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Orchard Corset Center
- Nearest Transit:
-
Delancey St (F)
2 Av (F)
Essex St (J, M, Z)
- Hours:
Mon-Thu, Sun 10 am - 6 pm
Fri 10 am - 3 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
60 reviews for Orchard Corset Center
Review Highlights
"Got the perfect, supportive bra."
(in 36 reviews)
"It fit perfectly and I was excited."
(in 4 reviews)
"Goodbye Victoria Secret."
(in 3 reviews)
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60 reviews in English
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Review from Ivy C.
Brooklyn, NY
1/4/2012
I had a great experience here. I only had a vague idea of what to expect when I came here and what I got was an old school shopping experience. It was great. The people working here were professional, courteous and very helpful. I only had a general idea of what I wanted. They explained to me the differences in the types of corsets and bustiers and gave great service.
It was a little unusual at first to be asked by an orthodox man about what I was shopping for and for what occasion, but when I got over myself it was a terrific experience.
If you're looking to browse and look at the pretty things, this is not for you. If you are in the market to buy they will definitely help you. You should have a general idea of what you want when you come, and this will help. If you want lacy, tell them, if you want frilly, tell them... if you want colorful and embellished TELL THEM. You see where I'm going here? You have to put away your inhibitions and speak up. Or ask what options they have. If you don't speak up, you won't get what you want.
The people working here were very nice, very helpful and even gave me directions to another shop to get hosiery. I will definitely return here in the future. They also have a decent online shop. -
Review from Angel H.
Queens, NY
1/4/2012
I needed a certain type of corset for this Victorian costume I was putting together one Halloween. Since I left it so late in the season to put it all together, most of the corsets I was in the market for sold out. Sigh. So I settled for plunking down $500 for a corset at a LES fetish store. I mean a latex corset is nice, but it wasn't matching the costume.
I shouldn't have given up so soon. Walking down the street with my purchase, I came across this particular mom and pop store. Small, with a basic old fashioned underwear display in the store windows. What the hell, decided to check it out.
I should've went to this mom and pop store sooner.
As soon as I walked in, I asked the man about one of the corsets displayed to the window. Immediately he ushers in a woman, probably his wife. She wasted no time. Cutting to the chase, this lady didn't bullshit. Took one look at me and I swear, she immediately guessed my size. She didn't sugar coat anything either. However, within seconds, she pulled a satin material corset. It wasn't authentic Victorian, but it was going to go with my costume a lot better than the $500 latex one.
Reading the other reviews, I didn't get any advice about how to wash my items, or did I get a laundry bag at an extra cost. Perhaps psychically this couple figured I'd spent enough money on my costume.
Not that I'm complaining about the fetish store down the street - not at all! I still have both the latex corset, as well as the satin-type material corset from this place. I didn't take back the latex corset because I didn't own any real fetish items in my closet. Confession aside though, I wear the one from Orchard Corset Center a lot more, 'cause it's easier to get into. -
Review from Nicole S.
Factoryville, PA
2/7/2012
I didn't go to the store I shopped online. I purchased a corset at about $90 and when i returned it b/c it didn't fit right they gladly sent me another one.. when i sent this one back b/c it had a rip in it I just wanted to get store credit instead so I could just go to the store but was told I'd only get 42.88 b/c of restocking fees and so on... but why? i didn't rip it..they send it defective. I'll buy 1 more this..maybe just to get my 40 back but this whole establishment is dead to me based on this "reasoning"...
We issued store credit in the amount of the original purchase price minus a 25% restocking fee and minus shipping both exchanges.
89.00 - (shipping for first exchange of) 11.42 - 12.45 (shipping 2nd exchange) - 25% restocking fee. Total in store credit issued is 42.88.
If you're restocking a corset with a hole in it I don't want to do business with you. -
Review from Maddie O.
8/10/2011 1 photo
Thank you Yelp, not only for introducing me to this hole-in-the-wall, but also for letting me know what to expect! This unique experience deserves a narrative review:
My friend and I walk in and are greeted by a Large Hasidic Man (henceforth known as LHM) who looks at us and says, "Yes?"
Me: Umm, we're here for bra fittings?
LHM: "Elllllllllsiiiiiiieeeeee!" (I could be getting the name wrong)
We wait a few minutes and admire the Olivander-esque shelves full of small flat boxes until a Tiny Hasidic Woman (THW) emerges from behind a curtain. She points at me and says, "You, come."
Me: Hi! How are you today?
THW: What are you looking for?
Me: Just an everyday type bra.
THW: Take off.
I strip off my top-things. She checks out my goods for a half a second then pokes either side of my back with two fingers. Within 30 seconds she has me strapped into The Perfect Bra.
THW: Your left is bigger. Everyone has a big one.
Me: That's coo....
THW: The good surgeons make one bigger to look more natural.
Me: That's smart...
THW: They grow like tomatoes on the same vine, independently. You want two of these?
Me: Umm sure, one beige one black?
