This review is for the Masquerade Rhea size 28F in the colour Antique.

Bra description:

A luxurious-looking bra out of matt satin and intricate detailed lace in a beautiful but difficult to describe colour. None of the images I've seen online does it justice. It's a kind of delicate greyish pinkish sandish slightly-darker-than-nude hue -- a light rose or mauve taupe comes to mind. Anyway, even though it's definitely not nude, it's an excellent and definitely more romantic alternative for a neutral-coloured bra, which is exactly what I was looking for. The centre gore is adorned with a bow and a tiny sparkly pendant. As said, the lace is intricate ... and expensive-looking. It's not entirely flat so it might show slightly under tight, thin, clingy clothes. The zigzag stitched seams are much less noticeable in real life than online images suggest although, again, they might show under tight, clingy clothes. The cups are only thinly padded, but the material feels quite sturdy, almost stiff. They are lined with soft and comfortable cotton. Straps are only partly adjustable. The non-adjustable part is completely non-stetchy and covered with the same satin the cups are made of, which feels quite comfortable. The wings are made out of two layers of a perfectly matching stretch satin. There is no boning in the wings.

Bra fit:

I must say, I am impressed. First of all, it kind of sort of fits!!! Secondly, this bra gives me the kind of shape I was expecting from Ewa Michalak's CHP, but that one didn't work for me AT ALL. The cup shaping keeps the breasts close to the chest, pushing them upwards for an uplifted, separated, and rounded 'Regency'-type cleavage. Compared to my Ewa Michalak CH there is a lot less projection and I first thought my breasts looked slightly flattened and almost 'minimised', (*) but it's actually really not a bad look bad at all. I do like the shape a lot: it's simply a bit more subtle than the shape I get in my CH and a bit more wearable for that reason as well. I know others consider this a look for 'special occasions', but I'm also happy with for a more everyday appearance. The cup height is quite perfect on me and there's only the slightest of gapping when I move my arms and shoulders. The only real gripe I have with the cups is the slight irregularity at the bottom of the front most cup seam: for some reason there is a bit of diagonal pull in the cups that makes this part pucker. I'm very tempted to slip in a thin piece of boning to straighten it out as it's just such a shame in such an otherwise beautiful bra. (**)

Technically, the wires are probably slightly too wide for me (judging by the marks they leave on my skin; it really isn't noticeable as such while wearing the bra), but not uncomfortably so. I actually think I prefer them this way, at least as long as I'm still breastfeeding. Unlike the Curvy Kate Tease Me I tried several weeks ago I do not notice the wires in this Rhea at all: no poking or pinching anywhere. The centre gore lies nice and flat and exerts zero pressure on my sternum. The tight band stretches the wires somewhat (hence maybe also the diagonal pull in the cups?), but they do not seem to distort significantly and the bottom of the cups isn't noticeably flattened. My breasts fill out the bottom of the cups reasonably well and the cups do not slip down like they did in the Tease Me and the CHP I tried.

The strap placement is a bit too wide for optimum comfort, but it *just* works. The slight gapping of the cups when I move my arms is mostly due to the wide strap placement. The fact the straps are only partly adjustable is a bigger problem: as I have a very short upper torso I have to tighten them almost all the way to prevent them slipping off my shoulders.The material of the non adjustable part feels sturdy and comfortable. The zigzag stitching isn't the most aesthetically pleasing, but it doesn't bother as much as I thought it would.

The band is really a tad too snug for a 28 band, but it does work for me. I'd say it's about as tight the band on my 65E PL Onyks if not slightly tighter and it really is every bit as tight as I can take. I wouldn't want it any tighter, but one band size up will almost certainly be too loose. (***) I measure 69cm/27" underbust -- someone who measures in as a solid 28 I'd strongly advise sizing up. The band is shaped slightly funny in that it seems the wings to curve up rather than down. This makes it feel as if the band rides up in the back, even though it really doesn't. Simply takes some getting used to, I suppose. Apart from the fact I wouldn't have minded a cm or two more room, my only real issue with the band is the lack of side seam boning and/or the lack of a powernet lining in the wings: the tightness of the band of course doesn't help, but -- I think at least partly due to the fact that the satin the wings are made off is so much stretchier than the edging elastic -- the band wrinkles and causes slight discomfort. Side seam boning and a sturdier powernet lining would allow a more even distribution of the band tension along the entire height of the wings (not just along the elastic edges) and would almost certainly result in more comfort.

