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Bras » Cleo » Reviews

  1. Lyzy Triangle (9766)

    On to the second review of four! When I was in Toronto, I also went to Secrets From Your Sister, where I was surprised to see that they brought in the Cleo Lyzy, and ended up purchasing it. I was unsure of whether I wanted it or not, but ended up going for it to see if I can wear it for work.

    First of all, the appearance. I really like the lace, and I really like the thick band with its three eye settings, which sits a little lower than usual. The cups are the trendy high-apex style, which as you can see, does wrinkle vertically on ... me a little bit. This also means that the high apex of the cups can easily show over the top of tank tops, but I don't mind this. The cups are lined with beige mesh, and are slightly stretchy, but not by much. There is one diagonal seam on the cups. The straps are much more close-set than usual because the apex of the cups is more centred, and the straps attach very close to the middle of the back, unlike really any other style I've tried. There is another, side diagonal section of non-lined lace, which is essentially acting like the "wing", and attaches from the side of the cups, across the side, and down into the band at the back, next to the straps.

    Fit wise, truthfully, I'm a little bit conflicted. When I first tried it on, I was surprised at how much uplift it gives (compared to the only other bra sized bralette I own, the Fortnight Luna, which is much more minimizing). I love the thick bottom band, which is true to Cleo size, so it fits very comfortably on me with either the loosest or the middle hooks. The cups allow for a lot of bottom and apex projection in the design, however, the inside cup edges (from the "gore" to the straps) are a bit closed off, and do cut into my inner/upper tissue a little bit. The inner cup sections also flatten me down a little bit when viewed from above and from the side. The bottom cup sections, like I said, do allow for a lot of bottom projection, which is super comfortable, but from some angles it creates almost a bullet bra-like, pointy shape. I really like how this bralette lifts my breasts up off my chest though, unlike my Fortnight Luna.

    So, to recap, it's really comfortable and accommodates projected breasts really well and lifts my breasts up off my chest, but it does create a bit of a pointy appearance, which may not be as desirable under some clothing. I'm going to see how it works under my work clothes tonight, and hopefully the pointy appearance isn't as noticeable under some loose clothing.

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    Black colorway

    Updated on Jun 02, 2018 Flag this


    • Show all comments (6)
    • 4

      Thanks so much for your photos, measurements, and review!!!

    • 4

      Oooooh! Thanks so much for this! I’ve been interested in it ever since I heard about it! I think it’s great on you!

    • 3

      Love4Pollinators Calluna Thanks! I'm very happy to be able to spread information on this one since it's so new and there really isn't any other info on it yet on this site.

    • 4

      I so wish these manufacturers would pay people to measure and post reviews about the fit attributes for every model they offer. It is really difficult for me to spend $60 on something I know nothing about.

      You have been so helpful to the manufacturer and all of us, sherrach898 !!!

    • 1

      Wow, what a great, detailed review! I wasn't even aware of this bra. I love the strap placement and wide band. Update us once you have a verdict on its appearance under work clothes. Thanks, sherrach898 !

    • 1

      Thank you learningaboutbras! I did wear it last night, and the verdict is probably similar to what an actual bullet bra's appearance would be: it actually looks pretty bad under loose clothing, cause all you see is pointy boobs, but under slightly more fitting clothing, you can actually see the contour better and not just the apex of projection. (I only need to wear something black for work, not a set uniform like scrubs or anything, so I had the choice of what to wear).

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  2. Lily Balconnet Bra (7351)

    8
    like

    30E

    Fits

    I've read that this bra is an improved fit version of the Meg; for me this proves true.

    Where the Meg seemed to run large in the cup, the Lily seems more true to size. For comparison, I wear a 30DD in the Meg (though it's a tiny bit too small, the E is far too big). Perhaps the upper section of the cup curves in less sharply than the Meg too, though this might be my imagination.

    The fabric of the Lily has marginally more give than the Meg, but it's still not the most forgiving of bras; if you are very FOT or, conversely, shallow, this ... may not be a good fit for you. If your size fluctuates during the month, then it's probably going to be one of those bras which only fits you perfectly for part of the time.

    Overall I find it a comfortable everyday bra which gives a similar shape to the Meg, but fits more true to (Cleo?) size. Stretchy band (think Lucy not Melissa) may be an issue if you are sub-28, but it's nothing like Freya/Fantasie. Appearance-wise it's pretty but nothing stand out.

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    Updated on Sep 21, 2013 Flag this


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  3. Marcie Balconnet Bra (6831)

    This is a really cute bra in nice bright colors that is great for the full on top lady - but not so great if you're a full on top lady with lower fullness also. Even-shaped ladies watch out because the lower cup depth is not on par with the upper cup looseness. HOWEVER, the immediately lower cup projection is to die for. Even if you can't quite fill out the upper cup in the size you need to accommodate your lower fullness, this could still be a great bra.

    Depending on my cycle, posture, how well I swoop & scoop, I get varying amounts of "flop" in the ... upper cup lace. The great part about this bra is that the lace is so thin and smooth that even when it isn't filled it doesn't show under clothes. Moreover, if it did bother you, the lace upper panel is attached to the side sling and strap so it's possible to sew two stitches to tack the lack a little further in under the other fabric and tighten it up.