As I get dressed she pulls out this laundry bag-thingy and hands it to me.
THW: I'll tell you how to wash these. This is VERY IMPORTANT. Bras should never be bent. You put them in here and put them in the wash, you never dry.
Good to know. She hands my two bras and the laundry contraption to the LHM and he rings me up. She did not tell me that the laundry thing was $9 and didn't ask if I wanted it, just rang it up. This is fine with me. I would never question the bra lady.
THW fitted my friend, LHM rung her up, we were in and out of there within 15 minutes.
My bras were very standard, everyday, workhorse type bras. Practical but not matronly: $36/each. I understand that they have pretty lacy ones for $50/each. They accept credit cards.
This was the easiest, breeziest bra shopping experience ever! My "tomatoes" feel loved and supported and couldn't be happier! -
Review from Jazmin H.
Manhattan, NY
7/3/2011
The women exiting the shop exclaimed, "You've changed my life. Seriously." After our purchases, we agreed.
Do you want to be fitted with the perfect bra or corset faster than you thought possible by the most expert women on the planet for less than you have ever paid for high-quality lingerie? If you've bought anything higher-end than Victoria Secret, let me tell you this shop is a steal.
Here's what I paid (about half what I've spent for the same brands elsewhere.)
$37.50 for your standard underwire bra in tan and black
$50.00 for a fancy lace bra (Mystere brand)
$99 for a steel-boned pinstripe under-bust corset (cotton)
$109 for a steel-boned satin corset
Many of the corsets are designed by Peggy (who fits you) so she knows how everything looks even before you try it on. And the pricing is closer to wholesale.
It's not glamourous but it is what makes New York one of the best cities in the world. -
Review from Jennifer H.
Saratoga Springs, NY
7/1/2011 1 Check-in Here
I've never been able to wear a strapless bra. Never. They've been the bane of my existence. Until I discovered Orchard Corset Center. It's a unique NYC shopping experience. Run by a Hasidic family. The husband runs the register and the wife takes you in the back and makes your tatas look fantastic. Trust her. Tell her what you want and she will make your dreams come true.
I now wear a strapless bra in comfort and my clothing possibilities have completely expanded! -
Review from Kathleen O.
Brooklyn, NY
10/31/2011
It was awesome! I got two bras, each for about $10 less than online. And the I got a really cute, sexy corset for Halloween (why not?) and now I finally have bras that actually fit, after years of Ill-fitting things from The Town Shoppe. Warning: the place is really tiny, I waited with the kids of the family (two playing on the computer, one breast feeding) until the magic fitting lady was ready to see me; it was well worth it.
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Review from Sarah B.
Brooklyn, NY
6/7/2011
I called to ask if they carried the item that I needed in plus sizes in their store and was told they did -- but when I got there, lo and behold, it was something that had to be ordered in. I tried to make the best of the situation and tried on the items I was told would fit me. They didn't.
Overall I found the gentleman was brusque, the lady nice. But I don't ever need people audibly exclaiming that "I'm so much bigger than I look." It's my body. I'm pretty aware. The actual versus the perceived size of my ass isn't going to change your stock: you have things to sell me or you don't. Attempting to shame me out of irritation that your magic "size by looking" trick didn't work doesn't make much sense, and it doesn't do much for my impression of your store.
The more I reflect, the more disappointed I feel. I have a fairly lengthy shopping list and was really hoping Orchard Corset would deliver. I guess I'd consider going back to Orchard, but probably not alone. I'd want buddy backup and would recommend that others do the same. And I'd bring my own measurements along, just in case. -
Review from Christa E.
Brooklyn, NY
8/23/2011
OK First and foremost no one is rude here. It is run by a hasidic family and they can at times in generally seem pushy, but it's just how it goes. And plus you are in NYC no one is over the top nice......you'll get over it.
Now when I came here I was told to de-robe and I took off my goods down to my bra, the lady says......"ok take off" I look at her like she has 10 heads but alas I do as I am told. she pokes for a second comes back with a bra, I look at in horror she says trust me. So I do. I put on the bra she says 'see you look 10 lb's thinner....' I buy 3 of the bras she had me try on and I will be going back the next time I need a bra.
It's a no frills type of place. No browsing, no fancy anything. You go in tell her what you want and like magic you have it and all within 15 mins tops. -
Review from Michelle D. A.
New York, NY
10/11/2011
As I comb through the reviews for this establishment, I can't help but feel disappointed because I wish I could leave a four or five star review.
Well, here's why I can't:
1) Lack of variety, at least for my size, a 30D, 32C or 32D, depending on the brand and style. The fitter gave me two basic Black bras to try on, including a t-shirt bra and a grandma-style bra that offered full coverage. Now, I'm not into trendy, sexy, or lacy fare, but ideally, I would have been offered more variety. You know, different colors and small embellishments.
2) Failed Expectations: I couldn't see the bras as they were in boxes (see: photos uploaded by Yelp users). I wasn't looking for a fancy display or some La Perla-esque boutique, but it would nice to see what they offered. You see, I enjoy the experience of "browsing" but you can't do that here.
I wasn't completely disappointed, however.
1) The fitter was very knowledgeable about each bra I tried on, explaining why I the 32C bra I tried on would work, unlike most 32C bras.
2) I did purchase the second bra I tried on. I only paid $40. I was satisfied with my purchase and with the service I received.
Will I go back again? I doubt it.
Do I recommend it to other women? Sure, under these conditions:
1) A great bra and/or corset fitting. This is Orchard's specialty. I did not receive a thorough fitting because I didn't want one. I have received several fittings in the past year and my size/s are always the same. I came here to add variety to my personal lingerie drawer.
2) An affordable and well-fitting bra or corset, particularly if you want a basic, no-frills style.
3) A cultural experience. Yes, a cultural experience. This is an old-fashioned little shop in the Lower East Side that's run by Hasidic Jews. It's was fun checking it out so I don't regret visiting.
I accept and appreciate this place for what it is--a hole-in-the wall with no displays ran by good people who do a good job of providing bra and corset fittings. If you don't want that, go elsewhere. -
Review from Taylor O.
Manhattan, NY
9/3/2011
Superlative. I got everything I wanted for my lady and at prices that even online sales places can't get you, and since I bought everything in person, I didn't pay any crazy online rates. They were very quick, and it was because they were very good at judging exactly what was needed. My girl was fitted instantly, and she was beaming because of the match. I was beaming because of the look and price. The place itself seriously surprised me, it looks a bit like a walk in shoe closet, but in those boxes are just what you are looking for.
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Review from karen T.
Flushing, NY
10/7/2010 1 photo
So here's the short version: you go there to get the best damned bra fitting in your life. You want the lacy display models, mood music, and the saleswomen who will tell you that you look great in everything? Go elsewhere. You like to browse? Go elsewhere. You want a true New York shopping experience and get good value for your money? Shop here. You hate to shop and want it over with as quickly as possible while making sure you get what you need? This is your bra mecca.
Here's the long version:
I first learned of this place 10 years ago through a story in New York Magazine. Since I'm an intrepid tourist in my own city, I added it to my list of places to go the next time I was on the Lower East Side.
I walked in on a cold, blustery day, wearing a banker's wool coat over a sweater and blouse. Ralph, the proprieter, looked at me, I told him I was shopping for bras. He sized me. Right there. Did I mention the coat over the sweater over the blouse? Yeah. He sized me, turned around, pulled down two boxes, handed them to his mother, Magda (who has since retired), and waved me to the back of the store. I tried the bras on behind the sheet that was hung over a clothesline. They were perfect. The best fit I've ever had.
***
I believe in sharing the love. So, I brought my partner there. She's the butch one, doesn't want her rack to be protruding out. They fitted her with a great sports bra, to keep everything compressed.
***
Then, we bring her mom and aunt in. So now, four women in a shop that can hold maybe 6 people comfortably... provided we line up in a row. Never mind; it's a party! While we're there, some youngsters from the NYU film school are there doing a project. They are grateful that we arrive because - well, they're NYU film students! Not a one of them over size 4, and maybe the largest bust size among them is a 32C. We are all *ahem* ample women. The students are delirious: they want to film us and talk about the store. Ralph and his wife hustle the film-nervous mom and aunt to the back of the store to try out bras while we regale the students with our joy of finding Orchard Street Corsets.
Now, the mom and aunt live in Florida. They come up once a year, and insist on an annual pilgrimage to Orchard Street Corset.
***
A few years back, my partner and I have a wedding. I need a wedding corset. Where else should I shop? I go to Orchard Street Corset! I tell them: "functional." (I say this because I have previously purchased a bright red satin corset from them in the past, which I adore, but is not suitable for the gown I'm going to wear for the wedding.) I walk out with a piece I can only describe as the most severe underwear I've ever owned. (Which is not a bad thing in my book!). Shot through with steel supports, it was as plain a corset than I've seen outside a 1908 Sears Roebuck catalogue. Just what I asked for, and more: cotton next to my body - which wicked the sweat away from my dress - and satin on the outside, allowing my dress to flow beautifully across my waist and hips.
***
MY mother comes in from Michigan. She needs a new bra and a strapless bra for the dress she's planning to wear at my wedding. Mom and Ralph argue: she is convinced that she wears a 38D, he tells her she's a 40C. Finally, with a sniff, he pulls out the one HE thinks she should wear. She stamps her foot and makes him get the one SHE thinks she wears. He tells her to try both of them on.
She buys the one he recommends. As she's purchasing it, Ralph says "what... just one? Your daughter here tells me you're from out of state! You'll want three." My strongminded mother disagrees. He tsks, and tells her "you'll want three."
Six weeks later my mother calls me and asks me to pick up two more of bras of the type she got at Orchard Street Corset.