Conclusion:

The Masquerade Rhea truly is an Almost Perfect Bra for me. I don't think the shape it gives is as glorious as what Ewa Michalak achieves -- I do prefer the slightly more projected shape I get from my HM Gold -- and I do have some issues with the fit and construction, but really, despite its minor imperfections it is an amazing piece! Anyway, I'm now sorely tempted to get it in all colours available plus, of course the matching knickers https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_wink.gif" alt=";)" />

Edited To Add:

I tried this bra with an extender and I must admit it fits much more comfortably that way. Of course, with the worst of the strain off the band and the wires it shows the cups are actually too big: they do gap quite a bit. I'm going to try this bra in a band size up and a cup size down, ergo in 30DD -- I'm thinking I should get a pretty decent fit in that size.

Edited to Add, The Sequel:

So, I was taking some photo's today to list this bra for sale as I had concluded previously it fits me too tightly in the band. I had even gone so far to order a band size up ... but before proceeding with the listing I decided to try it on once more as I'm having a Difficult Boob Day and my (only) other fitting bra doesn't fit comfortably at all. 'Lo and behold, miss Rhea fits me so well today, it's as if it's a different bra. I don't even notice the snugness -- what's up with that?! So, here I am, editing this review AGAIN and quite probably deciding to keeping this bra after all. I now have a 28E on the way as well to try when I'm feeling 'smaller'. Heck, why not order a set in black too?! https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_wink.gif" alt=";)" />

Edited To Add, The Really Final Version:

(*) (**) After trying this bra in a 30 band as well, I have a strong suspicion that both the flattened shape and the puckering in the bottom of the cups are the result of diagonal tension in the cup caused by a 'too tight' band. Don't ask me why -- I'm almost thinking it is actually a design or construction flaw that has to do with fabric grain or something. It is also slightly funny, because the 28 band certainly doesn't FEEL too tight on my 69 ribcage (it feels tight, but not TOO tight) and the wires don't really seem as distorted as I've seen them in other bras with much looser bands (Bravissimo Mademoiselle ... ?).

(***) Surprisingly, a band size up seem to work just fine. The band is not very stretchy to begin with and I haven't notice the 30 riding up on me at all. At 27" I'm obviously just in between band sizes so maybe that's why it works for me, but for what it's worth, if you experience a flattened shape and/or pucker in the bottom of the cup, try going up a band size. I myself definitely got a better shape that way.

The Masquerade Rhea is a mysterious bra. I've now tried it on in four different sizes and for some odd reason they all seem to fit. My breast size and density fluctuates (due to breastfeeding), but even though there may be as much a three cups sizes difference between my 'smallest' and my 'biggest' shape, these changes are not very clearly reflected in my actual measurements. Believe me, I quadruple checked! True, these four bras may not all fit the same at the same moment, but for Bratabase recommendation purposes I cannot say of any one of them that it doesn't fit under the current measurements at all. For what it's worth though, I have decided I get a better shape in a 30 band, so this one is probably going to be listed soon ...
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Updated on Jan 02, 2013 Flag this

I'm so excited to have my first ever bra transfer be a success! Thanks so much Bratabasers, especially runs_with_scissors for getting this bra to me!

This is seriously the softest bra I've ever tried on in my life! The bra is absolutely stunning and silky-smooth everywhere. The straps are a tad too wide for me, but they are also soft so I don't think they will cause any discomfort. I'm considering snipping the straps all-together and wearing it as a strapless, has anyone tried this?

Anyway, overall, super beautiful bra. I'm absolutely in love!

Edit: I snipped the straps on this and it totally works strapless for me. Absolutely love it!

Updated on Mar 07, 2016 Flag this

This bra is now a little small for me, but it is still wearable. The only problem this causes me is that under the arm the underwire sits on the tissue of my larger breast.

The first time I received this bra one of the hooks was not properly sewn in, but once I returned it for a new one I found no problems and it feels like a very well-made, good-quality bra. The satin material feels luxurious and I love the Mulberry colour. The cups are lined with cotton for comfort.

The vertical seams on the cups provide excellent uplift and a rounded shape. From the side it looks ... slightly minimising, as this cup construction often can, but I feel like most of my bust is up front rather pushed back around my ribcage, as is often the case with Panache.

