Style

10 Best Nipple Covers We Trust for Sheer Tops and Tight Dresses

No nip slips here!
best nipple covers
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Your questions about nipple covers, answered

How we chose nipple covers

Five Glamour editors with different boob sizes tested a range of nipple covers—both reusable and disposable—as well as various boob tapes. We wore them under everything from backless dresses to bikinis to see which were easiest to use, stayed in place for hours, and delivered on promises like invisibility, lift, and comfort. If they were reusable, we also judged them based on how many wears we were able to get out of them.

What are the different types of nipple covers?

  • Silicone nipple covers: These lightweight, medical-grade silicone covers are reusable, easy to clean, sweat-resistant, and available in multiple skin tones and sizes. They’re ideal under thin or tight clothing, plunging necklines, swimwear, and even wedding guest dresses. Some waterproof options can prevent chafing under sports bras or swimsuits. Just note: The adhesive can lose its grip over time, and they may show through certain fabrics.
  • Pasties: Flatter and thinner than silicone options, pasties work well under sheer fabrics, V-necks, or loose T-shirts. They’re helpful in a pinch and offer discreet coverage without bulk. While usually affordable, they’re single-use only and may tug a bit during removal. Be sure to smooth them down completely to avoid puckering.
  • Boob tape (a.k.a. nipple tape or breast tape): This stretchy, adhesive tape can be cut to lift, shape, and support your breasts, making it a go-to for larger busts and low-cut outfits. The tape is highly customizable, but it’s not reusable and can be tricky to apply and take off.
  • Adhesive strapless bras (a.k.a. stick-on bras or sticky bras): These stick-on backless bras offer more structure than pasties or tape, giving you shape, support, and coverage under strapless or one-shoulder styles. They’re reusable and easy to clean, but in hot or humid weather, the adhesive may not hold up as well.

How to shop for nipple covers

Factors to consider when figuring out what nipple cover is best for you:

Reusability: If you plan to wear nipple covers often, opt for reusable ones—they’re more cost-effective and versatile. “They’re easy to clean, easy to wear, and work with a range of outfit options—even under bras or bralettes for a smooth, no-show look,” says Jen Summers, bra-fit expert and co-owner of lingerie shop Story Essentials. Disposable pasties are fine for one-off use.

Size and color: “You don’t want a cover so large it changes the shape of your breast, or so small it doesn’t offer full coverage,” Summers says. Measure the diameter of your nipple, including the areola. Most covers range from two to four inches wide; choosing one slightly larger than your nipple helps press it down and create a smooth, seamless finish under clothes. Choose a color that blends with the skin around your areola to avoid visible contrast under clothes.

Your outfit and overall look: Some styles are more seamless and better for thinner fabrics. Others offer a bit of lift or shaping if that’s the look you’re after. (We’ve outlined which types work best for different outfits in the section above.)

How to use nipple covers

To apply: Peel off the backing and press the cover firmly over clean, dry skin. Avoid lotions or oils—they’ll weaken the adhesive.

To remove: Don’t yank them off! For reusable covers, gently peel the covers away. If they’re clingy, use a warm, damp cloth or a little coconut or baby oil to loosen the grip. For adhesive pasties or boob tape, a quick oil soak can make removal easier and gentler on skin. When in doubt, follow the brand’s removal directions.

How to wash nipple covers

Most reusable nipple covers just need a rinse with water (and sometimes mild soap), time to fully air-dry, and then proper storage to reactivate the adhesion on the back. So don’t throw away the box they came in.

Do nipple covers work for large breasts?

Nipple covers and pasties alone aren’t a great solution for bigger boobs because they don’t usually provide much support. “You can use a flesh-toned breast tape for lift and add a nipple cover on top for modesty,” says Jené Luciani Sena, bra expert and author of The Bra Book and Get It!, who points to Hollywood Fashion Secrets Silicone Coverups Set, which includes both. The tape is more customizable—layer it in strips over each shoulder to pull up your bust and relieve strain on your back.

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