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A La Folie
- Hours:
Thu-Fri, Sun 11 am - 6 pm
Sat 10 am - 6 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
Tomas P. said: "This is a perfect example of a store that we're lucky to have in our town of San Carlos. The employees are extremely friendly and knowledgable. I will return again to buy something nice." read more »
40 reviews for A La Folie
Review Highlights
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"I found two beautiful bras at this beautiful store." In 17 reviews -
"Et naturellement, leur lingerie est sexy aussi." In 11 reviews -
"...more than happy to help you find something should you need..." In 3 reviews
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40 reviews in English
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Review from Vanilla P.
San Lorenzo, CA
11/13/2011
The only place in the Bay Area where I can find a nursing bra for my disgustingly big jugs. Walked in with my two babes and the salesgirl didn't flinch. My toddler wanted to talk with her and she dutifully obliged.
Nice changing rooms with soft lighting, camouflages my postpartum gross belly well. Not a huge selection of bras like a department store, but you won't feel overwhelmed and can really admire the beauty of the bras. I found myself really wishing I could wear a pretty, non-nursing bra because the ones they carry are gorgeous... and would probably result in me having another child. Then the vicious cycle would begin again.
They carry nursing bras up to an "I" cup, for those of you ladies who are cursed with boob burst. -
Review from Rebecca R.
Oakland, CA
1/14/2012
Wow I was really excited about taking advantage of a big sale they were having today and instead walked out of there completely deflated.
I have been in this store a few times and they are usually helpful but this time they were snooty and cold.
This time, it was like I was missing teeth and wearing a Raiders jacket or something. It wasn't like I walked in there disheveled. I was wearing make-up (had just got a touch-up across the street at Benefit). Maybe I was wearing too much black for their tastes? WTF?
As I looked through all the racks, no one asked me once if I needed help and only asked if they could put my items in the fitting room. I asked for a size and was quickly told "...whatever's out."
The vibe was just not friendly and when I was asking about the jewelry in the case, the bitchy brunette sales girl working the floor did not crack a smile once....I really was in shock.
If you want people to spend money in your store, show them some love.
I ending up buying about $150 worth of great stuff but if they weren't treating me like I was about to steal something and making me really uncomfortable, I would have spent longer in the shop and looked for more. Instead, I went across the street to Anthropologie and gave them my business.
Looking at some of the other reviews, it looks like I am not the only one who's had this Pretty Woman-esque experience in here.
I try to avoid writing bad reviews but sorry. And I certainly won't be supporting this shop at their new location which will be even closer to me -- I will be walking by and buying my fine over-priced French lingerie elsewhere!
I give them two stars because they have beautiful stuff. -
Review from Stephanie P.
Oakland, CA
8/24/2011
Based on a previous visit to A La Folie many years ago, plus the positive reviews here, I was expecting a good experience with both selection and kind service.
I admit I'm not the kind of person who is auto-wired to pay $100 or more for one bra. Do I eat at Chez Panisse on occasion? Yes. Am I cheap? No. I guess it's not that often that I feel like I have dough burning a whole in my pocket, and if I do I'd prefer to save it for vacation.
But I AM a local who owns a home and spends a lot of money in the area, especially when it comes to babying my sweet Craftsman. So I prefer to be treated like I have money to spend and I, uh, exist.
I wandered into the store when the $50 for $100 Living Social deal was close to expiring so I could buy what I consider to be an overpriced bra but still have a pleasant experience doing so with a lot to choose from.
1. There were two saleswomen on the floor, both paying attention to the one single other customer besides me. I wasn't greeted or given a second look.
2. There was nearly nothing in my size (very normal, not extra large or specialty).
3. After the one other customer left and there were two salespeople to my one person I was greeted and was able to ask for backstock in my size.
4. There wasn't, but I tried on some close items, and while I was in the dressing room I overheard the one salesperson saying to the other, word for word, "I just want to shoot myself between now and the 9th." She was apparently referencing the expiration on the Living Social voucher, which had probably brought a lot of people in this particular weekend. Perhaps people like me, who barely ask for anything and are polite but just don't care that much about $100+ bras. I don't know. But I certainly gave this woman NO grief, and it was adding insult to insult to have to listen to that comment after much reluctance to even speak to me.
Sure, I may not be in the $100+ bra mentality club now, but who knows about the future? Like I said, I was polite and barely asked for anything. What I did ask for was completely within the job description.
