What am I doing with this bra after swearing off random Freya fashion styles (multiple times, in fact)? Well, eBay got the better of me, and I found this bra in my real size for a great price. These days, 28E bras are rather hard to find, since many lines have consolidated down their 28 band offerings and I'm stuck in my awkward sister size of 30DD, so after checking measurements and reviews on this bra, I decided to give it a chance. Technically it doesn't exactly fit, but I'm still very pleased with this purchase.
The print and appearance is what drew me to this ... bra in the first place. The pattern is a fun semi-abstract rendition of pink orchids and waterfall blue ikat. I like the fun, summery vibe of this design, and it reminds me of a tropical vacation. This is one of the first Freya bras that I really like for all of its aesthetic components. I feel that while the colors are bright, the design works well together. Plus, there's no tacky center gore charm in sight, just a simple turquoise bow! I was pleased to discover that the fabrication of this is the same lightweight, silky fabric used on other printed styles like Sansa and Fearne. However, it feels even softer and more lightweight than I remember. I can tell that this is going to be an amazing summer bra!
In terms of cup construction, I feel that this is a more "balanced" plunge bra than many other Freya cuts. No weird shapes to be found here (like Summer Haze) . . . Crush has a balcony plunge shape more reminiscent of Cleo's styles. I found the wires to be nicely curved and comfortable instead of the common J wires in other Freyas. I can fill out the cup perfectly on my larger side when fully scooped, but once I move, the upper cup becomes empty at the center, so the main problem here is that it is designed for someone with a more rounded shape that has more center fullness than I have. The cup depth is actually quite deep for this size, so note that my measurement here is accurate and the average on BTB is not correct. With foam pads, this becomes a perfect t-shirt bra shape for me, so I am happy that it is still quite wearable.
The upper cup here is unique in that it has a two piece construction, with half of it made from the body fabric, joined to an edge made from embroidered mesh with a turquoise satin stitch decorative seam. The upper edge of the mesh is stabilized with clear elastic so it is quite firm, but the upper cup isn't very closed off, so it should accommodate root fullness within reason. The embroidery here is also quite special, as it has a floral mandala pattern with dahlias and plumerias, adding to the tropical feel. The band here is nice firm printed powermesh, and I have no complaints about it running big! It feels like a TTS 28 band. Wide strap elastic with scalloped edges and fabric trim at the front, a gentle leotard back, and pops of turquoise bows complete the look.
I will definitely be wearing this during the summer with foam pads as I trade out my Le Mystere and Ciao Bella bras for lighter weight lined options!
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Updated on Apr 28, 2020 Flag this
