I came in looking for an everyday bra because I knew I was not wearing the correct size and needed help. I also brought a dress with me and wanted to find something where the bra straps would not show. Chelsea helped me and I found two different styles of everyday bras plus a strapless one for the dress. I honestly did not think a strapless would work for me but this one fit great and stayed in place. read more

I've been here several times and have never had a bad experience. Each time I go I am in need of a bigger size since I am still growing in the chest area. Yes, I had to put my name on a list and wait but it was worth it (they have the good stuff and larger sizes in the back). Last time I went I was helped by Kaitlyn. She was so kind, honest and helped me find two bras that I liked. One of them I bought, the other had a defect on the lining of the bra. She pointed this out to me because I didn't even notice (I just thought it didn't fit me right and needed a bigger size). I am waiting for them to contact me about the other bra and can't wait to get another bra from them that fits me right!! read more

RESPONSE TO MANAGEMENT (or whomever replied to my review): I did NOT visit your store with the intent to bargain shop nor am I a bargain shopper (that's actually a laughable identification). Again, you fail to assess the situation and shopper (me) properly. It was Black Friday and *the store* was running a 25% off sale. I did not state "nothing should ever be sold at full price", I stated that hardly anything is full price on Black Friday (do you not believe that statement to be true?) Regarding the mask, I accidentally did not put it back on after trying on 5-10 bras each time. As so, your yelp info states "While masks are not mandatory, we do ask that you wear them in order to protect our employees and our customers." -- Let's end the hypocrisy on this topic and attempt to publicly shame me for forgetting to put my mask back on in between try-ons. Thanks for letting me know there was discussion about me after I left, tasteless on your part. Your employees were made to feel uncomfortable for forgetting to put on a mask and asking if you will price match a brassiere to a site that Petticoat Fair itself follows closely? This is a disgusting and appalling response. Looks like you also chose not to provide reasoning as to why you delete customer comments from social media if they aren't to your liking? Really, is this joke? ---------- What a strange little place this is. The store caught my interest a few months back while I was visiting the AMAZING spa next door, Glow Spa & Wax House (go there!). I did not stop in because I was under the impression they carried brands for mature women, judging by the exterior of the storefront. That was my mistake, because when I actually decided to step inside, I realized they carried some of my favorite brands (Cosabella, Eberjey, Natori, Chantelle, etc.). Management shares content via social about the importance of shopping small. I typically agree, and when I saw a post with said content on Black Friday, I decided to stop by and make time for a fitting with full intention of making a purchase. Upon entering, there's a weird vibe. Admittedly, I can be quick to assess situations so let's give them the benefit of the doubt here (which will ultimately prove as trusted intuition and not a misjudgment). I signed in, had my fitting (not a comfortable experience, felt like I was being directed by school teacher - very weird, but again I let this slide). I was excited to learn about European brands I have not encountered before and fell in love with a brassiere towards the end that was 2x the price of the others I was given to try. I went to cash wrap and asked if they would match an online price. Several people inquired about the site I was looking at and ultimately came to the conclusion that they do not match UK prices and made mention of litigation the brand has with said website. Okay, not great for me, but seems reasonable. I purchased the lower priced brassiere ($65) and a PJ set and went to my car. Within several seconds I felt disappointed I didn't purchase the oh so coveted $190 bra. I quickly looked online and saw a U.S. site that featured the bra for 25% off. I went back inside and the lady behind the cash wrap hurriedly ran to the back without me even finishing the sentence, Natalie returned and was visibly and verbally annoyed, reiterated her speech on the challenges facing small business and honored the lower price (not happily so) and barely uttered a goodbye. A few days later, I came across ANOTHER pro-small business post from Petticoat Fair and thought back to my experience. I commented and said something along the lines of, "Shopping small is usually also accompanied with unparalleled customer/client service. I'm sad to say that was not my experience." The comment was removed by Petticoat Fair. Now, I will ask Petticoat Far, as you read this recount of my visit and experience, is there any real wonder why your store is struggling (or on the verge -- whatever the situation might be)? While COVID-19 restrictions are putting a strain on small businesses, you seem to have foundational issues that existed long before the virus made landing in this country. 1. Competitive pricing is and will be absolutely crucial as you face e-commerce competition (do your market research, price your goods fairly and run relevant & compelling sales/offers), 2. The fitting experience, while valuable, needs improvement in terms of overall polished and thoughtful communication, 3. *MOST IMPORTANT* -- it boggles my mind that management was incapable of assessing a potential high spend, loyal customer (me) AND went even further to treat me as disposable. Many women trust my word when it comes to style and high end goods, I will NEVER recommend any of my acquittances to step foot into your store. I am so disappointed that I did, but luckily I have a beautiful brassiere and discovery of a new of brand to offset this unacceptable experience. read more