    The wires are a touch narrow for me, but it's so slight that the only reason it is a problem is because they dig in both at the top of the gore and at the outer tips of the underwire. This has more to do with the underwire shape than width specifically, I think, and would be remedied if I simply bent them. I don't think I'll try that out for a while, if ever, and certainly not on this particular bra because I'm planning to sell it, but maybe on one of my older Marcies that I bought used...

    The color and sheen on the fabric are gorgeous, as are the polka dot pattern in the lower mesh and wave pattern in the lace. I'm not a fan of pink, personally, but the hot pink bow at the gore really contrasts for some nice pop to the bra. Because it is all mesh and lace, the bra is quite breathable, and perfect for summer. No boob sweat ever https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_smile.gif" alt=":)" />

    The band runs a touch loose, like in most Cleos in this size range, but it's not a huge deal https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_smile.gif" alt=":)" /> This bra has such a great range of cup sizes that most people will be able to sister size down with little consequence.

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    293 more words

    This bra is not owned any more

    Updated on Jun 04, 2013 Flag this


    • I know this review is a little old, but thank you! I was wondering why this bra was wrinkling at the top for me, even though the cup is almost perfect and the gore tacks. I am slightly FOB, but I think I lean toward even fullness. "Even-shaped ladies watch out because the lower cup depth is not on par with the upper cup looseness. HOWEVER, the immediately lower cup projection is to die for. " I agree. I've only just gotten the bra, so I haven't really worn it yet, but what you described seems to fit my experience when I tried it on.

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  4. Asher Balconnet Bra (9971)

    7
    like

    28FF

    Didn't fit

    First thoughts: It doesn't fit and it ISN'T the Marcie https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_sad.gif" alt=":(" /> after some thinking, this was a size too small so I don't know if it's actually a better fit in a better size.
    TLDR: It was the wrong size for me at the time so obviously too small, but even in a more appropriate size the wires are really stiff and the cup depth doesn't feel the same.

    Cups seem to small?? Band is too tight?? Gore too wide??
    The Cleo Marcie will always fit me and now that Panache is discontinuing it and trying to replace it ... with the Asher, I will be grieving the loss of the future colorways. I have a lot of emotions and thoughts about this bra.
    The full measurements are next to this bra review once you click on the review. The measurements are fairly similar to the red 28FF Cleo Marcie I bought at Bravissimo a few years ago. The most significant differences are in the band and cup depth.

    Before you read: my underbust was a 30 band (but i hadn't measured myself yet) when i tried this on so it was technically too small, wich is why it was so tight. The band was still shorter than average though.
    FIT: Without an extender, this is a poor fit. I measured the band to be 58.5cm and the stretched band to 63.5cm (it stretches 5cm), which means the band is shorter than other bras in this size that I own, which means it's on the lower end of the average stretch for the bras i own. This still makes it tighter than average for Panache, and then the cups are also too small/not deep enough. I can't comfortably wear this for any given time as is. Once i add an extender to the last row of hooks and then clasp it on the middle row of extender hooks, I can comfortably wear it. The cups are still too small and I get quadboob, but it's not as bad, and it isn't painful or difficult to breathe comfortably in. With the extender placed comfortably, I'm essentially lengthening the band by about 3 cm - which would make the band 61.5cm long, and then allow it to stretch past 63.5cm. I measured myself in order to set the fit for this bra, and my Super Tight is 64.5cm. So as is, this bra is tighter than my Super Tight measurement which means it isn't comfortable.

    STRUCTURE/COMPARISON: The cup depth and shape isn't quite the same. The seams are effectively the same as the Marcie and so the overall structure is very similar. The straps are wider than average for Cleo bras which I don't mind aesthetically, but I feel like they could slide off my shoulders more easily. The gore is wider, just a little bit. What I've noticed the most after trying a 28FF and a 30GG is that the wires feel really solid and stiff, more so than other Cleo bras I have. The 28FF obviously wasn't comfortable because cups and band were too small, but the 30GG still isn't that comfortable because it feels like the wires don't sit on my chest, but hover in the middle by the gore. this could be because both the wires and the cups are too big. The stiff wires definitely don't contribute to an amazing fit.


    DESIGN: The visual design is good, it's a pretty bra. I miss the polka dots from the Marcie to be honest. I don't like the square bow, which only pulls the attention more to the wide gore and wire channels. It feels and looks like a solid structure, like you'll really feel it when you wear it. The wire channels seem wider.
    All the seams are well made and sturdy, I don't feel like this bra is goign to come apart any time soon! The black color is a little boring for me personally, but it's preferable over beige. My clothes and bras all tend to be very colorful so a black bra is a little bit of a contrast. It's got non-stretchy power mesh in the cup and between the wing and wire channels, and the wing is made of elastic power mesh. The edges of the band and straps have the typical loop decoration.

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    Black colorway

    This bra is not owned any more

    Updated on Jun 18, 2020 Flag this


    • 1

      Aww, I'm sorry! Both about this not working for you and the Marcie being discontinued :(. I used to love the Cleo Lily back in the day. Thanks for the review, and I hope you find your 'new Marcie' one day!

    • bustyand thankyou! I appreciate the condolances, hehe. the Lily is wonderful but I don't have any sizes that fit me anymore. I do hope I find a new Marcie someday!

