If you are in the Sculptresse size range (why can't you expand this, Panache?), can tolerate heavy Panache wires, and don't have super close center tissue, YOU NEED THIS BRA!!!
I'm sorry to shout, it's just the softest, most comfortable bra I've ever had the pleasure of putting on.
First of all, very soft fine microfiber double-bagged band and appropriately tensioned, perfect width elastic means band is smoothing and doesn't roll. The band should be more durable as well (I would need to wear it awhile but that's what I've heard for other bras that are built like this, for instance, Sculptresse Chi Chi). It is ...quite firm (tts but not likely to stretch much more than the band number).
The cup fabric is also incredibly soft and silky. The mesh and top stitching and elastic do not itch and are appropriately tensioned so there is no cutting in or in cup quadding.
The cup is a four part cut and sew with center pull straps. The design is basically an Elomi Rita/Caitlyn/Cate (two bottom panels, one long side sling panel, a top mesh piece) but way way better. First, the wires are narrower and won't stretch back like Elomi wires. Second, the bottom panels are narrower, producing a very round vs. pointy profile. Third, the tension on the top elastic and the stretchy mesh ensure room for full on top breasts, while those who are fob will probably have a perfect fit in a size down from their normal Sculptresse size. Fourth, there is more room for center fullness. This size Sculptresse is almost identical in size and dimensions to an Elomi Rita 40H, as an FYI for fit.
The gore, wings, and wires are comparable to some of Panache's narrowest offerings making this excellent for women in this size range on the narrower side of things.
The cup is tts, comparable with other Sculptresse and Panache bras in the same size or sister sizes. There is less apex projection than some styles like Jasmine, and less than Curvy Kate in sister sizes. However there is plenty of projection at the wire.
The color is a glorious rich red, a little bluer than most reds I've been seeing lately. It's really lovely. The shape is round and natural. It's pretty luscious all around. Read more 292 more words
fabulouslyfullfigure this seems like it would be right up your alley too.
You know it...I was just reading and you already tagged me! Beautiful. Glad to see your reviews back here :)
Girl I know you like red. :D
Thanks, I'm happy to be back!
So lovely!! I wish they would expand their range, too.
Well, it was a good enough review for me. I threw the dice and ordered one from bare necessities today. It was calling me with a 40% off sale and another 15% on that, it was calling my name!
I hope it works for you!
Thanks for your review. This ticks a lot of boxes for me and I might be just about in Sculptresse' size range.
I have long been a fan of Panache's wired sports bra. I love the padded wires and straps, the shape it gives under clothes, and (in a band size up), find it to be a super comfy bra for lounging, which is why I've continued to buy it even though I'm sized out. Unfortunately, it's been years since I've been able to buy my correct size, and with my FoT breast shape, I don't get as much support and coverage as I need in a cup size that's too small. So while it still works as an actual sports bra for me, it doesn't work as well as ...it did when I could buy my actual size.
I recently learned that the sports bra from Panache's plus sized line, Sculptresse, goes up to 34K. To the best of my knowledge, their normal bras do not, so I never would have thought to look. The only thing I'd been able to find out about any differences between the normal Panache Sport and the Sculptresse version is that the latter is unlined. So having tried both now, I thought I would write a quick review/comparison.
The Sculptresse version is significantly shallower than the regular, molded-cup Panache Sport, even though the cups are unlined, rather than molded foam, and reduces my bust circumference by about an inch compared to my best fitting unlined bra (Panache Jasmine). It seems to be a combination compression-encapsulation bra rather than a purely encapsulation style bra. This creates a decided minimizing effect, which may be useful for people in this size who prefer a minimized shape due to dysphoria or other concerns. Sculptresse may also be more closed-on-top, based on the mild quadding, but that may just be because it's so shallow.
The compression makes this slightly less comfortable to wear than the regular Panache Sport, even though it's closer to the right size, and I find it slightly more difficult to breathe. The wires are also not padded, so I think this bra would be more difficult to fudge your size with (the padded wires on the other mean that I don't really notice them sitting on breast tissue on the sides until the padding starts to break down).
Since the cup is approximately the right size (it seems to run about a size small) and is possibly more closed on top, it does a better job of containing my breasts when I lean forward, so I don't feel as much like my breasts are trying to strangle me in downward facing dog (I haven't tried running in it yet). So even though I find it less comfortable, I'm going to go ahead and keep it. Read more 337 more words
Thanks for reviewing, very helpful! And love the print, it looks great on you!!
Too bad it's so shallow and less comfortable. And how weird that they would not do the padded wire channels on their larger range?