If the poor woman actually did shoot herself, I'd be willing to remove this review with sincere apologies regarding her depression. But I have a strong suspicion she was just a rude retail worker who subjected me to an experience I know I'll never return to repeat. -
Review from Kate F.
Berkeley, CA
2/20/2011
Before I explain why I'm only giving two stars, know that I did walk out of the store with a $115 bra. The two stars come from my satisfaction with that bra. However, I will not be back.
I was surprised that when I finally made it to A La Folie after purchasing a Living Social deal, I did experience a little bit of the Julia-Roberts-gone-shopping vibe another viewer mentioned. After a while, that vibe did disappear, but it still made the first few moments pretty uncomfortable.
Having been fitted recently for a bra, and having tried on every size the woman suggested I try, I still felt like the fit was incorrect - gaping where it ought be supportive. However, when we went down a size in some of the bras that were cut differently, I had better luck.
Selection here though is my main problem. There is very little selection if you're looking for something for a C cup that doesn't make you feel as covered up as Queen Elizabeth. Most of the options for all cup sizes ranged far into the dowdy. I found two bras I could have been happy with, and did the price compare: one was $115, and the other was $250. Quite the difference.
So I asked the lady working if there were matching undies to go with either bra. And the answer was yes, but only if you fit a medium or smaller, which I happen not to. So no luck for either bra. Pretty disappointing considering I'm hardly overweight - I just don't like having panty-related muffin top.
To sum up, yes I found a nice bra, but was severely disappointed in the color/size options, and equally disappointed that they had no undies that might fit my frame, and had no intention of ordering anything when I specifically asked. Do be aware that you'll be paying about $150 on average for a bra there, though that is not what turned me off of this store.
I will be looking for other options here! -
Review from Cassandra E.
San Mateo, CA
2/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
I contemplated whether I had the right to write a review about this place even though I didn't actually buy anything....but then I decided I should let you know this place is not all it's cracked up to be!
There is a very limited selection to choose from and the prices are almost twice as much as I would pay for the high quality lingerie at Nordstroms. -
Review from V. m. g.
San Francisco, CA
11/23/2010 1 Check-in Here
I came to A La Folie immediately following a visit to another high-end Berkeley lingerie shop, where I was inexpertly measured by an earnest but unskilled teenager and deemed a 38C. Wanting a second opinion, I made my way over to 4th Street and announced that I really really needed to be properly fitted, pretty please.
The woman there replied, "Okay, but do you have time? It will take some time to get it right because we don't measure, we fit you in different bras to see what works best for you." So you're telling me that you'll take extra care with me, personalize my experience, and help me find a quality product?
My boobies are yours forevermore, A La Folie.
Sarin, who was working that day, spent 45 minutes with me and was the epitome of excellent customer service. (Granted, I was lucky it was a slow day; I have since seen the shop doing brisk business, and it would be harder to have the same experience in that context!) This is especially impressive considering she was making me feel so welcome and comfortable while I was half naked and not a size 2. She determined that I was indeed NOT a 38C and informed me that I am actually a 34G/36F. Sweet baby jeebus. I am STILL in shock: the letters go that high??? My band size is that small??? MY WHOLE LIFE I've been running around in crap bras???!!?
Yes, the Prima Donna bras I eventually bought were **expensive**; dropping that kind of money on undergarments isn't quite immoral, but it certainly engenders a certain sheepishness... Still, thanks to Sarin and ALF, my breasts soar like eagles, I look 10 lbs thinner, and I am walking around like a freaking Amazon warrior goddess. Totally worth it. -
Review from Tsada K.
Oakland, CA
5/14/2008
Thank you to Jillian, the sweet, beautiful saleswoman in this store who took the time to engage in a lengthy and insightful consultation about my hard-to-fit tittays.
Even though I could not afford any of the gorgeous brassieres Jillian showed me, I left feeling extremely supported. -
Review from elle b.
Oakland, CA
11/4/2007 ROTD 1/11/2008
Five sexy stars... just for the sexy experience of walking through the sexy door and hearing the sexy salesgirl murmur in sexy French to the sexy gentleman buying sexy lingerie for his sexy lover. Then the sexy sounds of sexy laughter, sexy credit card being rung up, sexy tissue paper being folded, sexy items being placed in sexy shopping bag, and sexy goodbyes being exchanged.
