The B. Tempt'd Ciao Bella has been one of my favorite bras over the last 6 months. It's relatively easy to find, very inexpensive, comes in lots of pretty colors, and has a snug 30 band that actually works for me. As I have progressed along my bra journey, I have been going up in cup size in this style. To date, I've tried 30D (never fit, too small), 30DD (fit well up until now), and 30DDD, my newest acquisition and current best fit.
The important thing I've realized about the Ciao Bella Balconette is that even though it is cut and sew, it functions very ...similarly to a molded cup bra. Not the shallow t-shirt bras you find on the racks at Target and major department stores, but a style that is relatively projected through the middle and closed at the top. While the foam cups do have some stretch, you are still essentially limited by the shape of the cup. This is not a flat, shallow cup that will just smush down extra tissue and minimize you--trying to squeeze yourself into a smaller cup size in this case will give you a lumpy and distorted shape.
I've heard this bra described as "shallow" in reviews, but I disagree. To me, a shallow bra is one where there is not a lot of difference between the fullest part of the cup and the area nearest the wire and the top of the cup, i.e. the shape is less convex than standard. I find this cup shape to be fairly standard but leaning towards FOB-friendly. It is not ideal for FOT or tall rooted shapes since the top edge is relatively closed. You still need to have enough projection to fill out the middle of the cup, so shallow shapes will end up with the orange-in-a-glass effect. The cup size runs about half a cup small.
The 30D has always been too small, but I have been wearing the 30DD for a while (and collecting more!). In 30DD, I consistently wear this style with the straps fully shortened, and I have complained that the straps don't get any shorter. After receiving my newest 30DD, I realized that this is because the cups are actually too small for me right now by at least half a size. The cups do stretch a bit over time to mold to your shape better, as the 30DD I have been wearing for the last 4 months still fits pretty well. However, in general the 30DD cups are too short for me, causing the seams to sometimes sit weirdly and look pointy on me. The fullest part of the cup also tends to sit too low on my body despite the straps being fully shortened.
Switching to the 30DDD made a huge difference in the shape of the cup. By sizing up to the correct cup size, the appearance of the seams has been eliminated, and the vertical distribution of fullness is now correctly proportioned to my body. I love the shape that this gives me as it's so much more flattering than in the smaller sizes.
The one caveat is that as the cups get deeper and taller, the outer edge of the cup also gets taller, and since my breast tissue goes up into the armpit, the cup now follows. I am petite and have no room between where my breasts end and where the armpit starts, so unfortunately this results in chafing up in that area that's very uncomfortable. In order to remedy the fit, I've released the straps from their fully-shortened position to give myself 1" of extra length compared to how I wear the 30DD. The 30DDD has a triple ribbon strap and wider strap elastic compared to the 30DD and smaller sizes, but I haven't noticed too much functional difference. I think ideally shortening the cup height by 1 cm would make this fit me better.
Like I've experienced with some other bras that correctly fit my larger side (Parfait Charlotte 28E), the 30DDD fits my larger side perfectly but gaps a bit on my smaller side, with this being pretty apparent when moving. I feel that right now I am right between 30DD and 30DDD in terms of the ideal cup size that would fit both sides, but it's good to have a few bras that run a bit larger for hormonal fluctuations.
As I wrote in my reviews for 30DD, the cut and sew foam is sometimes not sewn very neatly at the center seam, so it's best to try it on in person before purchasing, or order from a returnable source. Even if the measurements are the same, the seam shaping can make the bra look pointy rather than smooth depending on how well it is sewn. Other than this, I think this is an excellent, affordable bra that can suit a lot of people, but you may need to try a couple of sizes to find your best fit as there are pretty big differences in fit depending on which size you try.
Winsome Orchid is a lovely light pink that functions as a nude on my light skintone. Read more 773 more words
Fabulous fit and a beautiful garment. I worry it's too pretty for gardening and sweating in. Best fitting bra I've ever tried, although this is my first attempt at a Bra that fits. Excellent for shallow breasts. Very minimal cup gaping at apex of cup, which is honestly amazing. Gore too wide, dug into breast tissue and became uncomfortable after only 15 minutes.
