I knew that it was finally time to start replacing my bras as I'm being 'forced' more and more often out into the great world. I noticed that they are doing appointment only, so booked easily via email - Marcia was very prompt and found a time that worked for me. Located off the main drag in Menlo Park, I was able to find parking and was a little early to my appointment, and Marcia let me in. We talked about what I was looking for, and she measured me and started the fitting process. While the first bra she brought out was close in size, it wasn't quite right for my shape, and she took the feedback and tweaked the sizing. I really appreciated the way that she gave expert opinion and advice, but also took into account how I feel with the bra on my body. We worked quite a bit on other bras and she gave lots of tips and expectations on how everything should work. I also appreciated that she is looking more into the fit and some style, and it doesn't have to be trendy. This *is* a luxury bra store, selling top-of-the-line brands (with the price tag to come with it), so be prepared to spend that money. She wasn't pushy when I decided to put a bra back, AND went out of her way to check her inventory to see if she had anything on sale for me. They do have a new customer discount, and that helps a little bit. The store is just the right size, and seems to have a good variety of sizing in stock, and Marcia will work with you to get things on hand if you are looking for a particular size/color. For what you are paying, you definitely get back the value in the service and quality of bras. You'll be in good hands (bras?) if you decide to visit here. read more

Wonderful selection and service! Marcia will help you find the perfect piece and fit.

I had the loveliest experience here! This shop is appointment-only right now, and well worth it. It's been a long time since I've purchased well-fitting bras. Today, I happily purchased four and they improve my posture and appearance (and therefore self esteem) so much. Everyone deserves to have a properly fitted base layer! I was an entirely different size than I thought and Marcia walked me through all the bra-fitting myths that have misled me in the past. Her service was kind, thoughtful and honest. I appreciated the experience (and her experience in the industry) so much that I've already recommended Ela Lingerie to my sister. Make sure to ask her about the rinse-free lingerie soak! It will cut my hand-washing time in half, which I love. I'm so appreciative. I'll definitely be back! read more

So I'm not a bra guy, but I happened upon this place while I was in the Bay Area seeing family. I wanted to get my wife something special and different. Why not lingerie? I am usually embarrassed to walk into places like this, but they also have an appointment system to make you feel normal, comfortable and special. The customer service was amazing, the prices are what you'd expect for a high end lingerie shop and the owner and her employees treated me like I was the only one in the shop (well I did make an appoinment). They spent so much time with me explaining the material, fit and country of origin that I felt like I could work there when I was finished! Hmm, I'm a guy so might be a little creepy??? Anyhow, thank you lovely ladies of ELA!!! I will be back and I will know what I am doing next time!!!! Maybe if you had a Man-gerie shop I would come back more often! read more

Great advice on bra fitting! They take the time to try on many different styles with you to find the bras that best fit your shape and your needs. Every woman should get properly fitted by a professional. read more

I had a great experience with Marci during my fitting. She is very sweet and knowledgeable. She really wants to help you find the right fit and gives you her honest opinions. I ended up getting one pricier bra, but for the quality it was well worth it. I felt so good walking out of her store! Definitely call or email ahead to set up an appointment since she is appointment only. read more

Not sure if during the week it's appointment only, but we arrived on a Saturday and it was closed called the # on the door, Marcia answered and she was able to come down in a couple of hours to assist us. Customer service is epic, lots to choose from. This was the first time my partner was in the market for high end lingerie. I have shopped many time for high end lingerie at ELA and other stores. It's in the top 5 best lingerie store in the Bay Area. I'll be going back soon to pick some things she ordered for partner. I'm like a kid in a candy store when I walk into this place. read more

I want to give this place more stars. Like, I reeaaalllly want to for the reasons I'll get to in a minute. But $200-$300 (or more!) for a bra? Hell nah. If the selection had been a little more varied in price, I might cut them some slack but I'm not sure I saw a single bra under $100 on the floor. (She did mention that they had their Valentine's items out, so prices might be a bit higher than normal inventory and there was more in the back.) Panty selection was a little slim... mostly just thongs that go with the bras and they're overpriced too. And no returns. Price and return policy aside, they had a really, really nice assortment of bras, whether pretty, lacy and girly is your style or you're more into something bad-ass and fiercely sexy with metal embellishments. Or somewhere in-between. The service was fantastic. She measured me, told me I was wearing the wrong size, then hooked me up with a few things to try on that were the "right" cut/style. When I tried them on, she gave honest, but tactful, opinions and went out to find another round to try on. She did a great job finding stuff that flattered my body and nailed my taste down pretty quickly too. Super helpful and SHE was worth five stars, for sure. But I just don' t have the kinda cash it takes to really get into this place. My advice: Go for a fitting, particularly if you've never had one, and hope like hell you can find something in the $80 range. read more