Et naturellement, leur lingerie est sexy aussi. -
Review from Berna T.
5/21/2008
Sometimes I wish I were a French hooker.
Then I'd have a reason to buy lacy garter belts and frilly bras from A La Folie, AND I'd be making enough money to support my addiction to expensive lingerie.
The swimsuits are pretty cute too, and not completely unreasonable. For those of you who are blessed with ample bosoms, they can hook you up - they have those hard to find sizes. (I, unfortunately, do not have that "blessing", so I can buy my stuff wherever my budget allows. Right now, it's Nordstrom. According to this guy, I have the boobs of a 14 year old: http://static.px.yelp....)
So until I find that French sugar daddy who wants to dress me up in his love (all over, all over), I can only bear to purchase one garment at a time.
C'est la vie.Listed in: Berkeley Is Not Just For…
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Review from Melissa B.
Oakland, CA
4/20/2010
I went in here because Lucky Magazine had this adorable pink mesh Huit Bra featured and listed La Foile as a retailer. I wanted it for Valentines Day, but Uh, that didn't work out so well.
They did have Huit bras in many colors and styles, but no pink. Boo!
I also realized the whole mesh bra thing was more of a cool theory than practice- because of the nipple factor, these bras, cute and sexy as they are, are not for T-shirts, most blouses, or wearing to work!
The woman working was fabulous. I felt really comfortable and at ease with her, and the way she arranged my boobies in a bra was not weird or alarming at all! I was there fairly early in the morning on a Saturday, and had the whole place to myself, with her nearly undivided attention.
One of a couple revelations that occurred during my shopping was that I might be a cup size SMALLER than I thought I was! Good Lord, it's depressing. But honestly, I don't mind.....I swear! I'd rather be my size than an E. I love my body! I accept and appreciate my body and all that it does for me. Deep, self-loving breaths!
That said, they seem to stock more bras for the large cup women than the small cup woman. I tried on many bras and got wonderful professional service, but I came out empty handed.
One of the most disappointing things was being within reach of a style or cut I liked, only to find out it was not in stock in my specific size. I guess I can't blame them for this, but I also can't give them a perky 4 stars.
One discovery I made here that I will give them a LITTLE (get it?!) credit for is 'The Little Bra Company'. I am so excited to try one of these out. La Foile offered to call me when they get new stock in, but I have a confession to make- I might order one online, is that terrible!? -
Review from Tito Y.
Emeryville, CA
1/7/2008
The place to go where you can certain get the sweetest leur lingerie .. wowzer..
Surprisingly, unlike Victoria Secret, this particular store doesn't have "....men feel uncomfortable and leave" written all over it. Instead, men feel part of this rewarding investment. When you go in you soon realize that everything is of the best workmanship and quality. Sweet colorful little nothing bra and panties can set the American Express Credit card back $200 or more. As an example of even a more slinky nighty can hit over $400.00. Money isn't the objective here, its the notion that you are not paying for slave labor, like you would if you were buying at Walmart or Target. The stuff in this store is fabulous. The sales girl that worked there today was super knowledgeable of all the products and she certainly had the passion for French wear. -
Review from Tamiko J.
Alameda, CA
1/26/2008
I found two beautiful bras at this beautiful store. On sale! I never thought I'd be one of those women who dropped cold hard cash on lingerie, but I'm now in that club. Gorgeous. I look gorgeous! Yea!
All thanks to A La Folie. -
Review from kimberly v.
Berkeley, CA
5/17/2008
At this point in my life, I visit this store with a gift certificate in my hand only, but when the money truck pulls up, this is one of the first places I'm driving to.
The shop is tiny, so don't expect to go unobserved, but they have an ever-changing selection of some of the most beautiful bras and fancy underpants that I've seen in the states. Confections of lace leaves, flowers, satin spirals, it's like candy! They will cost you dearly.
However, in their defense, everything I've gotten there over the years has held up to extremely rigorous in-the-field testing. This stuff is not slapped together in some sweatshop, but rather, lovingly stitched by fairy godmothers.
On top of that, they have a selection of sexy and sophisticated scents, mostly Italian. Ambra del Nepal - when I put it on, I gotta get out of the house before I make love to my OWN damn sexy good-smellin self!