Unless you're the father of a teenage daughter, this story won't make any sense. Consider clicking forward to the next cool bar review, and I'll catch you in the latest thread. No worries. So if you're still with me, you need to know my only role in my daughter's wardrobe is to pay for it. And twice a year, we'll do a day trip to the malls, where I spend the time waiting and carrying things. But that's okay, it's a good day for both of us. So when the ex called to arrange the replacement of our daughter's Victoria's Secret bra collection, I wound up having the following casual father-daughter moment--note the deft and masterly use of father techniques I've accrued over the years: Me: "You like Vicky's Secret? Their stuff hold-up well?" She: "They're okay." Me: "Supposedly, there's some place around Northcross that specializes in the perfect fit and form for women. Might be worth a look." She: "Really?" Me: "Probably can't hurt. At the very least, they may have a handle on some decent essentials, like a basic nude, a strapless, a good sports--" She: "How do you know this?" Me: "Well, I'm your father, it's my job to--" She: "Did you get this off of Yelp?" Me: "Uh--" She: "Okay, I'll go, but you can't come with me." So I gave her the $250 Petticoat Fair gift certificate I'd bought earlier, along with their informative brochure and the instruction to sign-in at the counter when she arrived. "Thanks, Dad, this is pretty cool..." I'll probably not know what happens. But that's okay. It's what fathers do. read more

Every girl needs to come here at least once a year. Maybe like an after gyno treat or some shit. I had been complaining about the fit of my bras for a couple years when my grandma insisted that I accompany her on a trip. Thinking that it was a "grandma bra" place, I braced myself for the worst but was very surprised! They did a fitting and informed me that I was a size I didn't even know existed. I cried a couple of tears while they went to get me some bras and when they came in with pretty things I almost quit breathing. I have cried on a couple more visits, strapless bras aren't fun at all. The girls here will explain to you exactly how your bra SHOULD fit and trust me girls, the one you're wearing doesn't fit correctly. You'll be amazed. I'd also like to add that I'd had a fitting at Victoria's Secret in the past and they'd always choose a size that they had in stock and I always thought it was strange that I bubbled over the top, Quadraboob is just not a good look. read more

Petticoat Fair - Lingerie Near Me - Austin, Texas

This is absolutely THE PLACE to shop for a new bra! The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and very professional. Leila was extremely helpful and attentive in making sure I found the right fit and style. She is very pleasant and you can tell she loves helping people! She takes the time you need and I never felt rushed. She is fantastic! Be sure to ask for her! read more

Worst retail hours EVER! Good luck working women. The customer service is only good if it's available to you. I'm sick of running to Petticoat Fair before it closes or worse to find it closed. read more

If you are well endowed and have been lied to about your size after a "fitting" (just so those loser stores can sell you something) at just about every other store, this is the place for you. Plan to spend some time here because you will probably have to wait for your fitting, but it's well worth it. Professional bra fitters will measure you for your TRUE SIZE because they're not just trying to cram your girls into something they have in stock. Their sizes range from small to oh I don't know - somewhere way up the alphabet not stopping at DDDD. It's pricier than most places, but for something that fits like a dream, it's worth it! They carry separate (cup size) swimsuits year-round; again not stopping at DD. It's so nice to have a swimsuit that fits perfectly. We are lucky to have a gem like this in Austin. Really really lucky... read more

I always enjoy coming here; the staff here are very considerate and always patient to answer my many questions regarding bra sizes. The owners are also very attentive and I never feel rushed here. The items here vary in price (from $60 all the way up to $250), and they usually have some great items on sale. If you let your fitter know your price range they are usually very good about helping you find the right item for the price you want. I saw a review by someone who complained about Petticoat Fair 'not being LGBT friendly' and I want to say that is not true in my case. As a trans-woman I've never had a problem with anybody here, or ever made to feel uncomfortable. I've had a fitting done by both of the owners and several of their other staff and not one time were there any issues. read more

