I just bought this bra yesterday at the local boutique. It’s a pretty mesh bra with sheer mesh on top and a striped mesh on the lower half. It looks solid at first glance but if you look at the picture, there’s a part where you can see lines meeting the top panel of the cup. I thought it was wrinkling when I looked at the photo and then I looked closer at the bra itself and realized it has diagonal stripes.
It feels comfortable on and gives good lift. My band size recently changed, so I was looking for a comfortable black or nude bra. On me, it’s ...hitting a bit high on the front part of the armhole, but that might be because the saleswoman made my straps pretty snug during the fitting. I'm not 100% sure. It could be that the fit is just a tiny bit off or it might need a little breaking in.
I’ve had the bra on all day and it was mostly comfortable, but I did notice that the underwire pressed a little hard a couple times. It might just need breaking in.
It does gift nice lift and projection and gives a rounded shape. Read more 92 more words
I’m a little worried about the chafing of the arm hole. It is now digging onto my arm pit. I don’t know if that means an issue with the size or the construction of the bra. That’s never been a problem with any bra I’ve ever owned, even the I’ll-fitting ones.
Sorry, replying from my phone and I didn’t catch the autocorrect errors.
If my bands aren't tight enough, my breasts tilt the cups forward and the wires poke my armpits. So, does the band have enough holding power?
I'm not sure. I didn't experience any poking wires on the side or under the armpit. It's just the elastic curve that goes around the armpit and connects to the strap is chafing me. The band mostly stayed in place, though there were a couple times where I felt like the underwire chafed a bit and I wasn't sure if maybe something was off with the band. But the band mostly stayed in place, so I'm not sure. Should I try it on the second hook and see if it makes a difference? I'm not sure if that will make the issue worse on the armhole, though.
It's possible that the saleswoman was slightly off with the measurements and maybe I need to be looking at 38H and maybe my band size didn't change. It would be nice if there was a place where I could try on the larger size bras. The boutique is a specialty store where the salesperson picks out bras for you and measures you. You can't really browse at all. They keep all the bras in plastic bins based on size/style. You can only browse a few pieces of lingerie in the front by the register. There's a Nordstrom Rack in my area, but they rarely have the F+ sizes.
Can you measure this bra?
You could submit a fit request. I think this is the wrong size for you.
I can measure it tonight or tomorrow. I did wonder about the cup size not going up as both times I used the bratabase calculator this week, it suggested a larger cup (my breast perimeter went up about an inch since the last time I measured 5 months ago).
This bra was a close fit, but just a little off. I'm a little disappointed as I got a good fit in the past from this saleswoman, so I was really hoping she'd be able to estimate my size and then I'd be able to go from there. I don't think they allow returns, but maybe I can exchange the 2nd bra I bought but haven't worn.
Aside from the size issues, It might be that the curvature of the cup side is not angled enough for you. I have that issue a lot actually. The wing feels fine, the straps not bad, but that pesky cup curve connecting the two is simply not curved enough. Sort of like it's cutting/jumping the curb instead of taking the corner properly (to use a car and driving analogy. )
I'm really happy to see this bra on another person. It looks like a good design, if a bit tall as you might be experiencing.
MamaPagan Good analogy. It might be what you are describing. It’s not a terrible fit, but that armhole curve is wrong. I know in the past, I bought a Curvy Kate bra that almost fit and seemed okay in the store, but once I tried it on at home and moved around in it, I realized it was off and one of the cups seemed too small, so it could be that maybe I’m a half cup bigger than how they grade their sizes and then the band possibly being off.
I am worried about the second bra I bought from the boutique which was the Parfait Charlotte. I noticed the band wasn’t as snug as I’m used to (especially since Parfait usually runs tight on me), but I didn’t think to say something to the saleswoman as I thought maybe it was okay. So maybe the 40 band size is wrong. I probably should try the 38H or 36HH that the second bratabase calculation gave me. Today I’m wearing my tightest band bra which is a 38gg Pour Moi with a weird band that ran extra large so I to take it in. I think with the shorter band it is probably somewhere between a 36 and a tight 38 band and it works fine apart from the cup size. The band stays snug and doesn’t move around.
You could also try to re-measure the bands at full stretch on your older bras that aren't as tight as you need, and comparing that to what you bought as well. This would give you a bit of comparison to go by, and also allow you to compare those figures with the figures here on Bratabase. It might help you pin point the band that would be more comfortable for you. If you have those older bras already entered here, that will also allow you to compare the new measurements to your original ones to see if part of the band issue is really just natural wear and tear and not an indicator of you needing to up size the band. With the bra shop, I'm sure if you ask to try a cup or two larger in the 36 & 38, she'd be willing to let you. It would be to her benefit to let you try, with potential of additional sales.