This summer, I tried a number of different strapless bra options. Since I have developed a strong aversion to padded bras, it's been tough to find a strapless bra that fits my comfort criteria. Plus, it's already pretty tough to find a strapless bra that fits a 30 band or smaller. The B. Enticing is one of the styles I decided to try after Bratabase recommended it for me. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to find a perfect fit in this style and ultimately ended up not keeping it.
As I discovered through my extensive exploration of the B. Tempt'd Ciao Bella, I am kind of ...between sizes in their molded bras, between 30D and 30DD depending on the style. While in Ciao Bella the 30DD is a perfect fit, I felt that I am squarely between sizes in this style. The 30D was a bit too small in the cups, so the profile it gave me wasn't very flattering. It had a flattening effect and didn't give me the boosted shape I expect from a molded bra. The 30DD looked ridiculously large and felt just a tiny bit big, but the shape was much more flattering. However, the cups were a little taller than what I am used to, and I found this to be a bit uncomfortable since I like a more open top and have problems with tall cups chafing under the arms.
This is one of the few strapless bra I've come across that has molded cups and no padding, and in general, I found the cups to be really comfortable. They have a light lace overlay that is pretty subtle. I didn't notice visible lace texture under clothing. However, the shape of the cups is more like a bandeau, so there is no plunge effect at all. This means the style didn't work under some clothing where I would normally want to wear a strapless bra.
The main issue for me was the construction of the band. This was my first encounter with a side-closure bra, which I hear some people prefer. I've heard some people don't hook their band behind them but somehow put the bra on and twist the band around. This is the only way to close this bra, since there's no real way to hold the band in place at your side while simultaneously hooking it. I found the feeling of hooking it in front and twisting it to be excruciatingly uncomfortable. There is no way to describe how awful this feeling was or why it affected me so much, but I couldn't imagine repeating this intentionally to wear this bra.
This is really too bad, because the super wide band made this the most secure feeling strapless bra I've ever tried, and as I mentioned, the unpadded molded cups were also pretty comfortable. I didn't feel like I would have to worry about this sliding down throughout the day. However, due to some practical considerations and the closure issue, I felt I couldn't keep this bra. I think it's a great option for people who prefer unpadded strapless bras and wide bands, and I would encourage you to give this style a try. Read more 441 more words
Ding ding ding! This bra is a great fit. Very comfortable, might order in more colors in time. A great bra for shallow/wide/tall boobs. It's definitely not a plunge - there are v-neck shirts I won't be able to wear with this.
This is a lined lace, underwire bra. Band & cup fit nicely but there was too much underarm spillage (band height too short).
About me: petite with wide horizontal oval, slightly conical breasts * average projection * wide-set (3 fingers width of space between breasts) * very wide roots (extend past the mid-axillary line) * short roots * even horizontal fullness (just barely outer full) * mix of firm & soft tissue (front molds to shape of bra, sides push wimpy wires away) * conical shape (but will squish to round) * full on top (2/4 shape, not even or very full) - BUT functionally even to FOB due to short roots and soft tissue * petite (5'3") so have narrow frame
This is probably the most comfortable and flattering bra I have ever owned: nice push-up with a foam covered underwire and no itchy lace or fabric or poke-y bits! Is it a perfect fit? No, but it's close. The cups are medium weight foam molded there is a tiny amount of gapping at the top of one cup (the other one sits nearly flat). However, the band fits large and stretches quickly. Alterations are difficult because of the foam-like material.
This is a really cute bra. It's also one of the most comfortable bra I've worn. It gives a nice shape under clothes. But the band is way too big on my small frame. My band measures 25-26 inches. I really wish this comes in 28. There is some gaping at the top and it rides up even when I wear it in the last hook due to the band being too big for me. I'm planning on just sewing the band to make it fit better. After wearing and inspecting, the underwire of this bra seems a lil wide for my narrow breast. And the cup seems ...a lil too far apart & the gore height seems too high up. I still wear this bra though since it's comfortable despite not fitting me that well.
Edit: After altering the band & wearing it for a while, it now fits me well. It doesn't ride up & not much gaping like before.
Also, I just want to say that when I'm on my period, this bra fits me well giving me a slight quadboob on my larger breast. Read more 80 more words
I originally bought this bra in a 34B before I realized I was wearing bands that were way too big for me. I was measured at a 28DD, but mostly sister size up to 30D since it is a lot easier to find. The cups are the same exact size as the 34B (sister size). This bra is very comfortable and the band is quite stretchy. The nude color is a little darker than other nude bras I own.
