Freya Expression High Apex Bra review: Can fuller busts pull off the triangle style?

With a fuller bust, finding the best bras can become more of an arduous task, whether you’re looking for the best strapless bra that actually stays up or a push-up style that shows just the right amount of cleavage. Then there are some styles that are simply off the cards, like dainty bralettes and skimpy triangle bras – or are they? 

Freya is a long-standing go-to brand among the bigger-boobed, with an abundance of stunning designs and a commitment to ensuring every customer is wearing exactly the right size.

We’ve been busy testing every bra style imaginable at Woman & Home HQ, as well as investigating the latest trends in lingerie design. I’ve covered a wide range of styles, from delicate bralettes to industrial-strength push-up bras, and will be sharing the findings with you on how comfortable they really are, how they look and feel, and whether they’re worth parting with your hard-earned cash. 

First impressions 

I was impressed by the quality of the material – intricate lace with light foam cups and very soft to touch. Understated and delicate, the Freya Expression High Apex Bra looked like my kind of bra. The worst bra style for me would be a restrictive push-up number (think those iconic 90s advents with bouncy blow dries and even bouncier boobs). 

I tested the Freya Expression High Apex Bra in the blue shade, which was a pretty cornflower hue. After an extensive discussion with one of the Bravissimo expert fitters over the phone (I’d recommend giving them a call if you’re not as confident measuring your own bra size; we decided on a 32DD as my size and it fits like a glove).

What is the shape and appearance like?

This isn’t your typical triangle bra. While it may be the basic shape of the bra, the design is much more complex than its name would have you believe. The fabric cups are encased in a lace overlay, giving the bra a double lining that results in more support. The non-padded style has underwire for support and enough coverage to ensure your boobs feel secure. 

The cups are made from stretch lace, meaning they’ll mould to your shape and have enough give if the bra is slightly on the snug size. The design includes a layer of lace under the bra band, resulting in an elegant, longform design. 

How comfortable is the Freya Expression High Apex Bra? 

This bra is reminiscent of a softer bralette – just with a bit of added support. The underwire makes it that tad more restrictive than a bralette, but it’s still super comfy to wear from day to night. 

I find that after a day spent sitting at a computer, come 5pm I’ll have become very aware of my bra band. However, this wasn’t the case with the Freya Expression High Apex Bra – the flexible band and underwire felt a lot less restrictive than many other bras I trialled. A great option for everyday wear. 

How supportive is the Freya Expression High Apex Bra?

The underwire offers gentle support, but don’t expect much in the way of cleavage – it’s a much more natural finish with a fuller cup. The double-lined stretch fabric feels sturdy enough and straps are thin, but strong. I had to tighten the shoulder straps a little to feel fully secure. 

After adjusting the bra to the perfect fit, there were no indentations or overspill, with my boobs feeling comfortably encased within the lace. The cups are very full, enclosing most of the bust. The only downside with this, unrelated to the bra’s support, is that in tops with a lower neckline the top of the bra would be revealed. 

Is the Freya Expression High Apex Bra good value for money?

Priced at £32, this bra is middleweight when it comes to the usual high-street prices, but I’d argue that this attractive and surprisingly supportive bra is worth your money. One of the most appealing features of this range is its striking colourways. My monochrome underwear drawer is somewhat brighter with a flash of cornflower blue and wearing it with the matching briefs makes me feel a little brighter, too. Who knew a colourful lingerie set could be such a mood booster? 

Bravissimo often has brilliant sales, so keep an eye on the brand’s website to snap up a bargain. 

What else is in the Freya Range? 

In this particular style, there are two more colourways – classic black, which I imagine would feel rather sexy with the matching undies, and the more unusual gold, which would make a killer summer holiday bra; sunshine vibes all the way. 

In the wider Freya Expression range, you can opt for the same bra in a plunge style, which is a pretty non-padded plunge that gives a rounded shape, as well as a supportive fit, thanks to the firm fabric in the bottom cups. This bra also comes in the same three colourways. Matching Freya Expression knickers are available in three styles: Brief, short or Brazilian. 

Freya Expression High Apex Bra verdict 

A welcome dose of colour, this charming set will brighten up your underwear drawer and feels elegant and femenine. With clever design considerations we’d expect from a brand that caters to bigger busts like Bravissimo, it provides maximum support with minimal expense to comfort. A great bra for jazzing up your everyday underwear collection.