I hadn't been to Petticoat Fair in four years because the last time I came, the expensive bra I purchased was too tight in the band so I ended up donating it after a couple months. The only reason I came back today was at the behest of my rolfer. They keep your name, fit size, and purchase in their system for up to five years. Either the fitter I had today, Chelsea, was better, or I gained weight. She offered me a grapefruit La Croix on a hot summer day. Chelsea has been with Petticoat Fair for less than a year. But she listened when I told her the band was too tight, and got me a larger size. Even though my ribcage was still measuring 28 1/2 inches, she had no qualms retrieving a 34 band. She understood some brands run smaller than others and that I needed to be able to expand my lungs to breathe. I was in and out in a record, twenty minutes. During my previous visit, it took them one hour to fit through twenty bras because none of them would fit. I wished they had a larger selection of petite styles and colors. I would come back sooner than four years and ask for Chelsea again. read more

This is The Place to buy a bra. I love the service here. When you arrive, you sign in. A salesperson takes you to a room. Then, she measures you. Then, she talks to you about what you want. Then, you just happily wait and receive multiple wonderful things. You try stuff on. She helps you. You're happy. She's nice. What could be better? read more

It's not easy being green, or red, or yellow... But it's a GOOD thing that we're all so different, damnit! So rather than try (in vain) to look like second rate instances of others, it is much better to take what we've got and make the very best of it. Petticoat Fair is a little shop with a big stockroom filled with thousands of bras in every imaginable shape and size, along with tactful and hyper knowledgeable personal fitters who will tuck and shake you into them until you look in the mirror and proclaim YEAH! Prices are very competitive. They also carry a smallish selection of nightgown's, PJs, panties and girdles. read more

Just to be clear, this review is for ladies' bras and all that that entails. If you have no use for this, please scroll down to the next review now! Until today, my teenage daughter has happily worn a sports bra everyday. She is an active girl, and doesn't want to fuss when changing from school clothes to soccer stuff or track uniform after school. But for tonight's special event, she'll be wearing a nice dress (I can't remember when she last had on a dress!) which will require a nicer undergarment. How to make sure she gets the right one? I don't have to. I'll leave it to the experts. Off to Petticoat Fair we go. We are greeted immediately upon arrival, and asked to sign in. They look me up on their computer and tell me that my last visit was in 2002. So it is once again time for me to get re-measured, as after all these years I'm now almost certainly wearing the wrong size. It's Saturday afternoon, so there is a short wait. When our friendly fitter calls our names, we are shown to clean and inviting back rooms. There is a discussion of our needs. Our measurements are efficiently taken. Our fitter brings us various styles to try. In a little while, we are done and ready to pay out. Yes, my body has changed and I am thrilled to once again have a bra that is just right - oh, the difference! And I'm happy to know that my daughter's first "real" bra is sized perfectly as well. We leave the store, both very pleased, walking a little taller and just a tad straighter. read more

Absolutely stress free enjoyable experience! In fact, bra and bathing suit shopping is my most dreaded task normally, and now that I have found this gem of a place, I will anywhere else! My sales associate Alexis was so helpful, measuring me, informing me but also respecting my tight time schedule! She knew I was rushed and she stayed right outside my dressing room for any size changes I needed. I appreciated that she quickly narrowed down my likes and dislikes and really listened! I will be back for sure and I will definitely be asking for Alexis again! read more

Very Knowledgeable and professional staff. Very nice selections, reasonable prices. By far the Best Bra shopping experience.

Unless they keep their bra stock locked up there wasn't much here to buy. Lots of swim suits, some nice lingerie, and I saw a handful of petticoat fair bras. No one around to help that I saw, just one girl behind the counter letting people in. read more

Love my visit here. Super helpful. Found the right fit, the right bra. Jessica was amazing!