Thanks for the review! I have been curious about this bra for a while but could not find it anywhere to try. It's a very helpful review. I am in the same size range and I tried Panache Sports which to be feels bulky and the wires are too tall under my arms (in 34J) therefore I was curious to try this one in a bigger size. Too bad it's more shallow because I also found the regular Panache Sports a bit constricting. Also weird that they did not keep the padded wire channels. Did you try Bravissimo Apollo or Elomi Sports those are my faves in the J+ size range so far.
Shanakitty , it does decrease your profile. That is a nice effect I have noticed with most of my own sport bras. :)
alisa, sorry, I haven't tried the Bravissimo or Elomi styles. I know the majority of their regular bras, on average, tend to work better for people with full-on-bottom breasts, while I am very full on top, so haven't really considered trying them. Of course, that may not be true of the sports bras, since those are often cut quite differently than normal bras.
Shanakitty I have also a very full on top shape. I could not get Panache to work for me - Elomi is also not ideal, the shape is a bit pointy and the wires a bit wide, but the more closed top section gives me secure support - while Panache is too open for me. I think for a sport bra if you are ok with less "round" shape it can do quite well. Same goes for Bravissimo, have to find the right styles. With their sports bras it is that I need to size up 1 band and 2 cups but then they fit. Their New Apollo has narrower wires compared to older styles. I find it more roomy on top than the old Bravissimo Inspire.
I bought this bra and the 38K - Panache Black » Quinn Balconnet Bra (9241) at the same time to compare and see how Panache is grading their plus size bras. The results are interesting to say the least.
I would say that, in general, Panache runs similar to or a bit larger than Elomi in both height and depth. I definitely feel like these bras were both a bit too deep and tall compared to, for example, my 40JJ - Elomi » Kim Plunge Bra (4340) and I could have comfortably sized down, especially in this bra.
Estel is ...a bit taller than Quinn, but in general, the construction was nearly the same. The biggest difference between the Bras was in the use on Estel of an interior side sling, and different cup and band materials. And oh what a difference those materials made!
Whereas Quinn is made of a soft, stretchy lace that is not lined on the top and is quite nubbly under shirts, Estel is lined in non stretch mesh on the bottom and stretch mesh on top, making the bra much firmer and giving greater support. The band is similarly lightweight on Quinn, whereas Estel features a luscious double-bagged elastic.
Estel has crappy straps though- they are thinner, not padded, and the gold attachments at front, while pretty, twist. I like Quinn’s padded straps a lot better.
In general both bras are soft and pretty. ChooseQuinn for comfortable lightweight support and Estel for lifting heavy boobs or sensitive band areas that need enclosed elastic. Read more 168 more words
I tried this 2020 in a 34H but it was way too small for me. In the mean time I gained another cup size, so this 34HH bra is also too small for me. The bra is made out of a super soft silky feeling fabric, which is sturdy and seems to be of high quality. There is no stretch in the upper cup. The band is made ouf of thicker mesh and less stretchy than you expect. I am just fine with it and I usually wear a 32 band. So keep this in mind and maybe size up 1 band size. The wire width and the height on ...the side is good for me, maybe even a bit small. The strap position is also in the right place. with other bras I often have the issue that the straps are too seperated, wires too tall and wide on the sides. With this it doesn't happen but it's also just NOT my size. The cup depth is not enough. I need maybe a HH-wire construction but with a cup depth of a JJ cup in this bra. Too bad this is not available. If I ever come accross an afforable 34J or 34JJ from Sculptresse I like to give it a try because I really love their quality and the support. Read more 111 more words
This is the closest to perfect I’ve found so far, but the high gore will probably bother me over time. I like the thick fabric on the bottom, as it provides more coverage than most unlined bras. I’m ordering a sister size because I’m not sure about the band size, but keeping this in the meantime.
I'm solidly in between a 38 and a 40 now and this band size is perfect for me. It is firm on the first hooks because the band fabric is so firm. The band tension is right for someone of my size and shape (H or A shaped back). While I liked the extra cup room/apex projection of the 42H, there is still plenty of room in this bra and the scaling of the gore and wings is better for me. It's nearly a perfect fit. In this size ...I can see the room for my center fullness being used. No flat center with my breast tissue pushed under my armpits like the Elomi bras. It's really an elegant, perfect bra. I hope they keep using this kind of scaling and band materials and make the bra in a range of nudes. A++ bra, the best plus sized bra I have ever bought.
