin the pads into your top. If the goal is to increase the appearance of your bust, then add these inserts into your normal bra. The best method of care for inserts is to hand wash and air dry.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, you’re ready to shop and wear a deep plunge, backless or off the shoulder style. Going braless in public doesn’t have to be the only solution to figuring out how to wear complicated outfits anymore. You deserve to look fabulous AND be comfortable!