The straps are only partly adjustable, which was an initial cause for concern for me. However, I haven't found this a problem, despite usually having to shorten straps quite a lot.
The bra is fastened with two hooks in my size (28FF).

The bra comes up very high in the centre, which I usually find causes it to dig in. This was the case at first, but after a couple of wears it no longer did. The underwires are very slim, which means the centre gore is narrower than on any of my other balconette bras. This is great for me as my boobs are very close together at the top.

The band is not particularly stretchy and I'm still on the loosest hook after a couple of months of wear.

The thick lace edging shows under tight tops, but is generally OK under most things. I think it's a great bra for everyday luxury. My only major complaint is that the matching knickers run large. I usually wear an 8-10 and the 8 in these are very large on me. I tried a couple of pairs and found some to be bigger than others, so that suggests an inconsistency in sizing.
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Updated on Mar 20, 2012 Flag this

laura_144

594 reputation

126 bras

My shape: Self-supporting teardrop with very tall and wide roots that give me fitting problems like shallow breasts, but with max lower projection and loads of side-boob; slightly FOB, center-set, forward-facing, and firm tissue that doesn't like being pushed around.

This review is for the Sapphire colorway I received in a swap around Christmas.

This is a very pretty bra, but alas, not for me. First off, the cups are ITCHY. Scratchy seams in the cups absolutely drive me nuts. Curiously, it wasn't the lace that was itchy- that was barely noticeable, regular lace, and the satin was SO SOFT, especially in the straps, and even the band wasn't a ... problem, nor was the tag. It was all in the modesty cookies, and boy, it was bad. When I took the bra off after the photos, it left red marks all around my poor nipples, and while I welt easily, this was still pretty significant. I don't know if washing would fix it or smooth out the sheer fabric seams at all. Honestly, I'd rather just have a completely sheer all-lace cup instead.

On to shape:

Projection:
I think this bra has a lot more upper projection than I need. My tissue slopes in a fairly straight shot from my collarbone all the way down to the apex, and I have sadly discovered that there is (so far) not a single three-piece cup that can comfortably or attractively accommodate that. It also is fairly shallow in the bottom of the cup. Looking at other users' photos, I would have thought it would be projected enough, but now that I am going back and looking at the stock photos, I can see a lot of them riding down slightly on some of the models and wrinkling in the same places. The major culprit, though, is the apex: that sucker is REALLY TALL. Like, more than 1" higher than mine. You can see in the photos that scooping didn't do that much to alleviate the wrinkles caused by this combo. The cup is too high because of all this - you can also see where I tucked it down so things fit a little better. (Note: without having the seams criss-cross right at the apex, it is way less scratchy this way!)

Also, the sides are slightly shallow, too - inside by the bridge AND outside under the arms. I think this is why I initially felt like the wires were too narrow, but in the photos you can see that they obviously aren't. Because of this, I get a little bit of tissue trying to escape over the wings as if they were too short, but not enough to bother me.

Wire width:
Great! I love wide wires. These are definitely wide enough for me.

Wire shape:
Pretty good! Too steep, but it didn't bother me.

Band:
Maybe a little on the tight side, but I think it would relax with a wear or two. It was certainly comfy enough, and obviously sat properly. I wish it had 3 hooks instead of 2, but oh well.

Straps:
Plenty of adjustable length for me, although they can only adjust halfway because of the embellished front. Speaking of which, I love embellished straps! Lots of people don't, but I do. They are so pretty and cute, and so SOFT! If I could, like, cut these off and put them on another set of cups, I would.

Bridge:
The center gore is tall, but actually really comfortable. I had to go back and edit to add this, because it was so comfy I forgot all about it. Super narrow! I'm sadder now that this didn't work out, because I need super narrow bridges. https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_sad.gif" alt=":(" />

Overall, not a bad bra, and still very pretty. It's a bit more like a frosted cupcake in person, in my opinion, but I love the choice of tassle instead of a bow at the center front, the embellished straps, AND the comfy bridge!, but I do wish it wasn't so scratchy. There's no way I want to troubleshoot this to find a potentially better size match with that looming as a possibility.
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Updated on Jun 27, 2017 Flag this

I would actually recommend this for projected/narrow girls looking for a strapless bra, though I would specify that I think it will work way better for soft than firm tissue. It isn't as wide as many I've seen and is in no danger of migrating downwards. The gore is, however, wide and very tall, which could be a comfort issue for many people. I will be keeping this because it's a doable strapless bra and I rarely wear strapless things in general, and I will not be using the removable straps/wearing it when I'm not wearing something strapless. I would recommend going up one cup size to fit your boobies better, as it would definitely be too small in a 28FF for me but is workable in a 28G. The cup has one vertical seam near the center (but closer to the gore) and the underwires are hidden on the outside.

