At the beginning of my bra journey in summer of 2019, I had purchased the Freya Starlight Hero Side Support Bra in sizes 28D and 28DD to try, back when I was a smaller size. 28DD worked for me at the time, but I ended up not keeping this bra because I just didn't need it, and because I wasn't satisfied with the appearance or comfort of the style. Freya has added this to their current permanent collection, so I picked up their newest version in the fashion color Slate. Although I am currently measuring between 28E and 28F, I ended up getting the 28E because it was cheaper, even though I know that their Side Support styles tend to run about a half size small.

This is a 4 piece cup with side support panel. Compared to the Viva Side Support, another one of their newer styles, the 28E is not quite so small. Viva is at least a half size small and nearly a full size small, but Starlight is somewhere between true to size and a half size small. Other than this, the fit and construction between the two styles are the same. I have also tried the Rose Tapestry Side Support Bra a while back, and concluded it is the same. If Fantasie's standard side support styles (the balanced ones, not the ones for extremely projected shapes) work for you, then this is a good option, especially if you need the 28 band.

Overall, Starlight fit me pretty well, but I just have this feeling that the cups overall are just a little bit small. Everything feels fine, but the proportions look a little off on my body (unlike the Viva that I purchased in 28F). In addition, the fabric here is quite rigid and doesn't have much stretch, so it won't sit as smoothly on your body if the fit is not perfect. The band is not snug but is comfortable and decently TTS. It is made of solid thick stretch knit with decently firm elastic, and has a gentle leotard back.

My main criticism from my original review of Starlight was regarding the scratchiness of the fabric. Unfortunately, it still hasn't been remedied here. It feels a bit like the fabric has been stiffened with starch, however I noticed that while the upper and lower cups are made from the same combination of mesh backed-lace, the upper cup is two separate layers, while the bottom cup is fused together into one fabric. I suspect the fusible interfacing used is what is causing the fabric to be so stiff, so I am not sure that this would soften with washing. I understand that they would fuse the layers together for stability, as the bottom of the cup gives nice support, but I wish they would find a new version that wouldn't make the inside of the cup so scratchy! Note that because the upper cup is two separate layers, it has some natural stretch, and the upper edge elastic is stretchy as well, so it should not cut into upper tissue.

The lace design seems to have been updated from the original, if I remember correctly. The current design is of polka dots on a webby-looking background. This fabric is lightweight yet supportive. Both the mesh and lace have stretch, but the bottom cups do not stretch because of the fusible interfacing. The same fabric is used throughout the cups and cradle, while the back of the band is solid. Straps are plain medium width elastic, though they could benefit from a bit of texture to avoid slipping during wear. The hardware is attractive gold-tone in the front and dyed to match in the back. The only trim on this bra is simple and tasteful-- a small folded ribbon with a rich gold-tone round stud.

Slate colorway

Updated on Oct 03, 2020 Flag this

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