Sabbia Rosa Slips & Camis - Number 22

They don't make 'em like they used to - especially when it comes to fine lingerie. I think there is something to be said for the modesty of a gorgeous slip, it's probably even more sexy than something in the short-to-non-existent variety. Partially dressed is always sexier than not dressed enough. The problem is, when you want something sexy in the "old fashioned" way, you can't find it - unless you know where to look. That's where Sabbia Rosa comes into the picture. You can always find exactly what you're looking for there, so long as you can actually find the place.

Along a tiny sidestreet, just off of Boulevard St Germain, you will find the modest storefront of the most elegantly-apportioned lingerie shop in the world: Sabbia Rosa. "Sabbia Rosa" may translate to "pink sand" in Italian, but it should translate to "if angels wear lingerie"...and I sure hope they do... The store feels like your own closet when you enter, but it is doubtful that even the best lingerie in your closet ever cost as much as this - try in the neighborhood of $850 for a slip, or $500 for undies. Yes, La Perla and Leigh Bantivoglio have nothing on this place. This is the kind of lingerie shop that the great courtesans of the Belle Epoque frequented back in the day. A little quelque chose for your monsieur? How about just a little confection for yourself? I once read an interview of a super-chic stylist from Paris - who knows what she was called, but she "only ever wears camisoles from Sabbia Rosa - I have about a hundred..." (Someone please explain to me who these people are and how they get to do what they do...please?) Pick your silk color, pick your lace trim color - it's as simple as that. There is a rainbow to choose from...and they'll even make what you don't see available.

It's true, Sabbia Rosa has been in the know among the celebs of "the continent" for years, and most recently, I became petulent at the fact that Sofia Coppola mentioned it in her latest article in the New York Times Magazine. C'mon Sofia - it was our secret! The last time I was in Paris, I paid a visit, but I have never, ever, had enough discretionary income to actually take part in the delicacies on display - not even during the dot-com boom. Some day I know I will...but until then - Sabbia Rosa is number 22 on the list.

Sabbia Rosa
73 rue des Sts-Pères
75006 Paris
M: Sèvres-Babylone or St-Germain