I Hate Stick-on Bras, but These Nipple Covers Are Surprisingly Perfect

Elle

5 days ago

Should I talk about my sister's bra preferences on the internet? Probably not—but respecting boundaries isn't really in her wheelhouse anyway, so whatever. She loves a sticky bra. You'll never catch her on a weekend trip or overnight without one in her bag. But for me, they've never really worked. Where she knows all things sticky bra, I know the best nipple covers. Two sisters, two walks of life.
No Bra, No Problem Essentials
When it comes to backless dresses, halter tops, or otherwise tricky ensembles, you simply have to have a bra alternative in your arsenal. Because for all the good that bras do us, sometimes they're just the absolute worst. Ahead, find the top nine nipple covers that won't let you down.
Now, a sentence that would get me sent straight to HR if I worked anywhere other than a fashion publication: I know for a fact that my boss hates bras. For digital director Claire Stern Milch, it's got to be Nood. And I get the hype, too. This brand does bra solutions like no other—seriously.
Sizes: 3 inches, 4 inches
Colors: Buff, Soft Tan, Bronze, Espresso, Wild Side
Customer review: 'These are 100 percent worth the money. They are the best I have ever used and are actually reusable. They stay in place, are painless to remove, and don't irritate my skin. Ten times better than cheaper alternatives.'
I could sing about these from the mountaintops. They are so damn good and a personal go-to. I always have these in my bra drawer. No matter which cover you decide to purchase, I highly recommend Gatherall's easy-to-use (and pack) cleaning papers as the perfect accompaniment to any boobish accoutrement.
Sizes: OS
Colors: Cream, Latte, Mocha, Noir
Customer review: 'I cannot express enough how much I love these! These nipple covers shape, LIFT (depending on how I place them on), and cover! And stay put. I feel braless but with nice shape!'
Although I haven't tried these yet, they are next on my list. Why? Because they're available in the standard circle shape seen here, but they also come in another silhouette that's designed to offer lift.
Sizes: 1, 2, 3
Colors: Caramel, Crème, Coco, Espresso, Hazelnut
Customer review: 'These are great! I just bought another pair after using my current ones for three years. It says up to 20 uses, but I have probably used them 100 times.'
Is it TMI to tell you I'm wearing Cakes as I write this? Too late. These reign supreme when it comes to non-adhesive covers in quality and in popularity. Plus, the company has donated over $1 million to breast cancer research.
Sizes: Itty Bitty, OG, Plus
Colors: Honey, Caramel, Cocoa
Customer review: 'I'm in my 50s and post-menopause. I wear them often, even if I'm staying home and wearing a cami, because I want to look appropriate when others are around—or maybe I'm just obsessed with them! I tell everyone I know about this wonderful product. Cakes have been a game changer for me.'
I have seen firsthand how brutal Amazon reviewers can be, so when I find a product with a cult following and rave testimonials, I pay attention. Shoppers are certifiably obsessed with this budget brand.
Sizes: Medium, Large
Colors: Crème, Caramel, Coco
Customer review: 'They were completely invisible under every outfit I tried—tight tops, light-colored dresses, even a silky camisole. No lines, no weird shapes, nothing! The adhesive is strong but gentle, staying in place all night without slipping, even through dancing and warm weather. If you need a discreet, reliable solution for tricky outfits, these are a game-changer!'
As much as I love covers, sometimes my boobs need more direction. By that, I mean they need to be lifted, pulled, and situated in such a way that only tape can manage. This bundle from Threads is a great option that includes both covers and tape to use together.
Sizes: OS
Colors: N1/N2, N3/N4, Black
Customer review: 'I love the size of this tape. It's wider than ones I've used before, which means I use a lot less of the roll and it goes a lot further. Super sticky as well—lasted all day and night at 12+ hour weddings. Will be repurchasing for sure.'
I'm completely obsessed with Neats referring to these as 'anti-paparazzi' because they're matte enough to avoid reflecting in photographs. I just hate when those photogs chase me!
Sizes: S/M, L/XL
Colors: Almond, Caramel, Champagne, Mocha, Pearl
Customer review: 'I had an older version of a different company and they were heavy and thick, which made it look unnatural. But these are thin, work very well, sticky (and easy to clean) and look like there's nothing on me. I already used it for a full day of events including dancing and they did not move or make me uncomfortable. Great price for a reliable product.'
For all you petal people who like more of a bandage application, these are made with polyester. They are disposable and not recommended for customers with sensitive skin.
Sizes: OS
Colors: Ecru
Customer review: 'Love the way it sticks and holds everything together. I wear with my non-padded swimsuits and the results are amazing! Definitely recommend!'
Why exactly does this bestselling five-pack come on a keychain? I can't say. Bag charm! What I do know is these use latex-free adhesive, making them allergy-friendly.
Sizes: OS
Colors: Semi-Sheer
Customer review: 'An absolute necessity!'
As you might have surmised, the difference between these two is all in the stickiness. That is, adhesive nipple covers are sticky, and non-adhesive ones are not. But how do you decide which one is right for you? Here's the breakdown:
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