By Jenisha Jonchhe Researched and tested where possible Updated
Affiliate links: this guide links to Amazon UK. As an Amazon Associate, My Bra Size earns from qualifying purchases. It never changes the advice or the size we suggest.
What to search for on Amazon UK
Add your UK size to the search on Amazon (for example “34G”). Not sure of it? Use our bra size calculator first.
- 1
Seamed balconette (unpadded)
Cups made from several fabric panels lift and shape without foam. The classic fuller-bust balconette.
- 2
Padded balconette
Light padding smooths the cups under clothes while keeping the rounded, uplifted shape.
- 3
Lace balconette
A straight neckline shows off lace detail, and works as a pretty layer under sheer blouses.
- 4
Balconette for fuller cups (DD+)
Fuller-bust balconettes add side support panels so the wide straps do not let the cups fall outwards.
As an Amazon Associate, My Bra Size earns from qualifying purchases. Links open Amazon UK; prices and stock are set by Amazon and its sellers. Search results change often, so a product appearing there has not necessarily been tested. Product photos, where shown, come from Amazon. How we handle affiliate links
A balconette bra has a straight, horizontal neckline and wide-set straps. The cups lift from underneath, creating a rounded, uplifted shape, like a balcony, which is where the name comes from.
How does a balconette lift?
The cup is usually lower cut than a full cup and supported from below. Seamed versions use a vertical or angled seam to push tissue upwards and forwards. Because the straps sit towards the outside of your shoulders, the neckline stays wide and open.
Who suits a balconette bra?
Balconettes often suit:
- breasts that are fuller at the bottom than the top;
- wide-set breasts;
- square, scoop and sweetheart necklines.
If your breasts are fuller at the top or close together, a plunge bra may fit you better. Our page on types of bras compares every style.
How should a balconette fit?
Use your usual UK size; our bra size calculator gives a starting size if you need one. Then check:
- The straight top edge lies flat. Gaping at the top means the cup is too big or the shape does not suit you.
- No breast tissue spills over the top or out at the sides.
- The wires sit behind your breast tissue at the sides.
- The straps stay on your shoulders without digging in.
If the straps slip or the band feels loose, try your sister size with a smaller band.
Brands to search for
Curvy Kate, Freya and Panache all make seamed balconettes in fuller-bust sizes, and Panache’s Tango is a long-running example. Our brand size guides explain each brand’s labelling.
Questions people ask
Is a balconette the same as a balcony bra?
Who suits a balconette bra?
Why do my balconette straps slip?
Is a balconette good for big busts?
Written by
Jenisha Jonchhe
Jenisha Jonchhe is a New York-based fashion writer and designer with academic training in fashion design. She writes research-led bra sizing and fit guides for UK shoppers.
Researched from brand and retailer size guides, and tested hands-on where possible. Search results on Amazon change often, so a product appearing there has not necessarily been tested. How we research and test