I have had some success in removing the stitching that holds the elastic on the sides of the cup and lowering that curve & restitching the elastic in place. It doesn't alter the cup, wing, or straps but does allow the armpit to be out of that angle of incline & in turn allow for more comfort. It usually takes two small slits approx. 1/2cm long cut about an inch or below the strap connection & one just above where the upper and lower sections meet. Then I fold the cut section over which lowers that curve & then resew the elastic in place. The exact placement of these cuts will vary depending on the current angle and cup size, and may require 3 slits instead of two, but it gives you an idea of what I do. If you have a sewing machine & are comfortable with making alterations, it's something to consider trying. :)
I've added measurements for this bra. MamaPagan I do believe you are right about the issue with normal wear and tear/stretch. I just measured the band length on what was my best-fitting bra 4 months ago and it is definitely 1-2 inches bigger than what people have measured for the bra. I was lazy when I first added the bra and didn't take the measurements. But other people measured that one at 31-31.5 and currently my bra is about 33 inches. So it's definitely stretched out. Maybe I'll take it in a little and see if that helps.
I'm not sure if I'm confident enough to re-do the armhole, but I might try it since the I can't return the Victory and it's a cute enough bra to keep if I can make it workable.
We happened to go out to a restaurant that is at a big shopping center where there was a Nordstrom, so I did get to try on a few Elomi bras while I was there. I posted another review of a 36HH if you want to see. Not a fit, though the bra felt comfortable (at least in the fitting room). But the cups were not right for me.
vrwriter I looked at the pictures of the Elomi and for sure that's not a good fit for you. The wires are too wide at the sides and I think that's being exacerbated by the stretchy band pulling them back more. This is a pretty typical Elomi problem, most common on the Cate and its clones for me.
I found the Victory to have a pretty firm band. Have you tried an extender with it? That might help with the armhole placement. I have also cut away at/folded down an armhole before, with good results. The key is to use fold over elastic, sewing it without stretching the elastic, to bind the cup again. Make sure not to make too deep of a cut at first or you will end up with boob muffining over the armpit hole. :/
vrwriter I added a picture of the "after alteration" with notes on my Ewa Michalak SF Pinup so you could get a visual. I wouldn't recommend slits this deep (this was my first attempt at this type of alteration) but it does make for a good visual aid since I never trimmed the excess fabric off.
Thank you for the detailed pictures with instructions! And welcome back! I ended up returning the Victory even though I liked the style. Luckily the store took it back. I found out that they will exchange bras if you have only worn them once or twice. They just inspect them really well and steam clean them for the next customer. I wish I'd known that a year ago when I bought my Curvy Kate Ellace which fit in one cup but not the other. I might put it up for sale as I still have it and only wore it a couple times and realized it wasn't going to work.
Glad it worked out for you. :) Were you able to get a better fitting replacement?
MamaPagan Yes! I ended up with a Prima Donna 38I bra whose price made me cringe a little, but it fit! I tried on so many bras that week that didn't work, so I sucked it up and bought it and I also got the Elomi Matilda in 38H/38K, which works. It's more of a plunge bra and is cute and sheer and fits so much better than that Caitlyn bra which was so ugly on me. I mostly just tried that one on to see sizing. Turns out that I'm now a 38H-38HH UK Size. Not sure how the girls keep getting bigger every year, but I guess I got my childhood wish for bigger boobs. :D
That is great! I am glad you found two that work for you :) The price tag attached to bras can be a shock, I regularly cringe, but a bigger price is a lot better than a bad bra, right? Better on the back & breasts than the pocketbook. A lot of women experience the breast growth at different points in life, so you are in good company with the new growth here on Bratabase. Mine went up 3 cup sizes in less than a year & I'm in my 40s. I've talked with many on here that have experienced similar (& most with the same thought about the irony of getting them later in life!) :)
I love this bikini, it's a halter and a plunge in a fun colorful print. The cups are actually narrow too. The band is on the smaller side of TTS, so I'm happy I went with a 32 band and not a 30. Full review on my blog.
Well, I think that Curvy Kate is not for me. My shape is projected, evenly full between top and bottom. slightly center full, tallish average width roots with a splayed root shape. My breasts touch at the top, tissue is medium soft and I definitely need side support. This bra doesn't have that, and the cups are either too large or not matched to my shape.
I give CK props for doing plungey plunges, and the plum colorway is sophisticated and sexy. Getting the correct band size is important for this bra as the wires distort easily. The sides are typically low which is not an advantage for me but would be for a lot of people. The gore is low and the wires touch so good for those of us who are close set.
I got this for a pretty low price from Belle Lingerie on ebay. If Curvy Kate is more your speed than mine this one is worth checking out.
This looks too large to me finallygotboobs . I would try a 34FF before giving up
Looks too big to me, too, actually. But i had some really bad CK experiences too - supposedly they have improved some?
dbmamaz they fit so differently across diff size ranges. But yes they used to be wide and shallow, esp. center shallow, and they've tried really hard to fix that.
I don't think sizing down will help you. I think one of its benefits for me and detriments for you is the low sides, which won't be helped by sizing down. Great bra for the high set though!
cupandahalf I could be wrong, but I thought she meant the low sides simply weren't something she needed--I didn't realize she meant the low sides were a problem. From the pictures I don't see any particular fit issues on the sides?
cupandahalfwendybien I have a lot of flesh in the armpit area so I actually prefer taller wings that hold it in. And I agree the cups are too large but due to lack of side support I don't think I'd like it even in a smaller size.