...oh yeah, they also have beautiful nighties and robes, and even a few regular clothes, if you want to play it safer...Listed in: Get me a gift certificate
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Review from Monica L.
San Francisco, CA
5/20/2009
Being stacked ain't always were it's at. Case in point: when you are trying to buy a bra that 1) can support and lift the sweater kittens and 2) makes you feel like a pinup girl. I say "girl" because most bras above a D cup resemble hideous, frumpy, bulletproof vests that make you feel as hot as your beloved bingo playing Aunt Bertha.
When I enter a lingerie boutique and ask if they carry anything in my size (36F/G), usually they lead me into the back of the store (as not to frighten the innocent window shoppers) where they have one or two huge white, stiff, shiny, over the shoulder boulder holders with a dazzling array of hooks and straps. I need the support but, I'm not quite ready to embrace that level of structural engineering-we talking boobs here, not bridges.
Enter La Folie. They understand that big chi-chis need love too-love in the form of lace, lift without huge lumps of padding, support with a nice amount of cleavage.
The world is a better place when your sexy bra fits well. Trust me. -
Review from Sasha R.
3/13/2007
Who thought Berkeley ladies wore sexy lace panties under their droopy linen pants and tie-dyed shirts??
Well they do, and Nafissa is here to give it to'em. They moved from their location on Telegraph, and are now on 4th street which I am sure is helping with foot traffic, but us loyal customers still go in to find the perfect gift for ourselves and others.
Thank goodness that someone is keeping it hot in the panties dept in the East Bay.Listed in: The Good Ole Days- SF
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Review from Venesa K.
Oakland, CA
1/4/2011
I can't say enough great things about this place. I ONLY shop here for my bras and panties. Everyone is a delight, helpful and knowledgeable. I send all my friends here.
The selection is great, the fit- amazing and they also have a beautiful jewelry collection.
If you haven't been fitted for a bra here you don't know what you are missing. I've been ruined for life and can never go to a department store again or think of setting foot in Victoria's Secret.
It is more pricey, but I assure you- WELL WORTH IT! -
Review from Annie G.
Berkeley, CA
10/22/2006
Lovely. Romantic. Sexy. Dare I say it, quite hot, and you'll feel like a lady in your special things from A La Folie. And be treated like one, too, by that man who can't believe his luck.
I stopped in a while back, way before Yelping was even a verb, and the charming and knowledgeable owner helped me to choose a very sexy and romantic "set". To use my grandmother's term (yes, my Gram was hip to romance).
Getting oneself ready for a big evening is one of the great pleasures of being a woman. Make sure this is one of your stops.
UPDATE: I just found her new location on 4th Street in Berkeley, which is somehow even better than her last spot. Super owner, lovely things, and you'll enjoy your visit whether you find something or not. -
Review from Sugar E.
Alameda, CA
12/2/2008
I loved this store so much, people gave me gift certificates. I made a special order and they gave me the wrong color lingerie and said they would re-order. They made a series of promises about my lingerie showing up in the next shipment. Eight months in, I suggested they return my money and they refused.
So, nice products but not so nice business practices. I don't know if they are unethical or incompetent, but I am out $50.
Update: Aha. I have my answer. They called me a full year later to tell me my order was in. I asked for a refund and explained what my experience had been. The clerk was kinda mortified and said she would tell the owner and see if she could resolve it. That was two months ago.Listed in: Born to Shop
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Review from Heidi F.
Hayward, CA
7/28/2009
I had high hopes when I discovered this store.
I am a lingerie fanatic. I live, breathe, and sleep lingerie. It's my weakness, and my addiction. I love quality beautiful lingerie, and I was ready to have a wonderful boutique experience of browsing, chatting, trying and buying at A La Folie.
But I was very disappointed by the way I was treated by the staff. I won't go into details, but the vibe was straight out of Julia Robert's shopping experience in Pretty Woman. Perhaps I didn't look like I had enough money to spend. I left feeling extremely disrespected and I won't be back.
Though A La Folie is much closer to where I live, I am remaining faithful to Alla Prima in the city where they greet me with a smile. -
Review from Sharon M.
Oakland, CA
2/17/2008
I came to Al La Folie because one of my favorite yelpers, Elle B., wrote a bad-ass review, which proved very accurate. The woman who helped me had a sexy French accent, and the lingerie was beautiful.
