The hunt for the perfect bra can be a difficult one. You not only need to find the right size, but you also need the right style for your particular breast shape. Tall and molded cups work better on fuller breasts, for example. Front fastenings work best on those with wide-set breasts. But there’s one bra style that suits almost everyone who tries it: the demi-cup.
Demi-cup bras are also called half cups because they cover roughly half the breast. In practice, this means that the cup stops an inch or two above the nipple. Unlike a plunge, which is low at the center and high at the outer edge, a demi is quite low all over. You'll find some demis cut almost straight across. We call this a ‘balconette’ bra.
The demi-cup is an underwired bra style. The wires are short, a shallow ‘U’ shape compared to deep ‘U’ of a full-cup bra. That’s good news if they ever poke you at the underarm. These likely won’t reach high enough to do that!
But there’s more to the demi-cups popularity than just comfort. People love them because of their versatility. The cups don’t come up very high, which makes them a sexy, skin-baring choice for the bedroom. But it also makes them very practical. Combined with straps that are placed far off to the sides, demi-cup bras easily stay hidden under most necklines.
Demi/half cup bras are available in a variety of styles, from smooth t-shirt cups to fancy lace. They’re one of the most common bra shapes around. But to help you start your search for the perfect demi, here are 16 of my current favorites:
Up to $50
Dark Rose Embroidered Balconette Bra Available in sizes 30B-36DD via Boux Avenue Jardin Rose Balcony Bra by Reger by Janet Reger Available in sizes 32AA-38D via Debenhams Sweetest Sin Demi Bra Available in sizes 32B-38C via Blush Stella Lurex Lace Quarter Cup / Balconette Bra Available in sizes 32A-36C via Figleaves Adorn Balcony Bra Available in US sizes 32A-42H via Ann SummersUp to $100
Adriana Half Pad Balconette Bra Available in sizes 32A-38C via Dora Larsen Torrid Curve Body™ Floral T-Shirt Bra Available in sizes 38B-50H via Torrid Chanée Bra Available in US sizes 32A-36G via Honey Birdette Beatrix Red Placement Stripe Demi Bra Available in US sizes 30DD-42I via Playful Promises Sofia Delicate Flowers Balconette Bra Available in sizes 34B-40C via Intimissimi Tulip Lace Push Up Bra Available in sizes 32C-46H via Curvy CoutureOver $100
Saga Underwire Demi Bra by Simone Pérèle Available in sizes 32B-36DD via Nordstrom Rêve Éveillé Half Cup Bra Available in sizes 32B-38C via Aubade Blue Dahlia Bra Available in sizes 32D-36D via Gilda & Pearl Dressing Floral Half Cup Bra by Lise Charmel Available in sizes 32B-36E via Sugar Cookies NYC Sensual Lace-Trim Underwire Balconette Bra by Kiki de Montparnasse Available in sizes 32B-36D via Neiman MarcusDo you wear demi-cup bras often? Do you have a favorite brand?