I always see people begging for strapless advice around the interwebs. The quest

https://brogwithadog.wordpress.com/2015/08/02/masquerade-by-panache-review-ti...

Updated on Aug 02, 2015 Flag this

kerniss

1402 reputation

91 bras

I love this bra! I could tell as soon as I first put it on that it was going to be extremely comfortable, and I wasn't wrong. This wasn't a bra that needed to be 'worn in'. The appearance is very grown-up but understated, as the fabric is satin in a rich navy blue. It feels very luxurious but suitable for everyday wear.

The band feels snug at first, but loosens up quite quickly. I bought the 30FF rather than the 28G because it was cheaper, but I will need to alter it down (as I really need a 26 back). I vary between a 28FF and a 28G ... in Masquerade bras (e.g. Tiffany, Hestia, Delphi in 28FF, Rhea in 28FF/G, Harem in 28G) and in this the larger size was a perfect fit in the cup.

I feel like the wires are not quite as wide as they usually are on Panache bras, which is a good thing for me. This means the shape isn't as minimised from the side as in a bra like the Masquerade Rhea. It's moulded, like the Freya Deco, so the shape is nice and rounded, but it has fewer issues for me than the Deco. There's no gaping at the top of the cups when I bend over, and I feel more secure in it. The straps are narrower than the Deco and most bras in this size, but in a good way - it looks nicer and the support isn't compromised. It's more of a balconette than the Deco as the centre gore is higher, so if you have soft breast tissue you're less likely to spill out. I normally don't get on with balconettes as I have very close-set breasts, but this one surprisingly didn't cause me any problems.

I don't think I really have a bad word to say about this bra! The matching briefs are also very comfy, but I needed to go up one size from my usual as they're quite small.
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Updated on Dec 30, 2012 Flag this

laura_144

594 reputation

126 bras

And in the same vein of giving thanks, I must also give thanks to ritzyrunnergurl for sending me this beautiful Masquerade Antoinette! Just from reading her description in the ad, I just knew it would be a winner. It’s so soft and comfortable and gorgeous! My only wish is that I had more upper fullness because then it’d be a super duper stunner, but even with my breasts as-is this is just a great shape for me. It’s wide and shallow and while I don’t have upper fullness, it kinda makes it look like I do have a little bit because it does a good job of smushing em up there. I only wish I could find the matching bottoms but a nice black lacy thong will do the job I think. I am just in love with this bra!! I wish I had been into lingerie back when Masquerade was still around because this is very good quality and just lovely. I’ll keep an eye out for other bandeau styles like this.

Updated on Dec 01, 2019 Flag this

Sigh. This is SO pretty, but it unfortunately runs small in the cup. There is a ton is side boob spilling out of the sides and a bit of quad boob as well. To be fair, I am quite wide rooted so side boob is a common occurrence, but it's clear that this basque's cups are just too narrow and shallow for me. I would probably size up two cups

This bra is not owned any more

Updated on Jan 01, 2017 Flag this

This review is for Rhea in 32DD and the antique colourway. I got it inexpensively from the outlet section of a large lingerie onlineshop. I knew I had to order it for sience (bra science!), although I was quite sure it would not work for my shape (tall, medium width roots, even fulness, medium projection, self-supporting, usually a 30E).
Rhea surprised me in several ways.

- First of all, the band: I had expected that I'd needed to take it in, but this 32 band works just fine on my 27"/29" ribcage. I can't speak for every colourway, but this Rhea in antique definitely runs tighter!
- The cups also fit ... me quite well, with some minor gaping at the center but that's totally tolerable.

