When I plan reviews with brands for my blog, I usually get to pick something I personally like from their selection, meaning I mostly go for something rather extravagant and pretty. Nothing too practical that is! You may not believe me but I actually don’t own that many everyday-practical bras that actually suit my purposes and body type. What I really need though is non-padded plunge bras, in every single colour and style. When My Curves and Me – a discount site for Panache and Panache sub-labels’ past-season lingerie – asked me if I would like to try something from their online store, I was happy to oblige and decided to get something I would actually be wearing a lot. This time I would steer clear from the super padded balconette bras. I decided to opt for the SS15 Panache “Fontaine” which is a modern version of the old Tango plunge shape. Let’s see how I liked this feisty little number!
I just noticed the other bra strap is twisted in these pics! Please, forgive me and try to ignore it 😀
Design: The reason I chose the Fontaine in Coral, was that I wear a lot of plunging necklines and prefer not to show my bra gore around, if possible. Also, most of my dresses are already a bit tight across my chest, which makes unpadded bras much easier and more comfortable to wear on a regular basis. I also like the light-weight feeling of unpadded bras and like the way a seamed bra makes my boobs look – uplifted and perky.
The Panache “Fontaine” is made with a three-part cup construction like many non-padded balconette bras – however, its gore is a lot lower than with a balconette and the seam placement is designed in such a way, that the uplift of this bra is perhaps not the best Panache has to offer. It is a great bra when you are looking for a rather natural (ie a bit pointy) and subtle shape and don’t want your boobs right up to your chin. The cups are double lined with the stiff and supportive cup material and keep your breasts pretty much in place, even when being active (not something you can say for all unlined bras!).
The Fit: To be totally honest, I haven’t worn or bought a Panache bra in quite a long time. The last time I wore one was about year and a half ago and it was the infamous Marcie in 30G. Nothing that fits me anymore so I sold my darling yellow friend to a fellow big-boobed lady. This time, I was pretty sure my Panache size would be 30H but I was still a bit hesitant as I had no experience with Panache plunge bras at all. As I read Becky’s review over at Becky’s Boudoir, I knew 30H would probably work so I decided to go for my gut instinct.
I was so glad I did since this is definitely the right size for me, at least with this particular bra! The band is a very snug one for 30 but stretches out to a comfy length after a couple of wears. I originally thought the whole ensemble felt very stiff to touch but when I have it on, it is quite comfortable! The cups are a right size for me as well, so I would say this bra runs pretty true to size despite the snug bra band. The underwires of Fontaine are quite a bit too wide for me as you can see in the pictures but luckily I have not had any chafing regardless. The cup depth is pretty average so suits me just perfectly! The shape of the bra is perhaps not the best for me as I am quite full all over but someone with more full-on-bottom boobs may find this better for her shape.
Comfort: Despite of being made from a rather stiff material, Fontaine turns out to be a very comfortable set after all. What gets special mention with this set are definitely the straps – they are fully-adjustable, just the right width and placed more inwards so they won’t fall off my shoulders all the time. I also like the way they are slightly padded for extra comfort and stability. Even though the underwires are not the best width for me, they are not too tall so no uncomfortable pinching in my armpits nor any chafing from the bra cup edge.
To complete the set, I got a couple of pairs of size 12 Fontaine briefs with the bra. I decided to go for size 12 instead of my usual UK 10 after reading Becky’s review – the panties do come up a bit on the smaller side and are not massively stretchy. However, I would not call them too rigid either even though that was my first impression when looking at the knickers. The cut is quite low so if you prefer higher waistlines, these might not be your cup of cocoa. The styling is very cute though and I am especially in love with the the big bows that adorn both the centre gore of the bra and the top edge of the briefs. Absolutely adorable!
Unfortunately, the coral Fontaine is currently sold out on My Curves and Me, but if you are interested in seeing what other goodies they might have from past Panache collections, take a look here. You are sure to grab a bargain! The Fontaine is also available in a new Rose colour, that was recently reviewed on the Sweet Nothings blog.
Two cakes on a plate 