***
Last year, my partner lost about 125 pounds, and was a brand new size everywhere, including in the bust. Off to Orchard Street we go! Ralph and Fayge exclaim and comment and do all the things that "mishpocha" do. Fayge tells me: "you take good care of her."
For lesbian couples out there, you know what a big deal this is. Especially from Orthodox Jews! Always and ever since, if I stop by there by myself, I'm always asked "how's your friend doingk? Best of health to her!" (doingk - because, ya know, Yiddish is the first language here.)
***
Today, I brought the mother of a friend down to Orchard Street Corset. She's 79. She had been to a special "one-day fitting" event at a local chain women's store, and was unhappy with the result. We squeezed into Orchard Street Corsets, and Ralph got her a chair to wait until his wife was free to help her. As she looked around, her eyes brightened when she saw that a favorite brand (one not carried by previously-mentioned chain) was one he carried - and in the long line that she prefers. She walked out with four of them.
I will never shop anywhere else for bras. -
Review from Ricki F.
New York, NY
12/15/2010
RCF, NY
The best experience ever for the most dreaded shopping experience ever invented! Walked in looking droopy and old, left feeling perky and 20 again. They really know their business. And mine. reasonable prices, great salesperson, easy, easy easy and figure-changing in a good way.
Finally found the right bra and the right store. -
Review from Katie M.
Hawaii, HI
8/20/2011
Wow. 15 minutes was the amount of time it took the owner to get me into the best fitting bra of my life, also fit my friend, and have us both rung up and out the door. She is a genius! I was here in May and bought two bras. I went to Victoria's Secret last month - the bras are more expensive and don't fit nearly as well. I plan to go back next month when I'm back in NYC, because quite frankly, it doesn't get better than this! Did I mention the price? $37 per bra. Cheaper than Victoria's too. And the experience... wow! Nothing like it. Treat yourself, you won't regret it and you'll feel like a million bucks!!
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Review from Amelia F.
Brooklyn, NY
9/22/2011
Ok, I had heard how wonderful Orchard Corset was; that they were amazing and inexpensive. I went in expecting miracles and got a hot mess.
I am a plus size lady with a sizeable bust. Like many ladies that have larger bust lines I abhor the pointy white, beige or black bra that tends to be all that is available in our size. I asked the saleslady specifically to find me colors and a rounded cup. What I got was the same old pointy beige, white or black selection that I dread.
Alright I decided to make another go of it and asked for a strapless bra. They are hard to find in my size and if anyone would have it, it would be the amazing Orchard Corset, right? So, the saleslady brings be a 46C. I was, at the time, wearing a slightly ill fitted 40DDD. I mentioned that the cup I had on was a DDD and I was spilling over it and that the band was a 40 and was too loose. She told me I wasn't that big and the bra she had was the right choice. I trusted her and it didn't look...that bad.
I bought a strapless bra for only $20 and it was going to be perfect because Orchard Corset was this amazing institution that helped to lift breasts properly.
I wore the bra under clothes and it was HORRIBLE!!!! It slipped down because it was too big around the middle. I fought to keep my breasts in the ill fitting, ill shapped cups. It was ... horrible. I don't know what else to say. The saleswoman wanted to get rid of a bra that wasn't selling and I was the dult that it was pawed off on.
Never again folks, never again. -
Review from Hema S.
Manhattan, NY
7/14/2011
Awesome. I've been looking for soo long for my bridal corset and I found it here in under 15 minutes!!! I literally walked in, had the woman size me up and pull an awesome undergarment for my one special day. Believe me, I've been picky and have turned down at least 7 different undergarments. I was simply amazed during my visit. Thank you Orchard Corset Center!!!
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Review from Kristin C.
New York, NY
7/24/2010
This is definitely an "only in NYC" experience.
So, it was a few days before Halloween. I was unprepared as usual. And though I'd decided to go as a dominatrix for a second time (only due to the last minute nature of my planning), I tried on my old corset only a few days before only to find that it was way too big. So, after a long and winding internet search, I stumbled upon Orchard Corset and decided that it might be my only hope. I noted the hours (hadn't quite realized the very conservative Jewish factor yet, but they're an indication) and planned to be there when they opened on a Sunday.
After a LOOOOONG trek from Inwood (northern Manhattan for those that don't know) and some time wasting in the neighborhood because I was early, I went in as their first customer of the day. It's not like the Town Shoppe, Bra Smyth, or any other lingerie store, as others have noted. You can't browse. Everything is in boxes...piles and piles of floor to ceiling boxes...and drawers. So, you go up to the Hasidic lady and describe what you want. She rummages around and brings you to the back and pulls a thin curtain closed (to separate your soon to be topless self from her payos-sporting husband in the front).
You try on the corsets (or bras, I guess...but I wasn't there for those) and she hikes those laces closed with intensity (such that I had to brace myself against a chair; I view this as a good thing, by the way). I have to give her credit. She did a good job, playing blind. Although I hadn't wanted a corset with straps (and they didn't have any strapless ones in my size/preferred color), I did end up liking it. Not only did I feel a bit more secure in it, but I think it flattered the cleavage even more.