Also the band is a little tight. I can see some wire distortion in the side view pic.
ah ok that makes sense--if you want taller wings then this one is not for you. I think you could get a cosmetically "good" fit in a sister size but it would never be comfortable due to the construction.
If the Easter bunny were in the market for a cute bra, this would be it. I was pleasantly surprised by how adorable this bra was in person. In the powder blue colorway, Florence is definitely my pastel pick for Easter. 💙🐣🐰 Sadly, I have the same fit issues with Florence as I do with all Curvy Kate balconies: uneven band tension, gaping at the side of the cup/underarm area, tight at the apex, yet not able to fill the top lace. Full review on my blog!
I tried to fit into Florence with 5 different sizes. Didn't work. Like you and cupandahalf, similar fit issues.
cupandahalf Love4Pollinators So frustrating :(
I think the band fits folks with a tapered back best. Ellace does that too to me. I think I would have to be very FOT or have tall roots to fit this one.
cupandahalf Ellace was the worst culprit for me, even worse than Florence, iirc.
cupandahalf it's funny you say that. I tried this bra (different color) and I love it. (I hve tall roots, and I'm FOT- but I dn't think I'm VFOT)
I am not always sure about fit due to my unevenness, but this very same bra seems a decent fit for me in 30F atm. I used to think I was FOB, but probably more even with tall roots. http://bra.pe/XWMh/
erispe in the 2nd pic, your roots look like they're short, maybe average, imo. Is it possible that you have average height roots, with FOT breasts? (That's how it appears to me)
It is entirely possible Prettyncharmeuse. Truth to be told, this is still confusing for me. Without a bra my teardrop shaped soft pendulous breasts look FOB and I'd say they're kinda low set, too. But when wearing a bra they mostly just flow into the cups and take up the cups' shape. They are chameleon boobs I tell you. :) Oh, and they give a FOT impression when the pics are made with a flash, but not with normal light. If a bra is a tiny bit roomy, they can look FOB, but can also be pushed up almost to my collarbone. So, really I haven't the foggiest what they are - may fit into various categories, so I can pull off quite a few types of bras. I can never, however, wear strapless or non-wired soft bras without a disastrous outcome. I just may have a very average shape in more ways than one...
erispe Boob twins... I swear, you are describing mine perfectly.
letstalkaboutbras Im new to this, and I JUST found this post too late. Lol. This is super upsetting. So, I just bought these bras on Amazon and I wear a 32H (in panache Esme--first bra that fits after U.K. resizing, which fits beautifully!) And because they were on sale, I ordered a 30HH (thinking mesh bras stretch out) but now, don't even know if this band will stretch to fit me since the materials are non stretchy. Is the BAND stretchy, or should I have gone with the 32 band? Please help someone? Thanks.
Sugarbaby416 for me the band ran true to size or a little tight, but you might find it ok. If you're new to this, you can get yourself some cheap bra extenders to test the fit. At least Amazon has easy returns :) All brands do scaling above G differently, so your experience might be totally different from mine. I hope it works out for you. Even if it doesn't, be sure to measure and add fit info to your profile for all the bras you try. It helps so much when trying to pick the right size in different styles and brands in the future.
letstalkaboutbras Thank you so much for the reply and the tips. Unfortunately, I just cancelled the order, but they have a 32HH on sale, despite my regular Panache size. If I'm brave, I might go for it. Wish me luck! XD
I tried a few Curvy Kate balcony bras and Belle was my favorite because it's such a pretty bra. I just love the black embroidery and the semi-sheer blush pink. The fit was close, but unfortunately not quite right. The cup was too tight at the apex, but the lace on top wrinkled where I couldn't quite fill it and I got epic in-cup quad boob. It's based on the Bardot cut which is known as projected and good for short roots. So if Bardot works for you (and even Florence), then Belle will fit similarly. Those with sensitive skin might not love the scratchy mesh. Personally, I need a cup that is even more projected at the apex and more friendly to very soft tissue. CK bands also seem to be incompatible with my ribcage and I get a weird gaping at the sides. That will be more visible in my later CK reviews to come. There's a full review on my blog! https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_smile.gif" alt=":)" />
Nooo scratchy lace! I almost bought one of these not too long ago, glad I didn't.
Thank you for this review. Despite my affinity for the blue model, I will avoid the scratchy material.
I really wish CK would work on its fabric quality/feel. I love the fit but hate the fabric all the time.
cupandahalfLove4Pollinatorstriumphof CK Florence has softer materials, as does Ellace. Apart from the lace on top, I didn't find their fits radically different. And their bras with the "laminated" cups are gentler on my skin. I still hope to find one that fits me one day :(
I am planning on reviewing Florence, too... maybe I should do it next. I was going to break it up with another brand in between :)
Oh also, I only tried it on and never washed it, so I can't say if it will soften over time.
letstalkaboutbras I've got a Florence sitting in my pile of to-be-returned bras. I agree about the fabric, though, it's pretty soft.
letstalkaboutbras I have a Florence and an Ellace. I think the Ellace is great, but the mesh fabric is a little scratchy under the pits for me. Florence's lace itches me. I guess I just have sensitive skin. I can't stand the mesh on the band in my IMF either, which is why I prefer Ellace. I've sewed soft fold over elastic on a lot of bra bands.
cupandahalf Florence didn't work for me either (worse than Belle in fact for weird band gaping) and I wasn't in love with the material, but then I put Belle on and was like, well... that's worse, lol. I love the look of Ellace, only I ordered the wrong size and then gave up on it.