    • 1

      Maybe it's worth trying to reorder it in 30FF? It doesn't look that bad on you

    • 1

      Orange_Kate Already done :) It should come through the Brastop exchange form. I'm willing to give this bra a try. I have yet to upload photos of the fit with an extender though, where you can see that the cups are too small.

    • 1

      I just found out about this discontinuation business and I might cry :( I have Asher but it is NOT the same. It's not nearly as projected.

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  5. Atlanta Plunge (10006)

    7
    like

    30E

    Fits

    The long-awaited (or not lol) Cleo Atlanta review. I've worn it twice now for full days of work, and I have so many things to say about it, so buckle in!

    First of all, I need to tell you, I shortened the band because I had to. I saw that Secrets From Your Sister in Toronto had gotten this bra in, but only in my sister size of 30E. So I knew from the get-go that I would have to alter it to make it work. The fitter was a little taken aback, but I assured her that I'm handy with a sewing machine. So, I (conservatively) shortened the ... band. I realized after I wore it that despite shortening it to an appropriate length, the band still had to be broken in, and this resulted in the band stretching out to the point that it's back on the tightest hooks for me lol. I guess this is preferable to shortening it too small in the first place though. I can shorten the band again, no problem.

    So, with the band shortened once, this is how it fits. It could be a little more snug in the band, but like I said, I can fix that (again). So let's move onto the cups. The two most noticeable features are that the cups have a side sling, and they have a thin strip of elastic sewn onto the edge to prevent gaping. Let me say first that I'm very impressed with the design of the side sling, because it doesn't cut into my tissue at all. It just helps gently shape. The elastic, however, may very well need to go. I'm pretty full on top, moderately full in centre, and my tissue is quite firm. The elastic cuts into my tissue, but with the plunge shape, it's not actually noticeable when I'm wearing clothing. The bulging is all along the inside edge, towards the gore. This wouldn't be so bad except for the fact that it gets worse as the day goes on and the bra settles onto my body. So I may have to take a leap of faith and remove the elastic (it's only sewn on with a simple zigzag stitch, which would be easy to rip out without damaging the lace over top). My only concern is that the lace may not have enough structure on its own, and may gape if I do this. Having said that, the cups give a wonderful shape under clothing. Rounded and lightly peaked. Just lovely.

    Next, let's talk about the wires and gore. I'm very happy with the width (it doesn't seem too wide), and the gore is nice and short, and doesn't bother me personally. The wires still seem pretty stiff, if you're wondering. The sides of the cups (between the wires and the straps) don't seem to dig into my armpits, and don't seem to bother me.

    Lastly, the straps. Oh, the straps. So beautiful, and so finicky. The straps are attached with the usual leotard-back style at the band, and are attached more close-set at the cups than the usual Cleo balconette bra. This is aided by the fact that the straps are attached to each other at the upper back using strap elastic attached perpendicular (horizontally) and a strong magnet. This is all great news for those who struggle with slipping straps. The straps have symmetrical lace panels running vertically from the upper back to the band, starting wide at the upper back and tapering down to very narrow at the band. (See my pictures if the description is unclear). The biggest problem with this is the height/length of the lace panels. I'm not sure if the problem is exaggerated because I bought a sister size, or if I just have a somewhat short upper back (or rounded shoulders), but the lace panels tend to ride up to my neck. Most of the pictures of this bra show that the lace ends around the same line as the shoulders, but when I wear it, the lace creeps up to my neck, almost to where a halterneck bikini would sit. I was wearing it at work the other day, and my male coworker pointed out the lace peeking out above the back of my uniform shirt (it's a v neck t-shirt). I told him not to worry about it (don't worry, he's very kind. He was just confused by it). This problem is exaggerated by the fact that I currently have to wear it on the tightest hooks. When I am able to wear it on the loosest hooks (like when I first altered it, before it was broken in), it allows the top of the lace (the widest part, with the magnet) to lay flat, and it prevents it from riding up too much. But when it's on the tightest hooks, I feel like the part where the straps attach to the band is narrower, or closer together, than the width of the top of the lace, so it kind of gets pushed together, and the slack rides up. My only potential solution for this would be to shorten the length of the lace panels, which I could do one of two ways. Either I could rip out the stitches at the bottom of the straps (there's a metal connector there) and pull the strap and the narrow end of the lace through the connector and sew it shorter, but this may result in some bunching of the lace. Or I could stitch rip the horizontal strap elastic off at the top and replace it lower, folding under the excess lace as needed.

    Lastly, the lace panel drastically shortens how much the length of the straps can be adjusted. So if you need short straps, this may not be the bra for you. I'm currently on the tightest setting, and it's working okay for me. I can shorten the straps from the front if needed.

    Quick thoughts on the matching brazilian panties: Why are these in style?? Also why are British panties so much larger than their US counterparts?? I got a Small pair and I realize now that they're just too big. Also they're meant to be worn high on the hips, so they have such a looooong crotch gusset. Once again, I am a short person, and I do not need such long gusseted underwear. I would be interested to try these in an extra small.

    Final thoughts: I think it would be worth it to try the Cleo Atlanta in my closer sister size of 28F. This may or may not fix some of my problems with the scaling of the whole thing. But aside from that, I'm pretty darn happy with the wearability of it right now, and I know I can still adjust if/when needed.

