Balconette Bikini: What It Is, Who It Suits, and the Underwire Styles to Buy

A balconette bikini is a swim top with cups cut horizontally across the bust and straps set wide and fairly straight, which lifts and gives a straight, open neckline; most have an underwire. It suits anyone who wants more support and shape than a triangle top gives, and it is the most flattering choice for fuller busts. Below is how a balconette differs from other tops, how it should fit, and the balconette styles from SIR the Label at Coveti.

Balconette vs triangle vs halter

Who suits a balconette bikini

Almost everyone. The horizontal cup lifts and centres, so it is the strongest choice for D cups and up. On smaller busts it adds shape. The straight neckline is also the most elegant under an open shirt and a cover up. If you dislike wire, look for a balconette shape with wide straps instead, such as the Hilde below.

How a balconette bikini should fit

The underwire should sit flat against the ribcage and behind the breast tissue, not on it. The top edge of each cup should lie smooth, without cutting in and without gaping. The straps should hold the cups up without digging into the shoulders. Swim lycra loosens a little in water, so a snug fit in the fitting room is right.

Balconette and supportive tops from SIR the Label

1. Cleo Balconette in Carob

An underwire swim top with a deep V notched neckline and skinny adjustable shoulder straps, in SIR’s signature form fitting lycra with generous stretch. Fully lined, true to size. Pair it with the Cleo Shaped Brief in Carob, a low rise brief with a scalloped front waistband and moderate coverage.

2. Hilde Twist Top in Dark Navy

A balconette shaped top without the classic thin strap: wide straps, a twisted detail at centre front and lightweight lycra with a lustrous finish. Fully lined, true to size. The choice if you want lift without a wire digging in.

3. Amado Halter Triangle Top in Black

For comparison, a halter triangle with sliding cups and adjustable ties at the back. Lighter support, easier tanning.

4. Talia One Piece in Black

When you want full support and coverage, a one piece in the same lycra. Pair with any of the briefs and cover ups below.

How to style a balconette bikini

A balconette looks finished under an open linen shirt and a silk pant on the way to lunch. With the Marlowe Harem Pant in Monochrome Stripe tied low on the hip, it becomes a beach club outfit. Rust and carob, SIR’s warm shades this season, pair with ivory and chocolate cover ups. Also in rust: the Lilith Brief in Rust, a low rise brief with thin side straps. For the full swim range, read our SIR the Label swimwear guide and browse designer bikinis.

Frequently asked questions

What is a balconette bikini top?

A balconette bikini top has cups cut horizontally across the bust and wide set, fairly vertical straps. It lifts the bust and gives a straight, open neckline, and most balconette tops have an underwire.

Is a balconette bikini good for a big bust?

Yes. The horizontal cup and the underwire give lift and support, so a balconette is one of the best bikini tops for D cups and up.

Is a balconette top the same as an underwire bikini?

Not always. Balconette describes the cup shape and strap position; underwire describes the support. Most balconettes are underwired, but some, like the SIR the Label Hilde Twist Top, use wide straps instead.

How should a balconette bikini fit?

The underwire should sit flat on the ribcage behind the breast tissue, the cup edge should lie smooth without cutting in, and the straps should hold without digging. Swim lycra relaxes in water, so choose a snug fit.

How do you care for an underwire bikini?

Rinse it in cool fresh water after every swim, hand wash it separately, dry it flat in the shade and never iron it. SIR the Label gives the same care for its Cleo Balconette.