Florence fit me well when I was smaller, but now that I'm a cup or two larger sizing up it became too tall for my tiny little roots. Sob.
My motivation to lose weight is seriously to fit into the turquoise Florence again, despite the itchy lace. I have the knickers to match! I must wear it this summer!
cupandahalf I know what you mean! Since I lost weight and dropped 2-3 cup sizes, everything has changed and it's motivation for me to keep the weight off. Cups that aren't up to my collarbones for once...
THANK YOU for this discussion at the end, cupandahalf and letstalkaboutbras ! It's not just me! I went down to a 30D after some weight loss a year or two ago and it was amazing how much better most bras fit since they were shorter. Now I'm back up to bordering 30DD/30E, and it's crazy how much *bigger* the cups are in all dimensions, I have to pay a lot more attention to cup height before buying. My boobs got bigger, but they sure didn't get that much taller..
This bra is truly stunning. The deep crimson color, the slightly darker bow on the gore, the lace on the wings, and the stretch lace upper cups are all beautiful. It is rather a lightweight bra, I would love it if it felt a little sturdier, and I miss Panache's padded straps (these are wide enough to be supportive, but they do tend to twist/warp just a touch).
It has three columns of three hook and eyes and stretch lace upper cups with a trim on the edge of the cups. The trim may cause it to cut into full on top or tall rooted breasts. It has a ...full band, which does tend to roll under on me. It has loads of room in the bottom of the cup at the underwire, as well as by the center gore. It fits my larger (left) breast perfectly, though it is slightly too large for my right breast. It is too wide for me, but it doesn't generally cause any discomfort.
It gives a very projected shape that is rounded. CK Ellace has really become one of my favorite bras since my size changed. https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_smile.gif" alt=":)" /> Read more 90 more words
Very short, projected, slightly narrow, close set, center full, even breasts....
This is Bardot....improved. The band!! Ellace has a firm piece of peach elastic to which the cups and lace are sewn. This elastic dramatically improves the weight distribution of my breasts. In Bardot, the wire "dug in" under my most projected breast. Ellace's elastic prevents that pain. Wow.
Although I don't yet have a reliable method to measure this, Ellace feels more immediately projected than Bardot. However, this feeling may be more closely related to the weight distributing effect of the firm, peach elastic. Whatever it is, Ellace feels more supportive than Bardot.
Ellace's fabrics are softer and smoother. Mesh ...is not my favorite, but Ellace's mesh is soft! Not quite as soft as the mesh Lejaby Mellisia band, but considerably softer than Bardot. I would not recommend Bardot to those with fabric sensitivities, but Ellace may be acceptable.
The stretch lace across the top of the cup may be a problem for soft breast tissue. My shorties present in-cup quadding at the seam. However, this may be caused by my prominent nipple sitting above the apex. I would prefer a stretch lace with elasticity more closely resembling the mesh lower cup. That may come in Ellace 2.0 https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_wink.gif" alt=";-)" /> This is one detraction, but it won't prevent me from wearing this very comfortable, supportive bra.
Ellace can accommodate taller roots than Bardot because the cup is .5" taller and the top of the cup is stretch lace rather than mesh. However, Ellace remains a wonderful option for short-rooted, projected breasts.
The 2nd 30G Bardot I ordered will be returned and replaced with another 30G Ellace. https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_smile.gif" alt=":-)" /> Read more 175 more words
This looks good on you! Do you find that the cups run true to size?
They feel very true to size. However, if you have tall roots, you may need to size up.
Thanks! As someone who's still trying to find my ideal size, I think I may try a 30FF based on your review. I'm also short-rooted.
I'm curious how a 30FF would fit, too. I look forward to your review!! :-) :-) I have the straps tightened more than they should be. A 30FF may fit me, too. :-)
Where did you find the new colorway?? I've only ever found the black one.
ooooh they even have the latte version! *must not buy bras*
Nevermind, it's "not available to purchase in your region" - solves that!
You are saved...."not available in your region."
Love4Pollinators and lcl0706 , the two of you are such terrible influences on money I don't have... but I am grateful for your insight, experience, and guidance. :)
thanks for the review! nice to hear something nice about a curvy kate :)
I do think you'd be much more comfortable in this in a 30FF.
I also loved this bra but it was a bit wobbly on my 40HH breasts. You can also try the Curvy Kate Florence Balcony Bra (CK8001), which I found to fit exactly like the Ellace but with a non-stretch top portion.
Wonderful look on you. Just another bra I would love to have but does not come in my size.