This was a $4 bra bought “used” with tag still on it, is a full size above “normal” for me, based on other reviews of wacoal and B.tempt’d I gave it a shot since my impression was cups AND band run small. A quick trial in fitting room I thought it fit, standing up straight and trying to hurry. Now I’m actually wearing (about an hour in as I’m writing) the cups are too large but Not in my opinion a full size too big, part of it is my shape versus bra shape I think. I’m full and round on the bottom, on top top is short ...and flat. Balconette style Demi bras “fit” best on my breast, but so far I hate them they don’t cover enough boob. The band fits on the tightest hook, which means a 30 should fit me on loosest hook, which is likely what I will do when I order wacoal because of everyone who says the band stretches out fast. Oh my god this band is comfortable and what underwire? Because I can’t even feel it. My straps are not original to this bra, they suck and are crazy long. Shape looks weird looking down, not quite sure why/how, looks fine in mirror though. Wide set straps in front are probably going to end up annoying me. UPDATE; the wires dig in at front on me, wide set straps are fine though. Read more 131 more words
Taller than they are wide, shallow, conical boobs here, and this was just a smidge too small in the cups and too wide in the gore, with a band that's on the tight side of 30". The cups are barely wide enough without taking in the gore, so I'm going to try again with a 32D and take the gore in. The eyelash lace on the top edge is super cute though, and the cups are nice and smooth on the inside.
There was data missing for 36DDD, and it was a few dollars from Amazon...
I was prepared for a wide and shallow cup. Ciao Bella is not wide in 36DDD with a 5.75" cup. However, the single seam half cup, is shallow near the wire.
The lining in this cup is especially soft. It is not breathable cotton, but it is remarkably soft. For sensitive skin, the lace covering the cups may not be soft enough for those with sensory concerns.
The straps are adorable with the three strands merging into one flat piece of elastic behind the shoulder. However, if the band is not snug and you have soft ...tissue, these three strands may feel like steel wires. Self-supporting breasts, however, may find them both aesthetically pleasing and comfortable; lucky you https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_wink.gif" alt=";-)" />
The gore, like 99.9% of gores available today, is too wide for my center full, close-set breasts. It is the standard width of both Curvy Kate and Wacoal at .8" wide. However, these wires are easy to overlap which would create a .4" gore.
The wings are too tall for my short-waisted figure. And, the straps are only partially adjustable which may pose a problem for those tall and/or low set users.
Lovely bra for those who can tolerate gores, high wings, and immediately shallow cups. Read more 113 more words
The band is too big for me, I was hoping it ran small, but its stretchy. There's good depth at the bottom of the cups Gore is a little too wide. Cups aren't as low as I would have liked
But the bra is cute.
update 8/29/17 Wearing this bra, and it is not very comfirtable. I have it hooked on the tightest setting, and the band isn't an issue, but the wires are poking me on the side, and the gore is pressing down heavy. Gives a slightly natural shape. "Natural but better" I supposed
The raw data on my bratabase measurements show that I should wear between a 24:7 and 24:8, and the UK bra size calculator recommended by reddit puts me at a 26E/26:6. I got this bra in a 30D because I heard they run tight/it was on sale/I was having trouble adjusting to the idea of 26E(UK)/26DDD(US), let alone 24F(UK)/24G(US). It fits well on the middle hooks.
This is the comfiest bra I've ever worn (this is not a high bar -- I've apparently been wearing at least a cup size too small for years). It doesn't do much other than holding my boobs in place as I walk around (no push-up, thin padding, no shaping, no compression, etc.) The colors of the Baja Blue are beautiful. Cups and straps both a little too far apart for a petite person like myself.
Those with sensitive skin should look into the materials used on the inside of the cup. I had a bit of a reaction the first time I put it on. It abated.
Cappuccino has the tightest band: stretching to 33". Black band stretches to 34". Blithe band stretches to 35".
Dimensionally, Blithe did not fit well enough to keep, but Cappuccino with its 2" shorter band fits best of the three colors. This is one wired bra I can wear for a few hours without intense discomfort. All other bras in my wardrobe are wireless. The other wired bras I, literally, never wear.
Outstanding bra for my close-set, center-full, short breasts! But, I'd prefer an option for close-set, center-full, short-waisted people that doesn't involve a lump of padding.
