There are many different styles of brassieres available on the market. They differ in construction and thus in the functions they can serve. Some allow for a noticeable lift of the bust, while others shape it aesthetically. Not every bra style suits tops and dresses with cut-out necklines. Among the most popular types of bras are balconettes and bardot bras. How do these models differ? When is a balconette suitable, and when is it better to choose a bardot bra?
The history of the balconette and bardot bra
Both the bardot bra and the balconette were popularized by sex symbols from the early 20th century, namely Marilyn Monroe and Brigitte Bardot. These women showed bras not only as a functional garment but also as a sexy addition to the entire outfit. These models allow the breasts to be displayed and visually enlarged. The products are equipped with push-up padding, a soft layer that makes the bust appear one size larger.
The bardot bra and balconette are ideal for tops and dresses with a deeper neckline. They have been on the market for over a hundred years and are currently among the more alluring and popular bra styles. In lingerie stores, you can find bras of this cut both in minimalist versions and with lace, interesting stitching, rhinestones, or bows.
Balconette bra versus bardot bra
The balconette bra and bardot bra are push-up styles that are often confused due to their quite similar shape. At first glance, these products may seem alike, but it is worth paying attention to a few details. These bras are designed for completely different body types. How to distinguish a balconette from a bardot bra? What is the biggest difference between these bra cuts?
The bardot bra consists of cups cut halfway, known as half-cup. It lifts the breasts and exposes them at the top. Currently, bardot bras with straps can be found on the market, although originally these bras were strapless. Bardot bras reveal a much larger part of the bust than balconettes. Their cups end just above the nipples. The bardot bra also has underwires beneath the bust, which help keep the breasts in the right place.
Balconette versus bardot bra
The bardot bra often features a silicone band around the chest. This is because originally it was a strapless style. The silicone helped keep the bra in place, providing security and comfort while wearing. Women with large breasts, which require proper support, often chose the bardot bra.
Both the balconette and bardot bras have straps set quite far apart. This allows these bras to visually enlarge small breasts and beautifully display them. The bardot bra was originally intended for women with smaller busts, so some models included special padding inserts. However, nowadays these products have been modified enough to suit even those with larger breasts.
The balconette has ¾ cups, which are somewhat larger than those used in the bardot bra. Its name comes from the word balcony. The balconette is meant to act as a kind of balcony for the breasts, providing support and lifting them upwards. Traditional balconettes consist of three fabric panels sewn together in a specific way. These bras have a high center panel placed under the cups, along with underwires.
Modern balconettes are often additionally stiffened. Models for women with smaller busts have extra inserts that enhance the push-up effect. Sometimes balconette bras use up to six underwires. These are very stable, rigid constructions that keep the breasts in a specific position throughout the day. The underwires are located along the lower rib border, under the cups, and at points closing the cup area.
Bardot bra versus balconette – body type
The traditional bardot bra has no straps, only a silicone band under the bust. For this reason, it may not provide enough support for very large and heavy breasts. Women with a full bust can opt for modified bardot bras with detachable straps. These elements offer a greater sense of stability and security. If needed, they can be easily removed and adapted to outfits with bare shoulders.
The balconette is an excellent choice for women with even larger breasts. It consists of stable underwires that reach up to the armpit. This allows for stability and nicely shapes larger breasts. For very small breasts, the balconette may be somewhat uncomfortable. The straps in such a bra are placed near the armpits, so they lift an already large bust well but may be uncomfortable with small breasts.
The balconette also suits women whose breasts are set quite far apart. This is due to the high, stable center panel placed in the middle. This bra is also recommended for pregnant and nursing women who struggle with loss of breast firmness due to breastfeeding or rapid weight loss.
Modern balconettes and bardot bras
Today, lingerie stores offer both traditional bardot and balconette bras, as well as models that combine features of both styles. For this reason, choosing the right product can sometimes be challenging. It is worth focusing on the strap placement and the height of the center panel. Trying on different bra models to see which looks best with your bust is a good idea. Manufacturers often do not strictly follow the rules characteristic of a given lingerie type. Therefore, on the market, you can find, for example, balconettes suitable for small breasts, as well as reinforced bardot bras with straps that support large breasts.
Bardot bra versus balconette – which clothes do they suit?
The balconette bra naturally has straps, but they are set wide enough to be easily hidden under a dress. It works well with bras for deeper necklines. The bardot bra has no straps, making it a good choice with sleeveless outfits. However, it must be perfectly fitted to the size of the breasts and the woman's body circumference. Otherwise, it may slip down. This is especially important for larger breasts, which can be heavy and may cause the bra to sag without additional support from straps.
There are also models with decorative straps that complement the outfit. An interesting choice is bardot and balconette bras with detachable straps. These are very versatile products to which you can match any straps depending on the specific outfit. It is also worth remembering that dark lingerie does not work well under light, sheer tops and dresses. For this reason, a beige bra, invisible under white clothes, is an absolute must-have in many women's wardrobes.
Which bra to choose – balconette or bardot?
The choice of the right bra should always depend on the individual preferences of each woman. Every lady has a different breast size and spacing, so to find the right model, it is worth trying on at least a few. It may turn out that a balconette recommended for women with large breasts may not suit a woman who indeed has a larger bust but with breasts set very close together. When choosing lingerie, it is always best to prioritize your comfort. The quality of workmanship also matters. A good bra will serve you well for years without underwires coming loose or other quality issues.
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