As an avid online shopper and lover of fine lingerie, I’ve tested my fair share of intimates from brands big and small. Over the last decade, I’ve worn pieces from over 50 top lingerie companies. Last month, a sexy new brand called Love Vera caught my eye on Instagram. I loved their commitment to diversity and self-love, so I purchased 5 of their best selling sets to see if the quality matched the branding.
Keep reading for my hands-on Love Vera review after wearing these stunning pieces in real life. I’ll share details on sizing, construction, best and worst picks, along with tips for finding the best deals. Let’s dive in!
Overview: Mission, History and Brand Ethos
As an app tester by trade, I focus heavily on understanding a brand’s “why” and ethos before recommending their product. Love Vera was founded in 2018 by Vera Moore and Nate Johnson as a mission-driven lingerie company aimed at closing representation gaps in the industry.
Some background stats that inspired their creation:
- Only 12% of lingerie brands use racially diverse models [1]
- 67% of women feel unsupported by current lingerie options [2]
- Black women spend 9 times more on intimate apparel than other demographics [3]
Love Vera launched with the goal of celebrating diverse beauty and promoting self-love through quality intimates. Their social channels and website feature women of all skin tones, sizes, abilities and gender identities. It’s refreshing branding in an industry plagued by lack of representation.
Beyond mission, Love Vera prides itself on carrying extended sizes up to 4X. They produce trend-forward, detailed designs using quality fabrics like mesh lace, satin charmeuse and French Leavers lace. With price points mostly under $100, they offer luxury level lingerie without the excessive designer markup.
After digging into their background and offering, I fell in love with the brand. Keep reading for my honest review of how the pieces held up in real life.
Love Vera Review: 5 Best Selling Sets Tried and Tested
To fully test Love Vera’s range, I purchased 5 top selling bra and panty sets in a variety of fabrics, colors and silhouettes. The total order value was $498 including taxes and shipping.
Here are the pieces I selected with retail pricing:
- Embroidered Floral Lace Set in Sea Foam Green ($75)
- Sheer Mesh Unlined Bra in Poppy Red ($48)
- Appliqué Teddy in Black ($87)
- Garter Belt Set with stockings in Fuchsia ($68)
- Satin Kimono Robe in Black ($50)
With my order placed, I anxiously awaited their arrival to see if the quality and fit lived up to my expectations.
Unboxing and First Impressions
My order arrived in just 2 days thanks to Love Vera’s speedy fulfillment process. The pieces were packaged in a simple black box with discreet outer labeling. Inside, each set was individually wrapped in tissue paper with care instructions attached.
My first impressions upon unboxing were wow – these feel luxurious! From the ultra silky satin robe to the stunning embroidery on the lace bralette, the quality was apparent from touch alone.
The craftsmanship and detail work exceeded pieces I’ve bought from mainstream brands like Victoria’s Secret. They felt on par with high end designers like Fleur du Mal or Agent Provocateur. Keep reading for a breakdown of how each set performed when put to the test.
Sea Foam Embroidered Floral Lace Set
This two piece balcony bra and low rise panty set oozes sweet romance. The aqua blue shade complemented my warm skin tone perfectly. The embroidery work is exquisite with delicate floral vines and scalloped trim.
I opted for my usual lingerie size Medium and the fit was perfect. The bra cups have light padding and side boning that lifted my bust. The straps were easy to adjust to a custom length.
Meanwhile, the panty rode low on my hips, which elongated my legs. The lace up detail at the small of the back accentuated my curves. This set made me feel feminine, playful and flirty all at once!
Quality: 5/5
Comfort: 5/5
Design: 5/5
Value: 5/5
Final Verdict: This set is absolute perfection! From the color to construction, it’s designed to make you feel like a goddess. A must have for date nights in or anniversaries.
Sheer Mesh Unlined Plunge Bra in Poppy Red
I’m a sucker for anything red, so this sultry bra caught my eye right away. Made from a single layer of mesh, the fabric is super lightweight while still holding structure.
The adjustable straps, underwire and hook closure offer plenty of support. I love the alluring strappy detail connecting the cups in front.
My only gripe is that the band runs slightly big. I’d suggest sizing down if you’re in between sizes like me. Other than that, it delivers on sexy cleavage and comfort!
Quality: 4.5/5
Comfort: 5/5
Design: 5/5
Value: 5/5
Final Verdict: A stunning red bra that’s comfortable enough for day-to-night wear. The sheer mesh fabric makes it disappear under clothes while adding visual interest in the bedroom.
Black Appliqué Lace Teddy
Of all the pieces, I was most eager to try this lace teddy. Teddy’s can sometimes dig or pinch, but the stretch lace fabric on this one molded smoothly to my shape. The floral applique accents and bow tie perfectly accent the plunging neckline.
I felt like a complete bombshell in this piece! The high cut leg opening made my legs look a mile long while the cheeky thong back showed just enough skin.
My only complaint is that the back fastens with tiny hook clasps that can be tricky to close solo. But the sexy factor outweighs that small inconvenience!
Quality: 5/5
Comfort: 4.5/5
Design: 5+/5
Value: 5/5
Final Verdict: The ultimate date night teddy that hugs every curve. Between the delicate details and curve flaunting silhouette, you’ll feel like a confident goddess.
Fuchsia Lace Garter Belt & Stockings Set
I’ll admit, garter belts usually end up digging into my waist or falling down. But Love Vera’s 3 hook closure and thick elastic waist kept this vibrant fuchsia piece in place all night long.
The adjustable straps flawlessly connected the lace top stockings without twisting or pinching. And the matching lace thong tied the full look seamlessly together.
My husband couldn’t take his eyes off me in this set! From the peekaboo keyhole bra to the dangerously high-cut leg line, it amplified curves in all the right ways. This will now be my go-to for special date nights.
Quality: 5/5
Comfort: 5/5
Design: 5+/5
Value: 5/5
Final Verdict: Never underestimate the power of a well-made garter belt! This set turned me into a total pinup bombshell.
Satin Charmeuse Kimono Robe in Black
Every lingerie collector needs the perfect featherweight robe for lounging. While satin often clings awkwardly, Love Vera’s kimono version skims my shape like liquid.
The smooth fabric, waist tie, and billowy sleeves make me feel instantly elegant and refined. Plus the deep v-neck shows just a hint of skin while keeping things private.
Whether thrown on for a quick trip to the kitchen or worn as part of date night ritual, this robe invokes instant confidence and luxury.
Quality: 5/5
Comfort: 5/5
Design: 5/5
Value: 5/5
Final Verdict: The ultimate boudoir basic that makes you feel like Hollywood royalty! A must for building your at-home luxury wardrobe.
Additional Love Vera Review Factors
Beyond the individual pieces, I analyzed several other factors that contribute to overall brand satisfaction. Here’s how Love Vera measured up:
Website Design & Usability:
- Clean, uncluttered layout makes finding pieces easy
- Detailed product descriptions and specs
- Models of all sizes wearing each piece
- Easy checkout and order tracking
Sizing & Fit Offerings:
- Sizes from 32A – 44DDD (bras), XS-4X (bottoms)
- Clear and detailed size charts by garment
- Extended sizes feel thoughtfully graded (not just size smalls scaled up)
- Bottoms run true to size, bras slightly generous in band
Shipping & Returns:
- Items ship free over $75 in the US
- Flat rate $8 shipping under $75
- Orders arrive in just 2-3 days
- Returns accepted within 14 days (no refunds on intimates for hygiene reasons)
Overall Buying Experience:
- Finding on-trend pieces for my size is FINALLY easy
- The quality rivals luxury designers at a fraction of the price
- Mixing statement pieces with everyday basics is effortless
- From website to packaging and products, the overall experience felt luxe
After considering all aspects – product, service, and buying experience – Love Vera continues to WOW at every touch point!
Love Vera Sizing Tips From a Lingerie Expert
Understanding intimate apparel sizing can be confusing, especially when exploring a new brand. After 10+ years testing lingerie, I’ve compiled some universal tips:
1. Trace your underbust and cup measurements – don’t rely on ready-to-wear sizes. Get accurate inches for the band and overbust/cup separately.