My only qualm was that the corset wasn't a perfect fit. I needed it to have a little less fabric in the ribs (even when closed as tightly as possible). Now, I'm an odd size (30DD up top...no, I am sadly not kidding...and a 23 inch waist). With those measurements, I am going to have trouble anywhere. And had I not procrastinated, I bet somewhere like Orchard Corset could have ordered something for me in advance. But this one still fit pretty well (and far better than anything else i could have found in the city, I'd bet). Oh and it wasn't outrageously expensive either, which was much appreciated.
It's odd to be buying a bit of your dominatrix attire in a shop owned by Hasidic Jews. But I got what I came for in an expedient and affordable fashion. I'd go back. Oh...and I was a kickass dominatrix too.Listed in: It's not a restaurant
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Review from Kate W.
Clayton, Saint Louis, MO
8/1/2010
This was in fact the easiest, best bra shopping that I have ever done.
Facts you should know to understand this review more fully: I have large boobs (38DD) and have issues finding bras, I hate bra shopping because of this, and I was in desperate need of many bras.
So, with much trepidation and hope I ventured into this tiny shop where there were a man and a woman in a room lined with Ollivander-esque boxes, but instead of wand types listed on the boxes there were bra sizes. I told the woman what type of bra I was looking for, we went behind a curtain, she asked me to take off my shirt, then she brought me the perfect bra. It was exactly as easy as that. I got one in black and one in tan, for a combined $70. It's been a couple weeks and I've been wearing them regularly, and they are just great.
So, what I'm basically saying is that this place is magical, I was done with the dreaded bra shopping in less than half an hour, and I would go back in a second. -
Review from Ronni G.
Highland Park, IL
7/15/2011
I thought comfort and flattering fit were mutually exclusive in brassieres before visiting this shop. Orchard Corset Center has everything, and they know what everything's for. Not only that, I was able to purchase something to keep my brassieres from getting squashed in wash. I'm sending my daughter here when she visits NY next week.
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Review from John B.
AKA The Hasidic Bra Store. Not because the bras are Hasidic, but because the owner and his mother are. The patriarch opened the store in the 30s, and it remains a throwback to old skool New York.
When you walk into the store, Ralph or Magda will tell you your size by sight, without using a tape measure. If it's cold out, they'll ask you to open your coat. The size they tell you will probably not be the size you're wearing. When my friend Patricia disagreed with Magda's assessment, she said, "That's why you droop. You want to droop?"
Since Ralph is Orthodox, he will not touch the customers. The fitting is done by his wife, his mother, or their one employee. The "dressing room" is essentially a sheet hung from a pole. Don't expect Magda to be gentle -- she knows how a bra is supposed to fit. "That's not where the nipples go!" she told my friend, exasperated, shoving her breast in correctly.
And she's right. The bra fits perfectly, you have complete support, and the nipples are in the right place.
Another friend complained that the strap on the back of her bra was too tight. The response? "That's not the bra's fault." But with sizes up to H and I, odds are good they'll have your size.
Best of all, Orchard is a discount store, so you'll end up paying about half what you would at an upscale location. No entertainment tax.Listed in: The Best of Me, Eating New York
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Review from Ana B.
7/7/2010
This store was really SMALL. It's definitely NOT what I had in mind. You cannot browse on your own. Think of it like a jewelry store, you're not allowed to touch anything. They have the corsets all wrapped up in boxes and then they'll show you some according to your measurements.
I dealt with two different staff here and they weren't really helpful and came off as very rude. It's like they didn't want to be bother.
I rather take my business elsewhere! -
Review from Jessica E.
Washington, DC
10/10/2010
Went there this morning during a short visit to NYC specifically to get a corset for my wedding. My sister said this is the best places and I couldn't imagine a better place. There was a bit of a wait (which wasn't comforting when I had to catch a Bolt back to DC) but wait I did.
The owner and his wife were perfectly nice for a busy Sunday morning after shabbos (PS the hours aren't weird, they're orthodox Jews so to them they're perfectly normal). The woman was very happy to hear of another Jewish wedding and once she saw a picture of me in my dress, picked THE one that would go under it. It's VERY comfortable and sexy enough that if the groom does see it afterward, I wouldn't be shamed by the granny style.
I also got fitted for two bras that are very comfortable, but my main goal was accomplished and I will be back when I have more time and more money. (Two bras and one corset, $140. Not bad). -
Review from Kelly B.
Culver City, CA
8/6/2009
Conventional methods - the difference between the rib cage and fullest part of the boobies- say I wear a freaking G, which is sooo NOT true! And so my "real" size had eluted me for years as I stubbornly refuse to let Victoria's high school dropouts or Linda's money grubby fingers touch my most precious asset. But over the years I've grown desperate and the snickering of my BF at my pathetic attempts to hold everything in its place (it involves wearing 2 bras at a time and/or safety pins) finally drove me out of the shelter of mall stores and into the freakishly skilled messy abode of bras and clinchers on Orchard St.