I was prepared to drop a buck for a good strapless bra to go under my wedding dress, but A La Folie didn't quite cater to that need. It deserves a high rating for the small, niche market that it serves, but I wasn't prepared for the reality check: tiny little lacy bra number, about 2 square inches of fabric, total: $150. I really don't know how to justify this kind of expense, though I certainly give props to the women who can afford it! -
Review from Dutch G.
Oakland, CA
Updated - 1/26/2010
So I went in and used my gift certificate that my awesome Manpanion gave me for Christmas. And you know what? The ladies here are STILL the most awesome of awesome.
The saleslady was running all over the shop getting sets together for me. When I went into the dressing room she had taken everything off the hangers and had laid it all out for me to check out and try on. She checked on me throughout my fitting, kept bringing me more styles, and had a great sense of humor when me and my friend were bantering back and forth.
When I told the lady about Alla Prima and telling customers that European brands don't make a 36A she looked as though I said "Your mother is a whore of a thousand whores and I will kill her where you stand." There was hurt in her eyes. She covered her mouth with her hand... picturing wide chested small boob'd women walking around in ill fitting bras.
I love you A La Folie.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/4/2010
I almost spit Numanoes on my computer screen when I read the Heidi F would rather go to the… Read more »
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Review from Lindsay F.
Oakland, CA
8/16/2009
I used to live across the street from this shop on Alcatraz, but I never went in. That could be because back then I made two thirds of what I do now and needed to steer the hell away from lingerie outside of Macy's.
But today? Today I became a woman. A 32 D woman. Not a 36 C woman like I believed. I had a delightful morning getting fitted and approved for each piece. In the end I felt happy and sexy, not exhausted and spent in the way that bra shopping has made me feel my entire life.
I dropped a lot of coin, but this is an investment whose time had come. I think the girls will be happier and healthier for it. -
Review from Douggers M.
Piedmont, CA
8/31/2007
Beautiful, Beautiful!
Small store but very well edited. They had some gorgeous pieces in the window that caught my eye. They also had a great SALE trunk with loads of panties and bras. Unfortunately, they were mostly small sizes. A nice selection of Barbara and a few designers I wasn't familiar with. The sales girl was not super knowledgeable but friendly. She was young and I am sure lingerie wasn't her passion.
I wish I would have tried some stuff on but with the man and an antsy dog in tow that wasn't gonna happen. -
Review from Irene N.
Pleasant Hill, CA
1/28/2010
In my size there is simply no such thing as a cheap bra. Occasionally I will find one of my favs on super sale, but that's usually when it's being discontinued in which case I'm better off using the money to find a new bra that works. Really big boobs + a tiny rib cage = $$$$$. In my case, the bras here are 1000% worth the hefty price tag.
I actually passed this store a ton of times before I wandered in (lured by the sale signs, of course). Usually pretty lingerie in the window means nothing above a D cup. Imagine my surprise when they not only had bras in my sale, but they were all on super sale! Lucky, lucky me. I walked out that first time with three Prima Donna bras that fit like they were made for me. Each bra continues to last and last and last instead of doing the usual falling apart nonsense that lesser bras do when face with some actual weight in the cups.
The second time I went in they had a sports bra in my size, but it ran just a little too small. One special order and a few weeks later I had the most comfortable sports bra I've ever owned. Yay for exercising with support!
Yesterday, I got a call from Jenny saying they had a new style in my size. When I explained that I'm in the middle of a move and probably won't be able to make it in for a while ,she offered to email me with the info so I could call ahead when I got a chance to make sure they still have my size. Talk about above and beyond customer service.
I'm sure I'll keep going to Nordstrom for my granny bras, and I'm sure I'll still shop online. However, nothing beats A La Folie's well-edited selection, being able to actually try your bra on before you buy it, and their outstanding customer service. -
Review from Juno P.
ALLSTON, MA
6/22/2010
I love this store because they have sales, unlike their competitors on the other side of the Bay Bridge. I actually scored a gorgeous Prima Donna plunge bra (in my unusual size, yess!!!!!) on sale and a matching garter belt for a shockingly cheap 15 bucks. Plus, I had other options (again, in my size) on the sale rack!
The lady working there was super nice--even though I was only interested in the sales rack. She was not at all arrogant in the ways that I have come to associate with retailers working in fine lingerie! -
Review from Camille K.
