Marlies Dekkers

Marlies Dekkers founded her lingerie brand in the Netherlands in 1993 with a clear manifesto: lingerie shouldn't be hidden. Her designs — characterised by exposed straps, cage constructions, fine stretch fabric, and intricate appliqué — are made to be shown rather than concealed. The brand has built a celebrity following globally and remains one of the most distinctive names in lingerie. D to F cup, sizes 10 to 16 at Brava.

Construction and fit

Despite the fashion-forward aesthetic, Marlies Dekkers bras are well-constructed and genuinely supportive within their size range. The wires are softer and more flexible than most fuller-bust brands — which makes them comfortable for women who find rigid underwire difficult — and the cups are typically moulded for a smooth, rounded shape. The Dame de Paris Balconette is the brand's signature at Brava: a moulded balcony with the characteristic exposed strap detail, available in ivory and multiple fashion colours. It's as comfortable for everyday wear as it is striking as a statement piece.

Fit note: Marlies Dekkers runs at the smaller end of its stated size range in cup. The brand doesn't have the structural engineering of Elomi or Panache at the upper end of D–F cup, so it's best suited to women whose bust is more moderate in density and projection, or who wear bras primarily for aesthetic enjoyment as well as function.

Related at Brava

For other fashion-forward lingerie at D+ cup, browse Samanta for luxury Polish lace, or Empreinte for French precision at a similar aesthetic level. See balcony bras and plunge bras across all brands.