I've previously tried the Bravissimo Contour strapless in a 30J, which was laughably small on me, giving both overspill and absolutely no lift or shaping, so I wasn't expecting much from this bra. But, shock of the century, this actually fits me reasonably well (at least based on my quick try-on)! The band seems to run on the firm side (possibly slightly under 30 inches), so combined with the smaller-than-my-usual-size cups and the grippy silicone, it's a little hard to put on properly, and I can't fully scoop and swoop, so keep that in mind for my review.
My usual CK size is around a 30K (30JJ in Eden, ...32J in Ritzy and Carmen), so I wasn't actually expecting this to work. As a strapless, this gives me an extremely round, nicely uplifted shape, despite technically being too small. I get minor overspill when worn strapless, which becomes much more obvious when I wear the straps (as the cups are lifted more). Being strapless, it's kind of like when you wear a too-small bra with loosened straps to hide it being too small - except in this case, the shape is still good. One problem I did notice was that the section of the band under the gore quickly rolled and flipped under itself. This wasn't particularly uncomfortable, and may be due to me wearing the wrong size, but I don't think it's how it should fit, and it could possibly lessen the bra's staying power.
The bottom of the cups are too shallow for me, and I get slight buckling there, as well as being unable to pull the bra right up into my root. However, this isn't really too bad, and is more cosmetic than anything. I also find the sides are slightly too short for me, and I feel like I'm not properly contained, though I think this is exacerbated by this bra sitting slightly too low on me. In 1-2 cups up, I imagine I would be able to fully scoop into the cups, pull the bra up slightly more, and hopefully rid of the overspill. Overall, though, it's much better than I was expecting, so I'm fairly happy with it. It's definitely a very solid bra, and one to try if you're in the size range (or possibly even for those just outside, if you need a strapless and can't find one). Read more 287 more words
"Being strapless, it's kind of like when you wear a too-small bra with loosened straps to hide it being too small - except in this case, the shape is still good"
This is a very valuable observation. Thanks for including this!
This bra is super pretty with lots of details. The lilac trim goes all the way around the band, which is a nice touch. The mesh feels very soft and high quality and I love the materials, although I found a few loose strings in this bra which concerns me a little bit. However, I checked, and there are no rips or anything because of this. It is SUPER sheer, except right behind the underwire on both sides where there is a soft satiny material! I think the bra on its own is very attractive, but if your breasts point outwards like mine, this bra will really accentuate ...that (and it shows through the bra bigtime). The fit is definitely improved from previous Curvy Kate bras. Much more projection and uplift with a narrower underwire, and I find the band and materials higher quality and more comfortable. The cup is a little small compared to other brands that I wear (mostly Cleo) and you may want to go up a cup size, but the band is true to size. It seems like it might cut in on top if you are FOT - I'm pretty centered and it's pretty close. Overall, very nice, love the new direction Curvy Kate is going in! Read more 104 more words
I usually wear a 30JJ (often 30K in CK), and I love this bra. In the black colourway, it runs big in both the cups and band.The 30J fits more like a 32J, so I need to wear it on the tightest hooks, but aside from that the fit is spot on for me. It gives a great, naturally uplifted shape (the likes of Bravissimo unpadded bras). It has more projection than any other CK bra I've seen, with fairly narrow wires and a low gore. All in all, if only the band was tighter it would be my perfect bra. The only other problem is that it's quite high at the underarms, and the straps are just slightly too wide, so they can irritate throughout the day. It's a minor complaint though! The cup shape is spot on for those with balanced fullness (like myself), though I have read reviews from both bottom-heavy and full-on-top women who have found it worked on them. Definitely worth a try for those sized out of other t-shirt bras!
I bought this bra on eBay, and could not tell from the pictures exactly how beautiful it is. I thought it would be kind of plain, but the polka dots and the embroidery on the straps (so, they aren't fully adjustable for those who need it) add some unique qualities for the bra. This is not my grandma's white bra, and I feel amazing wearing it! I was concerned with the seams and the shape until I put a shirt on over - it gives a wonderful, uplifted shape under clothing. This is my first 30J bra (I actually got all four 30J Curvy Kates I ordered today ...- it's like christmas!!), and I think I have found my band size. In the past when I've tried 30 bands, they seemed to cut off my breathing a bit. Looking back, it is probably because the cup was never quite large enough. The center was a bit tight against my sternum, thanks to me being full in the middle, but I pushed the wires down the canal (there was a bit of room near the armpit) and now it is much more comfortable. I have only worn this a couple hours, not all day, but it is looking like the Princess will be one of my every-day favorites! Read more 109 more words
Yes! The bra came early and I'm so excited that it fits, I pushed the wires to give me .75" at the gore it still doesn't tack, but I have close set boobs so I expected that. When I did push it in I only had at most 4mm of overflow so still good besides it's not there when not tacked. Because this is CK the wires are wider than I need but not too much and I do have 1 finger of space if I pull it all the way up to my IMF and 1.5 fingers when my boobs push them down. the cups are also ...a touch too tall. Despite all of this it is the best fit I have gotten to date, so I'm a little teary eyed lol. I can actually keep this bra because: *I'm not quadding out of it unbelievably *the wires aren't so firm that I have to reverse scoop or risk marks due to my center fullness *the straps aren't so tight my arms lose circulation * and best of all... the cups aren't so tall that the bra is stupidly too big and too small (ใ๏ธฟใ) I am happy but I still haven't found the perfect one yet.