I usually fit a Panache 38J or JJ, so plan your size accordingly. FOB can certainly size at least one cup down from their usual Panache size I bet. Read more 101 more words
This plunge has a much more rounded shape than the Scupltresse Siren, so it fits me much better. This low gore is necessary for my closet set breasts, and this one sits very flat. Not sure about long term wear yet, as it felt quite right after a trial run of 4 hours.I did try the bigger band and I could tell it would ride up after a very short amount of time, so this is the correct band size. I may just have to wear it in. I LOVE how this bra does not keep my breasts in my armpits so my arms can swing free!
Beautiful bra! Love the color, style and support. I did have very small wrinkle at the bottom of one of my cups, but this disappeared when I pulled my shoulders back. I didn't consider how my posture would affect the fit, but after years of lacking proper support for my size - I have considerably rounded shoulders. I'm excited about working on my alignment and having bras that satisfy both form and function.
Like, holy crap, y'all. I need a GoPro so you can see it from my perspective. I'm good to know a bra like this exists for me, and if it fit better on my larger side I might keep it. Unfortunately after moving around a little, Righty started to escape up top. I think 36HH would do better for me in this style.
I have had the Panache Sport Sports Bra (5021) for a long time. I’ve had it more than once when I wore different sizes or just needed a replacement. It wasn’t a perfect fit but was my favorite underwired sports bra.
I have a new favorite now in this Sculptresse sports bra. The fit is similar to the Panache 5021, but the bra isn’t as tall, and the cups don’t have the foam. So where the top of the Panache cups gap because of the height and the stiffness, this Sculptresse bra actually fits close to the body. It has compression and encapsulation, keeping ...everything secure for a workout. If you did a lot of jumping or HIIT, then it might not provide as much support as the Panache 5021, but I have gone jogging without an issue. The Panache gaps for me at the top because my breasts push the foam forward, but I get a really good tack in the middle with the Sculptresse. I exercised today and have had it on for a few hours afterward without any discomfort.
I recommend trying this bra if you have a projected shape or are close-set and have been looking for something to contain the girls that actually tacks in the middle and fits snugly across the top. If your breasts are very wide at the root, then you might need to size up. The wire is completely behind the breast tissue for me, but I do have narrow roots.
Love the color and the J-hook. Big fan of this bra! Read more 157 more words
My breasts are center-full, pendulous, FOB, and I have a lot of squish in my band measurement. My center-fullness is usually my dominant fit requirement. I suspect I have somewhat short roots, and narrow-to-average roots for my size. I also have narrow, somewhat sloped shoulders.
So, this bra was probably never going to fit me but I'm so excited about Sculptresse expanding their size range, I wanted to try it anyway. It has plenty of projection and could work for both FOB and FOT types, and those in between. The main reason it didn't work for me is my center-fullness.
I'd recommend this bra to someone who wanted a ...Panache version of Elomi Cate/Caitlyn or Goddess Keira/Kayla. It's a very similar bra with narrower (but not crazy narrow, Elomi just tends to run wide) harder wires and firmer band. I suspect the mesh upper part of the cup will work better for some folks with softer tissue as well.
One thing about the band - yes, this is a Panache subbrand and yes, it's a black bra but this band was *crazy* tight. I usually go for 36 in Panache, and 34 in some Curvy Kates (36 in the rest), Freya, Fantasie, etc. I'm usually able to hook a brand new Panache bra on the first row of hooks with just a little effort - again, I have a lot of squish in that area. I am not sure how quickly this would stretch out, so consider sizing up or committing to user and extender for awhile. Read more 148 more words
I agree, the band on this and, looking at AW18, most Sculptresse bras in the future, are going to be on the small side of tts. Like, a 40 band that stretches to 39.
I love this bra! It is one of my favourites at the moment. And it does not even come in my size! I have another one in 36J which I loved when I was a 32K-KK. Now that I wear 34KK, I need the 38J. The band on the Bellise does run at least 1 - 1 and a half sizes smaller! The cups are generous. So my 38J fits more like a 36K of even 34KK when I wear it on the tightest setting.
pros: - strong Panache wires, that are less wide than Elomi wires - tight bands (a plus for those at the upper end of ...the cup - range) - the fabric is so heavenly comfortable and soft - sturdy and good support - I have barely any underwire pain - round uplifted shape - quite front and centered shape - wires are a very good width for me (I need medium wide wires - EM is usually too narrow, Elomi too wide)
cons: - why is this bra discountined? - why does it not come in all the colours up to a KK cup? - shallow cups
Now the shallowness of the cups is the only real problem here. But it also makes the bra very supportive because it keeps boobs close to chest. Since I have rather deep boobs, I only can wear this bra on "smaller days" when I can stand some shallower cups. I still think it has good projection from the underwire, I don't have as much empty space there than in a Elomi Caitlyn.