Fantastic staff, selection , and experience all around. They deserve nothing but 5 stars for several of visits I've had. Hands down the best place to shop for swimsuits and bras in town. They have everything Nordstrom has but much more of a selection and for all body shapes and sizes. read more

I always find exactly what I'm looking for and today I got lucky and got a bra on clearance for $20. Anyone that shops here, knows it rare to get a bra for that price. A good one at that. Merry Christmas to me!! First time in a long time only spending $100 for 2 bras.. I'll be back!! read more

They're attentive, thorough, and have a great high quality selection; they last for years. Best fitting I've ever had. I recommend everyone go here for at least a fitting once, and I usually hate bra shopping! P.S. the attendants are amazing and patient, they should all get a xmas bonus! read more

So I walk in to a sea of nightgowns and think, what the hell am I doing here? I figured that it was time to be a real adult and that means getting half naked in a room with a stranger for 'the perfect bra'. So I did, and I'm glad for it. So as it turns out I knew nothing about how to wear a bra which is funny since I've been doing it wrong for twenty years. It was a good education that I would recommend to any woman. The girl that helped me out on the weekend after Thanksgiving in the print dress was great. read more

I literally do not shop for bras anywhere else! I drive up from San Marcos, and am happy to do so. My mom brought me here for the first time 6 years ago, when I was looking for undergarments for my wedding. I am a very difficult size to find (not available in any regular shops...Victoria's Secret just isn't an option for me) and Petticoat Fair has always had choices. Not just A bra, but CHOICES!!! I have worked with someone different each time I've been in, and every single person has been amazingly professional and helpful. You get personal one on one service to find what you need. The most poignant thing for me was that they not only were super helpful, but didn't treat me like a project or a difficult case! They have bras there for all shapes and sizes! And they fit you every time and teach you how to ensure you are getting a good fit. I walk out of there feeling like a million bucks, but purchasing bras that are much less expensive! (choices!) Not only do I highly recommend Petticoat Fair, but I am so thankful they exist. read more

I've known of Petticoat Fair for YEARS, but wasn't sure it was the right store for me... that changed recently. I needed a new bra and hate most chain options as I have larger breasts. I went in thinking I was a 32DDD, but turns out I'm actually a 30FF. The staff was so helpful and brought me SO many options to try which was amazing. Everything from basic everyday bras to sexier options and even sports bras. I was only able to buy a few this trip, but they made a wish list for me to keep on file for when I'm ready for my next purchase. And, there will definitely be a next purchase... especially since I work there now! So excited to be able to shop here and work here now! Such a great space with so many beautiful options for all ages and sizes! read more

I wrote a review for Petticoat Fair once before, however I decided to delete it. I wrote it directly after a shopping experience and did not take the time to think about what I really wanted to say. It has been a few months now and I still stand by my opinion. Petticoat Fair has a great selection of bras. The professionals working there serve as a decent starting point . However, over years of shopping at Petticoat Fair (since about 2009) I have never been satisfied. My bras have always been far too tight to the point of leaving marks. I would rush home after work just to get my darn bra off then rub the marks left on my body for an hour until they slowly faded. Within the last year I went to Nordstrom to bra shop. I told the sales associate I prefer Natori Bras. Without asking any questions she recommended a size to me and them showed me where the Natori bras were in the store. The associate let me know that she could order different colors if I wanted, Then (BEST PART) she stood back to let me browse the entire selection. The size she recommended fit like a dream! I have since bought 3 Natori bras from Nordstrom in the size she recommended (pink, black,and tan). I love them! I no longer feel the need to rush home and take my bra off! Petticoat Fair's Recommendation (with measuring): 32G Nordstrom's Recommendation (without measuring): 34DDD I understand that Petticoat Fair associates are well trained, and that perhaps I just lucked out with an amazing Nordstrom associate. I think perhaps Petticoat Fair should re-evaluate the training they are giving their employees. Clients should be in a well fitted bra, but clients should also be heard. Clients should feel comfy, confident and sexy in their undergarments. read more

So those reviews that said they were snobby and discriminated against minorities and queer folks? Y'all those people weren't lying. I went in looking for something new to refresh my bra collection and literally no one talked to me. Except there were 6 women working behind the counter and I was one of three customers. I got the distinct impression they felt I looked too young (I'm 25) and too poor (I was wearing jeans and chucks) to be shopping there. And weirdly there were no bras. Like anywhere. So weirdness all around, but then my fiancé walked in. And then people started truly, actively, avoiding us. While I was trying on a robe in the fitting room my fiancé (who had to stick her head into the stock room to get anyone's attention) asked why they don't have any bras, but there are bra posters on the walls. The woman said they keep all of the bras in the back and you have to sign up for a fitting. To be fair, she did ask if we wanted a fitting, but in the way that makes it really clear you shouldn't say yes. So while I was buying my robe, my fiancé (who works in advertising) pointed out that if you had never been in there before, you would have no idea they sell bras. The woman at the counter looked apologetic (the five women behind her looked resentful) and pointed to the sign up sheet. My fiancé pointed out that there is no sign that explains the sign up sheet or where the bras are, the sign in sheet has no instructions or label, there are no bras displayed, and no one talked to us. The cashier told us that she hoped we come back for a fitting and I just looked at her dumbfounded. I mean, don't get me wrong, I got a nice robe and all. But there is nothing they have in there that you can't find online, at another specialty shop, or at a department store. And there's nothing that makes up for customer service as horrendous as all that. read more

The ladies at Petticoat Faire are amazing! They helped my daughter and me find the perfect undergarments that fit well and were within our price point. My purchase had to be ordered and came in at time that I couldn't pick it up right away. Today I received a call saying that they would provide free shipping for the garment. A few minutes later the associate called back and asked if I would be okay if she dropped it off herself. About an hour later, I had my garment! Great customer service, and so thoughtful during this crazy time. Way to go Petticoat Faire! read more

Lost a customer for life. I am a large chested lady, so I can't go to normal places and buy bra's they just don't work for me. So I have been coming to petticoat fair for around 6 years. For the most part they've done a decent job, sold nice products. My most recent purchase was a $180 bra that I loved. It fit very comfortably, didn't make my chest look pointy or weird, didn't even have the weird lines that some bras have. it was perfect! I was really worried about how expensive it is but I was told by a worker that it would last a really long time and that she has had hers for over 2 years. So I figured it would be a good investment. Well yesterday, after having it for less than a year, the wire snapped. I was livid that this nearly $200 bra snapped after having it for such a short amount of time. I called here to see if there was anything that could be done and I was told, "no there's nothing that we can do for you, it was probably time for it to break anyways." Looking through the reviews now it seems like this business has zero accommodation even for their own mistakes. So if you are looking for a place that stands by its products and has helpful customer service then this is not the place for you. read more

Great for all women and those transitioning. They do have quite a wait time to be fitted so do not show up in a rush. The selection is vast and while some may be pricey they do have a competitive price match system. Also they have a small selection of super sexy men's underwear and offer la croix while you wait read more

I'm sorry to say that this place is specifically designed not to cater to working women with a standard full-time schedule. By refusing to take appointments, the only people that can afford 2 hours to get a bra are those that have the luxury of a flexible schedule. Yes, they are open on weekends, but I hear the wait is even worse and those who work need to prioritize their few free hours. I'm only posting here because I knew this 5 years ago the last time I tried to go, but forgot this week. I left for my Tuesday lunch hour full of hope only to have them dashed 1 hour later as I left with no consultation. They seem to do quite well by only catering to a portion of the population, so I'm glad for them. But for all you working women - you'll have to find another solution. Good luck out there! read more

EDITED TO ADD: after Owner's response--I see no where on my receipt or on the tag of the item that denotes the item as on sale. If you're going to have business model where customers don't shop for themselves but are handed items that don't have "sale" tags, that is the responsibility of the salesperson to inform the customer. Furthermore, it seems that the business stands by salespeople that sell poorly-fit bras...I thought well-fit bras was the appeal of this establishment. Petticoat fair was recommended to me for large busted women. I went in for a strapless bra for my wedding and was recommended a handful of bras. Out of those, only one fit under my dress with good underwire placement, but I noted to the salesperson helping me that the cups flared out awkwardly, leaving a gap across the top of my chest. She told me that that's what will happen when I wear it without straps since it's a soft molded cup. So I bought it. I then ordered a cup size down elsewhere, and guess what--it fit! No gaping. Which, you know, well-fit bras shouldn't do. So I went to exchange it but was told that I couldn't because it was a final sale since it was in sale. And the salesperson tells me "it says so on the receipt". So why wasn't I told before I bought it that it was final sale or on sale at all? So they sold me a poor-fitting bra and told me their no return policy AFTER I bought it. To top it all off, I noticed when I got home that the straps that came with the bra were missing, so I had to go back to pick those up. Very thorough. I was excited to find a place to reliable find bras in my size, but I won't be back. read more

