Blackburn + Sweetzer Has Moved

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While I was absolutely saddened by Some Odd Rubies shuttering at 8024 West 3rd Street, I was heartened to sit down with Stacy Shakoor the other day for coffee at Little Next Door (wind gusting, power going in and out) and hear all about Sugar Lilie, dessous prives, her boutique set to open November 11 with a focus on mid- to high-end lingerie in all sizes, including maternity, from around the world.

The story behind the silk and lace and other lovely intimates to come…

It all started for Shakoor, who has made her career in banking, with a trip to Egypt and discussions with women there about the important role undergarments play in their lives, including a trousseau which includes enough pieces to last several years. She’s subsequently traveled the globe for labels not readily available stateside. A bit coy about her sources, she says she culls labels “not just from Paris, not just from Europe.” Prices will range from around $50-$500, with an aim to provide excellent customer service, while offering high value for the dollar: “It’s all about fit, fabric, cut and value,” Shakoor says, “It’s a very intimate thing to get fit for a bra. We want women to be comfortable.”

Part of the comfort includes an interior which Shakoor describes as “eclectic and zen,” with a lounge area for friends or significant others, and a beverage (Heineken, flat or fizzy water, etc) to accompany.

You’ll also find custom corsets by Dark Garden, a San Francisco-based label which has made a name for itself with superbly constructed cinchers from weddings to balls across Europe. “The is the first time Autumn Adamme, the designer, has wholesaled anywhere.” There will even be an exclusive Dark Garden for Sugar Lilie line: “It’s a major coup.”

There will be an opening party with champagne, sugar and music Wednesday, November 11 from 7pm-9:30pm, where the pretty underpinnings will also be flowing.