I have the Panache Black Odette which fits quite nicely. This one is very similar to it. It is a thin molded cup with a seamed lace overlay. The lace itself doesn't show under a thin top, or even the scallopped lace edge which is just below the top edge of the cup. But the vertical seam most definitely does show, and to me is a major distraction, especially since it is not structural at all, except for contouring the lace to the cups. (It would have created a much nicer profile to eliminate the vertical seam and instead shape the lace over the cups with ... either darts or pleats along the bottom of the cups.)
It does however have wider wings than the Odette, with plastic boning and a panel of non-stretch mesh between the cups and the boning. Therefore, it has much better side support. No side or back bulge here.
The straps are attached to the cups with a twin grosgrain ribbon, which serves to split the support from the very outer edge of the cups to closer above the apex. This seems to help minimize gaping and keep the Tail of Spence inside the cup. Some have complained the outer edge of the cups feel too tall, but I don't find it uncomfortable at all, despite my being short-waisted but low-set.
The gore is only 3/4" wide, and 2.5" tall. So the girls are kept very front and center. On me, at 6.5" between apexes, it's slightly narrower than 'au naturale'.
This would be the perfect bra if they could eliminate the vertical seam. It's much too distracting and not attractive at all...but that's just my opinion! Otherwise, it's a gorgeous bra!

EDIT: I modified this bra slightly by adding a third piece of grosgrain ribbon (the same width, also black) at the straps. Instead of two straps split just above the cups there are now three. I attached the top of the ribbon exactly where the other two are (which is approximately 2" above the cup line). The bottom of the ribbon is attached equidistant from the others, and if the ribbon had not been cut, it would cross over the apex of the cup. This little bit of extra ribbon serves to provide better support, prevents gaping and esthetically is much more appealing. (A general sewing or decorating rule is to group things in odd numbers, such as buttons and pillows).
The takeaway lesson here is that having that little bit of non-stretch strap above the cups is tremendously helpful with support throughout the cup without having to over-tighten the straps. And having the centermost strap angled toward the apex reduces gaping. It's a win-win!

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Black/Nude colorway

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Updated on Jul 22, 2017 Flag this