Demi-Cup & Balconette Bras

A demi-bra or balconette bra is used for more than shaping and support; it teases just a bit by displaying more of the upper surface of the breast, a fun choice for shirts with low necklines. You will often find additional support or padding underneath to add more lift and enhance the cleavage, and you'll love the pretty, lacy styles common to this design.

Freya specializes in what they call balcony bras, which is the same thing as a balconette, in which the top half of each bra is sheer and the bottom very supportive. We like the crochet-like fabric of their Rio style, as well as the gorgeous Tamsin and very feminine Pollyanna.

For something a bit more down-to-earth, bras which do the work so you can be the main attraction, we recommend Gilligan & O'Malley balconette bras and demi-bras. Most Gilligan & O'Malley demi-bras| are available in a huge variety of solid colors, some with scalloped edges, but many are quite simple. We love the Gilligan & O'Malley Ebony Balconette, which showcases white lacing and removable shoulder straps to contrast the black cups and back strap. This is essentially a convertible bra; just remove the straps to change this from a traditional halter style to a strapless bra.

Felina offers a little of everything, from the satin-cupped Emily with a mesh lace back strap to the dramatic Celine with contrasting floral embroidery and delicate scallops across the tops of the cups. Maidenform also produces more varied styles than you might expect, from the straightforward Total Solutions styles to the sexy jaguar print, among others, in their One Fabulous Fit line.

Chantelle loves lace, which is well-demonstrated with the baroque Accroche demi-bra in gently blushing rose with black filigree, and it can be purchased with a matching thong. Many Chantelle demi-bras are sold as part of a matching set, but separates like the romantic Icone with sheer, embroidered cups and floral scalloped edges are also available. Speaking of romantic styles, Jezebel has several of our favorites, including the Desire, an unlined black lace demi trimmed with a delicate pink ribbon. Check out Cherished and Wild Thing for other beautiful styles, or for something daring, we might suggest discarding everything but the shaping and support, and trying their entirely sheer style, Risque.