Hello Ladies,
Back in May of last year, I received a free lingerie set from Panache, and I was torn between choosing the Andorra and the Loretta. Ultimately, I opted for the Andorra because I had never owned an all-over lace bra before, but the Loretta has continued to tempt me. Consequently, when I saw Panache planned on releasing a cobalt blue version for spring, I knew I had to snag one for myself.
Sizing & Fit: In all the other Panache Superbra styles I have tried, the 30HH fit perfectly, and the Loretta was no exception. The band fits firm like the Jasmine and anchors to the body while the cups do not cause any spillage or gaping. Originally, I heard the Loretta and Andorra were similar designs, and they do share certain traits, such as a 3-section cup and narrower underwires in the center and on the sides. However, the Loretta strikes me as an improved version of the long-standing Tango Balconnet bra. Two-ply mesh fabric feels more comfortable than the sometimes scratchy Tango but still provides enough structure to offer phenomenal lift and shaping. While the cup and underwires sit slightly higher than the Andorra, I found them to be lower than the Tango—a blessing on the side of the body where the Tango’s underwires often poke or stab.
On me, the design definitely covers more of the chest, but on women in smaller cup sizes, the effect is lessened. Still, if you prefer lower coverage, the Loretta may not be right for you. Personally, I prefer bras which stay put and keep my breasts contained throughout the day, especially because I often run or bend over. The Loretta accomplishes my goals beautifully, and I always feel secure. Furthermore, the bottom of the cup has more space than most other bras I have tried, which allows my breast tissue to sit perfectly within the cup. Finally, the Loretta provides an uplifted and more rounded profile than the Andorra.
Materials: The soft mesh fabric not only caresses the skin but it also enables the bra to blend under thinner clothing—another improvement on the Tango. More and more, I appreciate side slings or fourth panels in bra design because this feature offers projection to the front instead of allowing tissue to migrate to the side; however, despite not utilizing either, the center seam on the Loretta more than compensates. An embellished fully-adjustable strap works well for women who struggle to adjust the straps tight enough, especially on the Tango. Additionally, the band really fits my body well and feels anchored, but the powernet wings keep me comfortable on the side.
Design: For starters, the color is gorgeous! (Emphasis totally required) It’s a true and deep cobalt blue that flatters most skin tones and really pops against the rest of the darker items in my lingerie closet. Unique embroidery complements the color, and I have heard the pattern described as “tribal” by other retailers. I think the design is reminiscent of an Asian fan rotated and overlaid to create a fusion of unique shapes along the top of the cup and center cradle. Lastly, from a practical perspective, the arched band provides extra breathing room if you have a rounded tummy.
Other Comments: While the mesh feels softer and less starched on the Loretta than other Panache styles, I still recommend washing before wearing.
The Briefs: Until now, the only Panache underwear I tested were the Andorra shorts which left me seriously underwhelmed; however, the matching midi-briefs for the Loretta are hands-down my favorite underwear from a matching set . . . ever. The rise is perfect for my torso and sits higher than the Andorra shorts. Completely sheer, the Loretta briefs leave nothing to the imagination although the embroidery on the front is a classy touch. Made from a fine mesh, the fabric feels breathable and comfortable, and the elastic at the top does not dig into the soft tissue on my hips. Moreover, the Loretta briefs work well under tighter clothes and do not lose their shape through the day. For my 41.5″ hips, I opted to buy the 14 (Large), and I like this size. Even though a 12 could have worked, I despise tight underwear. I would rather err on the side of the panties being a little big than too small. But, that’s just my personal preference!
Overall Grade: A
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