Skims Balconette Push Up Bra Review 2026: Should You Try This?

The Skims Balconette Push Up Bra has taken over social media feeds, dressing rooms, and wishlist tabs since its launch. Kim Kardashian’s brand keeps dropping bras that promise lift, shape, and comfort in one piece. But does the balconette push up version live up to the hype in 2026?

I tested this bra for weeks across different outfits and daily activities. I checked the fit, the fabric, the lift, and the longevity. This honest review breaks down everything you need to know before you click add to cart.

You will learn how it fits, how it feels, who it suits, and how it compares to other top push up bras. I also list three solid alternatives you can grab on Amazon if Skims sells out or sits outside your budget. Let’s get into the details.

Key Takeaways

• The Skims Ultimate Balconette Push Up Bra gives a strong natural lift without making the chest look fake or overstuffed. The foam pads sculpt the shape from the bottom up.
• The microfiber fabric feels soft against the skin and stays cool in warm weather. Most testers report no itching, digging, or strap slipping during full day wear.
• Sizing runs slightly small in the cup and snug in the band. Skims recommends sizing up one band size if you fall between sizes for a better fit.
• Best for cup sizes A through DD who want visible cleavage with a balconette neckline that pairs with scoop, square, and straight cut tops.
• The bra costs $64, which sits in the mid premium range but stays cheaper than Wacoal or Agent Provocateur push up styles.
• Color range covers nine skin matching tones plus classic black, making it easy to find an invisible match under white shirts.

What Is the Skims Balconette Push Up Bra?

The Skims Balconette Push Up Bra is a structured underwire bra with foam pads built into balconette shaped cups. The brand calls its newest version the Ultimate Balconette Push Up Bra. It was redesigned with a straighter neckline so it works under scoop and square neck tops.

Balconette means the cups sit lower and wider than a standard demi bra. They lift the bust upward and inward to create center cleavage. The push up element adds extra padding at the bottom of the cup for a fuller look.

This bra is made from a soft sheen microfiber blend. The side wings smooth the underarm area. The straps adjust at the back and can convert to a crisscross style for racerback tops.

It uses a concealed underwire for support without poking. The band closes with a standard hook and eye closure at the back. It comes in sizes ranging from 32A to 42DD across most colorways.

The brand markets it as the bra that gives you cleavage in any outfit. After testing, I can confirm the lift is the standout feature. The shape feels rounded and full without looking artificial.

First Impressions and Unboxing

The bra arrived in the signature Skims neutral packaging. The presentation feels premium for a $64 bra. I ordered the Clay shade, which is a warm beige tone close to medium skin.

The fabric felt softer than I expected. The microfiber has a slight sheen but does not look shiny on the body. The padding inside the cups feels firm but flexible.

I noticed the underwire sits flat against the band. No metal pokes through any seams. The stitching looks clean and even, which matters at this price point.

The straps are wider than thin lingerie straps. They feel sturdy and look more like everyday bra straps. The hook and eye closure has three rows for fit adjustments.

My first try on test showed the cups ran slightly small. I went back and reordered one cup size up. This sizing tip matters a lot for getting the right fit. Skims itself recommends sizing up if you sit between sizes.

The second pair fit perfectly across the band and filled the cup without spillage. The lift was visible the moment I clipped the back closed. The center gore sat flat against my chest, which means the band size was correct.

Fabric, Build Quality, and Comfort

The fabric blend uses nylon and spandex with a microfiber finish. It feels smooth and stretches in all directions. The inside of the cups has a brushed lining that feels soft against the skin.

I wore this bra for twelve straight hours during a long workday. I forgot I had it on by hour three. That rarely happens with push up bras, which usually feel restrictive by the afternoon.

The underwire stayed in place and did not dig into my ribs. The band held its shape without rolling up or sliding. The straps did not slip off my shoulders even when I reached overhead.

The fabric also handles sweat well. On a warm day, the microfiber wicked moisture instead of holding it. The cups did not feel soggy or heavy after a workout walk.

I machine washed mine in a lingerie bag on cold. It dried flat overnight and kept its shape after ten washes. The color did not fade and the elastic did not stretch out.

Build quality matches what you would expect from a $60 plus bra. The construction feels solid and the materials feel durable. This is one of the strongest points of the Skims version.

How the Push Up and Lift Performs

The push up effect is the main reason people buy this bra. The foam pads angle the bust upward and inward. The result is a rounder, fuller silhouette under clothing.

I am a 34B in most brands. With this bra, my chest looked closer to a full C cup. The cleavage was visible without being aggressive or pushed to the chin.

The lift stays in place all day. The bra does not lose its shape after hours of wear. This is different from cheaper push up bras that flatten by lunch.

