A demi bra has a lower-coverage cup, usually covering about half to three-quarters of the breast. You’ll also see it called a demi cup or half cup; “demi” is French for half. It’s designed for open necklines and gives an uplifted, upfront shape.
What does a demi bra look like?
A demi cup stops lower than a full cup, often just above the nipple line. Brands disagree on the exact shape, so demi bras range from cups cut straight across to cups that angle down toward the center. Marks & Spencer calls the demi “the perfect halfway house between full-cup and push-up styles”. Bravissimo describes the half cup as having slightly less coverage than a balconette, with an “upfront, uplifted shape”.
Typical features:
- Lower top edge than a full cup.
- Wired or molded construction in most cases.
- Straps in various positions, from central to wide-set.
Demi vs balconette vs plunge
| Style | What defines it | Center | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Demi | Lower cup coverage | Low to moderate | About half to three-quarters |
| Balconette | Straight, horizontal top edge | Moderate | Medium |
| Plunge | Low, narrow center | Low | Angled, less at center |
These styles overlap. A demi can look very like a balconette, and some brands use the names interchangeably. Compare the product photo with your neckline instead of relying on the name. Our balconette bra guide explains that style in more detail.
Who does a demi bra suit?
- Smaller busts: less fabric at the top means less gaping. Our bras for small chests guide covers this.
- Fuller lower breasts, where most tissue sits below the top edge.
- Open necklines: scoop necks, square necks and off-the-shoulder tops.
Demi bras are harder to fit if you have fuller upper breasts or very soft tissue. The low edge can cut across the breast and create a bulge at the top.
How should a demi bra fit?
- No spilling: lean forward and move around. Your tissue should stay in the cups.
- Top edge: lies flat without cutting a line into your breast.
- Band: firm and level, on the loosest hook when new.
- Wires: sit behind your tissue at the sides.
- Center: rests against your breastbone in an underwired bra.
If the edge cuts in, try going up a cup or switching to a fuller cut. If the cups gape, the shape may be too wide for you. The bra fit checker can help narrow it down.
What to wear with a demi bra
- Scoop and square necklines.
- Off-the-shoulder and wide boat-neck tops.
- Sweetheart necklines on dresses.
For deep V necks, a plunge bra usually stays more hidden.
Shopping for demi bras
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Lightly lined demi bras
Thin molded cups for a smooth, rounded shape.
Search Amazon for lightly lined demi bras (opens in a new tab, affiliate link) -
Unlined demi bras
Natural shape and a light feel. Seamed cups add structure.
Search Amazon for unlined demi bras (opens in a new tab, affiliate link) -
Demi push-up bras
Lower coverage with angled padding for lift.
Search Amazon for demi push-up bras (opens in a new tab, affiliate link) -
Lace demi bras
A pretty edge for open necklines. Check the lace lies flat.
Search Amazon for lace demi bras (opens in a new tab, affiliate link)
Results are Amazon’s, not our picks. Check the size range, the return policy and the features above before you buy.
Browse every style in our types of bras guide.
