Best Lingerie Stores In the Twin Cities

Nothing like bundling up in layers of wool, polar fleece, down and Gortex for seven months out of the year – that's how we roll in Minnesota. But it's easy to forget your inner sexy when you're dressed like the Michelin Man. So remember that "frigid" is a term best used for describing the temperature, and that a layer of slinky silk or satin can go a long way to creating a sunny disposition even in the wintriest weather. Check out these Twin Cities lingerie boutiques, whose wares are guaranteed to make temperatures rise even when the mercury is falling.

Allure Intimate Apparel

1051 Grand Avenue
St. Paul, Minn. 55105-3002
(651) 493-6773
www.allurefits.com

Indulgence is the word of the day at Allure Intimate Apparel, where you'll find some of the most highly regarded lingerie lines, including Aubade, Wacoal, Chantelle, and Oprah's favorite, Le Mystere. And bra fitting specialists will help you find the perfect size and style. A selection of shape wear and special occasion undergarments are also available, not to mention luxurious pajamas and robes, yoga wear, and a wide selection of sensual bridal necessities (think body shapers, plunging bras and peignoirs). Just try to come home empty-handed! Hours: Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Flirt Boutique

177 Snelling Avenue N
St. Paul, Minn. 55104
(651) 698-3692
www.flirt-boutique.com

Just like its name, this store is just sassy enough to inspire mischievous smiles … and ideas. And so are the wares Flirt Boutique carries. Bras, panties, sets, camis, teddies, negligees and robes appeal to tease to temptress alike and come in an assortment of styles from Mimi Holiday, Elle Macpherson, Wendy Glez and Cosabella. Check out the selection of sweet lace, soft silk and sensual satin and see if your mind doesn't begin to wander. Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.

Neiman Marcus

505 Nicollet Mall
Minneapolis, Minn. 55402
(612) 339-2600
www.neimanmarcus.com...

Count on Neiman Marcus to carry the crème de la crème in its lingerie department. From Chantelle and Cosabella to Hanro and La Perla, this top of the line retailer serves up skivvies, shape wear, slips and sleepwear of the highest order along with bra and panty sets so beautifully crafted that they could be considered works of art. Hours: Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; closed Sunday.

Nordstrom

Mall Of America
1000 NW Court
Bloomington, Minn. 55425
(952) 883-2121
shop.nordstrom.com/c/bra-fit-specialists

Already established as the authority on bra fittings, Nordstrom carries an astounding selection of intimates including Betsey Johnson, Calvin Klein, La Perla, Donna Karan and On Gossamer, among others – there's even a brand named Commando in the mix. Look for bras, panties, teddies and shapers with moods that run from practical to playful to downright provocative. Hours: Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Soma Intimates

Mall of America
276 South Avenue
Space #S276
Bloomington, Minn. 55425
(952) 854-1230

Rosedale Center

1024 Rosedale Center
Suite 475
Roseville, Minn. 55113
(651) 636-6685
www.soma.com...

This gem of a national chain is the offspring of the Chico's brand and follows the same formula: Offer well-made, fashionable attire at affordable prices. And the values abound, thanks to special offers and regular sales. Look for groupings including the Bridal collection and the Vanishing Edge collection (yes, bras are included – goodbye back fat!). And along with standard bras and panties, you'll find sleepwear, shape wear, active wear, swimwear and a variety of fragrances. Stop in for one item and see what else you find! Hours: Mall of America – Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Rosedale – Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.