I have had several wonderful fittings here which led me to my new favorite bra ever in the universe. If you go on the weekend, the only time I can go because of work, the wait to get fitted can be really long. I have seen several angry and impatient customers (but haven't ever been one and hope not to be). I've also seen people bring in wedding dresses and other fancy stuff to get special bras for and the staff has always been super accommodating. I wish there was a way to browse more of the selection in store. I get that they don't do that beside of sizing but I also feel like I'd buy more if I had more of an idea what was available beyond what I was asking for specifically. I also wish they had a bigger selection online so I could avoid the drive and the wait. Overall, great bras and helpful staff. Worth the wait and the money. read more

Petticoat Fair is the best bra shop in Austin. The associates are wonderful and patient and not only provide a personal shopping experience but also a proper bra fitting. It can be busy on the weekends, so I suggest going early when they open. I recently got married and found all of my undergarments, bathing suits and lingerie at PF. I actually didn't shop anywhere else! They have a good selection of bridal lingerie as well. I was pleasantly surprised with the bathing suit options too. Last year, I shopped everywhere and didn't find anything I liked. But this year I bought multiple suits at PF. They ranged in price from $100 to $300 but the quality (not to mention time saved!) was well worth the price. The prices are fair and exactly what you would find buying direct online. They have a large assortment from Wacoal, Le Mystere, Natori, Chantelle and probably others I have never heard of. If you buy 5 bras in a calendar year, the 6th is free. Shop local and keep this type of business in our community! read more

If you have larger breasts or a smaller back size, or both, or really, let me just say, if you have breasts and wear a bra, you owe it to yourself to come to Petticoat Fair and get professionally fitted. They have an amazing assortment of practical bras, sexy bras, tshirt bras, plunge bras, longlines, anything you can think of. They will measure you, adjust the straps, make sure your girls are lifted up where they belong and do it professionally, every time. The selection they carry is impressive and the staff is super knowledgeable. They keep every purchase you make in their database. This came in handy for me yesterday when I wanted a bra that I had ordered years ago. They no longer carried it, but they were able to order it for me at no additional cost. The other thing I love is that even though I have large breasts, I no longer have to wear bras that look like oxen harnesses with four or five hooks. The lines they carry usually have a max of three hooks, but still support way better than the cheaper department store brands and they last! Holding up for a long time, with proper care. Yes, the prices can get high, but they also have lower price points. read more

Everyone is raving about this place so I had to go in. I got in to a booth without seeing one bra. They don't show any of the bras outside which I find very annoying -- in other words you're at their beck and call and have to wait till one of the assistants brings something to you. You have no choice of shape or color nothing they don't explain that to you there's no consultation. I had a snooty 20 something named Christina who kept repeating the question to me 'well do you want this' 'do you want that', when I said I didn't know because it's up to them! right? if they're the experts and they to bring it to me. They whisked away the merchandise before I could take a snapshot on my phone but next time I will do that because you're stuck here in Austin with no other alternative except this one shop. I'll buy it online or wait till I travel to Dallas or another city because their customer service here sucks. read more

Awful service. Not one person came to help me with what I needed. Definitely a different store than it was 3 years ago! Not to mention we were driving back in town from San Antonio and I had rushed to get there! So frustrating... Got what I needed at the Domain instead read more

I should not have waited as long as I did to go here! I was under the impression that I would be spending at minimum ~$60 on a bra here. But I walked out with two for less than $70 yesterday! Lea fitted me. She was great, and reminded me a lot of Abbi Jacobson so that was awesome. Every bra she brought me fit, and was in my price range. I couldn't believe it! Yes, there is definitely some expensive stuff here... but not everything. And you have a personal shopper helping you so you don't have to wade through all the stuff checking tags. There is nothing like wearing high quality, well fitting underwear. You deserve it! read more