This may be my holy Grail bra!!! First perfect one since I started this journey!
Me: 38FF projected, wide and short rooted, wide-ish set as they are splayed, very soft. It's stretchy all over so great for my splayed (read, unusually shaped rooted) girls
It's also not lacy, so doesn't show under clothes or itch (smooth both on the cups and on the underwire trim)... The latter is great as I have a tummy and I slouch lol. This is a wonderful everyday alternative to the moulded cups that are so often too shallow for bigger boobs.
Only shame is I only found two colors on bare necessities and they are both out of stock... I wanted to buy like 4 more at once
So... Do any of y'all know what this line was based off of? I know many bras are similar rereleases of older models
Sculptresse Siren Plunge Bra (9706) and Sculptresse Roxie might be similar in shape. I’m not certain about this but it’s worth a try if you have free returns. Lula is new as of last year but should be out in a new color soon.
Beautiful bra! Very impressed with quality. This is my first fitting strapless bra and it definitely takes some adjusting to get it on right. Placement is very important for this style as the band is lined with rubber-like strips to keep it from moving too much. As I’m new to having bras that fit - I think it may have been better for me to wait on this type (strapless) as I believe I’ll have quite a bit of tissue migration possibly changing my shape. We’ll see, though!
Highly recommend if you’re looking for a good strapless bra. https://d28qt14g3opchh.cloudfront.net/smileys/icon_smile.gif" alt=":)" />
After trying the ChiChi I decided to try the Kitty, curious if it would provide a more rounded shape and it does. My only option was a 38G, and I need to wear a 1" extender to be comfortable in this, the ChiChi is a 40FF. I pretty much enjoy everything about this bra; cut, color, lace, and style, definitely more rounded.
The gore tacks flat and the band stays in place, again it is too tight but I expect it will be more comfortable after wearing it a bit more. This bra, as well as every other bra I have ever worn in my life, does not stay ...in my fold, coming down 1-1.5 inches. Not sure if I'll ever fix this issue. On my smaller breast, there is slight wrinkling under the cup, but not much. Same with the lace on top. However, the overall fit is nice.
I honestly don't understand a whole lot about other aspects of bras yet, so I won't get very technical in this review! I don't want to provide the wrong information.
The kitty is my all-time favorite Panache bra, I love the shape, the stars, and the red. It's a lot like the Cleo Marcie shape wise. The band loosened quite a bit after my first wearing so you probably won't need the extender forever.
I needed much shorter, narrower wires, so I replaced the wires and it now stays fine in my IMF.
If you can find a Sculptresse Charisse anywhere, it gave me a wonderful rounded shape. It's discontinued, so you might be able to find it on eBay, on clearance or I've seen it on Zulily recently.
Immediately upon trying this bra on, I decided I was going to return it. Yes, I have large breasts, but this bra made them look even larger AND pointy. I don't want to have pointy looking breasts. I prefer a bra that mirrors my natural shape.
PROs - * The fit was good. See cons for comments on comfort. * My breasts are supported by the band and wires rather than being held up by the straps. * The price was quite reasonable for such a well made foundation garment. ($49.00 via Amazon seller A Sophisticated Pair)
CONs - * It shaped ...my two friends into two very pointy mountains. * The wires and wing height go too high under the armpit. I have scar tissue from an excisional biopsy, so I'm hypersensitive about this. * The gore height is too high. Although comfortable when sitting or standing, it pokes really bad if I lean over to tie my shoes and such.
I have found a much better fit and feel with the Sculptresse Flirtini in a 38G. I am continuing my search for other bras with the help of Bratabase recommendations. If at first it doesn't fit, try, try again! Read more 105 more words
Too bad you did not take a side view photo, to see the pointy shape. I get this bra, Sculptresse Chi-chi Full Cup Bra (7695) recommended a lot, and probably 38G or 40FF but the pointy shape concerns me. :\
I fits similarly to the Panache Jasmine Balconnet Bra (6951) I think if you have taller roots or are not full on top it's more rounded. For short rooted/very full on top breasts the apex is too high and lifted, resulting in a more torpedo like profile.
I really went through the stages with this bra. I have been wanting to try Sculptresse for ages now but haven't been able to get a good deal on one. At first, I was ready to send it back. It's advertised as a full cup bra but gave me way more cleavage and uh, bounce than I was expecting. That's not a bad thing! I don't know if it's me or the bra, but it fits me more like a balconette.