- Rhea's look, feel and fit is quite similar to the Masquerade Georgiana (5471), a bra that many people with wide root shallow boobs (and other shapes as well) love and cherish. The band and straps are nearly identical, however, Georgiana is stretchier in the band.
- The cups are similar at first sight (lightly padded halfcup cut with two vertical seams), and both bras are less than 3/4 coverage, but there is a subtle difference: Georgiana's cup edges are sloping down slightly towards the center gore, making the bra higher at the sides and lower at the gore - a typical 'balconette' shape. Rhea's cups, in contrary, have the same height all over, the rims are perfectly horizontal and give the bra a 'bandeau' kind of look.
- Therefore, Rhea's cups have slightly more volume overall. The bra requires some more upper and/or center fulness than Georgiana.
- Cup width is similar in both, I'd consider this a typical Cleo/Panache wire width.
- Also, Rhea's cups are definitely sturdier than Georgiana's and feel stiff in comparison.

I wouldn't recommend Rhea to people with wide root shallow boobs unless they have a) a certain amount of projection or fulness at the center or b) a FoT shape. The cups will gape on people that are FoB or don't have enough center fulness.

- Appearance: Rhea works for me as a skintone-ish coloured bra and doesn't show through light, loose-fitting clothing. The shape is slightly minimized in profile, but it does create some 'cakes on a plate' kind of cleavage.
I noticed that the bra has boxy appearance to it, because the seams are quite stiff and prominent, and the horizontal lace trim also shows through tight shirts.
It probably works best under tops with boat neck necklines.
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antique colorway

Updated on Jul 04, 2016 Flag this

*Updated review: It's just soooo dang wide. The more I wore it, the more I realized the whole neckline and design of the plunge just doesn't work out with my inner fullness. Like the inside edge of the cup barely covers my nipple on my bigger breast. But I don't quadboob, and I don't think a bigger size would solve it. I think the wires would definitely be too big in a 30G. The bottom of the cups is too shallow for me. Plus the band is too loose now, and with the straps barely adjusting long enough for me, it ... likes to ride up.*

Oh, I'm in looooove. What a beautiful bra!

Band: I can close it on the tightest hook, but I'm a bit worried about the durability of the satin band, so I'm closing it on the middle hook for now. Hopefully it doesn't snag or run. Feels snug enough for now, and it doesn't stretch too much so hopefully because of the satin it won't stretch out excessively.

Cups: Wide - 6.1" - the gore tacks nicely. I get great lift and they're tall enough to enclose everything on the sides without digging into my armpits. Open on the top, no quadding. Designed for wide rooted, wide set, shallow boobs. The lace detail is gorgeous. They are cotton lined for comfort and lightly padded but not enough to add to my size.

Straps: Not fully adjustable unfortunately. I have them as loose as they can go, which thankfully is just barely long enough for me.

The lace detail covers the vertical seam, but I probably won't wear this as a thin tee shirt bra. I don't wear a lot of thin shirts without a cami underneath them anyways.
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Updated on Aug 03, 2015 Flag this

lcl0706

6302 reputation

165 bras

The bra is padded, and there’s one vertical seam in the middle. This pushes the breasts into it, and thus gives a forward and projecting shape, moreso than anything else I have tried. The band is continuous, offering good support despite having a thin band with only two hooks. Straps are halfway adjustable in the back. In the front they are much wider and a soft satin, though I don’t think I’d call them padded.

The band is on the tight side and the cups are open at the top. I’m shallow profiled, so I don’t easily get Marie Antoinette cleavage, but this bra does a heck of a good job. Some days there is a little gap at the top, but if I attempt to put all my migrated tissue into the bra it’s an excellent fit. If you’re between sizes, order up a band. The straps adjust short enough for me (often a concern) and the satin is comfortable, although wide.

I’ve been rather taken with the dark gray/raspberry coloration of the Masquerade Delphi from a year ago, and finally bought one on eBay in my size. Construction: The bra is padded, and there&...

http://faustineli.wordpress.com/2012/08/29/masquerade-delphi-review/

Updated on Sep 28, 2012 Flag this

faustineli

651 reputation

81 bras

What can I say about this bra??? Well when I put it on it was like instant love. Soft smooth fabric, gorgeous cream color. Soft straps. Well the straps are not the prettiest, they have a zig zag stitch that I do not particularly care for. They are also adjusted pretty far down already, so there is not much room for stretching.
Before ordering this bra some research told me that it runs tighter in the band and that the top of the cup fits a little open. Both of these are true. But my larger side, the left, fits perfectly in the slightly open cup while the right has a tiny gap. Nothing worth worrying over, normal when you have two slightly different breasts.
I'm so in love with this bra! We'll see how it wears for a bit.