You know the victoria secret fashion show? Angels everywhere, perfectly blown out hair, breasts wrapped up like so many gorgeous presents? That's not real. Surprise! I know TV usually only portrays only the most viable and truthful of situations but believing that women are that happy with their bodies and their bras and want to strut it up is like believing LOST was a reality show. You want reality? Reality for women who are well endowed is your underwire digging into your ribcage. Reality is your back hurting. Reality is abandoning all hope of wearing button up shirts. Ever. That I know from personal experience but it's no different for other women. We obsess over our breasts -- and obviously not in the way that men do. They're too small, too big, too saggy, too pointy, not round enough, not high enough, different sizes, etc and so on ad nauseum forever. The point of this diatribe is that these damn lumps of flesh can be physically exhausting and mentally stressful. They can also be great if you find The Right Bra. Enter Petticoat Fair. After reading Errol's touching review of this place, I vowed to try it out. Two years later I've finally forced myself to walk in. It's embarrassing -- getting fitted for a bra. Boys: Imagine someone poking around your private parts clinically measuring it and messing about with it trying to find something to fix its faults. Basically we dread this like you dread that "40 yr old checkup." I walked in, signed in and walked around looking at the goodies. This spot has got all kinds of items including swimsuits, nighties, lingerie, underwear, sale stuff, things you can wash your bra in, etc. My name was called and Chrissy (Krissie? Chrissy?) was the girl who helped me. She was awesome. It's freeing to be that honest with someone about something that's so private and she's great at what she does. First we measured, then we tried on. She found me bras right away, brought them in, waited outside as I put them on, helped me adjust them, totally anticipated what i'd like and made me feel absolutely comfortable about my bra fit. Good bras aren't cheap -- for all that they're made out of wire and cloth -- and these ranged from $50 - $70. I was giddy with the idea of actually having bras that I wouldn't hate so I bought four and walked about $260 lighter. However, they've got my size and my information written down forever and if I dont like the bras I can return them in two weeks. It's an excellent and much needed service and they pull it off with class. Victoria Secret is like the McDonalds of bra spots -- you come out with something that fills the need but that will make you feel and look like shit in the end. So spend the $65 you might have spent on bottles of wine to make you feel better about how you look... on a bra that will actually make you look better, period. read more

Boobs! These ladies are professionals about something that I can't help but giggle about. Thanks to Yelp, I was armed with the knowledge that I needed to sign in on a sheet near the cash register before my presence would be acknowledged, and I was assisted right away after doing so. I was taken to a adequately spacious fitting room, measured in the region of concern, and after being upbraided for my current poor bra choices, was supplied with at least eight different bras to try on. The woman helping me checked on me frequently (I think she had a bra installation/removal sensor) and made sure that they were fitting correctly. I chose a bra that fit the best, and since I generally avoid clothes shopping, I bought two of the same style - unfortunately, it was when I was at the cash register spending my clothing allowance for the next two months that I realized they also sell sports bras and lingerie. I was tempted to go back in the fitting room, but their bras - they are nice, but they're also expensive. read more

So, something like 85% of women wear the wrong bra size and, according to the lady at Victoria's Secret, we're supposed to get measured about every six months. Well, it'd been A LOT longer than that for me so, thanks to y'all's reviews, I headed to Petticoat Fair. I didn't have to sign the list because it was the middle of the day, I was greeted and escorted to a fitting room immediately. The lady helping me was very abrupt (maybe because I was wearing my AC/DC tshirt?), quickly measuring my girls and scampering off to grab what she thought would be good for me. She didn't really completely listen to my concerns/needs, didn't even tell me my size... I had to look at the bras she brought me for that. Yes, I'd been wearing the wrong size. I wasn't completely surprised, but a little. After all of this, she was very helpful, though. I tried one on, she suggested that, perhaps it wasn't the right style and that I should try on a second one... which I ended up agreeing with her and actually buying. I anticipated it being slightly pricey, which it was... but just a little bit more than I'd expected to spend (we're talking less than $10, so I bought anyway). The cashier was friendly, giving me washing instructions and even a little sample of gentle detergent. I didn't have a whole lot of time to peruse the store, but it seems like a classy, actual lingerie shop without all the bells and whistles (or the sex toys!). I'm going to have to go back and get the same bra in black. read more

If you have breasts that are bigger than a C-cup, this is the place to go. These women are good. They measure you correctly, bring out a variety of bras for you to try on, and are really just good at customer service. There's something comforting about having very good service in the way you imagine your mother and grandmother did when they went dress shopping. Also the women there are well-dressed and immaculate. They are also, from what I've seen, all well-endowed themselves. Really, when shopping for undergarments or garments of any kind, you really don't want to buy from someone who looks like hell: you want the women giving you advice on clothing to be attractive and dress well. My favorite thing about Petticoat Fair: once you have a favorite kind of bra, they keep your name, size information and style preferences in their database. You can just walk in, give them your name and pick up a few new items. read more