The balconette cut means the top of the cup sits horizontally across the bust. This creates a clean line under tight tops. It also works well with square neck and straight neck tops.

For larger cup sizes, the lift is more subtle. Reviewers in the D and DD range say the bra adds shape without adding visible volume. Smaller cups get a more dramatic push up effect.

The center gore creates real separation without squeezing the chest. The cups feel structured but not stiff. This balance is hard to find in push up bras at this price point.

Top 3 Alternatives for Skims Balconette Push Up Bra

Last update on 2026-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Last update on 2026-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Last update on 2026-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Sizing Guide and Fit Tips

Skims sizing runs slightly different from standard US bra sizing. Most testers report the cups feel smaller than expected. The band fits true to size for most people.

If you sit between sizes, size up the band by one. This is the official Skims recommendation. If your cup feels tight or spills, size up one cup as well.

Use a soft measuring tape to check your band and bust size before ordering. Measure the band just under your bust on the rib cage. Measure the bust at the fullest point while wearing a thin unpadded bra.

Subtract the band number from the bust number to find the cup. Each inch of difference equals one cup size. A four inch difference means a D cup, for example.

For wide set busts, the center gore sits flat against the chest. For close set busts, the gore may push slightly outward. This is normal for any push up balconette style.

Skims offers free returns on unworn items, which makes sizing experiments easier. Keep the tags attached and try the bra on over a thin top first. You can always reorder a different size if the first try does not work.

Best Outfits to Pair With This Bra

The straight neckline makes this bra one of the most versatile push up styles you can own. It works under almost every shirt cut except deep plunge tops. The cups stay hidden under scoop, square, crew, and boat necks.

I paired mine with a fitted white t shirt for a casual look. The push up shape filled out the top without showing any lines or seams. The microfiber stayed invisible under thin fabric.

For dressier looks, this bra works under a silk camisole or fitted blouse. The lift creates a polished silhouette under structured tops. It also pairs well with bodycon dresses and ribbed knits.

Under sweaters, the bra adds shape without bulk. The smoothing side wings stop the underarm bulge that some bras create. This makes it work under thinner sweaters as well as chunky knits.

The bra is not the best pick for plunge necklines or deep V tops. The center gore sits too high for those styles. For plunges, choose a different cut from the Skims lineup.

The convertible straps switch to crisscross or racerback for tank tops. The strap adjustment takes about thirty seconds and stays secure once set.

Color Range and Inclusivity

Skims offers this bra in nine skin matching tones plus a few classic colors. The skin tones range from very fair to deep brown. The brand prioritizes finding a match for every skin shade.

The standard colors include onyx (black), clay, cocoa, jasper, sienna, sand, and bronze. Each shade has a slight sheen to match the microfiber fabric. The colors look true to the website photos.

For invisible wear under white or light shirts, pick the shade closest to your skin. A correct color match disappears under thin fabric better than plain nude. This is why the wide color range matters so much.

Black works under dark clothing without showing. The onyx shade has a slight matte finish that does not catch light. It looks polished under sheer black tops.

Skims also releases seasonal limited shades throughout the year. Past drops have included berry, dusty rose, and warm taupe tones. Check the site for new colorways if you want options beyond the standard nine.

The size range starts at 32A and goes up through 42DD on most colors. Some limited shades have a smaller size range. The brand has been expanding sizing each year since launch.

Pros of the Skims Balconette Push Up Bra

The lift is the biggest pro. This bra creates real cleavage without uncomfortable squeezing. The push up effect looks natural and stays in place all day.

The fabric feels soft and breathable. The microfiber blend handles long wear without irritation. It does not pill or fade after multiple washes.

The color range matches a wide variety of skin tones. Finding an invisible nude is easier with Skims than most other bra brands. This makes layering under white shirts simple.

The straight neckline pairs with more outfit styles than a typical push up demi. It works under scoop, square, crew, and straight cuts. This versatility justifies the higher price.

The straps adjust easily and convert to crisscross. The hook and eye closure has three rows for band fit changes. The bra accommodates small weight changes without needing replacement.

Construction quality feels premium. The seams hold up to regular wear and washing. This bra outlasts cheaper push up styles by months.

Cons of the Skims Balconette Push Up Bra

The price sits at $64, which is more than many shoppers want to spend on one bra. Multiple colors quickly add up to a major lingerie budget. Compare this to $20 to $30 for many Maidenform or Calvin Klein options.

Sizing runs inconsistent for some shoppers. The cup may feel small and the band may feel tight on the first hook. Plan to size up if you fall between standard sizes.

The push up effect may feel too dramatic for some bust sizes. Smaller cups get a very visible lift, which is not what everyone wants. If you prefer a subtle natural shape, the Fits Everybody Balconette is a better pick.