I met a bra yesterday that I absolutely loved. I did not think it would fit, I almost did not order it. But someone had entered in the measurements on www.bratabase.com in a size 28H. The measu...

http://bybabysrules.com/2012/01/27/fell-in-love-the-harlequin-rhea/

This bra is not owned any more

Updated on Apr 29, 2012 Flag this

bybabysrules

839 reputation

96 bras

This is the next step in my bra-fitting evolution. This bra succesfully avoids all my regular problems - the top isn't too tight, the wires aren't too wide, the cup centre isn't too far to the underarm. It gives a fantastic round shape and the bust seems a bit larger in this bra (but this can be due to the larger size, this is the first bra I've bought after my breasts have grown) I love it.

It looks really, really prety. I have it in teal and it's a very lovely color which goes nicely with the golden threads in the lace, the band is made of ... stretch satin which gives it another touch of luxurious feel. Only downside is, it shows under light clothes. Be carefull with hooks and similar things as they tend to get stuck in the lace. For this reason I always wash it by hand.

There's a bad thing I have to tell, though. The band was on the looser side since I've bought it and it stretched out quite fast to the number I've given. 70cm on a 70 band is not good. I could do with a tighter band, but the G cup is the largest made in this design and I'd need larger one if I'd go down a band size. It's a shame because the cups are such a perfect fit. I guess I'll have to subject it to my sewing machine sometime soon. But I'd be buying more despite this problem - the cups fit so wonderfully as I've never experienced before.

Add: I've outgrown it https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_sad.gif" alt=":-(" />
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Updated on Feb 28, 2012 Flag this

Really good fit, better than I expected! I came from r/ABraThatFits's calculator with a size of 32FF (I'm not sure about my shape, but I think I have a lot of projection, maybe full on bottom? Definitely narrow shoulders though) and expected to have some trial and error... I got this one used (but like new) and it honestly felt so good that I almost cried! The gore doesn't quite touch my sternum, but it's really close (and I'm kinda chubby/I have a stomach, so not sure if that's what it is or not). The band is also surprisingly comfy (side note: looking at how small the bra ... looked, I was honestly wondering if it'd be too small for big ol' me, who always flopped/slid out of the pretty, cute bras I'd gotten from AdoreMe. But I guess I'm more petite (just with some big tiddies) than I thought I was!). The cups also feel really, really good; smooth, comfortable, filled out well. No spilling, not even when I wiggled around or bent over!! (That's my biggest fear for any not unlined bras, I'm not used to them at all) I also like the kinda rounded shape it gives me. My only little issue is with the straps. I have narrow shoulders, so they slid off quite a bit. After adjusting the straps (aaaall the way/shortest they could go), I think that issue is fixed, though (it feels kinda strange, but I've never worn a balconette before)! I think that's more the style and less the fit itself; all in all, I'm really happy with the bra and I want another one/more that fit like this! https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_mrgreen.gif" alt=":D" />
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Black colorway

Updated on Sep 19, 2020 Flag this

My shape: mid-height, front-facing, very close-set but not center-full teardrop with tall shallow upper roots and loads of projection/depth underneath (but moderate overall projection), wide side roots with even more side fullness, and self-supporting very firm tissue allover

I got this one new without tags a few weeks ago from a reddit user, even though it's been discontinued for quite a while. It's a beautiful shade of red, and the stretch satin used for the straps, the band, and the upper edge of the cups is wonderfully soft. It came with matching size XS Brazilian-style briefs (lower profile at the waist, with a slightly ruched center back seam), which ... fit over my 40-inch hips (on top of other underwear) but are tight enough that all their cute sexy styling is lost in the stretch. *sigh*

The cups are too shallow at the base. It's always disappointing, but I haven't yet found a bra with enough depth at the wire, except maybe the 30F - Masquerade » Maia (5221) which is still not enough but translated into lift and Cakes-on-a-Plate cleavage instead of empty lower cups. In this case, the band is tight enough to keep the wires in my IMF, and the padding is just stiff enough to hold itself firm without buckling, which works out as a little bit of lift (but not as nice as the Maia). They're super open on top, perfect for the shallowness of my upper roots. This 2-piece vertical seam half-cup style of Masquerade's seems to work really well for me so far! I'm sad all over again to have finally had my chance to try them long after they were discontinued.

