Hidden behind a frosted glass window adorned with a Valentine’s-esque heart, lies the comfy to erotic jumble that is Coeur. The little lingerie shop just off of Rittenhouse Square on 17th Street could seem intimidating to the faint of heart. One must brave the “Please Press Hard” doorbell to be buzzed into the tiny walk-up. But once inside, the selection is overwhelming.
Cramped into a few small rooms, the selection at Coeur includes just about anything you could imagine: risque gifts, frilly bras, leather lined panties, gold-trimmed dildos and the works.
Known around Philadelphia as being the best at bra fittings, owner Mona Lisa Jackson is heralded for her customer service and extensive knowledge. It is rumored that if they don’t carry it, Mona will find it. But chances are that it won’t be cheap.
Coeur carries a variety of lines, including La Perla, Spanx, Chantelle, Cosabella and Fogal. This mixture creates a shop that can cater to just about anyone. Whether you are in the market for comfy pajamas, a supportive bra or some kinky attire, you can definitely find it among the rows and cabinets at Coeur.
The specialty shop is doubtlessly no Victoria’s Secret, but in a good way. There is an intimacy fostered by the privacy and personalization of the store that allows the hesitant to step a little out of their comfort zones. Coeur is more exotic than any commercial lingerie store but much classier than any of its South Street equivalents. This balance makes it a safe treat for the curious.
Coeur, however, is not the proper destination for the wary wanderer. The prude in all of us will be a little thrown off by the glass display cases of penis-shaped toys and prominent sex accessories: this seller of “intimate apparel and toys” is exactly that. So if you do dare to enter, be prepared, be confident and be sexy — you’ll fit right in.
Coeur
132 S. 17th Street (215) 972–0373?
Category: Lingerie and Toys Price Range: $$$ Bottom line: Not for the faint of heart...
