Hello Ladies,

On the heels of a difficult month both professionally and personally, I was treated to a wonderful gift of generosity and kindness that brightened my spirit and outlook.  A longtime supporter of our shop as well as the bra blogging community sent me the Urkye Dzwonek in the gorgeous purple colorway, and needless to say, I was excited to test another style from the bust-friendly brand.

Since my regular 38oo/ooo size was sold out, she ordered me a 40oo/ooo instead which fits well.  Even though the description on the website states the torso is “tight,” the top fits clingier than I anticipated, and I am glad she ordered the 40 instead of the 38 (current measurements:  42-29-41).  Composed of a 95% viscose/5% spandex jersey blend, the Dzwonek feels dreamily soft without being too heavy, but I think the jersey element contributes to the curve-hugging fit.  In my experience, jersey fabrics can tread into an unforgiving territory if the fabric is thinner, and it may require sizing up for a softer drape.  In the 40, the fit is perfect although it does sometimes cling to the belt on my jeans a little.  Because of the fabric choice, I think the top will transition well into spring, and I love when I can find pieces which work in multiple seasons.

Furthermore, the bust of the blouse fits too although the line at the bottom of the bust needs to be pulled down which then makes the neckline too low.  However, the ruching at the center offers flexibility with sizing and contours to a fuller-bust nicely without seeming as though the fabric is stretching uncomfortably.

Dzwonek exploits an open neckline to showcase the neck, chest, and shoulders, but the dip is too low for me to wear without a Perfect Cami.  The extra layer adds another textural element to outfits which suits me, but the width to the side does expose the bra strap on my right side occasionally.  I will add a simple string snap to the interior to keep my bra strap in place, but layering a tank underneath or a jacket on top would work too.  Interestingly, the top is designed in such a way that you could wear the design off the shoulder for a completely different vibe.  Moreover, bell sleeves can be worn scrunched on the arm or down at the wrist, but I prefer the former because it adds more volume and movement.

And the color!  Oh, that color!  If you saw pictures of our new shop, you know I like purple, and the color of the Dzwonek is rich and deep, complementing my paler skin and freckles.  Given the flattering tone, I think the color would work across medium and darker skin tones too.

The length on the top is shorter than my recent BiuBiu purchases but still long.  Even with my 5’6″ height and long torso, I find Polish tops can end too low on the hip.  The length of the Dzwonek works perfect with jeans but can also be worn tucked or untucked with skirts—a fabulous discovery as I love tucking blouses into pencil skirts.  I have noticed that the Polish models often wear jeans or pants with the tops, so I wonder if the length is a cultural fashion difference since a longer length can be flattering with pants.  However, the longer torso shape in general can pose problems for petites or women with shorter torsos because the proportion of the garment is not scaled to their shape.  As a result, the waist can hit too high or too low and the length from bust to waist can be too long.  With this in mind, I think the Dzwonek succeeds rather well in balancing between a shorter and longer torso, but I do think the length could be shortened an inch or so without sacrificing the look of the top.

Aside from the thoughtfulness and generosity, one of the things I love about receiving gifts is how you can be exposed to things or experiences you would never have tried on your own.  The Dzwonek (literally translated to mean “bell”) is one such item.  When I first saw the top, I was skeptical of the ruching at the bust because shirts I have tried in the past with this design feature always made my bust look disproportionately large as if I was stretching the shirt to the point of tearing.  Then, there’s the sleeves which have this flounce and volume to them when I usually prefer something simpler and streamlined.  However, once I slid into the top, I fell in love with the shape and design details.  I think it’s important to occasionally branch out of your sartorial comfort zone because you may miss a new silhouette, trend, or style that works well with your body, your personal style, and your wardrobe.  This was one such time, and I am excited to have yet another Polish top in my rotation!

Finally, I have been fielding questions from customers recently on Polish companies, and I keep encouraging everyone to take the plunge.  If you need another reason to do so (or if you are looking for a great deal), Wotjek of Urkye has given Sophisticated Pair readers a special discount code for all Dzwonek tops.  Enter “SOPHISTICATED” into the checkout and receive 30% off all the Dzwonek tops available from now until the end of February.  There’s a slew of beautiful colors currently available, so why not give them a try?

Erica

For a second opinion, check out these reviews from Undressed to impress, Muscular Hourglass, and the Full Figured Chest!