Thank you I also have a question how many inches can I take off my perimeter in a bra? I have semi soft boobs and my largest perimeter is 14" and smaller is 13.5"
That's just great! Congratulation! My friend recently discovered the Arizonia too. She just loves it. This was after breaking wires in Freya Decos and having a horrible time with @Elomi and @Pinache bras. :)
Had to comment because I haven't seen anyone else mention the problem of tall cups (for me it was tall outer edges of cups) making a bra simultaneously too small and too big! I was practically falling out towards the center in the 65N - Comexim ยป Burgundy Half Cup (357) and had all this extra fabric towards the edges. I noticed you have had luck with a comexim plunge as well and that has been my only fit so far- and I do still have some slight gaping below the straps and they're definitely too wide. I think the alterations you described for your Gina Plunge would really help me as well! So now I'm starting to wonder if I have short roots as well! (How do I tell?) Maybe we're boob twins! In which case, I wonder if the Arizona would work for me too... Thanks!
chirality there are a couple of ways to tell if you have short roots and I will attach some links for you to view. By definition (vertical roots), tall roots have tissue that is close to the collar bone and short roots have tissue further away. But let me first tell you my recent findings, because the actual placement of your bust affects your results. To tell your bust placement find your natural waist, place your hand right at the tip of it under your boob, and place your other hand flat against your skin above it with your hands touching. If you cannot place both hands under your IMF, you are high-set and consider this tall roots. If you can blace both hands right under IMF, this is medium placement and you will have to look at tissue to determine your roots by lying down. If you can fit 2 hands with left over space this if low set and you will also have to look at tissue placement by lying down.
The empty space that we find at our straps (me x I'm assuming you) is a combo of things, first if you have high set boobs we do technically have tall roots because our tissue is right at our collar bone, but because our bust is so high up it leaves extra cup space because it was made for someone with a medium or low set bust. If you also happen to be center full, we are on the other hand lacking outer tissue so it leaves space at the straps/outer top of cup. Another thing that may increase the noticeability of this is if you have short roots horizontally, leaving more space at the straps and outer side of the cups. This can result in the dreaded "too big and too small" effect. I don't wear this any more because it is too irritating to wear, but I can give you a better idea of the effects of the alterations in Comexim if you want.
MissAponii So helpful! I was completely confused by the hand thing at first - I couldn't picture it, but I did a quick google and found this https://insideoutstyleblog.com/2009/06/how-to-tell-if-you-have-a-short-balanced-or-long-waist.html where the picture instantly explained it. I always assumed I have a long waist because I have a long torso and short legs, but I could only fit one hand between my underbust and narrowest point of my waist! So I'm short waisted, I never would have guessed!
So - let me make sure I understand, a short waist makes one functionally high set? And being high set means you technically have tall roots? But since they aren't "really" tall roots and I also have narrower roots, there is extra space in the bra under the straps. So I still don't know if I actually have short roots or not... but I gather that doesn't matter that much for fit? This would make sense, I read that a "normal" set breast IMF is 5-7" below the armpit. The Comexim burgundy you commented on has a 5" wing and that cut in to my armpit uncomfortably, so I think mine must be higher set than average even without taking the waist into account. I also have discovered recently that I require short wires and am now reading that this can also be part of having high set breasts - the wires need to be shorter or they dig into armpit or center tissue. I am definitely center full as well and I see how that can add to the side gap problem.
Thanks so much for your help, and looking at your bras at least I have a few ideas of what not to try too!
You're welcome chirality, yes my IMF is a little less than 5" maybe 4.75" so things dig into my arm pit like this bra, one bra actually cut me ๐, on occasion the wing might not bother me, perhaps because the straps are moved in. I recommend you start moving them in 2cm, but I do 3cm because my bust is really heavy on my body and I need that extra level of support. Also have you tried ordering directly from Comexim, I always do because some here have commented that the fit from Comexim US retailers are different than direct order.
