How to Cover Your Nipples Without a Bra

Co-authored by Dina Scherer

Last Updated: March 9, 2023 References

Going braless, whether for comfort or style, can be a liberating experience. But if you’re not ok with your nipples being on display, there are several ways to ensure they remain discreet while enjoying life without a bra.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Concealing Your Nipples

1
Use pasties for a disposable option. These one-time use, adhesive stickers cover only your nipple, which makes them ideal for lower cut shirts or thin fabrics. Pasties come in multiple shapes, sizes, and colors ensuring that they will match your skin tone and nipple size. Unless, of course, you opt for a more exciting design.^{[1]
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- Keep in mind that pasties are thin, so not all designs will conceal your nipples when they are hard.
2
Invest in silicon covers for regular use.^{[2]
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Expert Source

Dina Scherer
Wardrobe Stylist & Personal Shopper
Expert Interview. 24 August 2021.} If going braless is an everyday affair, consider investing in silicon covers. Much like pasties, these will cover your nipple and stay on with an adhesive. However, rather than tossing these in the trash when you’re done, you can wash and reuse them many times.
- Silicon covers are a little pricier than pasties, but some brands can be worn up to 100 times. ^{[3]
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- The thicker material of silicon will provide more thorough coverage, but also can be more noticeable under some clothing.
3
Try band-aids or tape for a quick fix. If you find yourself in a position where your nipples are showing while you’re out and about, some common items can save the day. Duct tape is just the right thickness to provide coverage. Take care when it’s time to remove it from such a sensitive area. Adhesive bandages are another alternative. If you place them with the non-sticky area centered over your nipple, removal will be less painful.
- Try making an X shape with the tape or Band-Aids to cover larger nipples.
- Take a shower to weaken the adhesive on tape or band-aids to make removing the tape less traumatic.
4
Place a cotton ball under the tape for additional coverage. Spread a cotton ball over your nipple and tape it into place.^{[4]
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Research source} If you don’t have a cotton ball handy, cut a panty liner into small circles and place those directly over your nipples.
- Ensure that you spread the cotton ball evenly so it doesn’t create a protrusion of its own.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Avoiding a Nip Slip

1
Use fashion tape to keep your clothing in place. This transparent, double-sided tape will adhere your clothing to your skin, ensuring that it stays in place even as you move around. Remove the backing paper and stick the tape directly onto your skin. You will use the other sticky side to attach to your clothes, and you won’t have to worry about any accidental slips.^{[5]
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- Fashion tape is ideal for low cut dresses and tops as well as tank tops with roomy arm holes.
- Because fashion tape was made for use on the skin, it should be easier to remove than regular tape. It’s also unlikely to cause a skin reaction.
2
Try a bandeau for coverage and style. Bandeaus and bralettes are thinner, often lacy, bra alternatives. These pretty undergarments are meant to be seen and are often styled with off-the-shoulder or low-cut shirts. For clothing that has a wider potential for an accidental nipple sighting, a bandeau or bralette may be a perfect option for concealing, while adding a trendy appeal.
3
Don a tighter cami under your clothing to keep everything in place. Using a camisole or tighter fitting tank top under your shirt or blouse will ensure that your nipples stay out of sight.
- Pick a cami in the same shade as your top so it matches or blends with your outfit.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Using Clothing as Camouflage

1
Wear patterns or dark clothing to distract from your nipples. Busy designs, like stripes or polka dots, will divert any unwanted attention away from your nipples.^{[6]
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Expert Source

Dina Scherer
Wardrobe Stylist & Personal Shopper
Expert Interview. 24 August 2021.} Dark clothing, like black, rich blues or even purple will also make it more difficult to see your nipples through your clothes.
- Avoid white and sheer materials when you’re going braless.
2
Try layering for additional coverage. Wearing multiple layers will make your nipples less prominent. Undershirts, tank tops, and camisoles will provide coverage without adding bulk. Try a longer tank top under a blouse using complimentary colors for a put together look.
- Thin camis with lace trim can be found everywhere and are excellent for stylish layering.
3
Opt for looser fits and thicker material.^{[7]
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Expert Source

Dina Scherer
Wardrobe Stylist & Personal Shopper
Expert Interview. 24 August 2021.} It will be easier to conceal your nipples under thicker fabrics. The same can be said for baggier clothing as it won’t be pressed against your skin so firmly.
- Flowy, long tunics are an effortlessly chic option that won’t make you appear frumpy.
4
Add a blazer or jacket to conceal and flatter. The way most coats and blazers fall on your chest will cover your nipples entirely. Blazers come in many materials and styles, ensuring that they will complement an outfit during any season.
5
Throw on a scarf to cover your chest. Scarves aren’t only for winter. With lightweight options in addition to heavier weaves and a wide variety of patterns, adding a scarf will not only serve as an additional nipple cover, but also add a pop of color to your ensemble.
- Choose a longer scarf to ensure it covers your chest, even if you wrap it around your neck.

Expert Q&A

Question

How do I keep my nipples from showing through my dress shirt?

Dina Scherer
Wardrobe Stylist
Dina Scherer is an Image and Wardrobe Stylist and the Founder of Modnitsa Styling, based in New York City. With over a decade of experience, Dina specializes in color analysis, style development, closet editing, and personal shopping. She helps her clients elevate their personal style and curate a wardrobe aligned with their lifestyle. Dina holds degrees in Advertising and Marketing, Fashion Merchandising, and a Certificate in Image Consulting from the Fashion Institute of Technology.

Dina Scherer

Wardrobe Stylist

Expert Answer

Try to pick out a patterned shirt—these designs do a really good job at camouflaging your nipples.
Question

I am 11 and wear a crop vest but you can still see my nipples. How can I prevent this?

Community Answer

You can sew padding into the top. Or you can just wear band aids, which might give you more coverage. A strapless bra might be another option.
Question

How do you go braless without your nipples showing?

Drew Hawkins1

Community Answer

The easiest solution is to use disposable pasties, which are adhesive stickers that cover only your nipple so they aren't visible through your shirt. Simply peel them off and paste them over your nipples. If you plan to go braless often, consider investing silicon covers, which can be washed and reused. They're more expensive, but they'll last up to 100 uses.