In this model the cup is small, so buy a bigger cup than I normally use 28 GG. It is very nice and holds very well but has three problems: - The cup is too high in the armpit area and it is nailed especially if you have a narrow body like a size 28, surely for wider backs do not be so uncomfortable. - I can not fill the bottom of the cup, it is as if the fabric did not fit well to the breasts. - The band comes very tight at least for me although I have read contrary opinions.
(Este modelo tiene la copa pequeña, así que compre ...una copa más grande que la que normalmente uso 28 GG. Es muy bonito y sujeta muy bien, pero tiene tres problemas: - La taza es demasiado alta en el área de la axila y se clava especialmente si tienes un cuerpo estrecho como una talla 28, seguramente para las espaldas más amplias no sea tan incómodo. - No puedo llenar el fondo de la copa, es como si la tela no se ajustara bien a los pechos. - La banda viene muy apretada al menos para mí aunque he leído opiniones contrarias.)
Saludos, espero que mi opinión sea útil. Read more 95 more words
A glance at the photos of me in this bra show that it's a clear failure.
For educational purposes though, I think this might be useful because it's a shape-mismatch issue more than anything else. I don't think a larger band would be supportive enough, so that couldn't be altered, and a larger cup size would be unlikely to fix the massive problems in the center and sides of the cup, and would probably make the wires longer and cups wider - which was a big problem for me.
When I went to write this review I first read the other reviews for this size and other ...low band/high cup sizes. I was all set to rant and rave about the ineffectiveness of Curvy Kate's designs for this size range, but then I saw that actually a lot of people seem to wear the princess quite comfortably. So, no ranting and raving https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_sad.gif" alt=":(" /> I can accept that something that doesn't work for me might be great for other people, though this bra was cute and inexpensive so I *wish* it had worked for me!
Shape incompatibilities:
- I have center fullness : CK Princess is very shallow at the center, the tissue that belongs there gets smushed up out of the cup and to the sides - both are uncomfortable. The majority of the projection in this bra is toward the outer edges of the - My breasts are very "front and center" in their position on my chest - when I was looking at shape gallery pictures, the thing I noticed most is that almost all breasts in my size range naturally go outwards, at least a little bit, while mine are pendulus but all the tissue below my IMF is straight out and down : the Princess is designed for splayed breasts with roots that start further apart than mine and end much further out on the chest or under the arms than mine. -I'm Full on Top: CK Princess most likely works for FoB shapes better - the top of the cups are very closed. -While I've always considered myself to have more broad shoulders than most (especially among ladies wearing a 28 band!) I found the expected shoulder width much too wide, these straps practically fell right off my shoulders. -Center gore is too wide, cups too far apart for close-set breasts -Wires too long - for high set breasts the dig into armpits -Wires too wide (part of being too long - there's no place else for them to go!) - Wide wires seem like a foundational issue that is always incompatible with my shape. If the wires on a bra point back towards my armpit instead of following the U shape of my breast root on the front of my torso, my breasts will inevitably be pushed to the sides. Since they don't like to be there, I wind up falling out of the cups because the center of my breasts have more dense tissue than the outer halves. The result is discomfort and lack of support (and also a pretty unattractive look!)
Compatibilities: - I think my breasts are somewhat short rooted, or high set, and cups are sometimes too tall because of that. The curvy Kate Princess cups were almost too short! This might be a good fit for splayed, FoB, short-rooted gals!
This review is a perfect example, to me, of why SO many people warn about the wonky fit of Curvy Kate styles. Your reverse swoop and scoop photo vs. the inching back photo, especially.
Since trying Ellace and having good luck with that, I've been wanting to try some more Curvy Kate bras. I found the Florence for a good price and decided to give it a try. I am very pleased with the Florence, and the Blush color works very well as a "nude" for me.
It is amazing how well Florence works as a nude bra for you, especially under a cheap, thin, clingy T-shirt! It's also noteworthy you can easily fasten the band on the tightest hooks, but it doesn't ride up on the loosest hooks. To me, that is a highly desirable feature in a band. Thanks for the review!
I thought it was a great bra too. Keep in mind the other colors run a little smaller in the cup, black being the smallest. Glad it works for you!
When I thought the Blush might be a bit small I ordered a 32E in black, and it was too big. I will keep that in mind though for the other colors.
Could just be in my larger size too! Happy bra-ing!
I am a little disapointed at this bra. I had tooo high expectations.
Sizing: both the band and the cups are a little bit small. Not a full-size smaller than average, but still a little bit smaller than Panache for example. If you are between two sizes of full-on-top, I suggest going up a size.
Aesthetic: The bra is cute, I am not used to white bras, but the peach details make it cute. It provides a good shape, rounded and not too wide.
Materials: I feel like the fabrics are not on point yet. It's like if this bra was a prototype in which Curvy Kate tests stretch ...lace. In my opinion they still have to work on their fabric choices. The strech lace feels a little cheap, and it is a very loose type os elastic. Therefore many women will have in-cup quad-boob in this bra. Especially those with FOT or even breast shape. The stretch lace seems to take a too large part of the cup. On my biggest breast, my nipple was almost «pointing» out of the lace while it should be on the mesh. Maybe it's just my breast shape?
