When I had the store, I was not the biggest fan of Elila. Wireless customers were in dire need of alternatives, especially colorful ones, and Elila popped up during my research. My sales rep raved about the 1305, a jacquard print bullet-proof vest with the most frustrating straps in the history of bras. It flopped, and my general impression from custom orders of other styles was the line needed modernizing. However, I am open to changing my mind and revisiting brands and styles, so a friend sent me the Elila 2021 Glamour Satin and Embroidered bra in the gorgeous burgundy to review.

Size: US 34K/UK 34H

As you’ll see with Friday’s review, my measurements changed  . . . again. Naturally, the shift occurred after I already edited photos and videos for several reviews in the queue! To alleviate confusion, I’ll include my measurements at the time I took the photos/videos. My bust measured 42.5” with a 33” ribcage.

The band on this bad boy is pretty damn firm. There’s not a lot of stretch in the fabric, and the length feels more appropriate for a 32 or even a looser 30. Elila still recommends a +4” fitting technique for finding your size in their line, putting me at 37”. A 38 would not have fit, but a 36 definitely would have been more comfortable.

For giggles, I tried the bra on while writing this post because my ribcage measurement is now slightly below 32”. As of writing, the 34 feels comfortable on the loosest set of hooks. As a result, I highly recommend sizing up once from your normal band.

The cup size is also about one size too big. At the time, I was between a UK 34H and GG cup, depending on the style, and for the photos, I used the asymmetry pads from Ewa Michalak to flesh out the cup more. Otherwise, I had space at the top of the cup and wrinkling. In comparison to UK brands like Panache or Fantasie, the size of the Glamour is more like a generous UK 32HH or 30J.

Fit & Feel of Glamour

This bra lives for support and containment, y’all. There are five different sections to the cup including satin pin tucks to create the beautiful lower cup design. On the interior, there is a padded half-sling for additional support and lift. Combined, the sectional design and added support redirect tissue as high as physically possible with considerable forward projection to boot.

The heavier fabric and upper embroidered cup compress the tissue and prevent bounce or jiggle while offering impressive shaping. The silhouette leans more toward a vintage “sweater girl” style. Keep this in mind if you prefer a modern, rounded shape.

Wider, fully-adjustable restricted-stretch straps offer improved fit without digging into the shoulders. The wings are firmer microfiber with one flexible stay per side to anchor the bra to the body and disperse the weight of a heavier bust across a larger surface area. In the back, the straps are set in closer to the four rows of hook-and-eye closures to prevent slippage.

I have two personal gripes with this bra. First, it is pretty high under my arm and reminds me of the Panache Tango in terms of coverage. The height interferes with my ability to extend my arms comfortably, especially as I move.

Second, it’s a lot of bra. Now, part of me wonders how this would change if I tested a UK 36G instead, hence why I opted not to include a video review. With my current measurements, a UK 34G/US 34I may be worth considering in the future, either for revisiting this style or trying something else.

However, from the overall construction and the images created by the brand, the style definitely focuses on more coverage with strong containment. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that particular goal. It’s just not for me. Nevertheless, if you prefer a full coverage fit, like the Tango, then the Elila Glamour is a worthy alternative.

Materials & Price

The Glamour is a $78 bra, placing it on the higher end of most mid-line brands. I attribute the higher cost to the high quality materials, meticulous construction, gorgeous finishing details, and wide size range. Glamour is available from US 34-46 DD-K (UK 34-46 DD-H), which is quite impressive. This is a bra designed to be worn in heavy rotation without buckling under the weight (yep, I got jokes!).

Aesthetics

For some reason, I am ambivalent toward red in the lingerie world. Both my winter coats are red, but I never find myself gravitating toward the color in intimate apparel. Glamour is the exception. The rich burgundy imparts a sense of sumptuousness and luxury to elevate the overall style. The use of a fabric with sheen combined with ornate European embroidery make the bra look more expensive than the price tag without compromising support or durability.

I’m also not the largest fan of flowers, but the intricacies of the embroidered upper cup carried through onto the wings and straps scream sophistication and sensuality.  No doubt about it: The Glamour is a beautiful bra with a thoughtful design and incredible support for the fuller-busted person. It’s just a little bit too much bra for me.

If you’re interested in trying this exact bra yourself, I have it on the for sale page!