I'm someone who puts off off bra shopping til I'm desperate. I watched about a dozen 2-minute videos on how to find the best fitting bra etc eHow before I gritted my teeth and headed to the Yelp-recommended shop, just down the street from me. Thought if I didn't like them, could always go to Nordstrom. In fact, called Nordstrom, was put on hold for several minutes, then got a very cursory answer to my few questions. Well, what a pleasant surprise! Quiet, elegant but not stuffy. No high pressure. Kind, gentle service. I browsed while Chene'l finished with another client, then I had her undivided attention. She obviously knew what she was doing, because I have never tried on so many bras in a row that actually fit me and even felt comfortable! She showed me at least 4 different brands. Never asked whether I was planning to buy, if so how many, what my price point was, just let me try away. I ended up with 2, one $75 the other $110. I'm generally in favor of buying American, but I think this is one category the Europeans really do better than we do. Not only did I have no reason to go on to Nordstroms, I actually enjoyed(!) bra shopping for the first time in my life! read more

I've been looking for a bra store ever since I moved to the SF Bay Area, and now I've found it!!! The woman who helped me was knowledgable and friendly. She measured me, then helped me go through an amazing assortment of bras, all the while complimenting me on my figure (*happy dance*). Now that's service. I don't understand why everyone here is deducting stars for their prices. $100-$150 is pretty reasonable for high-quality bras. read more

This store is straight from heaven until you have a problem, and then it is straight from hell! I loved the store, the products and the owner but got home to find that one of my products was defective. Rather than welcoming the return and offering me a new one, Ms. De Lima instead insisted I send it back and she will check with the manufacturer to see if in fact I was telling the truth about the defect and only then will I get a new bra. This, she informs me, may take weeks. I hope that Ms. De Lima makes it right in which case I will change my view (and post another review) but until that time, only expect good service while in the act of buying- not after. I am very disappointed in this experience. UPDATE: I did receive a new bra-- two months later but at least it came! read more

ELA is a great store with great service. I was looking for an everyday bra that runs small in the band since I'm not a traditional size...and thankfully, the SA was very knowledgeable. She directed me towards Chantelle and Marie Jo brands, both of which are of high quality and superb construction. I ended up trying on three different styles and I walked away with one great fit. The prices are on par with other lingerie boutiques that sell high quality brands. I spent about $80, which is about mid-range of what they offer. I'm sure other styles may cost more or less, but for this level of service and product quality, it's right on the money. read more

I had a great experience at Ela Lingerie. Frustrated with having trouble finding bras that fit properly, I went in the hopes of getting some professional help, and I was not disappointed! The owner and her assistant were both incredibly friendly, and brought me a very wide selection of bras to choose from. I came away with several sets of lingerie that I absolutely love. The one reason that I gave the shop 4 stars instead of 5 is because of their return policy. The policy posted in the dressing room was that you can get exchanges within 5 days, but no refunds for anything. At a store where you can be paying up to $200-300 for a single bra in some cases, this policy seems fairly draconian. I generally expect the customer service at high end stores to be a little more flexible and customer-oriented. I guess make absolutely sure you love your lingerie before buying it! read more

Two words: Life Changing! I've always been a loyal customer of Victoria's Secret until fell into the luxury lingerie "hole" and realized how I've NEVER been supported properly. I went to Ela's upon the recommendation of a friend and Yelp reviews. I was assisted by the owner, Marcia, who was wonderful. She patiently selected bras for me and offered matching underthings. Much as she was extremely helpful, there was no pressure whatsover to pressure anyting...But I did end up spending nearly 300 usd in underwear. Every woman should splurge on some lovely lace at Ela's at least once a year...It's an experience you will truly enjoy and never regret! read more

I've watched Tim Gunn's show, and I've watched Carson Kressley's show, and I know how they say most women are wearing the wrong bra size, but I still learned things about bras from this place and that was pretty cool. I didn't catch the associate's name today, but she measured me and then showed me how to fit myself properly into a bra instead of letting it fall where it will. She also showed me why my old bra sucks -- it was the right size (touche, Tim/Carson/et al.), but it was the wrong *cut* and made me look wider than I needed to, which was something I'd been noticing in pictures people take of me but wasn't sure how to solve. I mean, I was wearing the right bra size, right? Apparently the $28 Macy's bra just can't cut it anymore. I walked out with two bras that were definitely pricey ($83 a pop!) but they look good. I suppose if you're gonna wear something every day it better be quality, right? Anyway, if you've been watching the makeover shows and want to know where you can go to get fitted and told how to stuff yourself into the right kind of bra, I recommend this place. It's good to girl it up sometimes. read more

This is a great place to shop for fancy European lingerie in downtown Menlo Park. The staff is very warm and friendly, and will measure you to make sure you're wearing the right size bra. The woman helping me ran all over the store bringing me bras to try and helped me get in & out of them quickly (as we were in a bit of a hurry) - very sweet! I would definitely advocate treating yourself to the ELA experience! Expect to spend ~$150 (or more) per bra. read more