    PS. I have a bunch more photos if you go to the bra info page on my profile! All the pictures on here currently are from before I shortened the band.

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    Petrol colorway

    This bra is not owned any more

    Updated on Dec 09, 2019 Flag this


    • Show all comments (7)
    • 1

      Your comment about long gussets- yes every time. Plus I need more room in the back, so the gusset is always pulled too far back.

      I like Brazilians because of that- elastic always rides up on back and digs in on the front.

      What I really wish is that more folks made tap pants

    • 2

      That is an absolutely gorgeous bra. Looks like it might cut into my center full breasts though. Is the Ava was too shallow this probably would be too right?? As for the lacr riding up, I feel you. Any crossed straps or decorative things like that always ride up on me until they are pulling on my neck. Even J hooks ride all the way up. No matter what size I wear or how they are adjusted. I've recently discovered I'm probably short waisted even though I'm average height so maybe that plays into it?? I desperately want this bra aesthetically but I doubt it would fit right

    • 1

      I love this bra, your review just makes me want it more! The navy with gorgeous lace details, it is awesome!

    • 2

      Fantastic review, as always! It’s a very pretty bra, but now feel like it is probably going to be a shape mismatch.

    • 1

      Thank you for this detailed review! It looks great on you.

    • 1

      This is an amazing review. Thank you! Also, this bra looks gorgeous. I'd never seen pictures of it before. Wish I could shop at Secrets From Your Sister.

    • 1

      This does look great on you I’m happy you were able to alter to a good fit! I tried my normal 30F in this bra and the cups cut in so badly that I went up to a 30FF and it was way too big. Stinks because I love the look of this bra. And I totally feel you on the long gusseted panties - who doesn’t love loose underwear hanging off their crotch? They looked horrible on me! Such a pretty set and I’ve read other good reviews of it lately - I figured it would be good for me because I usually do need a closed in cup but this just wasn’t for me....but you turned yours into a winner!!

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  6. Spencer (9661)

    7
    like

    30F

    Fits


    • 1

      Cleo Spencer looks soooo good on you! If I could wear a gore that isn't a plunge, I would buy it immediately. Love the color, too! You're right they really should release it in mint and green. I think peacock green would be good, too.

    • 1

      It sure does give you a great shape! I think this one could really work on me too,,,I might have to give it a try! Thanks for the review.

    • Gorgeous!! Bring on the greens :-) :-)

    • This is so pretty!! But nearly 6” wide cups - ouch!!

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  7. Mimi Padded Balconnet Bra (8091)

    7
    like

    30E

    Fits


    • 2

      Looks like a good fit on you! Thanks for the review and for pointing out the straps and the low wings... I had never noticed that the straps were so thin and not totally adjustable before, and the short wings might be a deal breaker for me, as I am low set and tall. I like the wings to come up a bit higher...

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  8. Della Balconnet Bra (9111)

    7
    like

    28F

    Didn't fit

    SHAPE: round, projected, even, close set, tall roots, on the narrow end of average root width.

    THE TAKEAWAY: excellent for projected, even shapes with average to short roots. If you're very FoT or have tall roots, the top cup edge will cut in, wrinkle, or cause quadding. If the Blake fits you, this probably will too! Cup fabric is quite stiff with no stretch at all. Conversely, it has a stretchy band, so sister size down if you're in the bottom of your current band size.

    DETAILS: Ugh, I love this print so much. And those matching high-waisted bottoms! This has been on my wishlist a looonng time, so I'm ... disappointed that the fit is not. quite. right.

    As a heads up, I think the closest sister cut to this is the Blake, which also wasn't a perfect fit for me.

    First, the good:
    - The print is gorgeous, and I love the little contrasting flat bow in the gore. I don't think I've seen a flat bow like this before: it's a bit more modern and less frilly/girly, which is right up my alley (I gushed endlessly about the modern lace print in the 30F - Fortnight » Ivy Longline (673-11)).

    - The fabric is thicker than most unlined bras, so it has a nice smoothing effect - very little of the seams are visible under t-shirts. The thick fabric also minimizes prominent nipples (if that's something you're concerned about).

    The not-so-good:
    - Stretchy band alert! I purchased this both in 30E - Cleo » Della Balconnet Bra (9111) (my usual size in Cleo/Panache) and 28F because I'd run into stretchy bands in previous new Cleo styles & colorways (30E - Cleo » Marcie Balconnet Bra (6831) and 30E - Cleo » Blake Balconnet Bra (9151) ). Looks like the stretchy band issue is still a problem in this colorway, so if you're on the lower end of your regular band (my snug UB is ~29.5"), I encourage you to sister size down.

    - The thick fabric doesn't feel particularly good. It's not like the Blake's fabric at all, which is SO SOFT and comfy. It's quite stiff. For some reason, it looks really stretchy and smooth in photos, but that's not the case in real life. There's no stretch in the cup fabric *at all* so if you find you're in between cup sizes, or if you have pronounced asymmetry, or if you're very FoT, you will get gapping, wrinkling, and/or quadding.

    - I have an even shape, and I _can't quite_ fill the top of the cups out. It's not so bad on my larger side, but it's noticeable on my smaller side. My usual trick to deal with my slight asymmetry is to tighten the strap on the smaller side, but unfortunately that doesn't help with the gapping/wrinkling in this bra.

