Panache vs Empreinte
Two brands, two ways of grading a size. Here is how Panache and Empreinte differ in system, range and fit, and which one to choose for your shape and your problem.
Panache or Empreinte, in short
Panache and Empreinte use different systems (UK vs FR / ES). Panache runs firm in the band and true in the cup with wide wires; Empreinte runs true to size in the band, true in the cup, wide wires. Range: Panache 28–46 / D–K; Empreinte FR 80–110 (US 30–42) / C–H. Convert your measured size into each and let fit decide.
Your measured size in both
Same body, two labels. Each result is your US size converted into the brand's system, then adjusted for how that brand grades. They use different systems, so the numbers differ even before fit.
Panache vs Empreinte at a glance
| Panache | Empreinte | |
|---|---|---|
| Sizing system | United Kingdom | French |
| Bands | 28–46 | FR 80–110 (US 30–42) |
| Cups | D–K (Cleo A–J; Sculptresse to J) | C–H (EU letters) |
| Band grading | firm | true to size |
| Cup grading | true | true |
| Wire width | wide | wide |
| Straps | Wide, well set | Wide |
| Alpha sizes | No | No |
| Tier | Mid-to-premium | Luxury |
| Origin | UK | France |
| Signature line | Envy: full-cup everyday, the flagship | Cassiopée: seamed lace, the flagship |
Which to try for your breast shape
| Shape | Panache | Empreinte |
|---|---|---|
| Full on bottom | Cleo Marcie balconette | Verity balconette |
| Full on top | Envy full cup | Melody |
| Shallow | Sculptresse Chi Chi | Thalia |
| Projected | Envy, Andorra | Cassiopée |
| Wide-set | Panache Sport | Cassiopée |
Not sure of your shape? Use the shape finder.
Choose Panache or Empreinte?
- you want a firm, supportive band and are happy to size the band up if between
- you have a wide breast root or shallow shape
- d+ everyday support
- high-impact sport in bra sizes
- you have a wide breast root or shallow shape
- full-bust luxury lace
- seamed support with structure
Both are right at the same measurement. The label differs by system and the fit by grading: start from your measured size, convert into each, and let the five fit checks decide.
What each brand is known for
| Panache | Empreinte | |
|---|---|---|
| Line 1 | Envy: full-cup everyday, the flagship | Cassiopée: seamed lace, the flagship |
| Line 2 | Andorra: full cup with lace | Melody: full cup |
| Line 3 | Panache Sport: high-impact wired sport | Thalia: molded |
| Line 4 | Cleo Marcie: balconette for smaller full-bust sizes | Verity: balconette |
Panache vs Empreinte: answered
Is Panache the same size as Empreinte?
Different systems: Panache labels in UK, Empreinte in FR / ES. Panache: Bands run firm: if you sit between bands, take the larger band with the same cup volume (a sister size). Empreinte: Bands run true to size: start with your measured band on the loosest hook.
Which runs smaller, Panache or Empreinte?
Panache. Cups grade true to the measured difference. Empreinte. Cups grade true to the measured difference.
Which is better for a large bust, Panache or Empreinte?
Panache runs to D–K on bands 28–46; Empreinte to C–H on FR 80–110 (US 30–42). The one whose range covers your size (in its own system) and whose wire width suits your root.
Which is better for a small bust?
Whichever grades true or small at A–C: Panache cups true, Empreinte cups true. Small bands need the brand whose range starts lower: 28 vs FR 80.
Can I use my Panache size at Empreinte?
Convert first (UK → FR / ES), then adjust: Empreinte bands run true to size and cups true relative to true. The calculator above does both.
Do Panache and Empreinte fit the same breast shapes?
Not identically. Full on bottom: Panache Cleo Marcie balconette vs Empreinte Verity balconette; Full on top: Panache Envy full cup vs Empreinte Melody; Shallow: Panache Sculptresse Chi Chi vs Empreinte Thalia.
Opens HauteFlair’s own hub page; use your measured size there. HauteFlair is owned by the same company as Brasize.ai; that relationship never changes the sizing math, charts, or fit advice on this page. How this site makes money.