There's a fun article in the New York Times style section by Cintra Wilson about the upscale lingerie shops Kiki de Montparnasse and Agent Provocateur. (Critical Shopper: Dressing for Success on Valentine's Day) It explains the history of Valentine's Day and reports on the two stores' Soho shops.
Image: New York Times
Above, the boudoir vibe of the Kiki de Montparnasse store.
Personally, I wouldn't spend $160 for a bra or $70 for knickers (as Agent Provovateur calls them) but apparenty the pieces are more well-made than Victoria's Secret - as they should be!