    - And here's where I think the primary fit issues are: my roots are taller than this bra expects, so the top of the cup wrinkles where the edge tries to cut in, and I'm too close set and center full while this bra wants more tissue towards the sides. It took me awhile to sort this out because I inexplicably have wrinkling in the cup right at the wire near the gore, but I think that's the result of an overall shape mismatch. The fact that the usually narrow Cleo wires are further into my armpits than others that fit me well was a big clue, as was that I get a tiny bit quadding over the cup right above the gore.

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    Floral print colorway

    This bra is not owned any more

    Updated on Nov 23, 2016 Flag this


    • 1

      So beautiful bra but when I see your photos I think it would be too close on top for me because I have tall roots.

    • AbracaBra I've revisited this review and updated it with a few notes advising against picking it up if you have tall roots. At the time of the original review, I didn't even notice that it was my tall roots that were causing the cup wrinkling at the top edge!

    • 1

      Thank you for this review. I'm trying to find a bra that works with my shape and I'm having a heck of a time. Your review helped me cross the Della off of my list.

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  9. Breeze Longline Padded Balconnet (9025)

    7
    like

    28E

    Didn't fit

    Beautiful, sexy bra. I've always wanted a longline but could never find one with a small enough band. The band fits well, though I wouldn't mind if it were a little tighter. The cup may be too small, I think I need a second opinion on that. Either way, I will keep this bra even if I have to order a bigger cup size.

    White/Multi colorway

    Updated on Aug 29, 2016 Flag this


    • Show all comments (7)
    • 1

      What a beautiful bra and it looks great on you! You may need a cup size up but maybe not. Looks like it might quad a teensy bit on your one side but it's really not that bad. Did you try under a shirt?

    • Thank you Roxanne. It is such a lovely bra, I do want to keep it! I did try it under my knit top and I thought it looked great. I've been over-analyzing the fit of it and can't make up my mind if the cup is too small or if I'm just not sure how it's supposed to look. I would hate to have to go through the trouble of exchanging it for an F cup and that turns to be too large!

    • 1

      Ooh I love that bold floral print! I agree with your suspicion that it is small for you. It's a balconnet not a plunge, and your boobs aren't meant to be smooshed together like that, so this means you could use more room in the cup! Hopefully it will fit just right at 1 cup size larger.

    • Yes, wendybien, I do think it may be too small a cup. I think that I will exchange it for the 28F. I love the floral print too in this longline style, so pretty! I will do a picture update when I receive the new bra.

    • 1

      ceah Gorgeous on you!!!!

    • Thanks Love4Pollinators. That's a very sweet thing to say!

    • Looks gorgeous, but I agree with others, too small,cup. But if you needed a "sexy" bra, it looks amazing!

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  10. Mimi Padded Balconnet Bra (8091)

    My tl;dr review of the Cleo Mimi:

    In one sentence: Mimi is a more projected sister version of the Masquerade Georgiana (5471).

    (If you've never heard of Georgiana before - it is like a non-molded, two-seamed ancestor of the Cleo Maddie Moulded T-shirt Bra (7201) and it's very famous with people with wide root shallow boobs because it creates a super nice shape, fits many different shapes, and is very comfy).

    So, this is no good news for people with very wide root shallow boobs, as they will probably not have enough immediate projection for Mimi, even if they found Juna or Georgiana a good fit.
    But it's ... good news for everybody else.

    I'm somewhere in the middle of the shallow - projected spectrum, and Mimi fits me super well. It fits very similar to CH and CHP shapes by Ewa Michalak. It creates a rounded, centered shape and it has just enough openness on top to accommodate my high roots as well (I wouldn't recommend it to people with much upper fulness (FoT) - Mimi requires some immediate projection at the bottom, and the cup rim might cut in on people who are very FoT).

    Wire width is identical to Cleo Marcie Balconnet Bra (6831), but the wires don't dig into my ribcage, although the band is true to size and firm. They are slightly lower than the Cleo Juna Balconnet Bra (6461)'s. Very comfy.


    (For a more detailed review, please refer to 30F - Cleo » Mimi (8091)).

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    orange animal colorway

    Updated on Aug 25, 2016 Flag this


    • I thought Mimi was a Maddie clone. You mean there's a padded Cleo bra that isn't as shallow as an empty pool? Interesting!

    • lcl0706 It's definitely not a Maddie clone.
      First of all, Maddie is made from molded foam. It has no seams and the foam is way thicker than the fabric Mimi is made of, making it even more shallow.
      Mimi has two vertical seams. Then, the volume of the cups is different - Mimi has more immediate projection and center projection.

      The only similarities I can see between both are the underwires (which are identical) and maybe cup height.

      Currently, my beige Maddie is way to small on me, quadboob all over the place. Mimi in the same size fits decently. That's because it's more projected and has more cup volume overall.

    • I could possibly go up a cup size in the Maddie, but that'd give me underwires that are too wide. I guess it just became too shallow for me.

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  11. Hettie Balconnet Bra (9011)

    7
    like

    30FF

    Didn't fit

    This is a beautiful bra, first of all. I'd wanted it for months but didn't want to shell out so much money for it at the time, especially since I don't seem to have much luck with unlined bras and knew it wouldn't quite fit perfectly. I ended up getting it on sale for a great price, but I'm happy that I waited because, of course, it doesn't quite fit perfectly.

