European Lingerie Stores

From LoveToKnow Lingerie

For those who have a romantic idea of what shopping for French or Italian lingerie is like in actual European lingerie stores, you might be slightly disappointed. While the selections will be exquisite, the décor will not always be old world. However, with some patience and skill, you can find wonderful items at surprisingly good prices.

Shopping for lingerie in Paris requires knowing the customs.

Aspects of European Lingerie Stores

Many lingerie shops in European cities used to look like how they were portrayed in old movies, dripping with elegance and sophistication. But today, the best shops are not very different from high-end shops in the US. However, for most individual boutiques in places like France and Italy, there are things you should be aware of. For example, prices will often be noted in the shop window, via small labels underneath the display. Price tags may not be on individual pieces. You can assess from the prices outside whether or not you can afford to shop there.

Sizing can be different and you may need to do some research before you find your European size. Also, it can be difficult to find a selection of plus size lingerie in most European shops. If you fall in love with a particular design, you can probably find a plus size version online.

One common aspect of many European lingerie stores, particularly those in Paris, that Americans find shocking is that there is often no way to try something on. In fact, there aren't even dressing rooms. French women tend to be very serious about their lingerie shopping. They know their exact sizes and can tell at a glance if something is going to suit them. That's useful, because in many French shops, you can't even browse. If you see something you like, you must ask the salesperson to show it to you. They don't like it if you touch the merchandise, but if you are polite and respectful, it will be allowed. However, you have to be gentle and you must be serious about buying. They can be quick to refuse to sell. In Europe, the customer is not king and not always right. But if you abide by the customs and shop smart, you can end up with some of the best lingerie you've ever owned.

Sales and Bargains

If you are traveling in the off-seasons, you can find markdowns – a serious consideration when one pair of designer panties in Milan might be close to $100. In general, European lingerie stores advertise sales much more subtly than American counterparts. There may just be a small sign, or a rack tucked at the back of the shop. It's best to search casually, because if you ask, the sales help will suspect you don't understand their style of shopping and won't respond.

However, you can find serious bargains if you know where to go. In Paris, the Montmarte district is full of bargain clothing stores. The famous shop chain "Sympa" will have bins of cut-rate bras and panties outside, all in patterns and fabrics that can be far more exquisite than anything found elsewhere. Don't expect to use a credit or debit card, though. If you are trying your luck here, you need to be armed with ready cash.

Lines to Find Online

Although the exchange rates with Europe hover at the reasonable rate, the high quality found in lingerie design means the prices might still be more than you can justify. However, you should take note of some of the better designers and peruse their online presence, where some good deals can be found.

Some Italian lingerie designers of recent note include: