It's Not Me It's You

In the past, on this blog, I've talked up a TO institution - a lingerie shop that broke the mold, shall we say, by importing gorgeous, flirty, well-constructed, sexy bras and undies for women of all breast sizes from the entirely mini to the outrageously endowed. Let me start by saying that this store has the undying appreciation of many a woman for doing this - and for doing it knowledgeably - but for many, the bloom is off the rose.

See, this shop now takes itself so seriously - and sports such impracticable customer policies - that many are going elsewhere. Eventually, you aren't the only game in town.

Secrets from Your Sister - which I will no longer link to as I'm not giving it any traffic - is the place in question. You know I love lingerie. Well, I've spent thousands of dollars over the last decade - thousands - and I've directed dozens of women (who've also spent money) to this boutique but, last week, I experienced the straw that broke the camel's back.

I'm not going to get into it. It's a totally boring story that raises my blood pressure but, I'm intrigued to note that (subconsciously) I expected it to go badly, I realized afterward. I mean, every time I've gone there in the past 2 years I've been irritated by the place. Not the product, mind you. But by the culture of officious management that filters down to the ranks. The SAs are amongst the most informed anywhere. In truth, I blame the owner of the store - a woman I've never enjoyed dealing with - for instituting the kind of regulations that make regular clients (like me) want to go elsewhere. Note: I hadn't been there in a year, when I walked in last week. If you know me, you know that is shocking.

The great thing about modern commerce is that there's always a next best thing.

As I walked out of the store the last time, I knew it was likely, really, the last time. So I got home, got online, and decided to see how I might make that system work.

I know you're thinking: Kristin, you rarely online shop and yet you choose to make things like skinny jeans and bras your main items of purchase?? I realize it seems crazy but I've always been a bit bold with the shopping. I figure, I have lots of experience buying those items. There are brands whose fit I know well. I've hit a point where I can look at something on someone else (a fit model) and know if it will not work. I like to think it's only a matter of time before I'll be able to figure out with some efficiency when things will work. And, if the return policy is good, what's the harm?

Please stay tuned for more on this topic...