Alameda, CA
9/7/2008
The small Berkeley boutique is fully stocked with lingerie imported from France. A La Folie features both practical pieces and special occasion pieces for women who want to feel pretty. Sign up for their newsletters for special information on store-wide sales!
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Review from Cali L.
Oakland, CA
Updated - 12/23/2010
I have been back to this boutique as I frequent 4th St. and was very pleased to see the store has been revamped. It looks great and is much easier to shop in.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/31/2008
After reading all the reviews I was expecting something special. I am sorry to say that I am… Read more »
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Review from Holly F.
San Francisco, CA
1/4/2008
Of all of the presents that I gave to Stephen this past holiday season, I think his favorite one was the little red silk teddy that came from A La Folie................ Thank you A La Folie, I will be back!
Listed in: North Berkeley Spots
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Review from Kate F.
Oakland, CA
2/6/2011
I used to shop at a bitchy little spot in Hayes Valley for my larger cup size. However, after discovering A La Folie, I am a changed woman. The workers here are helpful and nice, and the bras are beautiful, plentiful, and even go on sale, which is rare for my size. I love A La Folie!
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Review from helen l.
Berkeley, CA
10/28/2008
beautiful and tempting underpinnings can be found here. it's stocked full of so many goodies that its always so hard to walk out with just one piece! i once found the ultimate indulgence here...wolford cashmere bra and leg warmers...so pretty and soft, who could resist?
the seleciton seems to be centered around luxurious, hard to find brands such as aubade, simone perele, wolford, and my favorite, princesse tam tam (although on a recent trip here i was told they may have stopped carrying this line). the girls that work here are all extremely helpful, and approachable. they'll assist you with fittings and are more than happy to help you find something should you need help.
they also have a small selection of jewelry and gift items if you're in need of an easy last minute gift idea. -
Review from Suzanne F.
Portland, OR
1/14/2008
Lush, sensual, delicious, decadent...all of these adjectives come to mind when I consider this little gem of a store. I first discovered this treasure when Nafissa, the owner, had a tiny place on Alcatraz Avenue. This was when she first caught my eye, and apparently my husband's. When we were broker than broke, he surprised me with a very sexy black silk slip he had seen in the window. He made quite the impression on the owner and we have been fans ever since. After this tiny shop, she moved around the corner onto Telegraph Avenue, and I continued to squander the grocery money on small. frilly items. Then word came the shop was moving to 4th Street and my heart kind of sank. It's not because I thought things would go wrong. Just can't deal with the uber-trendy/ultra spend-y vibe that emanates on the entire street....
Well, I couldn't help myself and this shop is the best yet!! Small and beautiful selection of all sorts of things: lingerie, bathing suits, robes, stockings, Wolford tights, and incredible perfumes. They also carry this item that looks like a candle but when it burns, the melted "wax" is actually body oil to ...well...do with what you will, I suppose. In other words, the entire place is not just a place. It's an experience. The sales women are helpful, friendly, make everyone feel at ease, and are nice to kids and dogs. It is pure luxury and I return again and again. I have never left there disappointed. Make sure and get on the e-mail list as they sure throw swell holiday parties and special events, too! -
Review from Caroline C.
San Francisco, CA
9/30/2007
i think we all know i have a serious problem with haute lingerie.
this is where i get most of it.
their collections range from the moderately priced (of high end lingerie) Princess Tam Tam (~$80 for a bra/panty set) to super indulgent Lise Charmel (~$200+ for a bra/panty set).
a great place for lingerie newbs who like the pretty stuff because they will fit you in a european way: size you up by eye, throw you in the room, tell you to get naked and then they'll dress you and make sure it all fits as it should. It's amazing what happens when you put on the correct size, adjust the straps (oh yeah, that's what those adjusting straps are for!), and pull and tug a little here and there.
Now that I work around the corner from the place, it's a serious problem. -
Review from A I.
Oakland, CA
2/2/2007
Very impressed with French Lingerie... all of the wonderful textures of the softest silks, microfiber cottons and sateens.. jesus! Nafissa is very knowledgeable about every question I could think of about the fabrication and fabric of the lingerie... I almost felt bad for the 120 questions I asked her.. but she was very helpful. This is a tasty treat for me to spend that extra cash I don't really have to be spending on lingerie.. but its so worth it.
