A balconette bra has a lower, horizontal cut across the cups and wide-set straps, which lifts the bust and creates a rounded, squared shape. It works well under wide, square and scooped necklines. Here is what makes it distinctive and who it suits.
This is one of the styles in our guide to the types of bras.
What is a balconette bra?
A balconette (or balcony) bra has cups cut straight across the top, showing more of the upper bust, with straps set wide on the shoulders. The name comes from the shelf-like lift it gives.
Because the cups sit lower and the straps are wide, it lifts from below rather than covering from above. The result is a rounded, slightly squared shape and noticeable lift, without the plunge of a low-centre bra.
What necklines does a balconette suit?
Wide, square, scooped and boat necklines. The wide-set straps sit further out on the shoulder, so they stay hidden under necklines that a standard bra's straps would show at.
It is less suited to a deep V or a very narrow neckline, where a plunge bra works better. For matching bras to outfits, see what bra to wear under different necklines.
Who does a balconette bra suit?
It suits most bust sizes, and is often recommended for a fuller bust wanting lift with support. The wide straps and lower cut distribute weight comfortably.
A smaller bust gets a rounded, lifted shape from it; a fuller bust gets lift without the whole bust being compressed. If you are choosing for a fuller bust, see the best bras for a bigger bust.
How is a balconette different from a demi bra?
They are close, but a balconette is cut straighter across and gives more lift, while a demi-cup is angled and shows a little more cleavage. Both are lower-cut than a full cup.
See the demi-cup bra for the comparison, and the t-shirt bra if you want an everyday smooth option instead.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a balconette and a full-cup bra?
A full cup covers most of the bust and gives maximum support and coverage. A balconette is cut lower and straighter across, giving more lift and a rounder shape with less coverage.
Is a balconette bra supportive?
Yes, when it fits. The wide-set straps and structured lower cup give good lift and support, which is why it suits a fuller bust as well as a smaller one.
Does Erblis sell balconette bras?
Erblis stocks a focused range of everyday, wireless, convertible and push-up bras rather than every named style. Browse the bras collection to see the current selection, with free Karachi delivery and Cash on Delivery.
The short version
A balconette is a lower, horizontal-cut bra with wide-set straps that lifts and squares the bust. It suits wide and square necklines and works for most bust sizes, particularly a fuller one wanting lift. Use code WELCOME10 for 10% off your first order.