France is not a bra desert, like June from Braless in Brasil would say. After all, the country has a long lingerie tradition. The market is not dominated by one big player, like Victoria’s Secret in the US. There are numerous well established brands as well as up-and-coming young designers and no shortage of independant boutiques alongside the chainstores. Still, buying full-bust lingerie in a brick and mortar shop can prove challenging. Basically, if you need a 28 band and/or H+ cup, tough luck! Enter Viksen…

A cute small shop ideally located in Paris’ charming Montorgueuil neighbourhood, Viksen specialises in full bust and plus size lingerie, with brands like Curvy Kate, Cleo by Panache, Panache Superbra, Elomi, but also newcomer Tutti Rouge, new French brand La Belle Affranchie, or Panache new plus size line Sculptress

The sizes range from a 30D going all the way to a K cup in a 40 band, with some styles available up to a 48 band. Not everything is available in every size yet, but they will order it for you if needed and are very keen on expanding their stock in larger cups. You can get a better idea of what’s on offer by visiting their online shop, but nothing beats actually going to the boutique to get a closer look at all the pretty things.

Service is welcoming and friendly, but you also get a chance to browse the racks freely. The Viksen team is eager to make a change and already planning a bra awareness campaign. Their enthusiasm and desire to look forward really set them apart from other boutiques I’ve tried. If you’re in Paris, I highly recommend you try Viksen!