Karen Thompson’s dream of an intimate apparel brand that would exceed the average shopping experience became a reality in 1988, and she is just as passionate about her company, Lace Silhouettes, today. Providing personalized, knowledgeable service, as well as a welcoming and comfortable experience, are hallmarks of her approach. Lace Silhouettes delivers affordable luxury with the goal of making women feel beautiful and confident.
“When you come through our door, you will be treated as a friend, as if you were a guest in my home,” Thompson says proudly.
The flagship store has always been in Peddler’s Village in Lahaska, Pennsylvania, with other locations gracing the Washington Street Mall in Cape May and Palmer Square in Princeton. Each store carries the brands that women love, as well as unique items not often found in department stores. As Thompson says, “Every woman deserves to indulge herself regardless of age, size, or price range.”
“One thing I believe in is nurturing other women in business and the community. I’m very active in an internship program with my company. I want to help women develop business minds, women who want to be in the fashion industry or in any business,” Thompson says. She works with students at Philadelphia University, the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, and the University of Delaware.
Thompson is quick to stress the importance of the entire Lace Silhouettes team, pointing to the vital role her team members play in the success of the company, as well as the significance they hold in promoting consumer confidence and awareness. Thompson is also swift to credit her husband and two grown sons for being supportive as she has lived her dream.
Lace Silhouettes prides itself on providing the best fitting bra in a style that’s right for each woman. Employees are trained in properly fitting a bra during complimentary private fittings. With a regular clientele, the Princeton store does a lot of fittings, as well as providing an extensive line of fine lingerie. Sales associates are often buyers as well, making frequent trips into New York with extensive knowledge of what their customers want.
Men now make up a significant part of Lace Silhouettes’ customers.
“It’s not a hindrance anymore for a man to walk into an intimate apparel store,” Thompson says. “When their significant other, girlfriend, or wife, loves the store, there will be a ripple effect and you will see a man walk in. He will know what she likes, or she is in our system with what she prefers, and it is shopping made easy.”
Join Lace Silhouettes in Princeton on Saturday, February 10, from noon to 3 p.m. as Palmer Square is transformed into Hearts on Fire, and giant blocks of ice are sculpted into stunning figures as you watch. Get a cup of hot chocolate and enjoy the magic of Palmer Square and Lace Silhouettes.
Lace Silhouettes, 51 Palmer Square West, Princeton. 609-688-8823. www.lacesilhouetteslingerie.com