These ladies provide amazing service and knowledge. The store has a great selection of really attractive/sexy stuff, even of hard to find sizes. I can't get over how much time the ladies spent with me. They were fun to talk to and knew their inventory very well. Four stars because it's a bit pricey (I think I saw a bra for $400) and their return policy wasn't that inviting. read more

I'm not a girly-girl, so it was really uncharacteristic of me to walk into a shop with racks and racks of fancy lingerie. But since my bras were so old I'm too embarrassed to detail, and having lost some weight since my last lingerie shopping experience, I decided to give ELA a try. What a fun experience! Marcia quickly fit me and then disappeared for what seemed like only moments, returning with bras in a variety of styles, fabrics and price points. She was wonderful at making sure the straps were adjusted correctly and that everything was where it should be. She didn't push the more expensive selections over the less expensive ones, and brought in additional models once she got an idea of what I liked. I never knew that shopping for bras could be so pleasant! When I need to buy more lingerie, this is the first place I will return to. read more

ELA lingerie is a beautiful, high-end lingerie boutique, and is one of my favorites. The sales women are exceptional in their attention to the customer, the ability to size you, and in bringing additional selections that you might like. Also, this boutique carries the largest selection of Aubade (my favorite line!) that I have found in the Bay Area. My only complaint is that I wish the price range of selections was more varied. I don't think that they carry a bra under $75, and bras easily go up in to the $200 range. There is no question that the quality and craftsmanship are exquisite, but I threw down over $700 last winter for 3 bra and panty sets, one of which was on sale. For this reason, I only visit the shop once a year. If they carried some substantial lingerie in the $40-$50 range, I would definitely go more often. read more

My mother in law suggested I go the Ela Lingerie and get fitted after trying every bra out there. I went to Ela about a year ago and Chanel assisted me in getting the right sized bra and the type of bra I was looking for. I couldn't believe what size I actually was and the bra was comfortable and beautiful. I returned to Ela this past weekend as I thought my bra size was smaller but after the owner Marcia sized me I was still the same size. I was very happy to purchase the same bra in different colors as it was a perfect fit! They are very helpful and know what they are doing when they size you. read more

Amazing bra assortment! Great service! I never thought I was wearing the wrong bra size until I had a bra fitting by Marcia, the store owner. She was very patient with me. I left the store really happy. High quality lingerie! read more

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This local "gem" is by far my favorite to feel very feminine and sexy in a very sensual way. The service is superb. Marina is exceptional at determining proper fit and knows the styles most flattering. Quality of lingerie from bras and panties to luscious silk and lace gowns oh so soft cashmere robes. Once I experienced the fit of a European bra - nothing else compares. All my clothes no matter the price are more flattering when I wear this lingerie. Stopped by this time for a bra to compliment a specific gown and after a couple hours departed with two gowns and a silk robe plus bra and panty hoping to find for gown. And 3 other new bras and panty combinations. Highly recommend for anyone looking for the best fitting bras available. And exception service and deep knowledge of products. read more

I don't usually write reviews but I had such a lovely experience I wanted to. I went to Ela Lingerie to look for a chemise for my wedding night. I happen to have a 3 month old and he was a little fussy as soon as I started to try some things on. The ladies were so kind and helpful the entire time making me feel welcomed and comfortable. They helped stroll around my little one so I could have the time to try on their beautiful things. And they helped me find the perfect chemise. Now I have a lovely memory of finding this special gown and look forward to returning in the future. read more

My wife and I visited ELA a few days ago. What a terrific experience! - The selection of lingerie is quite diverse. First, their offerings span a range of prices, and while you can spend upwards of $200 alone, there are also numerous choices for those with a more moderate budget. They happen to have had a sale ongoing, but we left with four matched sets for under $250 tax included. Second, they have divided their collection into a fancier group that is more for show and leisure, and a more functional everyday collection. Both are very pretty, but it was nice to see that you can get pretty undergarments for both categories. Third, the styling itself was varied and interesting. They had modern designs, more flirtatious "prettier" lines, very ornate and detailed collections. In short, I'd be suprised if there wasn't something for everyone there. While other stores seem to target a particular generation or look, my sense is that most women (or their companions) will find something that appeals to them individually. - The staff is terrific. We worked with Cathy, who was helpful in many ways. She welcomed us to the store and gave us a quick tour so we would know where to look for what. She sized my wife, and was great at finding lingeries that fit and complemented her figure. As a younger couple with a more modest budget, it was also nice that she helped us find less expensive but very nice pieces without our feeling looked down upon. Overall, she was upbeat, very helpful, and friendly. She balanced being helpful while leaving us enough privacy to decide what we liked and what wanted to buy. No hard sells, just a positive shopping experience. - The fitting rooms are comfortable, and accomodating. There was a chair for me to sit on while my wife tried on different sets (what fun!), and enough room for the staff to help with fitting without anyone feeling cramped. - Last, and definitely NOT least, I (bearer of the Y-chromosome) was made to feel completely welcome. Walking into a lingerie store, even with your wife, can feel like entering a hostile board room for most guys. I was quickly put at ease and made to feel participatory and comfortable. I would be perfectly comfortable going on my own. So, overall, it's a terrific business operation. While they get some criticism for their pricing, honestly, you get what you pay for, and they do have less expensive options--just ask. My wife thought that the lingerie was not only stunning to look at, but exceptionally comfortable (not unlike high end shoes). I came away feeling like we actually got a very good deal on some truly beautiful lingerie that fits my wife beautifuly and is lovely on her. Five stars! read more