I always come back to the Princess even though the fit is a little difficult to achieve. I find that if it fits in the bottom of the cup, then I have a lot of gaping at the top, if it fits at the top of the cup, then it's time for a larger size. The wires are wide on this CK model but I don't find much difference between the HH and the J - I'd rather have them too wide than sitting on breast tissue. Also, I love the colorway of bright pink with the burgundy ribbon.
How are the straps for you? It seems like most of my gaping is caused by the straps being set too wide.
I actually do okay with the straps and I think it may be due to my outer fullness vs having no inner fullness. I get most of my gaping towards the center. I do okay with CK straps, which is one of the reasons why I keep buying them over and over. Lately, I can't keep Panache up at all. They're too wide plus they don't adjust short enough for me and I constantly have to tug them back up.
Just got this bra in a 30J and it's very pretty. Lots of beautiful detailing and there is even lace accents by the fastening on the back. It's surprisingly soft and comfortable for such a structured bra, and I feel very supported in it. However, it runs super small. I would say this fits a little smaller (cup and band) than a Cleo Darcy I have in a 30H, although the cup and gore are taller. If you have more shallow projection the fit of the cup may be more accurate for you. The band is very firm - at first I didn't think I could get it ...on, but once on it's a reasonable fit. If you are between sizes you definitely want to go with the larger band and many people may want to go up one band size. The projection in the Ritzy is very shallow, which usually doesn't work for me, but because of the balcony cut it works out. There is still some wrinkling on the bottom of the cup, but I don't feel flattened or pulled down. From the side it can look very shelf-like, but from the front it is much more rounded and provides a very upfront look! Overall I really like this bra and it is much more comfortable than expected. Read more 112 more words
Seems fairly true to size in the cups, although it's a touch loose in the back and the cups are quite shallow. Ideally it would fit a large 30J or small 32HH. The gore is a bit wide on me and the straps are slightly too wideset, but other that that it seems good. The wires are a fairly standard width (neither wide nor narrow) and it gives mega Marie Antoinette cleavage on me, mostly due to it being too small. The band and straps are made of a very stretchy (but comfortable) material. Very stunning bra, definitely worth a try for anyone who suits the style.
Currently my most comfortable bra. In a 30J, It gives a natural tear-drop shape, and keeps my breasts close to my body without having them up front and under my chin (which is good for other days!). There is a very, very slight east-west shaping going on, but it's definitely not as apparent as in other large-cup Curvy Kate fabric bras, and it's unnoticeable under clothing. I could actually size up in the cups to improve the shape, but I'm afraid the wires would be much too wide, and more painfully, too tall; they already cut into both my breast bone and my breast tissue on either side ...of the gore. There just isn't any room that high up. I've temporarily fixed this by folding the underwires together (like closing a book) to form a 'v', and if necessary I'll sew them permanently into that position. Right now, the material used for the gore/wire channels is stiff enough to stay put on it's own.
The underwires at the sides aren't too tall exactly, but the cups are--they dig into my underarms where they attach to the straps, which are widely placed. This is most likely a problem I'll have with most bras, however, due to having a short torso (along with being pretty short in general) and narrow shoulders. Hopefully the cups will soften with wear, but either way, the irritation is minor and not enough to put me off the bra for good.
Aside from this, the Emily is comfy and supportive. It has three hooks and eye enclosures as per standard, wide wings, and a band that runs true to size. There is some embroidery along the bottom edge of the gore, which is pretty without being scratchy, irritating, or noticeable at all when it's on. The straps are fully adjustable, and I think the hooped edging detail along the straps keeps the sliders from slipping out of place. The embroidery at the top of the cup lifts away slightly when I move my arms forward, but I think that has to do with my being full-on-bottom. Otherwise, the mesh upper-section of the cup does a pretty good job conforming to my shape. The blush embroidery also catches light pretty easily, so you might sparkle somewhat under particularly thin tshirts. Read more 273 more words
I'll be honest with you -- I know this doesn't fit properly and I knew it wouldn't when I purchased it from another Bratabase user. I bought this bra strictly to use as a bedroom bra. My fiance isn't a big fan of how properly fitted bras look; he prefers it when I am basically spilling out of a bra that is 3 or 4 cup sizes too small (men, geez.) Since that isn't something I am realistically going to do on a daily basis, I decided I'd be nice to him and get a few ill-fitting bras to make him happy (because, I'm happy ...to say, MOST of my bras fit properly now.....mainly thanks to the users of this site!)
