Racked is no longer publishing. Thank you to everyone who read our work over the years. The archives will remain available here; for new stories, head over to Vox.com, where our staff is covering consumer culture for The Goods by Vox. You can also see what we’re up to by signing up here.
Valentine’s Day is around the corner and what better excuse to slip on some sexy lingerie and paint the town red. Whether you have a special someone to impress or just want to feel good from the inside out (who says you need a date to don lacy undergarments?), this guide to SF'S best lingerie stores will help ensure it's a memorable February 14th.
The map includes our favorite boutiques (and a few chains) for buying sultry, sweet and racy underthings. Indeed, something for everyone. Note: Stores are listed from north to south.
Have a favorite to add to the list? Let us know in the comments below.
You'll be surprised just how many sexy pieces this charming French lingerie shop stocks. From bustiers and garters to stockings and sleepwear, you’ll find just the right look for the special day. Go here if you're looking for an attentive experience, armed with a wallet ready for Russian Hill prices.
This store isn't for the faint of heart. Think corsets and schoolgirl skirts plus an x-rated section fit for a truly wild night. It’s a store for the uninhibited, so leave your judgments at the door and be prepared for a bare-all experience.
Tucked inside the Japan Center Mall (Suite 330), Shibuyasf may cater to a cutesy crowd but among the frills and the bows, there are some very pretty, lacy underthings. And surprisingly, the store always stocks plus-sizes.
This one-stop shop for luxe lingerie stocks high-quality and beautifully designed bra sets, garters, stockings and more. The prices may be high, but these tried-and-true goodies are for the serious shopper and meant to last. Check out the brand's more affordable line L'agent for quality at a price point that won't break the bank.
Perhaps not the first store to come to mind when thinking lingerie, but Anthro always stocks a nice selection of lace and frills. The bras are the perfect choice for the more modest girl who still wants to feel sexy.
Not the most exciting lingerie destination, but if you're working with a budget, nothing can beat F21. Most bras clock in around $10 and are a nice combo of figure flattering and sexy. Sizes are always inconsistent so be sure to try on everything before purchasing.
American Eagle's lingerie brand Aerie carries a range of lingerie (from everyday to a little bit sexy) at an appealing price point. The bralettes are currently on sale for just $20, and they're as comfy as they are cute. The sales associates are on the less helpful side but that also means no one will chase you around with a measuring tape.
If you're looking for ultra-luxe European lingerie labels like La Perla, then head to Alla Prima. It stocks everything from basics to high-end luxury goods (complete with the lofty price tags). There's also a North Beach location (with even more merch) so don't give up if the Hayes store doesn't have your size.
It may be a little too late to order a custom corset in time for V-day (Dark Garden makes one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted Edwardian-inspired corsets), but this store is filled to the brim with other pre-made figure-flattering beauties. It's also the only SF store to carry the Von Follies By Dita Von Teese lingerie line.
Dollhouse Bettie's in-house retro line and authentic, vintage pieces (in addition to a few other brands) are perfect for the modern-day pinup. Curves are definitely welcome here so don't be shy. And be sure to check the deals on the website before heading in to score va-va-voom discounts.
From sexy ensembles to toe-curling toys, this intimate Marina shop has it all. It was voted “Best Lingerie” by SF Guardian three years in a row, so you know you’re getting top-quality goods. While most of the store's selection skews toward racy, there are a few covered-up options for bashful types.
Step inside this charming Pac Heights shop for a truly singular experience. The tiny boutique stocks beautifully crafted bras, underwear and teddies that aren’t overly X-rated. Perfect for first-time lingerie wearers, the intimate customer service is sure to make even the meekest shoppers comfortable.
La Perla's first San Francisco outpost finally opened to eager lingerie-fans last year. Now lace-lovers can head to the Union Square store to peruse shelves dedicated to the gorgeous Italian luxury brand. Minimalist, sleek, and seductive, La Perla is a must for those wanting to look chic and sexy this V-day.
You'll be surprised just how many sexy pieces this charming French lingerie shop stocks. From bustiers and garters to stockings and sleepwear, you’ll find just the right look for the special day. Go here if you're looking for an attentive experience, armed with a wallet ready for Russian Hill prices.
This store isn't for the faint of heart. Think corsets and schoolgirl skirts plus an x-rated section fit for a truly wild night. It’s a store for the uninhibited, so leave your judgments at the door and be prepared for a bare-all experience.
Tucked inside the Japan Center Mall (Suite 330), Shibuyasf may cater to a cutesy crowd but among the frills and the bows, there are some very pretty, lacy underthings. And surprisingly, the store always stocks plus-sizes.
This one-stop shop for luxe lingerie stocks high-quality and beautifully designed bra sets, garters, stockings and more. The prices may be high, but these tried-and-true goodies are for the serious shopper and meant to last. Check out the brand's more affordable line L'agent for quality at a price point that won't break the bank.
Perhaps not the first store to come to mind when thinking lingerie, but Anthro always stocks a nice selection of lace and frills. The bras are the perfect choice for the more modest girl who still wants to feel sexy.
Not the most exciting lingerie destination, but if you're working with a budget, nothing can beat F21. Most bras clock in around $10 and are a nice combo of figure flattering and sexy. Sizes are always inconsistent so be sure to try on everything before purchasing.
American Eagle's lingerie brand Aerie carries a range of lingerie (from everyday to a little bit sexy) at an appealing price point. The bralettes are currently on sale for just $20, and they're as comfy as they are cute. The sales associates are on the less helpful side but that also means no one will chase you around with a measuring tape.
If you're looking for ultra-luxe European lingerie labels like La Perla, then head to Alla Prima. It stocks everything from basics to high-end luxury goods (complete with the lofty price tags). There's also a North Beach location (with even more merch) so don't give up if the Hayes store doesn't have your size.
It may be a little too late to order a custom corset in time for V-day (Dark Garden makes one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted Edwardian-inspired corsets), but this store is filled to the brim with other pre-made figure-flattering beauties. It's also the only SF store to carry the Von Follies By Dita Von Teese lingerie line.
Dollhouse Bettie's in-house retro line and authentic, vintage pieces (in addition to a few other brands) are perfect for the modern-day pinup. Curves are definitely welcome here so don't be shy. And be sure to check the deals on the website before heading in to score va-va-voom discounts.
From sexy ensembles to toe-curling toys, this intimate Marina shop has it all. It was voted “Best Lingerie” by SF Guardian three years in a row, so you know you’re getting top-quality goods. While most of the store's selection skews toward racy, there are a few covered-up options for bashful types.
Step inside this charming Pac Heights shop for a truly singular experience. The tiny boutique stocks beautifully crafted bras, underwear and teddies that aren’t overly X-rated. Perfect for first-time lingerie wearers, the intimate customer service is sure to make even the meekest shoppers comfortable.
La Perla's first San Francisco outpost finally opened to eager lingerie-fans last year. Now lace-lovers can head to the Union Square store to peruse shelves dedicated to the gorgeous Italian luxury brand. Minimalist, sleek, and seductive, La Perla is a must for those wanting to look chic and sexy this V-day.