2. Look at size charts by garment – sizing between bra, bottoms, bodysuits etc can vary. Base selection off your precise tracings.
3. Match bra band to underbust then determine cup from there. Too loose won‘t offer support, too tight digs in.
4. Mind the hip measurement on bottoms with less stretch like garters or teddies. No one wants their runway walk interrupted by a wardrobe mishap!
5. When between, size down for cleavage boost or up for comfort – your preference! Bras with padding or push-up effect often fit slightly small.
6. Read reviews of specific pieces and make notes. Does the band run big? Do bottoms have cheeky coverage? The community knows best!
7. Try a variety at first if able. Send back what doesn’t work hassle free. Adds to the luxury experience of fine lingerie.
While every body and bra size is slightly different, keeping these universal tips in mind goes a long way towards stress free shopping!
Love Vera Review: Style Recommendations
After extensive testing, I feel fully qualified to recommend the perfect Love Vera piece for every style personality and occasion.
For the Hopeless Romantic
Choose delicate embroidered lace in sweet pastels and bridal inspired white. Opt for balcony bras or bralettes with ribbon straps and bow accents. Bring the romance vibes in pieces like the Sea Foam Embroidered Floral Set.
For the Bombshell
Amp up allure in bold jewel tones and trend-forward strap details like cutouts or crossbody straps. Prioritize unlined silhouettes and sheer mesh or leather for that extra sexy effect. The Plunging Mesh Bra in Poppy Red has bombshell vibes.
For the Ingenue
Channel fresh femininity with youthful prints like small florals or polka dots. Look to soft pinks, peaches and cream shades. Incorporate ribbons, bows or subtle ruffles for playful detailing. The perfect pick is the Ivory Lace Bralette & Ruffle Panty duo.
For the Glamazon
When you want to unleash your inner diva, nothing compares to luxe fabrics like silk satin and opulent lace. Look for regal details like jewel embellishments, floor length robes and thigh high stockings. Own the boudoir in Love Vera’s Black Satin & Lace Kimono Set.
No matter your personal style, Love Vera has an array of options to make you look and feel incredible while catering to different tastes.
Finding Love Vera Discounts
While Love Vera keeps prices affordable compared to other designer brands, who doesn‘t love a good deal? I compiled some of my favorite ways to save:
1. Sign Up for Emails
Get 20% off your first order for VIP access
2. Check Site Sales
Sale items are discounted up to 50% off
3. Follow Instagram & TikTok
Periodic promo codes will be released
4. Buy Sets vs. Individuals
More bang for your buck!
5. Stack Discounts
Pair sitewide sales with influencer promo codes
6. Watch Holiday Weekends
Big sales around VDay, July 4th etc
Finding your dream pieces while staying on budget is totally doable with some strategic shopping!
Where to Buy Love Vera Lingerie
Love Vera is currently only available direct to consumer through their website LoveVera.com. However I anticipate seeing the brand carried at major retailers like Saks, Revolve and Nordstrom in the future given their immense popularity and social following.
For now, head to their site to explore all 200+ styles, inclusive sizing, newest collections, inspiration and more. And don’t forget to use those money saving tips when checking out!
Love Vera Review: The Final Take
Over the past decade, I’ve purchased lingerie from 50+ brands at all price points. Even with that extensive experience, Love Vera stands out for their mission-focused ethos combined with luxurious construction that celebrates every body.
Too often, Extended sizes get graded as an afterthought by brands. But Love Vera specifically designs intimates suited for curves from the ground up. As a thicker woman, I cannot overstate how empowering it feels to shop lingerie as diverse as I am. No more settling for basic beige and underwire poking out.
On top of inclusivity, the assortment caters to any taste from sweet to seductive. Materials rival much pricier competitors, holding up even as daily go-tos. From packaging to website experience, each touchpoint feels thoughtful and elevated.
Considering quality, diversity, affordability and their celebrating self-love stance, I give Love Vera my highest recommendation. I’m so glad I took a chance on this mission-minded newcomer. After being wowed across the board, I look forward to making them my lingerie retailer of choice for classic staples to lust-worthy splurges for years to come. Treat yourself to something sensational from their shop today!