I have mixed feelings about the straps. For one, they're only luscious soft satin on the front half, which also means they're only half-adjustable. For another, they're literally in my armpits. It makes for a nice wide open neckline, which is sexy and I like, but also makes the top edge of the cup buckle in almost every position I move in, and it means that tightening the straps a little doesn't help take any of the weight of my breasts off the bottom of the cups (a trick I use to prevent the creases in my other too-shallow stiffer cups).

The wings are lovely and tall, and the wires are extremely wide, just touching the very edge of my shoulder blade when I stretch my arms up - they might be the widest I've had, which is great for me. I know lots of ladies have problems with scaling in this size range and how manufacturers like to make large cups take up 2/3 of the small band, but my Super Side Boob can't get enough and I have some fullness all the way back. They are too steeply curved for my Nike-swoosh shape, so the fullness doesn't exactly follow the wire past my tail of spence, but I'll take what I can get.

The band is a little tight, I think, and resists a little when I inhale deeply. It's not as stretchy as Freya, but it feels supportive anyway, and certainly keeps things in place. The height of the wings is sort of irrelevant, being basically on my back as they are, but they are tall enough considering the band tapers to a narrow 2 hook-width (3 sets). The satin back-band is very soft.

I will definitely keep it, even if it's only for going out and date night. It certainly makes things look good enough, and it's a great color for it, too.
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Scarlet colorway

Updated on Jul 29, 2017 Flag this

I bought this basque in black/ruby as a birthday gift to myself after finding out (super belatedly) that Masquerade had gone out of business. It is so very pretty, and I love it just for that! I also decided to get it because I have had great success with vertical seam cups, and because I didn't have any real lingerie that is bra sized.

So, I am pretty accustomed to lacing myself into a corset. It can take 15 minutes and requires some twisting and my arms get tired, but I can even get modesty panels straight by myself, so I consider myself flexible and pretty self-sufficient. Well, all ... that did nothing for me with this basque. I'm not sure how other ladies get into them, but it definitely required the assistance of my fiance (he likes it too, though, so that's good!). 3 rows of hooks all the way up is great, though!

The straps aaaaaalmost don't extend long enough. I don't have particularly low-set breasts (I think) or tall shoulders, but it was almost not enough, so watch out for that. I also have not checked the length on the suspenders, and they look a tad short, too. Luckily, they are all just black satin ribbons, so if you are handy with a needle and thread, you could just replace them.

The gore tacks and doesn't hurt! This is a super duper important thing for me, not least because of how close-set my breasts are but also because I apparently bruise easily from bad gores (looking at you, 65G - Chantelle » C-chic 3 Part Cup (3582) ), and of course it is a super rare thing to find. Something slightly wonky is going on with the left wire at the bottom of the U making it poke if I slouch at all, but I think I can sort that out easily enough. Otherwise it's as comfy as my Fauve half cups!

The cups are also projected enough for me. !!!! I don't even get that with all my Fauves! I wore this thing for two hours as a trial and the wires never migrated, nothing ever wrinkled, and I stopped noticing it after 5 minutes. How awesome is that? Definitely going to invest in an Antoinette bra now, before they disappear forever.

I must say that I am a teensy bit disappointed, although really not surprised at all, by the fact that, since this thing fits me well like a bra up top, it offers no support for me whatsoever anywhere else. This is a thing I deal with all the time, though: pre-made clothes are cut for people straighter than I am, simple as that. On top of that, I like me some corsets and dig the hug-feeling I get from decent compression in a custom rig, so I was kind of hoping to get a little of that, but alas, it is not to be. Still, it's super comfortable and the boning doesn't buckle or poke (although it might with wear, because it does feel like it's plastic, so I'm not 100% sure yet), and it reminds me to keep decent posture. The sheer lace powermesh is a little itchy but I am really sensitive to that sort of thing, and it usually goes away with the first wash. Considering what I paid for it, I think it's absolutely worth it.

The worst part about it, I think, is that the seam at the top of the cups cuts me off. It's another slightly disappointing surprise because it's a vertical seam style with a pretty low neckline, but I have super tall roots and get this with most other bra styles (especially strapless!), so I probably should have expected it. On the other hand, I guess I could say I'm surprised in a good way about how well a bandeau cut works on me! Aesthetically, it's just enough to be noticeable, unless I have a garment neckline fall right on top of it, but not enough to dig or chafe. I do think it is this which makes the cups ever so slightly pointy, but it's a pretty natural shape and not really noticeable if I'm not looking for it. It's a shame because otherwise this basque has everything I could have asked for in an off-the-rack garment.

