The bra is a piece of lingerie with a great history, which has seen the birth of several bra shapes over time.
The full-cup bra and the balcony bra are two great lingerie classics found in almost every lace drawer. While the full-cup is the most covering and reassuring model, it remains nonetheless elegant. The balcony bra, a bit sexier, reveals a bit more of the bust for more open necklines. Shapes, support, effect on the bust: we explain everything to help you choose your ideal bra.
At the end of the article, find THE collection that echoes your questions!
What is a full-cup bra?
The full-cup bra is designed to encompass the entire breast. Its cups are high, covering, and often reinforced on the sides to guarantee excellent support. It is one of the perfect bras for full busts, which need firm support daily without sacrificing comfort. With or without underwiring, its missions remain the same: to hold, support, and reassure.
The Narcisse bra from our collection is as seductive as it is encompassing:
What is a balcony bra?
The balcony bra focuses more on shape than coverage. It reveals the top of the bust with a horizontal cut, slightly half-moon shaped for a lifted and rounded effect, often very flattering. It also suits full busts very well, provided it has a good construction.
Our ICONIC Alberta line embodies the art of the balcony bra on its own:
Main differences between full-cup and balcony
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Cup shapes: The full-cup bra envelops the entire breast, from the bottom to the top. The balcony bra clears the top of the bust: its cups stop at the upper third, for a more subtle cleavage effect.
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Support level: The full-cup is the shape with the strongest support. It is often praised as the ultimate bra for full busts. The balcony offers lighter support for larger sizes looking for a more open style.
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Final look: The full-cup has a natural, round, uniform look. The balcony gives a more rounded, shaped, and very flattering effect under a V-neck or an open neckline.
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Comfort and use: The full-cup bra is often chosen for daily wear, work, or any situation where you want to be comfortable and well-supported. The balcony, more seductive and light, is ideal for dressed-up looks, special occasions, or just for the pleasure of wearing a beautiful piece of lingerie.
Which model to choose based on your body shape?
There is a bra shape adapted to every body type. The choice of model therefore depends on your bust but also on your outfit and your mood of the day!
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Do you have a small bust? The balcony bra is a precious ally to highlight your natural shape without squashing it. It structures and enhances without adding unnecessary volume.
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Do you have a full bust? The full-cup will be your best ally. It ensures impeccable support while smoothing the silhouette under your clothes.
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Does your bust tend to sag (naturally or after pregnancy)? The full-cup is preferred. Its high and encompassing shape allows the bust to be properly repositioned and offers a nice curve without compression.
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Is your bust fuller at the bottom than at the top? (volume is concentrated at the base of the breast, with little matter at the top): opt here too for a full-cup bra or a model with centered straps and well-structured cups. This helps lift the bust and visually rebalance the curve.
Suzie bras have been designed for women who want to feel both supported and seductive. Its great coverage offers reassuring comfort throughout the day, while its sensual and modern details remind us that beautiful lingerie is also a pleasure for oneself. Romance revisited, with a touch of assumed modernity.
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Looking for a discreet model? Go for a microfiber full-cup, sober and efficient.
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Do you love sexy details? A balcony bra in delicate lace, or even embroidered, will be the perfect glamour touch, especially if you are looking for a cleavage effect with light volume.
Our article was written by Sélène, our Content Manager, in collaboration with Guilhermina, our Head of Design.
