BROOKLYN | LOWER EAST SIDE | SOHO/NOLITA | EAST VILLAGE/GREENWICH VILLAGE | UNION SQUARE | MEATPACKING DISTRICT | MIDTOWN/HELL'S KITCHEN | UPPER EAST SIDE | UPPER WEST SIDE
Upper West Side
LainaJane
When you don’t want to drift aimlessly through a department store, sprint to this boutique, which is crammed with enough foundations to suit virtually any need. Its selection tends to favor basics like cotton panties ($9 and up), opaque microfiber tights ($8–$34) and T-shirt bras (from $29), but there’s a wide range of shapers (starting at $34) and a smattering of slinky teddies ($50 and up). 416 Amsterdam Ave at 80th St (212-875-9168); 45 Christopher St between Washington St and Waverly Pl (212-807-8077)
Only Hearts
FIT graduate Helena Stuart opened her petite UWS shop with heart-bedecked gifts including frames and lockets in the ’70s. Today, she’s known for her private-label intimates, what she calls “inner outerwear”: sweet corsets ($98–$300), camisoles ($40–$60) and nighties ($55–$200) that won’t look tawdry when worn out on the street. The two boutiques also carry sleepwear and other lingerie brands including Cosabella and Vera Wang. If you’re looking for girly clothing to pair with Stuart’s foundations, check out Grecian dresses ($187) and superfine T-shirts ($55–$60). 386 Columbus Ave between 78th and 79th Sts (212-724-5608); 230 Mott St between Prince and Spring Sts (212-431-3694)
Town Shop
Though its hot pink logo and mannequins might seem a bit dated, this venerable spot stocks the latest hosiery ($5–$50), shapewear ($20–$70) and underpinnings ($7–$35)from dependable lines like Donna Karan, Wacoal, Lejaby and Gemma. Its multitude of bras ($26 and up) range in size from AA to JJ, and if its seasoned staff can’t find the right fit, they’ll provide free alterations. 2273 Broadway between 81st and 82nd Sts (212-787-2762)