Construction: The wings are high, making it supportive, but at the sime time uncomfortable for shorter women. The wiresare average width and the gore is quire narrow. The wires are thin and pointy and the wire channels do not have any form of padding. This makes the bra delicate looking, but very uncomfortable for women whi are sensitive to pinching wires like me.
Overall this is a nice bra, but that will fit better tall women with very FOB brest. On the other hand, I do not reccomed this bra for women with FOT, full on the center, soft or pendulous breats. This is disapointing because I tought stretch lace was «made» to accomodate different breast shape, like Panache Andorra et al. do very well. Read more 210 more words
In one size smaller than I needed, I experienced my nipple popping over the mesh, too. It amazes me how well it lifts you. Lightweight, but stromg. Have you tried an extender? The band on my 30G is quite tight, too.
Sigh. Sorry this wasn't what you needed. :-(
No I can deal with the band. I will still return this bra because of the underwires poking under my arms and at the sternum. I am very sensitive to this, that's why I always end up with Fantasie bras. Not amazing lift and shape, but no pain!
Wires are the reason I'm in wireless bras now. I find the poking intolerable, too. :-(
Glad Fantasie bras don't poke!!
I tought about wireless bras, but I can't stand my breast sticking together... I know I am picky!
Sigh. Boobs. You aren't "picky" you have standards and won't settle for anything less. :-) :-)
I was intrigued by this bra, but your review makes me think it may not be a good fit for me. I guess I'll just stick to Ewa Michalak BM styles when I want stretch lace. Though, I may still try this if I can get it at a discount with free shipping and returns. You know, for science. :)
Haha! We're bra scientists.
Just because you *can* stand the band doesn't mean you shouldn't try it with an extender. If the band is being stretched more than it should be it will distort the fit of the cups. It looks tight, it's possible this would have fit differently with the band less strained.
Oh that's an interesting point! Unfortunately I don't have any extenders and I don't like the bra enough anyways so I am returning it. But it would have been interesting to see if the wires would have been narrower and the cups deeper.
Very short, projected, even, somewhat narrow, close-set breasts...
Eeks. I didn't think this would remotely fit. It weighs less than an ounce and appears significantly smaller than any other bra I've ever owned. Her predecessor in my wardrobe was 30G Ellace which fits spectacularly--excepting the cup and wing height are too tall. melifish recommended I purchase a 30FF Ellace; no longer available for less than $60. cupandahalf suggested Florence because she found the design remarkably similar to Ellace except the materials were non-stretch. And, Amazon conveniently, had 30FF Florence on sale with free returns for $21. Enter 30FF Florence.
Florence is small and mighty. ...She lifts and rounds like bras twice her weight. She is impressive and comfortable. Compared to Ellace her wings, gore, and cup height are wonderfully shorter. Like I mentioned, she is diminutive in size. This is a bra for short-rooted, even breasts. I'm projected and think she might be better for average projection, whatever that is https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_wink.gif" alt=";-)" /> It is important to note, 30FF Florence may be one size too small for me. Nevertheless, she is amazing!!
Her materials are not as soft as Ellace, but they are more supportive. If you have heavy, short breasts Florence is your gal.
Like every other bra I own, Florence's gore is too wide for my close-set breasts. And, there is some in-cup quadding. Finally, considering the prolific wire and fabric seam lines on my breasts, she is just one size too small. That is an easy exchange.
Every Curvy Kate unlined I've tried endears me to this brand. Today, 6 Panache bras arrived from Amazon. After testing Florence, I tried one Panache and the rest remain in the shipping box. Three rows of fasteners, wide straps, soft materials: these are admirable characteristics https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_smile.gif" alt=":-)" /> Again, many thanks to courtnelius for sharing her favorite Curvy Kates and helping me quickly and inexpensively find my size.
I am so seriously excited for you! I love Curvy Kate bras for us short-rooted gals (I'm wearing a Bardot now). I have their new Princess Plunge on order right now too!
I really wish my size in Florence would go on sale. It's always been $59 even if the other sizes are $20!!
Brastop has them for, roughly, $21
The princess plunge....sounds glorious :-) I'm eager to read your review!! cupandahalf Where did you purchase your princess plunge?
They just added it to Amazon but I've also seen it on figleaves and brastop. If it fits I'll return it and order from one of them as its $20 cheaper.
Also, I'm not sure if you've ever craved the Cleo Marcie roundness, but I got the Marcie and Curvy Kate Daydreamer (another new style) off Amazon at the same time. They had the same round shape, but the Daydreamer was infinitely more comfortable, having both softer material and low low wires and sides. The gore was nice and low too. In fact, it was so low on the sides I spilled out a bit, which was novel. Oh, and nice narrow wires. This was in a 38J, so I'd be curious if it also worked out for folks on the other end of the band spectrum.