Walking into the tiny overflowing shop, which is eerily reminiscent of my crazy pack rat grandma's house, I was directed to the tall sultry Jewish sex kitten who lead me behind a curtain and in a gruff Natasha Fatale voice told me to take off my shirt. With the slightest touch she sizes me up and has me in a bra within 60 seconds... to my surprise it is a G cup and to her surprise it's ridiculously large. See it's not just me! My chest defies logic! With a sly smile she fits me into a perfect DD that hold my normally unwieldy breasts in place; seriously this bra is like Dexedrine for my ADD chest.
Oh Miss Natasha, I am your faithful devotee. -
Review from Nina C.
10/14/2008
My friend and I were looking for some strapless bras and she suggested coming here. I wasn't sure what to expect when I got there, but it certainly wasn't your typical lingerie shop.
This store is packed to the gills with boxes upon boxes of bras and bustiers. You know that part in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone? The part where he goes into Ollivander's Wand Shop to get his first wand for school. Remember the description of Ollivander's and how there were "thousands of narrow boxes containing wands [are] piled right up to the ceiling of the tiny shop, and the whole place has a thin layer of dust about it." Well, that, my friends, is what this place was like. It was a throwback...
Anyhoo, I was sized up and fondled minimally (unlike this other place I went to for a bra fitting) and then sent into the "dressing area" (aka sheet on a line) to try on the bustier they recommended. It fit like a glove - wasn't too tight or too loose. And, they even let me try on the dress that I was going to wear with it to make sure that it wasn't too high or whatnot.
Everyone was very friendly and the bustier was the price of your run of the mill Victoria's Secret bra! I'm definitely coming back for some regular bras next time. You can't beat the service or the savings from here. -
Review from Jessica F.
New York, NY
7/8/2007
I found myself here this afternoon after going to a Bone Marrow donor drive on Ludlow street. I had been here on Labor Day with my fiance, Peter, who was merely my boyfriend at the time. Magda told me "not to come back until I was engaged". Her son had gotten off a plane in Israel to meet a girl an hour before I walked into the store, and while she was fitting me, he called to tell her he was engaged. I mean, seriously, you can't get more atmospheric old-school than that. So, since I got rocked, I felt I could go back in, since I have lost weight and need new bras. They know how to fit bras, and you have to simply trust them. Listen to me. Trust them.
No, listen to me. I know it looks like a bus station waiting room in there. TRUST them and buy bras here. And please note, the bras aren't all old-lady bras. I have gotten some hot black lace goodies here too, y'all.Listed in: Roadtrip-worthy places, Quirky places not in your…
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Review from A S.
New York, NY
6/30/2010
I agree with all the yelpers on this place.
Let me say, that I am sick of going to other bra stores and being talked into buying enhancer or push-up bras, when I am perfectly happy with the size my "girls" are and have to desire to look bustier. Unless I'm wearing a super sexy low cut top, I just wind up feeling fat in those bras
I came in wanting a replacement for the only black bra I have that doesn't "enhance" and it was therefore completely worn and stretched up. I went behind the curtain came out with an amazing new bra in 5 minutes and bought a bag to protect the bras in the washing machine. I liked the new bra so much I changed into it 10 minutes later while doing some more clothes shopping.
How many places can you have a shopping experience like this anymore? I think I'll definitely be back. -
Review from Jena B.
Los Angeles, CA
9/7/2009
Orchard Corset is first and foremost a cultural experience. You may not expect to be greeted by a mountain of an Orthodox Jewish man who demands to see your bra strap (if you want "more of the same").
When you are fitted, Faygie/Peggy, the Orthodox bombshell who will proudly tell you she's a grandmother, will make you take off your shirt and check our your current bra. She'll size you up at a glance and grab what she likes. Then she'll make you check everything out both with and without a shirt.
My mother and I have a ritual of coming here together. Apparently I have my mother to thank for my "firm skin" that keeps me from being even droopier. She'll tell you your nipples are cockeyed and grab your boobs to rearrange them in your bra. If you don't like being touched, you will not enjoy a fitting here.
And finally, most of the bras are 2-for-1. Woohoo! And they always have _something_ in my size, even if it's ugly.Listed in: excellent places in New York…
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Review from Kim M.
New York, NY
7/6/2007
I could be the only one to not like this store.
My experience there was awful. The minute I walked in, the woman behind the counter told me the bra I was wearing was terrible, maybe true, but still...
She then handed me 3 bras to try on. These bras were way too small for me, obviously so. These bras wouldn't be able to fit Nicole Richie and I'm not Nicole Richie.
The next bras she handed me were made for 80 year old women and came up to my neck. She told me this was the only bra I could wear and because I had heard amazing things about this store, I foolishly believed her and bought 4 of them. I did notice how the underwire would pop out of the top and how that was uncomfortable. The woman noted because of my size that was to be expected. I am usually pretty strong willed, but I went with it. The total cost of 4 bras was $100, so I felt that at the time that was a fair trade off for having dealt with, "the best".