Listed in: Sexiest Lingerie Spots
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Review from Milly S.
Oakland, CA
7/2/2007
Well, I just spent my rent money here, and am not the least bit sorry. You should go do the same, if you haven't paid it yet, because they're a great North African woman-owned small business, they carry a good range of larger sizes, and they're the only place in the bay area that carries Dessous.
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Review from di t.
Oakland, CA
6/29/2010
i'm one of those "lucky" gals with an average rib cage and giant ladies up front... and i had a great recommendation for a la folie from a friend who is also in my bustline club. my friend had a stellar experience last year and sang to me the praises of this store, so i went in without hesitation when i was just walking by on fourth street the other day.
i am used to buying my very expensive belgian bras out of state at another boutique in my mother's hometown... that boutique is filled with drawers and drawers of beautifully colored bras in my size, and i have been measured and fit every year by the professionals at that boutique. needless to say, thousands of dollars of bras later i know my size and i have a large collection of bras with pedigrees like primadonna, anita, and so forth. i know my stuff, i have a large collection, and i'm always looking for more great bras.
when i stopped by a la folie on impulse the other day, i simply asked if the shop had any bras in my size. well, they had one but it wasn't a color or style that i needed at that moment. that's fine, but i was anticipating that they'd have more of my size in stock and furthermore the sales gal, who was polite and trying to be helpful, kept recommending other band sizes and was trying to get me to "size up" insisting that the cups on some of the fancy bras weren't stretchy.
...well, i was a very slightly offended by this. first of all, just because i am curvy, it doesn't mean that i am immediately trying to stuff myself into a wrong size cup. this sales person would not have known, but the bra i was wearing that day (and most of my bras for that matter) did not have stretchy cups and yes i was asking for my correct size. a larger band was not going to work. also, i felt that the suggestion to try on or "make do" with a wrong band size when purchasing a bra that is $125 or more in price is kind of ridiculous. doing that with a $20 bra at target is one thing, but why should i pay for something that i know won't fit well in the long run?
of course, i will be back, but only after finding the bra i wanted (on sale!) at an online store and going to other area boutiques first. i'm not a super demanding customer, but i do know exactly what i want and what size to buy it in and i'd like a host of new and exciting bras to try on and pick up on impulse because that's the kind of gal i am.
my suggestion to you, a la folie? please stock more deep cup bras. i don't have a lot of options of places to shop, and i WANT to support your store. i suspect that there are a lot of other ladies in my situation. it's not like i can go to target and or macy's and get cute bras for cheap, and i love shopping locally.
as far as the styles and colors you offer: all delicious - i wanted to buy half of them, but i would like not to have to wait 2 to 5 weeks to special order them. -
Review from Roland L.
San Francisco, CA
4/12/2010
I really wanted to like this place. But they only had 5 bras in my small cup size, and the poor salesgirl didn't know what to do so she kind of forgot about me in the dressing room to help other big-busted ladies. I felt so sad after I left this place. I ended up spending $400 in another lingerie shop. Their loss!
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Review from caroline v.
Oakland, CA
3/28/2008
I was initially scared to enter La Folie after reading how much women here loved their lingerie and spent money they didn't have on it. Still I was curious about this "experience" the women wrote about. I was met by a friendly young woman who was not at all pushy. She asked what I needed and through just eye-balling me, she told me my size and mentioned I'm actually an in-between size. She showed me how bras are to fit and brought me literally 10 to try on. The prices varied but when it came to a recommendation, she picked a medium priced one that made my A cup look almost like a B, and without padding too! I left with two of these miracle bras and a sexy knicker. I'll definitely return for more cute stuff for myself.
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Review from c t.
San Francisco, CA
3/5/2011
this place is insanely expensive. really, i had no idea you could spend $250 on a bra. btw, if you want to buy a groupon off me ($50 for $100), contact me here on yelp! i don think ill have a use for it.
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Review from linda k.
Pleasant Hill, CA
1/11/2009
Okay, everything I bought from this store was 75% off but that's the only way I can afford their a items. either way I'm a fan since one they did eventually go on sale and now I'm a proud owner of french lingerie. yea!
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Review from Lauryn S.
Alameda, CA
11/13/2007
Nice quiet store. I would have liked to see a little bit more selection. The prices are very high. The staff was very helpful trying to help me find something in the size I was looking for. The quality is very high.
