5 Ways To Keep Strapless Dresses Up

There are two types of strapless dresses, those with boning and those without.

Dresses with boning are the most secure types of strapless dresses. However, these dresses are usually made from a woven material, so the fit may be more finicky. See any of the tips below to help keep these dresses up!

For dresses without boning, or tube tops, elastic is needed at the top of the garment to keep the dress up. If the elastic is worn out, it may need to be replaced. If the garment simply needs more support, tips 3-5 work best with tube tops.

1. Look for Boning

Boning is the main way that a strapless dress stays up. A dress with boning will have thin plastic or metal strips running up the dress to keep its shape, and they will be resistant to bending at the bodice. They will either have a tight waistline seam or have a supportive strap at the waist (see tip 2). Boned dresses are the best for strapless designs when they fit properly.

This dress has boning. This style does not stretch at the top, and is held up with tiny, plastic strips.

2. Tighten the Dress at the Waist

For dresses with boning, the support comes from the waist. If the dress is loose at the natural waist (area of the torso where the person is their slimmest) the dress will be prone to falling down. If the dress has a corset back, then the cords need to be tightened. If the dress has a zipper or other closure, then the dress may need to be taken in at the waist.

3. Silicone Strips

These plastic strips can really make a dress feel more secure. Sold online or through some dress stores, these strips are thin and are attached to the neckline of a dress. The texture of the silicone prevents the dress from moving too much on the body. This option is great if the dress almost fits perfectly, and the strips are added for extra peace of mind.

4. Tape

Tape can be a great option for fixing a dress in a pinch. I have found that either fashion tape or waterproof medical tape works best. Personally, I have used waterproof medical tape to keep a bikini in place, and it did not budge through hours of swimming. However, use these tapes sparingly, as they are uncomfortable to remove (I may have removed a layer of my spray tan after peeling off pieces of fashion tape after prom, oops).

5. Pin it to a Strapless Bra or Shapewear

Pinning the dress to a more supportive undergarment may prevent it from slipping. Be careful not to let the pins show through the dress. This is a good option is the dress is lightweight.

Want more tips like these? Sign up for our newsletter to get tips delivered to your inbox.