Overall, an excellent investment. It will be a great undergarment to wear under a fancy dress - not slinky, mind, because the seams will show, but fancy, definitely - and I'm sure my fiance won't mind helping me into it again sometime soon. https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_smile.gif" alt=":)" />

Edit: After looking at the photos again, it's pretty obvious to me (and probably only me) that the wires under my arms are pretty narrow and they're resting on my breast root, but in the 2 hours I wore it I never noticed, so it didn't bother me at all.
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black/ruby colorway

Updated on Jun 25, 2015 Flag this

This bra was a bit of an odd fit for me. I’m not sure I can pinpoint all the fit issues, but the most obvious is the fact that I don’t fill the lace at the top. I have an even shape, and this bra needs more upper fullness than I possess. The Harem also seems to fight against my inner fullness and would probably work better for those with more fullness on the outside. The wire width is the same as other Masquerade bras of the same size, projection is adequate although again mostly on the top.

The band of the bra is not as tight as other ... Masquerade 28 bands I’ve tried. Since most Masquerade bands are very tight, that would probably make this one an average 28. I didn’t find it too loose on my 25 inch ribcage, but then again I only wore it for a couple of minutes.

As others have mentioned, this does not work as a t-shirt bra because the seam joining the lace part on top to the padded part on the bottom is visible under thin clothing.
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nude colorway

This bra is not owned any more

Updated on Apr 16, 2015 Flag this

When I first started my bra journey I tried this bra in 28D even though I measured at 28DD. I tried it because it's so beautiful I couldn't pass it up and because I was going through a bit of sticker shock with the size I should be wearing vs. what I was wearing.

Fast forward to now and I have gained boobage and need 28E in most bras.... so of course I find on in 28DD.
Still can't pass it up because I knew how pretty it was in person and when I tried it on before the fit issues seemed to be related to the cup ... size and not a shape problem.
I tried it on last night... same outcome as before. It's a gorgeous bra and I love it, but it is just too small in the cups for me. I quad like nobody's business!
I still really love this bra and would take it in a 28E/F if I can find someone selling it. My shape is even and projected, so someone in that shape, who measures at around a 28DD would really like this bra!
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This bra is not owned any more

Updated on Dec 23, 2014 Flag this

I almost feel bad writing a review because this bra is so rare! I loved Celene when I first saw it in the SS14 previews but then was disappointed when I could never find it anywhere. A Redditor offered to place an order for me and I could not resist.

Anyway, Celene is yet another beautiful and comfortable Panache offering. I was surprised by the shape it gives, though. I was expecting that rounded padded half-cup look with lots of uplift but little forward projection. Celene actually gives a very narrow, very projected look; the cups are almost pointy. Out of all the bras I have, Celene probably makes my breasts look the biggest!

The band is a firm but not tight 28 and the cup depth is true to size. As with many Panache offerings, the wings/underwire are too short for me and I get armpit tissue spilling out, but that doesn't show under clothing. Otherwise, it's a very beautiful and well-made bra.

Updated on Aug 16, 2014 Flag this

Aesthetics: this bra is so ridiculously pretty, pale blue satin fabric with bronze embroidery. The charm on the gore is a little plastic silver heart with a rhinestone in the middle. I love the zig-zag seams. The embroidery along the top of the cups and the bottom of the band is raised and is visible under tight clothing. The band is comfortably firm but not the tightest 28 band I've ever tried. The uplift is amazing and I love the open cups.

Fitting: one size down would be better. I waited until I was retaining water to re-evaluate the fit. My larger breast almost fills the cup normally and ... does fill the cup when I am retaining water, however, my smaller breast is drowning. Obviously the gaping is less obvious when my boobs are fuller. The gaping doesn't show under t-shirts. My major problem is wire width; when I take it off, I can see that there is almost an inch of empty space on the outside of the cups! I really want to try this in 28E because of the open cups. Quadboob is a perpetual problem that I think the Rhea can handle very well, if only the wires weren't so wide.
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This bra is not owned any more

Updated on Aug 09, 2013 Flag this