Short-waisted, immediately projected, close set, center full, omega shape,...
Gorgeous! Periwinkle blue over celadon is such a happy, vibrant combination. The lace is soft. That is where I'll stop.
This design is ideal for wide, shallow breasts. Unlike Lace Affair Soft Bra (http://www.bratabase.com/browse/wacoal/lace-affair-soft-cup-852256/36C-D/ ), Ciao Bella provides zero support, zero lift, zero centering. Look at the fit difference in the bra I tried immediately after wearing Ciao Bella: http://www.bratabase.com/bra/dincd/ Ciao Bella lift+centering+support= zero. https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_sad.gif" alt=":-(" />
However, the two layer Ciao Bello cup is more discreet than Lace Affair. Additionally, Ciao Bella is better for short roots, because both the cup and wing height are significantly shorter than Lace Affair. Tall-rooted/FOT breasts will not be happy in Ciao Bella.
For my breast characteristics (short roots excepted), I strongly prefer Lace Affair Soft Bra. But, wide, shallow breasts may adore the soft, vibrant colors of Ciao Bella Bralette.
Center full, close set, immediately projected, short waisted, even vertical distribution ...
1. Narrow straps 2. Narrow band 3. Lightweight 4. Breathable 5. Non-stretch panel under bust for support
This is effortless to wear, creates a rounded profile under thin knits, and looks natural. My breasts prefer thick straps and wide bands, but those who prefer "less bra" may thoroughly enjoy the features of this bra.
If this cup was more center-full breast friendly, I would not hesitate to keep it. However, when there is not enough center cup projection, my breasts move toward the east/west and meet the outer cup seam. They scream a bit and demand release. https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_wink.gif" alt=";-)" .../> Through hundreds of bra trials, I conclude I'm more close-set and center-full than usual. If you are slightly less center-full, do not be deterred. https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_smile.gif" alt=":-)" />
The non-stretch center panel provides support and the stretch lace gently cuddles breasts. The cup has a better than average level of immediate projection; a pleasant surprise. The lace is soft, although not as soft as Wacoal Halo.
This bra is a summer dream if you experience soaring summer temperatures, have less center-full breasts, and want delicate features on your summer bra.
I tried this bra on in black, beige, and the taupe-ish color in a Dillards. All the bras were the newer colorways with the "Animal" lining. I found them all to run true to size in band! Tighter than other colors before. Maybe Wacoal is responding to criticisms? However I found the cups to fit smaller in all colorways as well. Or did I used to wear such an illfitting bra?? Maybe a combination of both haha. It doesn't help that the cups always seem difficult to measure. All my measurements submitted for these bras are pretty similar despite what I'm writing.
Short roots, projected, slightly narrow, center full, close set....
After finding the 34DD cup uncomfortably small, I purchased the 36DD. The pain I was experiencing in the 34DD is not present in the 36DD. The band is several inches too large, but my sewing machine is ready for the band shortening task. When the straps are crossed, the band's size is a glaring detraction: the crossed straps improve the lift and centering significantly. When the band is shortened, I'll experience more lift without the straps crossed, too. https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_smile.gif" alt=":-)" /> https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_smile.gif" alt=":-)" />
Wire haters: these wires are padded and ...difficult to see as well as feel. The padded wires coupled with the push-up pad move my sensitive tissue up and away from irritating wires. https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_smile.gif" alt=":-)" /> https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_smile.gif" alt=":-)" /> This is critical to my comfort in a wired bra.
For me, this fit is similar to the Ewa Michalak 3D. There is space for center fullness, projection, and close-set breasts. I prefer wider straps and 3x4 fasteners, but those are the characteristics that endear me to Comexim. Those who like "less bra" will appreciate the narrow straps and 2x3 fasteners.
For a few dollars from Amazon, I recieved a bra presenting a rounded and centered shape under tight knits that rivals Freya Deco. Better yet, I can't feel the wires. I'm thrilled with this bra. Proudly, I will wear my fitted t-shirts https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_smile.gif" alt=":-)" />
Off to shorten the band...
Edit: I temporarily shortened the band. When shortened, the sharp edge abrades my tail of spence. Sigh. This bra was SO comfortable....until the band fit. Ugh. Read more 177 more words
I just tried this bra too and also felt "meh" about it. not standout compared to other options.