Erica was part of an order I placed in early April and received at the end of June, due to some mysterious malfunctions of DHL Global Mail that delayed its arrival from the UK. I had actually written the order off and did not expect it to arrive, but thankfully I didn't order a replacement in the meantime. Luckily, all of the bras in this Fantasie order basically worked out more or less.

I have not had success with Fantasie's vertical seam bras so far, but Erica was a pleasant surprise. The cups are a rigid sheer fabric with gorgeous multi-tonal embroidered flowers on a printed ... fabric base on the outside, and double lined with rigid mesh on the inside. It is a true 2HC construction, and the measurements are very similar to the Chantelle Pyramide Lace Unlined Demi. However, Fantasie's rigid wires and rigid cup fabric makes this a very supportive 2HC with good lifting ability. I typically have trouble with 2HC and 3HC styles being minimizing and giving me a flattened shape, but I am happy with the naturally lifted shape that Erica gives me (the Chantelle is very minimizing on me, see separate review for details).

I've also tried the Sienna Vertical Seam Bra, which is a bit deeper, taller, and more closed off, and it didn't work for me. Erica's cups are much better proportioned for my shape, so this is a good choice if you are petite. However, the cups do run a bit shallower than the Side Support styles in the same size, so if you are very projected, this might not be deep enough.

The band is made from plain powermesh, but instead of having a leotard back, this style has a standard straight back and is rather narrow. However, it feels reasonably firm even though Fantasie 30 bands are typically too big on me. I didn't have trouble with this staying in place, although the straight band will be easy to alter down if necessary. Straps are made of medium width textured elastic with topped on fabric trim at the front, and the center gore is a plain satin bow. While the details of this bra are far simpler than most other Fantasie styles, the intricate embroidery is the real focal point of this style. It is not the softest, but it feels better than some of their other embroidered styles. I love the unique color combination of soft pink, maroon, deep mauve, royal blue, and soft blue on the deep navy base.

If you don't typically have luck with 2HC and 3HC styles and need something with more shaping and support, give Erica a try.
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Midnight colorway

Updated on Jul 25, 2020 Flag this