Today finishes our week of reviews of some of the fabulous Panache swimsuit options available this summer. But wait– there’s more! Look for Mia to review her Britt bandeau bikini top with high-waisted bottoms later in June.  And look for our reviews of some lesser known cup-sized swimsuit brands beginning tomorrow.

When I first saw pictures of the Panache Eadie, the blue and white made me think of sailing and now mentally I’m preparing for my next cruise.

Panache Eadie Balconnet Bikini.  Available in UK 30D - 38K.
Panache Eadie Balconnet Bikini.

I was delighted when Panache generously provided this swimsuit for review in addition to the Veronica tankini that I wrote about last week. Opinions are my own.  Available in either Balconnet or Bandeau style, I opted for a Balconnet style.  The Balconnet style is available in band sizes 30 – 38, UK cup sizes D thru K.  The Bandeau style is available in 30-38 D thru G.

Eadie Balconnet & Skirted Bottom
Eadie Balconnet & Skirted Bottom

Ordered in my UK size of 36H, this one is tight compared to the Veronica.   I appreciate the tightness of the band as with the plastic clasp fastener, there isn’t any chance to adjust if it loosens over time.  Constructed like a bra, the Eadie offers me full cup coverage and tacks perfectly.

Constructed like a bra
Constructed like a bra

The straps are doubled, connected by mesh, and quite comfortable.

The color really pops. The crochet navy blue against the white is sharp. The crochet feels sturdy, and doesn’t look like it would easily snag or unravel. The texture of it is thick. I love bikini tops as a summertime bra for under strappy sundresses. I’m not sure I’d get much use out of this as a bra because of the texture, however for coverage and support, it’s terrific. I’d worn it for several hours, amazed at the level of support.  After taking it off and comparing it against one of my old Change bikinis, the reason for the support was obvious.  It’s all in the wings.

Wings

Panache Eadie wing compared to Change.

And here is the back view:

Back view
Back view

I’ve had a few cup-sized bikinis over the years, but this is the first one I paid particular attention to the height of the wing and how that translated to support.  To be quite honest, these are some of the first ever pictures of me in a bikini, and I simply didn’t notice.  But, Doh!  How could I overlook just how much this matters!?!

Now, a word about the fluffy bits.  I know some women like to size up in the band to minimize back fat in a swimsuit.  I’m not one of them.  My breasts are extremely heavy and support is my #1 consideration.  I want the most support I can get in the band and will wear the tightest I can tolerate if the cup-size is right.  If someone is scrutinizing my flaws or back-skin, I don’t see them doing it.

I find the skirted bottom adorable. It’s the same size as the fold-over bottoms in the Veronica  (UK 20 or US XXXL), but this skirted bottom feels more snug and seems to run a little bit smaller.  My proper UK size in bottoms is generally an 18, but these are perfect.

Now all I need for that cruise is sunscreen and a hat.