    This bra has a similar shape, fit, and construction as Cleo Minnie Balconnet Bra (7431) . The bottom half of the cup is a solid fabric with a mesh overlay, and the top half of the ... cup is stretch lace.

    And there is where we run into problems.

    There is simply too much lace, which makes the bra way more open at the top of the cup than it needs to be. There's so much extra lace that adding the stretch feature just seems like a cruel joke. It's looks great when you first put it on and get all your scooping and swooping and adjusting taken care of, but no dice if you plan on doing anything but standing still all day. As I sit here with posture my mother would probably be only slightly disappointed in, the lace is wrinkling, flopping, and sticking out about an inch for each cup. The solid/mesh part of the bra fits flawlessly, though. I'm going to go ahead and say that this bra, like Minnie, was likely designed for FOT girls, which is disappointing as I am FOB and Cleo's unlined bras are some of the cutest I've ever seen. I'm going to try altering this bra to make it more closed on top, so I'll have another review once that's done.

    In terms of the rest of the bra, it's pretty standard for a Cleo. The 30 band fits like a 28 and does not offer much stretch--perhaps they should have made the band stretchier and the lace less so. The center gore sits down perfectly and is comfortable if not a little high (it pokes once in a while but for the most part I don't feel any discomfort while wearing the bra), the straps are a reasonable distance apart and fully adjustable, and the cups handle my wide-rooted breasts just fine without coming up too high under the armpits. It's a very lightweight and comfortable bra (which is great as summer just started and it is very hot). Actually, it feels about as light as or lighter than some of my bralettes, but there is still surprisingly good headlight coverage (as long as you keep them in the solid/mesh part of the bra).

    This is easily one of the...This is the prettiest bra I own. The solid fabric, the straps, and the hardware are a gorgeous cobalt blue, and the blue part of the cup has a black mesh overlay with little dots cut out so the blue comes through like polka dots. The lace is black and very pretty and soft, the band is solid black, and there's a tiny hot pink bow in the center gore. It fits well under shirts and actually isn't visible, even under white (but if the shirt is sheer, you're on your own). On top of that, it makes the girls look fabulous! Not squished in the least, but also not pointy, and it seems like they even offer a little lift, though that might just be my imagination. Rest assured I'd be wearing this thing way more often if not for the issue with the lace. If you're looking into this, I would strongly recommend +1 band size and -1 cup size from whatever you were measured as. (For me, I'm measured as a 28G and got the 30FF.) Like Minnie, if the lace being too open is your only problem, I would strongly advise against sizing down to get the lace to fit, because then you'll just end up with a cup that is tragically small... and still too much lace.

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    Updated on Jun 26, 2016 Flag this


    • 1

      Thank you for your thoughtful review :-)

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  12. Lily Balconnet Bra (7351)

    7
    like

    30F

    Fits

    I own this in the old-school parrot print colourway.

    QUALITY: It's nice! Maybe not as luxe as some other $$$ bra brands out there, but it feels sturdy, there's no loose threads or unfinished, itchy corners (cough, Freya), and the elastic holds over over time admirably. It was designed with a real person wearing real shirts in mind, and the seams aren't obtrusive under shirts - even the flashy pink stripe at the top of the cup is just sheer fabric, not ribbon, so it doesn't poke out or interfere with the rest of the cup construction. The fabric is a little acrylic and stiff, which is weird ... when you first put it on, but as your tissue relaxes into it, it becomes a perfect and secure fit.
    COMFORT/FIT: This is the best fit in a bra I've ever had. The gore doesn't dig, the band is just snug enough, and while I get some puckering at the top of the cups, it disappears after a few minutes of wear. I wish the wires were padded up just a little more - the wires can dig in the underbust after a long day. I highly recommend this bra for people with close-set boobs and with centered/evenly full tissue.
    APPEARANCE: I'm so down for these parrots. The print is kind of busy, but as long as it doesn't interfere with the bra's functionality, I truly don't care. The pink ribbon at the top makes your boobs look like luminous, perfect spheres through the power of forced perspective, and the shape this bra gives under shirts is great - rounded, lifted, and unlike many other unlined bras, your nipples aren't the center of attention when it's cool out.
    IDEAL USES: Boppin' around town, lookin' cute, day-to-day boob business
    KEY AESTHETICS: Modern Independent Woman, Abbi From Broad City, Cold Brew & Cults Concerts, I Own A Succulent Garden And Also I Do My Own Taxes, I Have A Record Collection But I'm Not Going To Be A Douche About It

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    Updated on Mar 13, 2016 Flag this


    • I love this review :D I just wish the lily didn't wrinkle weird on me :)

    • Lily parrots is super sturdy. I wore mine weekly for over a year before I had to start moving the hooks to a small setting.

    • 1

      I got a Lily Swan print set listed for sale in the sister size to this, 28FF. Just an FYI ;-) The Lily's are classic, well made and give a great rounded shape to those who have the even fullness and short roots they demand.

