I’ve read a lot about this product called Hollywood Fashion Tape, and how it’s a must to have on hand for your wedding (or other big special event) to help prevent straps from moving, clothing in place, and even for last-minute hem fixes.

So, I looked up the products on their website and decided to buy.The kits are actually pretty cheap – around $6-$9, depending on which package you buy. However, when I put the original Hollywood Fashion Tape in my shopping cart and prepared to check out, I realized that shipping was the same as the product, essentially doubling my cost.

Luckily, they have a handy store finder so you can find stores in your area that sell their products.

The closest store to my office is Louis Boston. I’ve never been into this store because everything is so far out of my price range, it’s ridiculous. But, it’s only 2 blocks away, so I decide now’s the time to check it out, since they may have an item I am looking for (that’s in my budget).

When I walked in, I was amazed.This store is like a museum. With household goods, furniture, and artsy items on the first floor, men’s clothing on the second floor, and women’s clothing on the 3rd and fourth floors, it is a giant emporium of high-end beauty. I headed toward the women’s department, and surreptitiously glanced at a few price tags. $595 for a tank top. $1188 for a short-sleeved cardigan. $498 for a plastic-looking bracelet. I’m sure they are all made with the finest materials and high-end workmanship, but still. I buy my tank tops for $9.99 at Old Navy. And they suit me just fine.

A courteous salesperson pointed me to the Hollywood Fashion Tape near the checkout. I thought that such a chi-chi store might mark up the item, but I was pleasantly surprised that it was $7.50 – the same price as on the vendor web site! I paid for my tiny little package of no-slip tape, and they wrapped it in tissue paper and put it in a shopping bag that probably cost more than my sale. I think I must have purchased the cheapest thing in the store by about $50. But, I proudly walked back to my office toting my high-end Louis Boston Shopping bag. I was going to live it up, if just for the moment. No one had to know that I spent less than $8 there.

Has anyone used this before? I will let you know after the wedding how it worked for me. I have a strapless dress that fits pretty snugly, so I don’t think I will be using it to hold up my dress, but I definitely want it on hand just in case. And some of my bridesmaids may use it for their straps or bodices. Let me know what your experiences are with it, or a similar product.

If you want to buy some, check out the store locator – you never know, you may get to try out a store you’ve never been to before.