REVEALED-8-January-2023 - Magazine - Page 43
STEP 1
NEW PALTZ
The first stop is just 80 miles from the Big Apple. It’s a university town
surrounded by the stunning Shawangunk Mountains. The Gunks are
known for their hiking trails, but not for us today. We drive through
the hip and welcoming downtown to visit Salix Intimates, a lovely
store known for its eco-conscious labels and sustainable lifestyle
items. It’s a visual feast, with intimates merchandised among tropical
plants, candles, lotions, cosmetics, stationary and quirky gifts. That
stop, plus snacks, gas and water, energized us to drive further north.
STEP 2
ALBANY
Along a strip of stores on Western Avenue lies Madame Pirie Famise
Corset Shoppe, where it’s been since 1945. Carrying an overwhelming
inventory of bras, this family-owned shop is an institution. Rosa
Belleville, the owner, walked us through the store’s history. It was one
of the first female-owned businesses in upstate New York. Rosa learned
the ABCs of lingerie from her mom and has been helping women for
more than 40 years. A loyal Curve NY attendee for years, Rosa says she still
looks forward to discovering new brands and seeing the industry’s creativity.
STEP 3
SARATOGA
The last stop of the day! We were charmed by Saratoga’s gorgeous
old Victorian homes, grand estates with horse trails, farm-to-table
cuisine, and the main street lined with antique shops. Hidden
away in a former theater, we found Chic Underneath, a lingerie
and waxing boutique. Owner Lauren Plasencia tells us she loves
merchandising and we can tell. The store is filled with thoughtful
vignettes. The combined spa/retail space keeps the traffic flowing and
registers ringing. Wish we had time for some pampering.
LI N G E RI E, LO UN G EW EA R , L I F E ST Y L E | 4 3