But wow, what a balconette it is. At first I was sure it was going back because I had so much gaping in the mesh ...at the top of the cup, reminiscent of my struggles with the Tango II balconette. However as I started moving around the house (and adjusted the wire to better settle into my IMF) everything smoothed out, and quite nicely at that. My breast tissue is very soft and malleable; once I got everything settled the wires actually sat quite firmly in my IMF. Even with the most comfortable bra I have the urge to put them back in place during the day. Honestly, I'd kinda chalked it up to a nervous habit. I love the round shape it gives me.
As usual, the wider set straps drive me nuts. They're closer set than usual for Panache as you'd expect with a (technically) full cup bra, but still a little too wide set for me. To make things worse, they're not fully adjustable. They are padded with soft fabric per usual for Panache and larger sizes. I am having some luck with silicone bra strap holders.
I know Bratabase shows this bra as not fitting me, but I'm really pretty happy with it. I like Panache bras more than they like me, so I'm happy that Sculptresse might be a good option for me. Read more 201 more words
It looks good to me! The wide straps are frustrating I'm sure given your cup size and it probably pushes them too far wide. If they stay put then maybe it's okay? I hate grabbing my straps all the time on wide set straps. Love the color of this bra too!
Wow that is one lovely color ! I am jealous that it doesn't come in my size range . I hate messing with straps too and yes I think I have a habit of checking adjusting . Oh that looks so stunning which doesn't always happen in a large cup ..I know .
Ivp Do you have any luck with Panache 34 bands? Flirtini and Chi Chi, which are similar, now come in 34 bands. Panache bands tend to be firmer. I usually wear a 34 in other brands.
I had one 34 panache envy that I have taken in slightly before it died I didn't know it came in 34 band until now. Hmmm
Ivp The 34 bands were new for AW15, according to a blog post I found. HTH!
That does. I saw a few not too expensive on eBay but maybe I can find some in my local shop to try on . I am not exactly sure of my sister size in a 34 , my 34 is one I got when I weighed a bit more and altered down as I lost weight because I liked it so much .
The bra is really well made. The fabric is one of the softest I ever felt. It feels and looks very high quality. The band is thick double mesh and very firm. I would say it even runs quite small. This 34 band measures more like a larger 32 band.
My shape: full on top, tall narrow roots, center full. This bra is more suitable to a full on bottom shape. There is a lot of room in the cups, but the top edge is cutting in so slightly on me. I really need most room on top and towards the center. I still think the bra is true to ...size even running a bit large in cups.
The band only feels slightly big on me, it fits me best at second or tightest hook. It is a very firm supportive band. The bra over all felt very comfortable. I even would wear this as a lounge bra. The wires were firm but not as hard as the usual Panache wire. They did not hurt my on my trial. Ideally I would wear a size 32J but since the bra starts at a 34 band, I had to sister up in band. If I get the chance I will try the 34HH to compare. Read more 104 more words
I have tried this bra before, but I had less understanding of my shape and size at that time.
Trying this again I would say it runs small in the band and a half to full size small in the cup. It’s also very shallow on the bottom to give a cakes on a plate look. The top of the cup is firm stretch lace. The cup shape should be very round if it fit well. The wires are super firm and somewhat narrow for this size, but not for this cup depth.
At the end of the day, this cup shape is not going to work for me, even in a size larger. I need a bit more room on bottom and depth at the wire.
The color of this bra is too pretty. It’s a beautiful light blush, which is just so soothing. I missed hooking one of the FIVE hooks on the back of the bra, which was truly a battle to get into. This thing is ready for war. @Sculptresse is a plus size bra line, and from what I understand, their bras tend to have more hooks than a non-plus bra. Dana has a four-section cup, similar to @Curvy Kate @Luxe, but it’s quite a bit deeper. It still isn’t quite deep enough at the wire, and has a little too much space at part of the top of the ...cup, while still managing to cut in at the sides, offering an awkward half-quadding (eighthing?!) effect. The aggressiveness of the band is a bit intense for my tastes, and wearing it around, bending and taking photos, was a constant reminder that I was wearing it. I think I might be able to get away with going up to a 38F to help solve the immediate projection problem, but I don’t think it would remove my constant awareness of wearing this armor. I think that better balance is probably achieved with this bra as it moves up in cup size, but based on wearing, I don’t think the smaller cup sizes of Dana were made with the consideration of large band/small cup wearing, just straight sized down. Read more 126 more words
It looks like they were so concerned with keeping it in place that they removed the functionality of it. I would probably last five minutes before wanting to rip it off.
fabulouslyfullfigure this seems like it would be right up your alley too.