Anyway, these bras were the bane of my existence. I tried to like them, I really did, but I was unable to even wear a plain v-neck tee shirt with them. Even with a generic Gap tee, you could see the top of the bra and the sharp top of the underwire, which I could've sliced sushi grade tuna with.
Worst experience ever. -
Review from Whitney J.
Queens, NY
3/17/2010
Best bra fitting ever.
I have always had trouble finding bras that fit and straps that weren't constantly falling off my shoulders. So, this week, after my online corset order (for a wedding) failed to show, I ran to Orchard.
I told them my problem and figured I'd get a bra as well while I was tehre. We took care of that first. As soon as I took my shirt off she said "all wrong!" and handed me one from a box that was right behind her. And it was perfect. Absolutely perfect. and not too expensive.
The corset, on the other hand, was a bit more than I wanted to spend, but was super cheap for what I got. Real steel boning and satin? for $100? A steal. I almost went with the $59 one, but this was too pretty to pass up. I got no pressure to buy the more expensive one at all, the woman explained to me (as I was wearing each) what they each did and did not do for me and I went with the best one.
I don't think I'll ever buy bras anywhere else again. -
Review from Christina M.
New York, NY
10/7/2009
So I figured that when it came to finding the perfect undergarment for my bridesmaids' dress, the old school crew on Orchard Street would definitely know what's up. I was right. I walk into Orchard Corset Center on my lunchbreak and see the walls lined with shelves full of tiny boxes, all covered with hand-written numbers. I also see a large Orthodox Jewish man behind the counter. That was a bit unexpected but I divulged my issue and he listened and forwarded me onto his female assistant. He said, "Go behind the curtain and she'll measure you." So that's what happened.
She told me to take my shirt off. She stood in front of me and watched. She then "measured" me by cupping my breast in one hand and gently touching my rib cage with the other. No tape or numbers were involved. She then went in the back and came to me with a backless corset that with detachable straps. It fit perfectly and I was excited. She adjusted my bust in the corset and the whole process took about 7 minutes. Done and done. What a productive lunchbreak!!
I definitely suggest Orchard Corset Center to pull everything together for your special event. Wink Wink.Listed in: My Foray into the Lower East…, Shopping List
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Review from julie s.
Brooklyn, NY
6/18/2010
I actually haven't been to the IRL store yet but have placed some orders via their websites and... awesome. The website is kinda hideous and disorganized, and there are boobs boobs boobs everywhere but I am more than willing to forget that because I'm so impressed with the quality of the stuff.
2 corsets for, like, 80 bucks? yes! but then when they arrived and I picked up the box, I was blown away by how heavy it was. I know that sounds silly but these were real, steel-boned, honest-to-god heavy-duty corsets, none of the silly fragile things I'm used to, and to be honest I did not expect to get a real corset & garters for that amount of money. I am so happy with these!
I feel like if I go in the actual store, I'll never be seen again. :P -
Review from Bianca A.
New York, NY
8/6/2010
A friend and I were in desperate need of good bras. From word of mouth and a couple of Yelp reviews, we went on our lunch break. I knew what to expect when I went in there. The shop is filled with boxes but i heard the woman that fits you works magic. And that she did. She didn't have a tape measure. She just looked at me and said "I know what you need."
I walked out with two bras that are now staples in my everyday wardrobe. And also in less than 15 minutes. I'm very happy and have already recommended them to my friends. Goodbye Victoria Secret. Family owned businesses are the way to go! -
Review from Heather S.
Brooklyn, NY
5/1/2009
Honestly, the best service I have received from a retail store in a very long time.
I came in here last Friday to be fitted for a corsett and Peggy took me in the back, sized me up, and had me in a corsett in under a minute. This was particularly important, because it was my lunch break and I was totally dreading it taking forever and a day. But nope! I was served and rang up and before I knew it I was on the J train heading back downtown.
The price wasn't bad either. I was totally expecting to pay closer to $80 bucks on the corsett, but from there it was $55, which was very reasonable.
Overall I'm a very satisfied customer and plan to do business with Peggy and Orchard Corsetts in the future. -
Review from kat c.
Los Angeles, CA
10/29/2009
I'm so glad I came here! Vicky's people have been lying to me about my bra size my whole life, and now with my true size I feel so enlightened.
Everyone's reviews are pretty much on point. You walk in, and there's nothing on display, you will see more in the window than in the store. It's pretty much a narrow hallway with boxes of bras.
I walked in 5 min before they closed and they prompted me to wait until the dressing room was open. I went in the back, told them what I was looking for (a bra), undressed and the woman took one look at me and brought me a bra and voila! my breasts looked and felt so much better!
They're really good at finding your perfect bra, although it might not be the sexiest. I should have asked for a different cut now that I think back on it, but I was just so in shock by finding a bra that fit so well that I just forgot.
