retail profiles // classy // petticoat fair

In 1964, Kirk Andrews' family opened Petticoat Fair boutique with the hopes of providing intimate apparel to stylish Texans who wanted a bit more than basic lingerie. Now, 43 years later, owner Kirk Andrews is the proud owner of his family's business and it continuing the family legacy of striving to provide a comfortable atmosphere where customers feel secure while finding the best garments for their bodies.

"I officially took over the store 12 years ago, but I have been around the business most of my life," said Andrews. "After nine years working over seas in the oil business, I came back to take over the business."

Approximately 400 new customers visit the 7,600 square foot lingerie store a month, with a vast majority knowledgeable through word of mouth.

As women of all ages from pre-teen to elderly shop at Petticoat Fair for Wacoal, Chantelle, LeMystere, and Eveden bras, they spend anywhere from $30 to $120.

"We carry a wide range of prices to meet the needs of all women, but the average customer spends about $100 per visit. It varies, some women buy one bra every two years, others restock their wardrobe every month," said Andrews.

With over 75 active manufacturers, Petticoat Fair has a massive collection of lingerie in bra sizes 28 to 56 in band size and AA to L in the cup.

With such a huge selection, one would think providing superior service to every customer would be difficult, but Petticoat Fair's 14 employees meet the challenge every time, as all customers are helped one-on-one by a trained fitter.

"Our bra fitters are trained extensively to understand different body types, shapes, and sizes; not just on how to use a tape measure. With over 40 years of fitting knowledge and experience, we are able to provide consistent service to all of our customers," said Andrews.

"We are a complete intimate apparel store, where a woman can find any and all lingerie to suit her needs," he added.

As Petticoat Fair places nearly 1,000 pieces a month with lingerie companies, it can be difficult to receive pieces in time for seasons; fortunately, Petticoat Fair works with excellent companies that provide pieces in a punctual manner for Petticoat's fashionable customers.

"Panache's customer service and sales teams are excellent. They are always easy to reach and extremely helpful. Eveden's customer service is also excellent-we are able to gain status of any individual item almost immediately, thanks to Donna Coleman," said Andrews.

In meeting the demand for smooth and contoured cups, along with lace and seamless styles, Petticoat Fair organizes special events in where they hold private fitting events for women's groups in the Austin area. During these events staff members provide the same level of service that is given to all of our customers but only in a private, group setting where women can enjoy each other while searching for the perfect under garment.