    • KEY AESTHETICS: are you stalking me? (minus the cold brew..give me blazing hot coffee, or give me death)

      Thanks for this review, I really want to try this bra and it is helping me to make a decision. :)

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  13. Della Balconnet Bra (9111)

    7
    like

    32F

    Didn't fit

    As a bra nerd, it's pretty cool to finally hold a bra in your hands you've been seeing only pictures of from season previews... I'd wanted this bra from the second I saw the first trade show pic of the pink leopard.

    It's just as cute in real life as it was online. However, there are some issues. First, the band runs quite big, stretching to 33.5 in. I'll be exchanging it for 30FF. I thought it was quite odd because Panache unpadded bras typically run tight. The shape seems like a new one for Cleo--it's not a Marcie clone, a Lily/Erin clone, etc. It is a 3-part ... balconette, but different from those. The top section is more closed than those, but I get that dreaded diagonal wrinkle. I'm hoping the tighter band will hold me in better so I can fill out the cup all the way. It is a typical Cleo round shape.

    I'll have a more in-depth review when I get the exchange and I can wear it for a day (in 3 days--bless amazon!), but so far I'd say this bra is probably best for FOB, maybe better for taller roots, and worth trying if you liked Lily or other Cleo balconettes.

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    This bra is not owned any more

    Updated on Mar 01, 2016 Flag this


    • 4

      I appreciate the review of a new Cleo cut. Hope the exchange works out for you!

    • Oh my, that is one pretty bra and seems to be a good shape for you. Curious about the fit in 30FF...

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  14. Eleanor (6181)

    I have been wearing Eleanor all day long! even under a tight shirt, what I have never done yet! All I'm going to say.. I didn't know I was wearing a bra anymore after some time! https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_smile.gif" alt=":)" />

    This bra is not owned any more

    Updated on Feb 22, 2016 Flag this


    • 2

      Wooohooo! Eleanor looks 10/10 on you. This one goes to my wishlist.

    • So beautiful!!

    • Thank you! :)

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  15. Lucy Balconnet Bra (5851)

    7
    like

    28F

    Fits

    This was one of the worst bras, until I made some somewhat horrific modifications. I bent the wires to make the cups much more narrow, then I cut off the top lacy bit that was both gappy and cutting in. Now it's my favorite bra.

    Updated on Jan 01, 2016 Flag this


    • 2

      Hey, whatever you've gotta do! Sometimes Frankenbra is the best bra!

    • 2

      Go Frankenbra!

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  16. Lucy Balconnet Bra (5851)

    7
    like

    28D

    Fits

    This is a very great bra!
    I bought the Lucy on a guilty whim, because the yellow color looked so fanciful and I have long lusted for an unpadded bra to fit me. Surprisingly, the Lucy pretty much does!
    This bra has fully adjustable straps, a great selection of colors, is a continuity design from Cleo, offers great lift and support, and is generally a good bra. It's given me the most up-and-front shape I've ever gotten, which is not an easy task on wide-set, wide-rooted breasts. I feel really secure in this bra, and while it's not very cleavage-y, it handily trumps the shape provided by most cleavage-inducing bras. ...
    There are definitely some shortcomings, as with any bra. It's a 3-part seamed cup, which I've decided my breast shape has some issues with. Specifically, the top section does tend to bunch up a bit, because I've found that these cups are rapidly closing. My breasts don't end low enough for them, so the top of the lace will lie flat along my chest, while the fabric just below the edge makes a fabric bubble. This has not been an issue under clothing, and I've even worn this bra under very tight, very thin jersey tops. But it is a bit of a bummer as far as shirtless appearances go - I really wish I could get that 'painted on' look that larger busted ladies seem to find!
    In the end, this is a bra to try - it's really beautiful, fun, and comfy! It's made for wider-set and wide breasts, and should do fine on multiple fullness levels. It will probably cause trouble on very close-set breasts and full-on-top breasts. If you fall into the 'wide' category, though, try this bra!

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    Updated on May 14, 2012 Flag this


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  17. Lyzy Vibe (10231)

    6
    like

    30GG

    Didn't fit

    I purchased this in the color Azure. It is a beautiful vibrant electric blue. The lace on this bralette is pretty soft and doesn’t seem to bother me much, but I am aware it is near my armpits. More on that when I get to fit. The cup consists of a three part cup. Two lower parts with one upper part. The cup is a lace fabric over a blue mesh. The center gore has a tiny blue bow and it is wire free. The back band is a wide elastic band that has a pink/silver metallic stripe. The inside of the elastic band does not contain the ... silver stripe as seen on the outside. The side wings are a blue stretch mesh that is way more stretchy than the bottom of the band or the elastic above. So if you have some squish like me, you’re gonna see it, as it is shown in my pic. There is a a 2x3 closure. The straps are a satin finish and has a J-hook in the back to convert it to a racer-back. All hardware is blue.

    For the fit I do feel the cup runs a little tall and wide where the cup meets strap. I do have another one on the way in one cup down. I am aware the lace is there even though it’s not necessarily itchy. It gives me a more natural pointy shape, not my favorite, I feel covered, but not exactly supported. This may come down to a size issue. The bralette gets the job done for the most part. Now the back band and the noticeable roll I get between the upper and elastic and the lower band elastic does not make me want to wear this out of the house. I also feel the band is on the stretchier side for a 30. I purchased at a discount off of Amazon. This is another bralette, worth the sale price, but I wouldn’t pay full price for this.

