6 Expert Tips on How to Keep a Strapless Dress Up

Anyone who's worn a strapless dress knows how challenging it is to figure out how to keep a strapless dress up to avoid a wardrobe malfunction. Whether you're a guest rocking a strapless wedding guest dress or a bride seeking tips to keep a gown with a strapless neckline up, don't fret. We've gathered our expert tips for how to comfortably wear a strapless dress. Both Grace Lee, founder and chief creative officer of Birdy Grey, and Colleen Giresei, creative design and alterations director at Castle Couture, shared their top tips for how to keep up a strapless dress all night.

How to keep a strapless dress up:

Take the Dress to a Tailor | Use Fashion Tape as Needed | Consider the Dress Fabric and Construction | Choose the Right Bra | Opt for Removable Straps | Do a Trial Run

1. Take the Dress to a Tailor

Photo: Tamara Gruner Photography

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Florist: Life In Bloom

A strapless gown needs to hit your body in the correct spots to ensure the fit is secure and will stay up all night. If the fit isn't perfect right off the rack—which it rarely will be—a dress alterations specialist can help tailor the dress to best fit your body. "Worried about your strapless dress slipping? A tailor can easily adjust the waist and bust for a more snug fit," Lee shares.

"When wearing a strapless gown, the look should be up high enough, by making sure the 'curve' is covered," Giresi advises. "It is always good to do a test by making sure the gown is sitting correctly by measuring under the arm, of two fingers width on an angle. That is the golden rule of a strapless gown."

The Knot Vendor Marketplace is a valuable resource for finding alterations near you. Just enter your location and filter to "alterations" under "fashion services" to browse local alterations specialists and read reviews.

2. Use Fashion Tape as Needed

Fashion tape can be a helpful way to alter the fit of a dress without any alterations. While this is a good quick fix, it's important to note that this will not entirely replace the need for a bra. "Fashion tape is only good for areas where there is slight gaping and it needs a little area to lay flat," Giresi explains. It "never replaces a good bra construction."

Photo: Amazon

Pro tip: Topstick may be labeled as "men's grooming tape," but it's the fashion industry's go-to fashion tape. Wardrobe stylists often rely on this tape during photoshoots, fashion shows and more. It holds up against sweat all night.

3. Consider the Dress Fabric and Construction

Thin, flimsy dresses offer less support than those made in thick, sturdy fabrics. While a wispy satin dress may look beautiful on, it may be difficult to keep up all night. When shopping for your dress, look for dresses that have some structure built into the dress, such as boning, corseting, or thick fabrics such as jacquard. This will offer a more comfortable and supportive fit from the get-go.

Lee suggests you "opt for dresses in thicker fabrics or styles with boning in the bodice (thinner fabrics are more likely to slide down). Our Anne Dress is both supportive and gorgeous."

Here are a few dresses that will give you the support you're looking for:

Birdy Grey Anne Dress

Photo: Birdy Grey

KYHA Aspen Dress

Photo: KYHA

Lulus Garden of Romance Burnout Maxi Dress

Photo: Lulus

Use code THEKNOT20 for 20% off first-time purchases from Lulus.

4. Choose the Right Bra

Your undergarments and shapewear can be just as important as the dress itself when it comes to ensuring a comfortable fit. Choosing the right bra for your dress can make all the difference in how to keep your breasts up in a strapless dress. "Choose a supportive bra for a flawless look," Lee advises. "A strapless style with silicone grips or an adjustable multi-way bra are your best bet." It can also be helpful to get measured for your correct bra size. This will ensure you feel secure and comfortable all night without worrying about tugging at your dress.

To take it one step further, you can get bra cups sewn into your dress for a seamless fit. This can be especially helpful for making sure dresses for bigger busts fit comfortably. Giresi prefers this option, as strapless bras can sometimes "fall onto the rib cage." She suggests larger busted ladies "add a strapless corset for the extra boning for support."

Reviewers agree: these three strapless bras are slip-proof.

Warners This Is Not A Bra™ Cushioned Underwire Lightly Lined Convertible Strapless Bra

Photo: Kohl's

Pepper Boost Lift Up Strapless Bra

Photo: Pepper

Pink Wear Everywhere Push Up Strapless Bra

Photo: Victoria's Secret

5. Opt for Removable Straps

If you're open to it, removable straps are a great way to get the best of both worlds. Your tailor can create custom removable straps that snap on and off of your dress so you have the option to add them if you start to feel uncomfortable throughout the evening. Just toss them in your purse, and you'll breathe easy knowing you have them as a backup if needed.

6. Do a Trial Run

The best way to prevent any wardrobe malfunctions is to try on your dress so you can troubleshoot any possible issues early on. "Practice makes perfect," Lee advises. "Try on your dress beforehand to spot any potential problems and avoid any last-minute stress."