A bra style changes the neckline, the lift and how the piece reads under clothing — start with the outfit and the evening, not the size label.
Most bra confusion is not about size but about shape. The cup cut decides where the bra covers, lifts and shows, and that is what changes under a neckline.
Balconette
A low top edge and support from below. It lifts without covering the upper chest, so it works under a square or wide neckline. Best for a full bust that wants shape rather than coverage.
Demi cup
Covers roughly half the breast with a low upper edge. It suits a deep scoop or a wide V and gives a rounded line. Less coverage than a full cup, so check that the edge does not cut in when you move.
Plunge
The centre front is cut low between the cups. It follows a deep V and stays hidden under a low-cut dress. The band does the support here: if the band is loose, a plunge will not stay put.
Full cup
More coverage and a higher edge. It holds the whole breast and suits everyday wear and a fuller bust. Under a low neckline it will show, so keep it for high-cut tops and shirts.
Bralette
No underwire, soft fabric, less lift. Good under loose clothing and for long wear. If you want a defined line, an underwired style does it better.
Bra styles at a glance
| Style | Coverage | Best under |
|---|---|---|
| Balconette | Low top edge, lift from below | Square or wide neckline |
| Demi | About half the breast | Deep scoop |
| Plunge | Low centre front | Deep V |
| Full cup | Full coverage, higher edge | Shirts, high necklines |
| Bralette | Soft, no underwire | Loose tops, layering |
Choosing by neckline
Square or wide: balconette. Deep V: plunge. Scoop: demi. High neck or shirt: full cup or bralette. The band size matters more than the cup style: start with the size guide, then pick the shape for the outfit.
The chart
The measurements behind this guide.
XS–4XL, centimetres or inches, with a three-measurement size finder. One chart across the whole site.
Still unsure?
Send us your measurements.
Tell us the piece you are considering. We will compare your numbers with the actual stock and tell you where we would start.
Decision tree
If you want…
| If you want… | Choose | |
|---|---|---|
| the most support | Full cup | Shop |
| a lifted shape | Plunge | Shop |
| a soft everyday bra | Bralette | Shop |
| a smooth line | Demi | Shop |
FAQ
Common questions
Which bra style is best for a deep V?
A plunge bra follows a deep V and stays hidden. The band does the support; if the band is loose, the plunge will not stay put.
What is the difference between balconette and demi?
A balconette has a low top edge and lifts from below; a demi covers about half the breast. Both suit wide or scoop necklines.
Can I wear a full-cup bra under a low neckline?
It will show. Keep full-cup styles for shirts and high necklines.