I completely recommend this place, and their website is super extensive!
Go for a fitting, it'll change your life. -
Review from Alexa C.
New York, NY
7/19/2009
Perfection. The quickest and best bra shopping experience of my life.
I went to Orchard Corset for a fitting today. Even though the small shop was somewhat busy, I was immediately greeted by the male shop owner and then ushered back to be fitted by the female attendant. It took her about 2 seconds to look at me, know my size, and come back with the perfect bra. She was so pleasant and helpful and even let me wear one of my new bras out of the store. I'll be a customer for life. -
Review from Bethany S.
Queens, NY
4/19/2010
This place is great! Yelp did not steer me wrong.
I went after work, and no one was there, so no wait at all. It's definitely not a "pretty" lingerie store, but it gets the job done - and then some.
Went behind the curtain, undressed, and she looked at my back, touched me for a moment, and immediately announced, "Oh yes, you definitely need a new bra!" She found one for me, helped me put it on and even had me put my shirt back on to make sure it was right for me. No measuring tape necessary. After finding my "everyday" bra, I also asked to try on other kinds (they definitely have sexy ones - you just have to ask!) and she was right on for all of them.
All in all, I got 5 bras (2 everyday, one sexy, one sports bra, and one strapless) for about $200, and they all fit me perfectly. Can't get much better than that!
ps - To all the busty girls out there - strapless bras that go to your waist are the best things ever! (Plus, they look pretty sexy.) I never thought I could wear strapless, ever - until now! -
Review from Ayana S.
Brooklyn, NY
6/14/2009
After reading the reviews from other Yelpsters.. I thought OCC was the place to go. I was NOT disappointed! This place is no frills, packed to brim with boxes. It seriously looks like the front of the store.. but it reminds me of the places my grandma used to shop for her unmentionables. Anywho, I was greeted by Ralph the owner.. who told me to have seat his wife Peggy was working with someone else.
I expected a long wait, because there were 2 other girls ahead of me. But, she was averaging 7 minutes per guest. Peggy Berg KNOWS BOOBIes. She sized me up 2 minutes, no tape, no measuring. She asked me my color preferences. She told me to take off my blouse.. she looked at my back. Pulled a bra for me.. helped me get it on.. and BAM.. the most perfect bra ever. It's not fancy, just an everyday plain black t-shirt bra. But it looked so wonderful, even she was happy! She convinced me to leave it on and wear it home.
3 lovely bras for $100. She's got a customer for LIFE!. -
Review from Nancy G.
New York, NY
10/7/2010
4.5 Stars, really (only because I have nothing to compare it to)
I have no bras. To spare you all the story, I have searched high and low for bras only to return most of them. And when I do find ones that work, I snatch them up. With that said, my trusty bras all broked. Enter Yelp and OCC.
I came in here around 11am on a Thursday to an empty store and a sweet Orthodox Jewish man manning the register and a gorgeous lady who asked me what I wanted and promptly took me behind the curtain. She asked what I wanted (I told her a simple everyday T-shirt bra) and she lightly touched my rib, muttered a few numbers to her self, hefted up a boobie (bra was not off yet) and pulled a bra from the shelf and helped me get it on. It is TOTALLY beyond what I ever thought my size would be, but it fit perfectly and makes my boobs look great (she even patiently explained that my current bra/size was making my boobs look too wide and was flattening them out and not actually making them look nearly as nice as they could). It was a little pricey, but it's still less than what I would pay at any conventional "chain" lingerie shop. It also goes to show you that it is as much about the bra than the bra size, actually. I think if I wanted a different kind of bra, she would have gotten me a different size from a different box... so um yeah. Great great great experience! Walked away with two bras and a bra laundry bag. And was overall a very good time! -
Review from elizabeth b.
New York, NY
5/14/2009
Incredible service.
I hate trying on clothes. So to have someone who can look at me, size me up, and know what will work is invaluable. The whole process took 15 minutes and that's because for 7 minutes, someone else was being helped. I did not mind waiting at all, and both proprietors were apologetic about the wait. I'd wait an hour to have undergarment shopping be that quick and easy!
I went for a special occasion corset, but I'll be back for my everyday where ASAP! -
Review from Kimberly D.
Brooklyn, NY
4/18/2010
This is the place to go for bras.
I live in the neighborhood and I've never shopped here until today -- a mistake as I'll never go anywhere else for bras.
My current bra (beautiful, French, and purchased at Nordstrom for $100) had become uncomfortable. The woman at Orchard Corsets took the time to explain why (I'll spare you).
Previous Yelp reviewers were accurate: you follow her behind the curtain, remove your bra, and she does a quick assessment. She chooses something for you. It fits really well. So well, in fact, that I bought two everyday bras, one sexy bra, and two athletic bras. Linda's may own the market in the UES, but Orchards Corset rules downtown.
P.S. The couple before me and the couple after me came into the store for something much sexier (corsets, of course).