Other than that, this bra is quite beautiful and comfortable. If I was looking for a better fit, I would prefer a smaller band and a larger cup, but there are no other options available. There's going to be no swoop and scoop when putting on this bra -- I'll just arrange myself however I need to basically not fall out of it! lol I have ordered the matching shorts with the ruffles on the back to make a set (seriously, you really need the set because it's so pretty and sexy!) Read more 112 more words
As my previous two experiences with Curvy Kate weren't successful, I was doubtful whether the Smoothie would be an improvement. The Angel and the Emily don't work at all on me, the former looks droopy (and comes too high under the arms) and the Emily was scratchy, droopy and the cups huge. But, but. Third time's the magic! The Smoothie will certainly become my new favourite (and yeah, I intend to wear it a lot https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_mrgreen.gif" alt=":D" /> ), as it - gives a great, uplifted, upfront shape - think "perky" - looks quite delicate (no mean feat in J cup) - is incredibly comfortable both ...in cups and band - has a sturdy, non-stretchy band - is the kind of no-nonsense go-to bra every girl needs. I've set the fit after my bigger boob. The smaller one leaves a little empty room at the top-and-center of the cup, so it gapes a tiny bit next to the center gore.
At the moment I can't give you any cons as it's obviously a well-made bra. The only things that may cause problems to some are that - the straps are placed quite wide apart. I don't have a problem with that as I have wide shoulders. - the straps are curiously thin (not narrow!) compared to for example many Ewa Michalaks and GG-K cup Freyas. They don't feel stretchy, so maybe it's just a feeling of mine best left ignored.
Edit: I'm wondering if I've gotten some sort of an unfortunate specimen of this bra as the band suddenly feels a lot bigger after some five washes, more like a 32 band. Read more 167 more words
hi there i have a very big troubles with this bra i order 30hh and i thought iam ok i altered the straps made them shorter and after a few hours almost all the bust came out no al ,i try 30h because i thought the wires are too far but its was wrong this too ,then i try 32h the same thing ,now i give a last change for 30J if doesnt fits i give up
I thought I should get this bra simply because I thought it would benefit me. But, unfortunately, because of the natural shape of my breasts, they are too far out, and the band doesn't support them nearly enough for them to look 'good'. It made them look odd and pointy. I mean, I guess some women could like that type, but I personally don't. I feel like it takes away from the attractiveness of my breasts. But other than the cup, I think it fit really well. The only other problem was the straps were digging into my arms and it was too uncomfortable. I think I'll stick to the molded cups from now on.
If you are close-set/full in the middle like me, this bra may be a little much. At least for everyday wear...my hubby would be very upset if I sent it back! The detailing on this bra is incredible. There is black mesh with embroidery layered over a satin cup (a pale gold color satin in this case), and the little buttons on the center gore match the satin. The materials are very soft and luxurious, and the cups cotton-lined. The bra is surprisingly comfortable. I have just a bit of quadraboob, as it is SO plunging, but showgirl cleavage as well. I would probably benefit from something like a 28K, but that doesn't exist in this range.
I bought a 30J instead of my usual 30HH as it was sold out but the cups fit perfectly. I say size up in the cup but your usual size would probably work if you like more cleavage. the band does run tight but fits me fine as I am in between a 28 and 30 band. otherwise a gorgeous bra, definitely gives ' cakes on a plate' cleavage.
Fits great. Structured so gives a nice shape. Versatile, can be worn strapless. looks great but seam in middle of cup that can show through thinner clothing.
Starlet CK2501 in 30J Adding bra in for data/informational purposes only. This Bra is not owned by me at the time of addition to the database. โบ Starlet is a padded bra with molded cups. The color is Tigerlily, which is a dark peach. The pattern is diamond shapes in the same color, so quite subtle.
The band measures 23โ to a max of 28.5โ making it tight even for a 28โ, and not at all doable as a 30 band. It has 3 hooks and 3 rows of eyes
Cup depth was 12.25โ as measured by hovering the cup between the knees and placing the tape measure into the cup without any resistance, to a max of 12.5โ stretched over the knee, so basically no stretch to them. This is not a true to size bra based on these measurements and has less depth than the Portia Ribbon 30H bra I used to have.
I read that this bra runs a cup size small, but has good projection, and so ordered 2 in 30J when I found them on sale. Unfortunately, I didn't size up enough - I am still getting quadding even on my smaller side. I wore this bra anyway, and it felt ok for some hours, but in the evening suddenly became really tight and painful in the band, the wires and the straps. Something must have shifted. I had to take it off and switch to one of my old faithful bras.
Everything I hate about bras wrapped up in one item. Scratchy fabric, wires that won't stay in my IMF, gaping at the top, and a gore that presses on my breast tissue.
Why did they have to go and discontinue this bra? This is the only one I've tried that doesn't gape on the top due to my semi-conical shape. I get some wrinkling on the bottom and it feels a bit shallow compared to the Ellace. After wearing it all day the wires start to dig into my ribs.
Please post your review on the blog ;)