This bra is absolutely the smallest 34 band I have come across so far. The band runs extremely small, measuring about 31" when stretched out all the way. The cups run slightly small as well, leading to a baffling kind of curly shape (rounded up to the top of the cup, which then stands sharply away from the breast tissue in a point from the side and a line from the front). The effect is a little bizarre, however it can be corrected to a degree by adjusting and then disguised under heavier fabrics. The band still has not stretched out, nor does it ...appear inclined to do so. The bra does not poke in the slightest, but because it is so tiny, I find it uncomfortable to wear for an entire day.
Problems aside, the bra is really very pretty. The coral lace along the top edge of the cups extends delicately over the breasts, while the pearl detail over the cut-out center gore is unusual and very elegant. The band is not mesh but a matching coral satin material in the back and sides, while covered in lace like the cups in the front.
Despite the fit, I will be keeping this bra based on its stunning appearance and the hope that my continued weight loss will allow me to fit into it properly. Read more 123 more words
I received this bra in a 2-bra grab bag from Breakout Bras, so I had limited influence over which bras I bought. I put down Harlequin (Masquerade) as one of my preferred brands because their bras are all so pretty I was guaranteed to get something I would like, even if the fit was not guaranteed. Plus, I would never be able to afford their bras on my puny student budget!
This bra is seriously gorgeous. I love the embroidery, which is even more enchanting in person, and the high-contrast effect it creates. The thread used for the embroidery is fairly thick, so that it ...stands away from the fabric and can be seen underneath most shirts. Because the bra is so colorful, it can also usually be seen under anything thinner than a heavy jersey. The band is sheer mesh, as is standard, but with much tighter elastic, so it creates unsightly lumps on my back while still not supporting me properly due to the fact that the band is on the larger end of 34 while I am not. The decorative "jewel" on the gore was a cheap-looking plastic jewel like something from an amusement park pirate's treasure chest. I cut it off immediately and found the bra much improved.
When I unwrapped the bra, it was extremely starchy. I have very sensitive skin, but I could not even stand to wear it for five minutes. After handwashing it, the texture of the bra was improved, but the embroidery, straps, and gauze along the upper edge of the cups still scratch after a while.
The shape from the side is very round, however, the straps are very narrow and cut into my shoulders easily. The back band is angled upwards slightly, so it always feels as if it is riding up, even when it is not. I have only worn this bra a few times, so I am not sure how much it will stretch out over time or whether additional washings will soften the fabric further. Even though I love this bra, I worry that it may not love me back. https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_sad.gif" alt=":(" /> Read more 264 more words