For reference, I'm fot, short-rooted, splayed but then my tissue connects at the top, and have all the projection. I mean my boobs are 4 inches tall and 14 inches around both directions, so super fun pendulous time basically. I'm constantly amazed when any bra hoists them into space.
cupandahalf Daydreamer is added to my wish list now :-) Thank you, again :-) Thank goodness for bras that defy physics :-) :-)
Thank you to you for describing the Florence for everyone, which I have yet to try. Hmmm... Short rooted and projected boobs would like Bardot or Madagascar. (Bardot runs small.) it also looks to me like Bardot runs narrower in the gore than the Florence (and more similar to Dreamcatcher there).
Thank you to you for describing the Florence for everyone, which I have yet to try. Hmmm... Short rooted and projected boobs would like Bardot or Madagascar. (Bardot runs small.) it also looks to me like Bardot runs narrower in the gore than the Florence (and more similar to Dreamcatcher there).
You thought Bardot ran small? When I tried it, it definitely ran big, and measurements showed that it was a cup size large.
The best bra I've found in my size for my type is the regular Princess, but they scale it so much differently for those of you in the 30ish bands according to bratabase measurements that I can't recommend it.
I'm actually too projected, too short busted, and too close rooted for the Bardot to work perfectly. I fold over the bottom a bit and the gore is taller than my boobs and comes forward because my center fullness pushes it out. I need a lower gore (hence the Princess). The wires pull back with the band which pulls the embellished top tight, cutting right across my fullest part. When the wires are correctly placed I don't get the quad though. It certainly measures as one of my deepest bras, so I'm not sure if it runs small or if just the top embellished part cuts in more on FOT breasts.
I'm going to make a blog post soon comparing all the Curvy Kates I've tried because I've tried on a lot of them now, and I think they're pretty amazing but they seem to get short shrift on bratabase.
cupandahalf Please do write about Curvy Kate!! I was pleasantly shocked by how well Curvy Kate fits. And, I wish I had tried these newer models sooner.
Like you, Bardot's gore is too wide and too tall for me. I overlapped and narrowed the gore and the cup became too small. The Princess Plunge may be a good fit....when it is not $66. ;-)
@courtnelius sold me several of her models for a fantastic price, and they all very nearly fit. Earth shaking :-) They are remarkably more comfortable for me than Panache/Cleo. I hope to have three well-fitting unlined CKs soon. Until then, I'm practically living in the Shockwave bikini. Ordered a second Shockwave so this one can rest. ;-)
I'm commenting on the 30F Bardot, which runs smaller than the 30F Gia, Dreamcatcher and Princess, and more similar to the 30F Jewel. Not sure how these comparisons hold up throughout the size range.
I am a freaking pin-up in this baby. Less adorable than the Shockwave tankini top, this Plain Sailing tankini top is a bit slimmer through the body, slightly harder to get off, and somewhat more cleavagey and sexy. Also, the cups are shaped a bit less projected, and give a slightly rounder shape. It is an exact fit on my 36x27x38.5 shape, and if I eat something, it might be too tight... Still awesome.
Thanks! It makes me feel like a million bucks! All other tankinis big enough for my bust are huge in the tummy (most brands) or too short (looking at you, Panache!). I'm a convert to these CK halter tankinis.
This used to be the camisole, but the previous owner cut off the dress part (and you really can’t notice anything!)
I haven’t had much luck with Curvy Kate so far, as the unpadded and molded styles I have tried have been too closed at the top. I was curious about trying the Tease, although I expected it to be super wide and shallow. The look seemed a bit too frilly as well. Then I received this in a bra swap, and I was absolutely positively surprised! It is so gorgeous in person! I just cannot get over how good this bra looks. The lace, double bows, and ...the ribbon at the top are really beautiful and the combination of deep red and creamy white looks fresh and lovely. This bra just makes me feel super sexy!
The band I knew was going to be big, as even most 28 bands are too big for me. It does, however, fit quite decently on the tightest hooks. I think I’ll have to get the band taken in to be able to wear this properly. I get very slight cakes-on-a-plate cleavage, but not a huge uplift really (might be better with a tighter band). I quite like the shape it gives: rounded but natural. It works very nicely as an everday look. The lace is surprisingly smooth, and doesn’t stick out too much under shirts.
This bra is not shallow and wide at all! It’s probably not deep like Polish bras, but much better than Freya half cups, for example. I have heard that Curvy Kate has adjusted the fit for their newer styles, and I find both wire width and cup depth quite perfect for me (I’m narrow and projected but maybe not extremely so). Everything feels very soft in this bra: the cups, wires, straps. I was afraid that the high center gore would be a problem for my close-set breasts, but luckily the wires are very soft. The gore tacks softly and keeps my breasts nicely separated without causing any discomfort. The gore seems quite narrow for a British bra as well.
The straps on this model are very far-set and I could immediately feel the straps/cups getting into my armpits. Quite surprisingly, I was not bothered by them at all as I wore this to work for a full day. I think it’s just because of how soft everything is. I do feel that the cups might be a fraction of a size big for me, as there is slight gaping at the top. But this might be also caused by the loose band and wide strap placement, and the cup size down would probably be too small already.
