We know, we know – shopping for bras can be a nightmare. It’s a minefield out there. What are all these bras? What difference do they make? And how on earth do you choose?
That’s why we welcome you to: The Bra Series
As part of our #FreeTheSqueeze campaign, we’ll be introducing you to the wonderful world of bras (and if that bra is right for your boobs). By the end of this series, you’ll know so much about bras, you’ll be calling up ITV, challenging The Governess (or old ‘Frosty Knickers’ as Bradley likes to call her) to a bra special on ‘The Chase’.
So let’s begin:
What is a Balcony Bra?
Panache Jasmine Balcony Bra in Black & Pink Houndstooth Print
The Straps
A balcony bra (or balconette, as you may know it by) has wide-set straps that sit right on the edge of the cup. It creates a square-ish neckline that makes the balcony perfect for wearing with a variety of stylish, low-cut tops and dresses (go on, show off your décolletage).
The Cups
The trusted balcony offers just the right amount of coverage (about ¾ of the boobs), so is a fantastic option when you’re looking for that extra something, to make you feel super feminine and glamorous, but also, incredibly supported.
The cup is usually made up of 3 parts, which will mould to your breasts, and make the most out of your natural shape. The wires come up about mid-way on your chest and fully encase your boobs, to enhance your cleavage.
3 Part Cup – Fantasie Susanna in Fuchsia Balcony Bra (with side support)
Side Support
Some balconies have this amazing secret panel known as side support (it’s not really a secret, nor is it secretly hidden, but it makes it sound snazzy right?), which will project your boobs forward, and keep you looking neat and tidy. So, if you happen to have wide-set boobs, with a considerable gap in between them – or your boobs are quite full on the side – then a balcony with side support will be the perfect choice for you.
Fantasie Julia in Blueberry Balcony Bra with Side Support
Balcony Plunge
A sister style of the Balcony, combining all the benefits of both Balcony and Plunge – it’s the best of both worlds. The cups provide less coverage than a standard balcony, but more than a regular plunge, creating a beautiful sweetheart line to frame your chest. If you’re busty, it’s got the oomph, without compromising on the support. Rest assure, your boobs are not going anywhere.
Freya Doodle Balcony Plunge Bra
Is a Balcony right for me?
A balcony is a great all round bra, and suits almost all kinds of boobs.
They are especially good if you have boobs that are fuller at the bottom. The shape of the cup will naturally lift you up, giving you that fabulous cleavage you’ve always dreamed off.
If you find that your breasts are fuller on top, you may want to opt for balcony styles that have a top panel (quite often in lace) with a little more stretch in it. Bras with stiff or fixed fabric used on that panel, could end up cutting into that fullness, giving you the appearance of double boobs (even if the rest of the cup fits well) – I think we can both agree here, that’s a big no, no.
Just for fun
And in case you happen to be sat here wondering “Where does the name balcony comes from?” (and why wouldn’t you be, it’s an odd name for a bra after all, isn’t it?) – Well apparently, back in the day at the theatre, men would supposedly look down from their balconies, trying to catch a glimpse our lady lumps! – they couldn’t see this type of bra from above (shame on you men. Tsk tsk).
(We cannot confirm how factually accurate that is, but never-the-less, it made us chuckle).
Stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll be revealing the wonders of the Half Cup.
View our entire range of Balcony Bras at mish-online
(left) Lepel Lilly Moulded Balconette Bra – (right) Freya Eden Balcony Plunge Bra
Charnos Violet Balconette Bra
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