I'm a comfort junkie, and that's why picking bras can be a struggle. I know what bras I like to wear for evening (Pour Moi), but during the day, I spend a lot of time sitting. Underwire bras pinch my belly roll right underneath my breasts and leave red marks, and softer bras let my breasts go wherever they want. I was looking for a simple bra that I could wear all day to work, and I found it. I knew there was something behind the 18 Hour Bra.
Appearance
Keeping in mind that this bra is engineered for wearing most of the day, I think the look works. I'm admittedly into retro-ish lingerie and old-school panties, so that helps, but this bra can look great when worn in pink, with a pink slip, or when worn in black with a high-waisted panty. I appreciate that Playtex offers the Original Comfort in multiple colors, which includes black, beige, light blue, toffee, and white. I took a half-star off for looks because there's a lot of seaming going on here, and I know that detracts.
Fit
I've never liked fat, padded straps, but they certainly help when a lady's larger in the bust region. If wearing a t-shirt, sleeved dress, blazer, or blouse, nobody will know that you're getting help in the strap region, and I'm starting to convert. It seems like these bras are better for our backs, because they relieve pressure on the shoulders.
This bra is great for full-figured women in terms of cup fit. I have to order down because the DD cups are just a tad wrinkly on the upper portion, although the band portion fit perfectly.
Quality
What is it about the Original Comfort bra and its construction? I have yet to "wear out" a bra from Playtex's original lines, and this one could survive the apocalypse. Toss it in the wash, wear it to the gym, whatever: I have yet to bust a seam or see something unravel.
General Support
If you like to get your bust up high, but with some degree of comfort, I can definitely recommend the Original Comfort bra. I find that it supports me better than 50% of my actual sports bras, sans "squish factor." Since the bra goes up to an impressive G cup, many people will benefit from its clever engineering.
