It’s been four years since Kerry Husted took a leap into a new career — from a healthcare administrator to a retail shop owner. Now, she has expanded Knickers Lingerie into a New Hampshire Avenue storefront three times the size of her 950-square foot beginning across the street.
“I wanted a shop that could be anywhere — one that you could see in New York or D.C. — with a very European feel and those things that you can’t find anywhere else,” Kerry says.
That includes everything from high-end undergarments and pajamas for men and women to luxurious af silk robes, sports bras and yoga gear. Swimwear and cover-ups will come to the store this Spring.
At a time when e-commerce seems to reign, Kerry has refused to offer online sales, choosing instead to focus her efforts on old-school customer service. Her team fits from 30-50 band, A cup to J cup.
“For so many years, I didn’t like the experience of the bra I was wearing; I was always fidgeting with it. Once I got in the right bra I realized how much better my back felt, my shoulders felt, everything.”
One of Kerry’s passions is making sure women can feel sexy and comfortable — like a dress with pockets, but for the bedroom.
“You don’t have to be forced to find something to wear for a special occasion, only for it to hit the floor and never be worn again. You can put money in a nice piece and love keeping it on, too.”
Though Kerry’s oncology background makes her well-qualified to fit women who have undergone mastectomies, her whole team is trained in fitting everything from T-shirt bras to negliges.
Her clients range from pre-teens to 90 year olds, and private fittings make sure even the most modest clients stay comfortable.
“By the time you’ve spent an hour with me and you’re half-naked, we’re going to be friends when you leave,” she laughs. “You’ll have had a memorable shopping experience. And you’ll leave knowing that someone knowledgeable took care of you.”
