Do you remember your first bra?  Or how about the bra you wore for your dream job’s interview?  For something so insignificant to daily life, underwear has a funny way of imprinting memories.

I do remember my first bra (a set of two basics) and the bra after that one too (my favourite ever blue gingham bra).  Just as memorably, another bra stands clear in my mind.  I was first professionally fitted in my mid twenties with a full bust and the bra: Freya Rio.

I won’t be the first person to say that Rio was their fitting bra.  Rio is a big favourite of many fuller busted women, and it seems to be a staple amongst bra fitters too, especially those in the D+ market who really know a thing or two about proper fitting.

When I saw the new Jade colour this autumn/winter it reminded me how great a bra Rio is, so here I bring it to you!

**Freya gifted me the Rio Balcony Bra (30H, £28) and Short (large, £14.50)**

The Look

Rio comes in black and white but for this season, we have the gorgeous Jade too.  It’s a lovely vibrant shade that is just perfect for this time of year and certain to brighten your mood.

Freya’s Rio is a style that will appeal to many, but not all.  You’ll find no bows or ditsy details here, just a thoroughly modern, contemporary design.  But this is what makes Rio a breath of fresh air; it’s all about substance and all about style.

It’s an underwired balcony bra with a tough feel.  The rigid three section cups are fashioned in a perforated, semi sheer mesh with chain link detailing.  The simple, wide straps are fully adjustable and it fastens on a deep three hook and eye band.  Hardware is silver toned metal and has an industrial feel, which lends to an overall tough, resilient look.

The Fit

As Rio’s fabric is very structured with little give, it’s a bra you need to start with a perfect fit.  Rio is a smaller fit compared to a typical Freya bra.  I find that although the cups fit well, it is on the small side in the band.  I believe it’s because of this why the look is quite wide and stretched on me whereas it should be more front projected.

To be sure I wasn’t just imagining the tight fit, I flat laid it with Hero and yes, the band is a good deal shorter:  a total of 3cm according to my comparison.  To remedy this, I’d suggest you try sizing up in the band, and coming down in the cup (so for me, a 32GG should be better than the 30H.)

The Brief

Rio’s short is low cut on the tummy but a deep brief for a comfortable fit.

The shorty is mainly a soft touch fabric, but a top band of the same styled, but stretch version, of the perforated mesh features to the front of the short, so it’s very easy to wear.  A light overlocked edging trims the legs and a shimmery lurex elastane stitch adds a touch of eye candy to the waistband.

This is a comfy pair of knickers that perfectly completes the Rio set.  It has the same contemporary style but without the rigidity of the bra.

*****

Freya’s Rio is a fantastic bra if you’re after something without all the fuss and bows.  If you get your size right, it’s a decent, reliable bra.  And in the emerald tones of new season Jade, it would be a fab gift for any full busted lady this Christmas!

Have you experienced Freya’s big favourite, Rio?  How do you like the tough design compared to a pretty bra?  I’d love to hear your stories about this collection – tell me below!