Overall, the fit is not perfect but should be pretty good if I get the band shortened. I am really amazed by the beauty and comfort of this bra. This is the first bra that I acquired through Bratabase and it was a very good experience. https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_smile.gif" alt=":)" />
EDIT: I got the band taken in 5 cm, and this now fits quite perfectly. https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_smile.gif" alt=":)" /> Read more 416 more words
this looks great on you! :) The slight gapping should go away with a tighter band! If I had known before I would have just shortened it for you! hmm :/
This bra looks fabulous on you. It really is the ideal Curvy Kate Tease look. I agree with BronteBeach and @RollAndCurves that the tiny bit of gaping is negligible and probably not worrying about. Thanks for the review. I'd forgotten how incredible this design is.
Thank you! :) RollsAndCurves learningaboutbras The gaping is quite minor really! I do like this bra very much. BronteBeach That's very kind, I didn't even think of it. I can't really sew myself but I think I can find someone to do it (I have a lot of bras that would require shortening really!) Thanks again for the lovely bra :)
Ideally I would like my bras to hold my breasts on the front of my body, and I found this one nearly does that, but I still feel like the girls sit a little wide. The shape of the cup is very nearly rounded, but comes to a slight point, which I have yet to really adjust to as I have been wearing lined bras up until the last couple months, when I found you wonderful people. Over all I'm really liking curvy kate, because the fabric feels nice and flexible while still having enough elasticity to stay in place correctly. Over all very happy with this bra.
This bra is perfect for me .I have been looking for this fit for about a year after I became to big for freya . Spent hundreds on all kinds recommended biggest waste of money was ELOMI brand people kept telling me to try different styles uhh what a waste any way curvy Kate just arrived today and its perfect perfect perfect I'll let you know if things change shift stretch or loose support as the week goes on but I'm feeling fantastic and loving this curvy Kate brand 😊😊
Thats great that it fits! I think this is a new model - some of the older models will be a different shape
More Arizona love! Love it! Be forewarned the band is stretchy on this but this bra is so awesome it doesnt matter. Still works. Tell CK you love it. I want them to continue it. I don't see it in the SS16 line
I have this bra and it fits the same as the Curvy Kate Daily Boost. So if you are looking for a beige or black-bra, that might be one to try. I LOVE this bra too!
CUP HEIGHT: *Strap to Apex to Wire: 8.5" *Strap to Bottom of Wing: 7.25"
This bra fits me very comfortably. The only issue I have with it is a little gapping and puckering on top, which seems to be easily mitigated by taking in a tiny bit of the mesh fabric along the line where it meets the satin. Then the cups appear to be an exceptional fit.
I also didn't think it was giving my full-on-bottom breasts very much lift. Then I put a t-shirt on and noticed how much higher my breasts were sitting than usual. After a full shift as a barista (lots of bending, reaching, constant walking) and a 2.5 mile walk in 90 degree heat, this bra is still comfortable. There's no chafing, digging, poking, squishing, or other maiming of my boobs going on.
Very pretty, and impressive how it stayed comfy during work! I love how low Curvy Kate underwires usually are on the sides :)
Seems like the cups are kind of tall on you though, that might also explain the puckering on top?
I used to have that bra. It was made for FOT types, as are the other bras in that cut. I feel like Curvy Kate doesn't have a whole lot going for FOB types.
The Curvy Kate Portia Balcony is a very, very cute bra, with a cute contrasting ribbon woven through the upper lace panel. The three part cup provides moderate lift. The sling-shaped outer panel is much larger than the inner triangle that comes off of the gore, though, to it tends to push side-breast inward more than center-breast outward and give a slightly pointy shape. On my very soft boobs this resulted in a flattening of the outsides and a falling to the center. This is the same exact cup shape as the Freya Gem Balcony Bra (1361) .
Sensitive types may not love the picot edging on ...the straps, or the exposed seams and ribbons woven through to the inside on this unlined bra, though the fabric and materials themselves are soft. There are just a lot of textures. The thick elastic straps are sewn on to the apex of the cups rather than looped through a ring, so there is a sharper-than-you-would expect edge of cut elastic with pokey corners. This could be problematic for those with strap-boob bulges.
Short ladies will appreciate the low gore and wing height, and the minimal .6" underband, which is cut out under the gore to give room for tummies.
The wires are very rounded, with the outer edge just 1/2" higher and slightly straighter than the gore. They are 1/4" taller at the gore and wider at the outer tip than the sister size 28FF - Curvy Kate » Portia Balcony Bra (CK4001) . They also happen to be almost exactly the same wire shape and size as the 28FF - Freya » Gem Balcony Bra (1361) except they are 1/2" shorter at the gore and the Portia 30F band is 1" longer. The distance between the outer tips of the wires is 12.25" but they easily stretch wider, which could cause distortion and the consequent wire poking for ribcages larger than 27", unless you have wide roots and need the cup to go around the edge of your rib cage.
I am a comfortable 29" (27" tight) and the gore and wires did not contort enough to dig. The straps, though, were too wide for my petite 10" wide frame width and because they are not on rings in front, the top of the cups wrinkled when shortened and positioned on my shoulders. Read more 288 more words
It looks gorgeous on you!