Going strapless is a nice idea, unless you’ve got a large cup size to support.
Because no matter how nice an outfit looks on a hanger, without the right support, your chest risks throwing the whole aesthetic out of whack. Built-in support and strapless bras can only take you so far, but if you’re planning a look that’s both secure and showstopping, there is another solution that can help. One that makes it look like your bosoms are defying gravity.
Stick-on bras have entered the global underwear chat.
It may seem as though these types of bra are a new invention, but they were in fact, thought up in the middle of the last century by Charles L Langs who was fed up with watching his wife hoist up her swimwear to keep her modesty. The entrepreneur teamed up with industrial chemist Charles Walton to develop an adhesive that would stay glued on through vigorous activity - or you know, sunbathing - but when peeled off, wouldn’t leave behind a residue on the skin.
Though the idea didn’t quite work in the 1950s, the concept stuck. Now with better adhesive and with options that don’t trigger skin allergies, the modern stick-on bra is every stylist’s secret weapon.
New versions of the stick-on bra claim to support practically all cup sizes, with sensational online demos showing some designs successfully lifting things like fully-grown watermelons and water cooler tanks - and all without an underwire in sight. But do they really cut the mustard?
We’ve found the best stick-on bras to try below. Feel liberated from slipping straps, tight underbands and uncomfortable wires and wear what you like without worrying about your bra shattering the illusion. These designs are practically undetectable under clothing and mean you can wear that navel-grazing top or low-back dress without a second thought.
Shop now
Best strapless bras for every shape and size
Best shapewear for women to support the tummy, hips and thighs
Best comfortable bras 2024: most comfy and supportive bras reviewed
Best wireless bras for all-day comfort and support
Best no VPL underwear: Seamless knickers, underwear and thongs to shop
Best revenge dresses to reclaim your power: maxi, midi and mini dresses designed to devastate
John Lewis U-Plunge Stick-On Bra
Made with silicone adhesive that should last up to 20 wears (with the right care), this plunging stick-on bra allows you to shine in daring designs with total confidence. The exaggerated U-shaped neckline and backless bra offer an effortless, barely there look once you’ve got your outfit on - no one but you will know that it’s there. Sizes range from A to an E cup.
Buy now £30.00, John Lewis
Ann Summers Stick On Backless And Strapless Bra
Offering great coverage, Ann Summers’ stick-on bra not only gives you the licence to wear revealing outfits but the confidence to. The innovative backless look comes with a clip to draw your assets together if you’re hoping for deeper cleavage.
Buy now £15.00, Ann Summers
Fashion Forms Nude Bare hypoallergenic adhesive bra
Keep your skin happy with a bra made from 100 per cent medical grade, non-woven rayon. This handy piece will cling to your front, making it the perfect pick for backless gowns and tops. Reuse yours for balls, festivals and everything in between.
Buy now £24.00, Selfridges
H&M Self-adhesive bra
Available in a range of skin-tone colours, H&M’s functional bra is an affordable option for those in need of a quick-fix fashion solution. A frontal fastening makes for easy-wear use, while a strapless, backless silhouette is perfect for layering under bandeau designs. Select your size from A cup to D cup and add to bag.
Buy now £12.99, H&M
Magic Bodyfashion Magic Lift-Its Stick-On Bra
Not only lifting your chest but enhancing it by a cup size too, this bandeau stick-on bra is designed to offer a push-up effect without the inclusion of any wires whatsoever. The smooth padded cups appear invisible under clothing, giving your outfit the silhouette it deserves. Sizing for A - DD cups.
Buy now £32.25, La Redoute
Boux Avenue Stick and clip bra - Nude
Good for big occasions like weddings and proms, this stick-on bra is lightweight and virtually undetectable under clothes thanks to the moulded foam cups. The silicone gel adhesive will lose its effectiveness after a few wears if not cleaned and stored properly, so take care to get as much wear from the design as possible.
Buy now £24.00, Boux Avenue
Curvy Power Women Strapless Stick On Invisible Backless Bra
Extreme crops are all the rage right now, but if you thought you had to forgo a bra with one - think again. These sticky tabs are here to save the day, lifting breasts to a perkier stance and offering a gently rounded shape.
The stick-on body-safe silicone has gaps to avoid the nipples while the foam can be trimmed with scissors so that the stick-on design can’t be seen peeking out of clothing. Also available in black.
Buy now £24.99, Curvy Power
Memoryee Women’s Push Up Adhesive Silicone Invisible Rabbit Bra
These bunny-shaped ears are what your killer dress has been crying out for. Designed to cover each breast, use the ‘ears’ to create lift to your desired degree. The pack comes with nipple covers to protect your sensitive areas.
Buy now £12.99, Amazon
