Single or taken, there's one thing we're always on the prowl for - lingerie. There's something about lacy undergarments that can really get the va-va-voom going in any relationship — even one you haven't started yet. But, the thing about those super sexy bras and panties, is that the designs (and colors) can get a little, well, cheesy. We're talking tons of reds and pinks, hearts, bows, sequins — the works.
Our solution to the madness? Steer clear of the mass rush at Victoria's Secret and instead, hit up one of these local New York boutiques for all the support you need.
Azaleas
This East Village boutique has been a mainstay in the neighborhood for over a decade now, and it's one of the city's most-trusted spots for a reliable (and hearty) selection of lingerie favorites, like Stella McCartney, Lonely Label, and Eberjey. Owner Cindy Hahn handpicks every piece in the store and takes a modern, somewhat kitschy approach to the store's inventory. You can find tons of bedroom ready pieces from heart-shaped nipple pasties, to a (more shocking) body cage garter belt.
Azaleas, 140 Second Avenue (between East 9th Street and St. Marks Place); 212-228-5842.
L'Agent by Agent Provocateur Idalia Playsuit, $180, available at Azaleas.
Photo: Courtesy of Azaleas.
A delicate, lady-like bralette.
Only Hearts Coucou Lola Open Bralette, $45, available at Azaleas.
Photo: Courtesy of Azaleas.
Very high-fashion, no?
Underprotection Pam High-Waisted Panty, $55, available at Azaleas.
Photo: Courtesy of Azaleas.
Bradelis
This Nolita hotspot (of Japanese origin) screams luxury, as every piece is crafted with the utmost precision and focus on fit and comfort. Their "III Step Decolletage system" is a life (and breast!) changer, and, they offer free alterations on of all their items. Things they consider essentials? Silky camisoles and form-fitting bras for the perfect lift and coverage. Not in the neighborhood? Bradelis also has locations in Flatiron and Flushing, so there's no excuse not to hit the boutique closest to you.
Bradelis, 211 Elizabeth Street (between Prince and Spring streets); 212-941-5629.
Bradelis Mia Side Smoothing Bra, $85, available at Bradelis.
Photo: Courtesy of Bradelis.
An LBD for the bedroom.
Bradelis Lauren Slip, $98 $68.60, available at Bradelis.
It's the little touches that go a long way.
Bradelis Florence Thong, $36 $18, available at Bradelis.
Brooklyn Fox Lingerie
The ultimate cool-girl haven for all things underneath. Not only are we obsessed with this Williamsburg shop's seriously awesome interior (can't all stores be inanely sleek and minimalist and topped with a chandelier?), but their selection is on point for every bra and panty we could ever dream of. Leopard L'Agent thongs? Check. Semi-sheer Only Hearts lace bralettes? Check. Sexy (and a bit #NSFW) Maison Close pieces? Check, check, check. Go ahead, dare to be different.
Brooklyn Fox Lingerie, 132 North 5th Street (between Bedford Avenue and Berry Street), Brooklyn; 718-599-1555.
Fleur of England Scarlet Boudoir Bra, $170, available at Brooklyn Fox Lingerie.
Photo: Courtesy of Brooklyn Fox.
Très chic!
Mimi Holliday Deadly Nightshade Bodysuit, $140, available at Brooklyn Fox Lingerie.
Photo: Courtesy of Brooklyn Fox.
http://brooklynfoxlingerie.com/bottoms/lou-petillante-thong.html
Photo: Courtesy of Brooklyn Fox.
Journelle
This cutesy, Union Square boutique makes the task of finding the perfect-fitting bra seem a little less daunting. When she first opened the doors to Journelle in 2007, founder Claire Chambers created an empire that sparked a cult-like following for its high-end inventory, which includes La Perla, Elle Macpherson Intimates, and Bourdelle, as well as its own eponymous label. Self-described as "a place to shop for lingerie for women who had outgrown Victoria’s Secret," the shop offers luxe, non-cheesy pieces for any occasion. This year, it's all about "reinventing the one-piece," letting just the right amount of skin show, and upping your loungewear game (as they say, you never know who you'll meet in your dreams!).
Journelle, 3 East 17th Street (between Fifth Avenue and Broadway); 212-255-7800.
Clo Intimo, $45.00, available at JournellePhoto: Courtesy of Journelle.
Upgrade your pajama selection with these babies.
Only Hearts, $95.00, available at JournellePhoto: Courtesy of Journelle.
Who doesn't love a bold blue?
Elle Macpherson Intimates, $95.00, available at JournellePhoto: Courtesy of Journelle.
Sugar Cookies
Pop by the nearly 10-year-old Chelsea store to be greeted by Kodi, the shop's resident pup, while you browse the exquisite collection of lingerie — it includes designs by everyone from Hanky Panky and Cosabella to Natori and Gossard. The selection boasts a little something for every style, occasion, and price point. Owner Susanne also offers personalized consultations and tips for finding the perfect piece for you.
Sugar Cookies, 203 West 19th Street (between Seventh and Eighth avenues); 212-242-6963.
Lonely, $78.00, available at Sugar CookiesPhoto: Courtesy of Sugar Cookies.
This slip features sheer mesh, embroidered lace, and a faux leather front to set every mood imaginable.
Else Daphne Chemise, $209 $136.80, available at Sugar Cookies.
Simple and delicate.
Eberjey Marissa Bralet, $60, available at Sugar Cookies.
Photo: Courtesy of Sugar Cookies.
Uye Surana
Made right in the heart of New York City, Uye Surana's namesake label features hand-dyed and crafted products of the highest quality (and sex appeal). The majority of her undergarments feature a mix of material (sheer mesh with lace, for example), lending themselves to an ideal fit and comfort. Don't be surprised if you recognize a few of the pieces, her lingerie been spotted on Girls. We recommend jumping over to their site ASAP.
Uye Surana Studio, 373 Broadway, Space #E20 (between Franklin and White streets); 212-966-6528.
Uye Surana Natalie Strappy Demi High Waist Panty, $55, available at Uye Surana.
Photo: Courtesy of Uye Surana.
Fancy a flirty bodysuit?
Uye Surana Stella Silk Touch Teddy Bodysuit, $109, available at Uye Surana.
Photo: Courtesy of Uye Surana.
This bralette is made of silk and lace for optimal decadence and comfort.
Uye Surana Claire Lace Wrap-Around Bralette, $92, available at Uye Surana.
Photo: Courtesy of Uye Surana.
Valentine
It's no secret here at Refinery29 that we love Valentine. And, if its name wasn't enough, this friend-run business touches on everything we look for in lingerie: simplicity, style, and comfort. While they don't have a brick-and-mortar location in New York just yet (consider this our plea for one ASAP!), you can order the little lacy garments (like the signature Shangri-La bra and Josie thong) online for a quick delivery. Plus, if you're looking for something extra special, splurge on one of their collaborative gift sets.
Valentine by Jonas & Brown The Mr Postman Panty, $38 $12, available at Valentine by Jonas & Brown.
Your dream bra-bralette hybrid has arrived.
Valentine by Jonas & Brown The Bananarama Bra, $54, available at Valentine by Jonas & Brown.
Photo: Courtesy of Valentine.
A little bit of lace goes a long way.
Valentine by Jonas & Brown The Bangle Bikini, $36, available at Valentine by Jonas & Brown.
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