Hello Everyone,
Unless this is the first time you stumbled upon my own little corner of cyberspace, you know how much I adore both Anna Pardal and Comexim. Since discovering the amazing fit and quality, I have been experimenting with multiple styles (more reviews still in the pipeline) and often battle serious impulse control when placing inventory orders. Basically, I want everything, but I try to be selective without going overboard. Anna from Anna Pardal highly recommended FiFi to me though, and who am I to turn down a knowledgeable suggestion?
Sizing & Fit: Per usual, I went with my standard 32HH in Comexim/Anna Pardal, which is one band and one cup up from my size in most UK-brands, and the bra fits perfectly. The band is firm but comfortable on the loosest set of hooks, and the cups fully encapsulate all of my breast tissue in the front and on the sides with no overflow. Moreover, the underwire tacks well in the center, and I do not have any gaping or puckering at the top of the cup.
Having tested so many Anna Pardal and Comexim styles, I knew each model was similar but not identical. Fabrics and construction vary enough to make each style unique, and FiFi came to reign supreme as my new favorite for fit and support. Certain styles created minimal gaping near the strap—a fit quibble I ignore because the cup fits perfectly elsewhere, but FiFi totally avoid the issue. Not to mention, my job on the sales floor can involve frequent movement or bending, and I would occasionally (once or twice per 9 hours) need to readjust slightly with the other bras; however, Fifi remains secure and supportive throughout the day. In fact, FiFi feels more like a plunge/balcony bra hybrid rather than a standard padded plunge. The gore extends more, and the cup shape is straighter at the top without sacrificing any depth. Speaking of cup depth, both Comexim and Anna Pardal specialize in narrow underwires with deep cups—an ideal template for women with close set breasts like myself. The underwires perfectly mirror my breast shape so I do not have extra space on the side or suffer from any digging or poking near the arm. Furthermore, FiFi provides a lifted, rounded profile under tops, and the hint of cleavage looks lovely under v-necklines.
Materials & Design: Despite many similarities between the brands, Comexim and Anna Pardal do have a few differences, one of which is the quality of materials. My Anna Pardal bras have lasted longer over time (on average about two months longer), which justifies the added cost. One factor in the improved longevity is the use of stiffer, less stretchy fabric on the wings, which prevents the elastic from breaking down quickly over time. With FiFi, the wing materials remains comfortable but secure as it anchors to the side and lifts breast tissue. Three hook-and-eye closures in the back and fully adjustable straps are perfect additions for fuller-busted women too. Even the inside of the cup uses a dreamily soft fabric, and the light padding gives lift without adding bulk.
But, who am I kidding? It’s about them polka dots! When I first saw pictures of the Fifi, I thought the print was a black polka dot on a charcoal background with the pink trim, which harkened back to a now-defunct favorite, the Cleo Zia. When the bra arrived, I was surprised to see a black on black polka dot, and I love it so much more! First, the black-on-black makes the FiFi read as a mostly black bra, making the style an alternative for women wanting a dark bra with detailing. Secondly, the use of only two colors (black and hot pink) lends a sophisticated minimalism to the design which is something I have been craving lately. I love bras with lots of lace and bows and all manner of prettiness, but sometimes I want a bra that makes use of fewer details in an unexpected and creative way. For example, the hot pink trim could have easily been turned into some floral embroidery or a flat matte ribbon; instead, Anna Pardal pleated the ribbon to add a contrasting textural element to the design. It’s a small decision with a big impact. Can you see why it’s still my favorite?
Overall Grade: A
For more information, check out the video review below:
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