The bra is not designed for plunge necklines. The center gore sits high. This limits use with deep V tops and certain dress styles.

Skims restocks can be slow and popular colors sell out fast. Waiting for restocks can take weeks. Set up notification alerts for the size and shade you want.

The bra is sold through Skims direct only. It is not on Amazon Prime for quick shipping. Standard delivery takes three to seven business days.

How It Compares to Other Skims Bras

Skims sells several push up and balconette options across its lineup. The Ultimate Balconette is the most structured and gives the strongest lift. It is the top pick if cleavage is your main goal.

The Fits Everybody Balconette uses stretch fabric without heavy padding. It gives a softer, more natural shape. This style suits everyday wear better than the Ultimate version.

The Fits Everybody T Shirt Push Up Bra gives moderate lift in a seamless cup. It works under tight tops without showing edges. The shape is rounder than the Ultimate Balconette.

The Wireless Push Up Bra skips underwire for all day comfort. It gives less lift than the underwire versions. It is the best pick for travel and lounge wear.

If you want maximum lift and shape, choose the Ultimate Balconette Push Up. If you want everyday comfort with mild shaping, choose the Fits Everybody Balconette. Many shoppers own both for different occasions.

The Ultimate version costs slightly more than the Fits Everybody styles. The added padding and structure justify the price difference. The Fits Everybody is the better entry point to the Skims bra lineup.

Care and Washing Tips

Hand washing extends the life of any push up bra. Use cold water and a mild detergent for best results. Skip the dryer and lay flat to air dry.

For machine washing, place the bra in a lingerie mesh bag. Wash on the delicate cycle with cold water. Use a small amount of gentle detergent without bleach or fabric softener.

Never wring a push up bra to remove water. Twisting damages the foam pads and underwire. Press the bra between two towels to absorb moisture instead.

Air dry the bra flat on a towel or clean surface. Reshape the cups before drying to keep their structure. Avoid hanging by the straps, which can stretch them out.

Rotate between two or three bras instead of wearing one every day. The elastic needs twenty four hours to recover between wears. This rotation doubles the life of each bra.

Store bras flat in a drawer with cups facing up. Do not fold one cup into the other. Folded cups develop creases that show under clothing.

Is the Skims Balconette Push Up Bra Worth It

The Skims Balconette Push Up Bra is worth the $64 price if you want a structured push up that lasts. The lift, fabric, and color range justify the cost for most shoppers. The construction outperforms most bras in the same price range.

If you are budget conscious, the Maidenform Love The Lift gives a similar push up effect for less. The Calvin Klein Constant Push Up offers a sleek shape at a mid range price. Both work as solid alternatives.

For shoppers who already own Skims pieces, this bra fits the same quality and style standards. It coordinates with Skims underwear and bodysuits. The matching shade range makes layering easier.

The Ultimate Balconette earned a 4.5 star rating from thousands of Skims customers. Most reviewers mention the lift and comfort as the top features. Negative reviews focus on sizing issues, which the sizing guide can solve.

This is a strong pick for special occasions, daily wear, and outfit photography. The lift photographs well and stays in place during long events. It is one of the best push up bras released in the last few years.

If you want the most lift money can buy without going custom, this bra delivers. The Skims Balconette Push Up Bra has earned its spot as a 2026 lingerie staple.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Skims Balconette Push Up Bra run true to size?

The bra runs slightly small in the cup for many shoppers. The band fits true to size for most people. Size up one band size if you fall between sizes, per Skims own guidance.

Can I machine wash the Skims Balconette Push Up Bra?

Yes, machine wash on cold using a lingerie mesh bag. Use the delicate cycle and skip the dryer. Lay flat to air dry to protect the foam pads and underwire.

Does this bra show under white shirts?

The bra disappears under white shirts when you pick a shade close to your skin tone. The microfiber has minimal sheen and no visible seams. Pick the closest nude shade for invisible wear.

How long does the Skims Balconette Push Up Bra last?

With proper care, the bra lasts twelve to eighteen months of regular wear. Rotating between two or three bras extends the life significantly. Hand washing also helps preserve the elastic and foam padding.

Is this bra good for larger busts?

The bra fits up to size 42DD in most colors. Larger cup wearers report subtle lift rather than dramatic push up. For very full busts, the Fits Everybody Balconette may offer better daily support.

Where can I buy the Skims Balconette Push Up Bra?

The bra is sold through Skims direct on skims.com. It is also available at Nordstrom and Selfridges in select regions. Amazon does not carry the official Skims version, but several similar push up bras are available there.

Does the bra work for plunge necklines?

No, the center gore sits too high for deep V or plunge tops. Pick a plunge style from the Skims lineup for those outfits. The balconette works best under scoop, square, and crew necklines.