[AD: pr sample] the ‘ashley’ bikini from reign studio was gifted to me with no obligation to review.
updated may 25th to refresh the layout.
fuller busted babes, reign studio are a brand you need to keep your eye on! i was honoured to be invited to their launch event earlier this year to preview their upcoming collection as well as be part of a focus group. from the get-go their message was clear – to offer those of us with bigger boobs (F+ cups) the chance to get stylish swimwear that’s similar to what you’d see in high street stores like topshop, river island, primark etc – but designed so it actually fits and supports us! as reign studio are such a small brand having only just started out, their collection currently consists of a bikini set (‘ashley‘) and a one-piece swimsuit (‘michelle‘). the two styles are non-wired, and are each available in red, white or leopard print. the current size range is designed to accommodate dress sizes 8-18 and cup sizes F-KK, and pieces are sized in S/M/L.
THE LOOK
i received the red ashley bikini in size small, which is a simple two piece bikini set. from the front it looks like a simple crop top style bikini, with thick shoulders and a deep underband combined with a low scooping neckline. the red shade is bold and vibrant, with a coordinating mid-rise brief that has a slightly high leg cut to it. the bikini top is lined with a white mesh to give structure and gentle support to your bust, while the back boasts crossed-back shoulder straps and a 3×3 hook and eye fastening. this helps you adjust the band to find the best fit for you, while the cross-back straps distribute the weight of your bust more evenly so it doesn’t dig into your shoulders. the straps are wide with a metal slider for adjustability.
the brief is also lined with white mesh at the front and gusset to ensure a modest fit that won’t go see-through when wet, and also helps retain its shape and keep the fit secure and comfortable. it offers a nice amount of coverage in both the front and rear, and balances the fuller coverage of the bikini top nicely.
overall the ‘ashley’ bikini set looks like it is constructed well, with soft fabrics and tidy stitching that doesn’t leave exposed seams to irritate sun-kissed skin. there are no wires or boning in the construction so you’ll get guaranteed comfort!
THE FIT
the size small works great for me in both the bikini top and bottom as a 28G bra and clothing size 8-10. in fact i would say the bikini top would easily accommodate another cup size or two, taking it up to a 28GG-H (and equivalent sister sizes) for the small. i love the hook and eye back which lets you loosen or tighten the band to get the most comfortable fit – i prefer my swimwear to fit a little looser so when i’m relaxing and sunbathing i don’t feel so restricted, and when i pop into the pool or sea for a dip i will usually tighten it up to make sure there’s no unfortunate accidents! the wide apexes and straps really do help to disperse the weight of your bust and i felt no pressure on my shoulders.
overall, it’s a comfortable and supportive bikini and i would really recommend it if you’re looking for something on trend but simple and supportive for fuller busts. personally i find it just a little too full coverage for me, but i’m one of those who prefers my bikinis to be barely-there for maximum tanning – and i appreciate that the extra coverage helps with the support and comfort aspect for the fuller end of the size range (and not everyone wants to be nearly-naked on the beach)! i also have quite a petite/narrow frame and feel like the front apexes are a little too wide for me, so this may not be a big deal for others.
THE VERDICT
i really feel like reign studio have hit the nail on the head with this bikini. they’ve brought on-trend, fashion-forward swimwear styles into the fuller bust market with a range of core pieces that are timeless and classic. while i said that this isn’t something i’d generally pick out for myself to wear on a holiday, it’s one of those pieces that would be my first choice if i were going to a spa, on a cruise or boat trip, or even at my local lido or swimming pool where a more modest fit is needed. i’ve also worn the bikini top as a regular crop top in summer a few times – the swim fabric makes it ideal for dealing with boob sweat, and keeps you feeling cool and comfortable!
in terms of pricing it feels pretty average for a fuller bust specialist brand at £45 for either the whole two-piece bikini or one-piece swimsuit, and is a price i feel reflects the quality of the brand. it feels like something i know i can rely on again and again, and will remain a part of my swimsuit wardrobe for years to come. at the time i initially wrote this, the bikinis were sold together in the same size. the brand have since updated how they list their product, and the top and bottoms are now available to purchase separately which is fab as not everyone is the same size on the top and bottom.
i would love to see reign come up with some lower coverage swim designs, like triangle bikinis and tie side briefs, to offer collections at both ends of the spectrum.
would you give reign studio’s swimwear a try? if not, they also carry some great loungewear options too. check out my review on their ‘chill with me’ bralette set here!
you can get 10% off* your reign studio purchases with my discount code: LINGERIEPRINCESSREIGN
xo, the lingerie princess
*affiliate code: i earn a small commission on purchases made using my code, while you benefit from a discount. win-win!
You make the red even hotter.