    Edit to add: Added info for our petite friends. I just noticed on the strap/J-hook section. If you are short and need to adjust these straps even shorter, you won’t be able to utilize the J-hook. It would be pushed up way to high and too close, or even past, your neck to be functional.

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    This bra is not owned any more

    Updated on Mar 04, 2022 Flag this


    • 1

      This is a very useful review. Thanks!

    • 1

      I love this color! I feel like the elastic band would roll up on me a lot.

    • 1

      WildWolff This one actually seems to stay put if I tighten it. But I think I’m going to return this. The cups. While feeling good in the center, just feel so wide near my armpits. I kind of feel like I can get the same effect using an old bra I’ve taken the wires out of. I do love the color tho.

    • 1

      That's how I feel about a lot of the unwired bras I've tried. I assume it needs to be a certain size to provide support without a wire. The Parfait and Panache unwired bras I've tried are like that, so wide and tall and uncomfortable. Bravissimo Zara is kind of tall and wide but the fabric is soft so it doesn't bother me and I actually wear it out of the house. I've been loving Kindred Bravely/Davy Piper, but I don't know what options they have with hooks. They just started adjustable strap options though!

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  18. Lucy Balconnet Bra (5851)

    6
    like

    30D

    Fits

    It's my first unlined bra that kind of fits. The shape it makes is less pointy than in the Freya Zeta and the fabric is much softer. I'm not a fan of the embroidery but the lightweight mesh and comfortable one-layer band seems to be a good choice for hot summer days.

    My boobs are nicely supported even though the top of the cups starts to wrinkle after a while. Maybe it's because I have short roots and not much upper fullness.
    The straps sometimes slide of my shoulders and the gore could be narrower.

    Despite these imperfections I still wear it.

    Updated on Mar 10, 2021 Flag this


    • 3

      Glad you found a decent fit, MaroonMarmot . Such a pity the Lucy was discontinued. It was a useful bra in many respects.

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  19. Blake Balconnet Bra (9151)

    TLDR, very stylish and looks great, but ultimately not the best fit for me. Love the visual design of this bra.


    DESIGN: I first had this bra in pink, but as I grew I had to part wiht it since it got too small. I prefer this specific one's color scheme though - turquoise/aquamarine and black is really stylish, it feels classy.
    I like the overall structure of this bra and i really enjoy the way they've accented black vs aqua in this bra. Black cup edge, straps and the top most part of the band in the back. It gives a sense of that the curved shape of ... the band continues with the straps when it's worn and i really like it!
    The hooks are black too and so is the text on the inside of the wire channels that says "Crafted for fit. Styled for fun". The strap adjusters and eyelet that attach the straps to the band are aqua. One of my favorite things about how bras are made is seeing how the colors complement each other!

    The cup fabric has really nice pattern. It's hard to describe the pattern exactly, but it looks like the bra fabric has millions of little dots weaved into it. Pretty cute.
    The color is a little greener in real life than in photos, it resembles the results you get when you google "aquamarine color" more than "turquoise". The bow at the gore is OK at first look, but when you look closer you can see the black ribbon actually has a diamond pattern on it, which makes the bow secretly stylish.


    FIT: I wore this regularly for a little bit, but I'm not sure for how long - it's a long time ago and it would not fit with an extender now so I'm not about to try it on. This bra doesn't have enough immediate projection for me so it ended up sliding down and digging in to the top my stomach skin during the day, and the cup edge would cut into my inner full tissue a little bit. It wasn't super comfortable and the fit wasn't always super flattering, but I wore it because I felt cute in it and honestly, what a mood.


    QUALITY: Solidly constructed, as usual from Panache. Seams are good and even. The wires are stiff in usual Panache fashion.

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    Turquoise colorway

    This bra is not owned any more

    Updated on Mar 02, 2021 Flag this


    • 1

      It’s a very cute bra. I’ve always been interested in it. Sorry it’s not the best for you now.

    • 1

      Calluna it is really nice! I love the attention to detail and color coordination! If unfortunately didn't work for me, but I'm going to try Polish bras in the near future so that's where I'm at with fit issues haha!

    • 1

      Wooo! Come to the Polish side!

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  20. Sofia (9791)

    6
    like

    30HH

    Fits

    I have been curious to try this bra, as it feels like something a bit different style wise. I love the blue color, the fun lace on top, and it fits really nicely!

    The bra is comfortable, and may be a bit minimizing, at least in appearance, not sure about under clothes.

    My underbust is around 29.5, and I am wearing this bra on the tightest hooks, which I frequently need to do with bras that are a 30 band.

    I think this bra will be really cute to wear with racerback and similar tops that show a bit of the lace overlay at the front.

    The cups are sheer. With the combination of the la e overlay I think this will be nice for hot and humid summers.

    There aren’t many of these bras reviewed on bratabase. If like me you have been wondering about it, I say go for it! I found it on sale at breakoutbras abd had a 20 percent off coupon, which made it quite inexpensive.

    Updated on Aug 21, 2019 Flag this


    • I love the look of this one! Perfect for under a V neck top for that spash of color. Glad it worked out for you!

    • Oh this is a nice bra :) glad it worked out

    • Looks great. Looks more like a top than a bra which is nice!

    • Yes braluv ! I wish Cleo would make this as a bikini!

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