Elomi Cate Support Bra Review: Is It Worth the Hype?
Introduction
In the world of full-bust lingerie, some bras are popular, and some are legends. The Elomi Cate Full Cup Support Bra firmly belongs in the latter category. For years, it has been hailed as a “holy grail” product by women with larger busts, recommended in fitting rooms and online forums as the ultimate solution for unparalleled support and a beautiful shape.
But with so much hype, a key question arises: is it really that good?
We decided to put the Elomi Cate to the test in this in-depth, brutally honest review. We’re going beyond the surface to break down every single detail, from its famous multi-part cup construction to the way it feels after a 12-hour day. If you’ve ever considered buying this bra, this is the review you need to read.
The Elomi Cate: Report Card
- Support: ★★★★★ (5/5)
- Comfort: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
- Shape & Silhouette: ★★★★★ (5/5)
- Quality & Durability: ★★★★★ (5/5)
- Value: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Who Is The Elomi Cate For?
- It’s perfect for you if: You have a full bust (D cup and up) and your top priority is exceptional lift, separation, and a forward-facing, rounded shape. It’s a workhorse bra, ideal for everyday wear.
- You might want to skip it if: Your top priority is a seamless, “invisible” look under very thin t-shirts, as the seamed construction will be visible.
A Deep Dive into the Features
The Cups: The Secret to Its Magic
The heart of the Elomi Cate is its ingenious three-section cup with a side support panel. This isn’t just one piece of fabric; it’s four distinct pieces working in harmony.
- The Bottom Two Sections: These are made from a strong, non-stretch satin simplex fabric. Their job is to provide a powerful vertical lift, combating sagging and lifting your bust from below.
- The Top Section: This features the signature sheer, embroidered arc. This panel contains the top of your bust to prevent spilling and provides a beautiful, rounded finish.
- The Side Support Panel: This is the game-changer. This vertical panel on the outer side of the cup is designed to push all your breast tissue forward, away from your armpits. This prevents “side boob,” creates a narrower silhouette from the front, and provides that incredible forward projection.
The Band & Straps: The Foundation of Support
Elomi knows that support comes from the band. The Cate features a powerful, wide band made of strong powernet that anchors the bra securely to your body. The back is a “leotard” or U-shape, which is a superior design that keeps the straps from slipping and prevents the band from riding up. The straps themselves are wide, comfortable, and fully adjustable, with a plush backing so they don’t dig into your shoulders.
The Fabric & Feel
The main cups are made of a smooth, matte satin simplex fabric that feels supportive and durable. The signature embroidery on the top cup is not just for looks; it adds a level of rigidity that helps maintain the shape. While it’s a very structured bra, it’s designed for all-day wear and feels secure rather than restrictive.
The Look: Shape & Silhouette
This is where the Elomi Cate truly shines. It is not a minimizer bra, nor is it a “natural shape” bra. It is a shaping bra. The Cate is designed to give you a very specific silhouette:
- Uplifted: It lifts the bust significantly, placing the apex of the breast higher on the torso for a more youthful look.
- Separated: The strong, wide center gore ensures your breasts are separated, not pushed together into a “uni-boob.”
- Forward-Facing: Thanks to the side support panel, it brings all your tissue to the front, creating a narrower profile when viewed head-on.
Under clothes, this translates to a powerful, confident shape. Blouses drape better, and your waist appears more defined.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Provides world-class lift, separation, and support.
- Creates a beautiful, rounded, and forward-facing silhouette.
- Incredibly well-made and durable; this bra will last.
- The U-shaped back prevents straps from slipping.
- Available in a fantastic range of sizes (up to a UK K cup).
Cons:
- The seams are visible under thin, clingy fabrics like t-shirts.
- The full-coverage design can be too high for some lower-cut tops.
- It’s a structured bra, not a soft, “loungey” one.
Where to Buy
The Elomi Cate is a popular style and is available from many online retailers. Remember that Elomi uses UK sizing, so be sure to check a conversion chart if you’re used to US sizes.
Amazon is often a great place to find a wide variety of colors, both classic and seasonal, sometimes at a discount.
The Final Verdict: Is It Worth the Hype?
Absolutely, yes.
For the plus-size woman looking for a supportive, everyday bra that provides an incredible shape, the Elomi Cate is a true investment in comfort and confidence. While it may not be the perfect t-shirt bra, it is the perfect “everything else” bra. Its ability to lift and shape is second to none, and its durable construction means it will be a cornerstone of your lingerie wardrobe for a long time.
If you’ve been on the fence, we can confidently say that the Elomi Cate is worth every bit of its legendary reputation.
