Seriously, What is a Balconette Bra? Or Is It a Balcony Bra?

You say, “Balcony Bra.” I say, “Balconette Bra.” Who is correct? The truth is, both of us are. This is a case of classic semantics and here’s why.

The Balconette Bra is actually named after the architectural feature of a railed elevated platform protruding from a building, so whatever you call this bra really depends on whether you would call this structural attribute a “balcony” or “balconette.” The idea behind the name is that the bra is meant to function as a proper “balconette” or “balcony” for your breasts, hence why the neckline of the original design lays straight across your chest.

What are balconette bras?

The Balconette Bra was originally manufactured in the late 1930s, but didn’t come into full style until the 1950s when Marilyn Monroe was seen modeling the Balconette Bra. As a result, many Balconette Bras are named after this infamous starlet.

How do you know if you’ve found a Balcony or Balconette Bra? Check the cups and straps.

The cups on a Balconette Bra offer a little less coverage than a classic demi for an added emphasis on your natural cleavage–not on a push-up bra level, but it gives you some room to show off your curves.

The straps are set wider apart for the same purpose and they’ll sit closer to the edge of your shoulder–but never fear, the straps of a great Balconette never slip.

Want to find out if Balconette or Balcony bras are right for you? You can try any of our Balconette Bras fear-free with our Perfect Fit Promise: 60 days to try it. If you don’t love it, returns are always free.

Whether you want to call it a Balcony or Balconette Bra, the most important part is that you feel great in it and we think these Balconette Bras will do just the trick:

For more balconette styles, check out our full collection here.