I LOVE this store! It is one of the priciest lingerie stores I've visited but well worth it! The woman who helped was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. I HATE bras and found the most perfectly comfortable bra I've ever worn - one that didn't show any bumps or bulges through my clothing, one that didn't leave me feeling I was encased in rubber bands. They also have an incredible selection of more decorative lingerie. If you want the finest, this is the place. read more

Just to be clear, NOTHING I purchased during my last interactions was on SALE. I paid FULL price AND hadn't left the store so I believe I was within a 5 day window. Seriously?! You don't need to fabricate the truth. read more

Five day in store credit policy only on over-priced lingerie. Condescending staff.. Need I say more?

This was THE best lingerie shopping experience I've ever had. The assistant did a fabulous job fitting me and educating me on how to shop for future bras, without coming off as intrusive or pedantic. The shop is in downtown Menlo Park but has a very private, respectful, and classy feel to it. And while the prices are high, the designers they carry are well worth the splurge. read more

Marina is so helpful and sweet! I found my dream bridal lingerie in minutes. Beautiful curated selection.

This shop is OUTSTANDING! They have a the best brands that are really hard to find in the US (prima Donna!) and they tons to choose from. My size is not a really standard size, and they still had a wide variety of Prima Donna , which is amazing. They really knew their product, and it was such a lovely experience. Highly recommend!! It's worth it! read more

I give Ela 5 1/2 stars great service and gorgeous store. I would like to comment on the return policy, I have been purchasing in boutiques for many years and this policy is very common. I personally don't want to buy an expensive beautiful bra that has been in someone's home for days at a time who may smoke or have pets. Lets be real, these are INTIMATE garment s and not all people are clean, Boutique shopping is not for everyone it has it's benefits, great customer service great products. We should also understand that this is a small store and you can't expect the store policy to be the same as the majors. Maybe those of you that don't understand it should shop at Nordstrom's. As far as the price of the goods, she is not over the top she just sells really good quality items. How many of us purchase a Louie V purse for $1000 ? You get what you pay for....... Good Job Macia read more

Undoubtedly my favorite place to buy lingerie, hands down. Marcia is amazing: patient, great at choosing styles that suit me, and focused completely on one customer at a time. European pricing, sure, but you get what you pay for. read more

This store is amazing and the owner, Marcia, is incredibly knowledgeable about women's bodies. She's recommended all my favorite bras over the years, and most recently hunted down a convertible bra to fit with my low backed wedding dress. It came out perfectly! read more

I read the earlier reviews on ELA lingerie and this sent me over there looking for some nice bras and maybe a chemise for valentine's day. There's plenty of beautiful product - and the buyer does an amazing job in selecting special items you'd never find at the high-end department stores.... I do think the service and attention that I received from the sales woman was excellent! she really listned as i tried to figure out what I wanted, made suggestions and allowed me to try whatever I liked. The experience was comfortable, casual, but with attention to service... I wish I could rememeber her name since she was so great. I'm looking forward to going back. .... especially since trying to buy local from Menlo's small business owners. read more

Chene'l is my best girl. She helped resize me, try out new styles, try out new things, even gave me a tutorial on how to use a garter belt and stockings. I have grown to trust her judgement and recommendations on what would look good on me. And she knows lingerie (I'm a lingerie nerd myself). I love that we can talk shop without feeling I have to leave the store with something. I love that. (Of course, I've bought more pretty gorgeous things here than any other lingerie shop north, south and east of the bay.) read more

There is only one place to buy bras, and it is ELA lingerie. I used to go to another store, before it changed owners and lost it's way. But ELA is now the best place. Best selection, great service, especially from Marcia and Whitney. They do an excellent job at fittings. Yes, they are expensive, but in my opinion that is just a function of what good quality bras cost. I have brought my sisters there every time they are in town, and they say that they have never had a better fitting bra! read more

I love this place!! i found the best lingerie here. It was sexy, fun and comfortable!