The Dressing Room

Situated on Quiet Street, The Dressing Room has established itself as a Bath institution since its origins in 1985, focusing on high-quality lingerie, beachwear, and nightwear. This is not a typical high-street sex shop; you will not find shelves lined with adult toys or a vast array of vibrators. Instead, the establishment positions itself as a curated boutique, offering a personalised and expert fitting service that aims to provide a more refined experience for those seeking intimate apparel. The business operates seven days a week and provides both delivery and curbside pickup options, catering to modern shopping habits while maintaining its traditional boutique feel.

The Apex of Service: An Inclusive and Expert Environment

For many customers, a visit to The Dressing Room appears to be an overwhelmingly positive and affirming experience. Testimonials frequently highlight the welcoming and knowledgeable staff, who are praised for their friendliness and expert advice. One customer, shopping for a bathing suit, described the service as "amazing," noting that the assistant was super friendly and made a typically dreaded shopping trip enjoyable. Another had a "lovely one-on-one experience," specifically seeking out the Cosabella brand and being pleased with the large selection available. This intimate setting, as it was described, fosters a sense of community, with regular customers popping in and creating a familiar atmosphere.

Perhaps the most compelling endorsement of the shop's potential for excellence comes from a customer who brought in her transgender friend. She reported that the staff member was "so lovely and supportive," and despite not making a purchase, they received fantastic advice and an estimated sizing. This act of inclusivity and kindness created a powerful impression, with the pair vowing to return once her friend was ready for a proper fitting. This specific account suggests that, at its best, The Dressing Room is not just a retailer but a genuinely supportive space for women at various stages of their lives and transitions, a quality rarely found and highly valuable in the world of intimate apparel.

Product Curation: A Focus on Luxury Lingerie

There is a clear consensus on the quality of the merchandise. Even customers who had negative experiences with the service concede that the products themselves are "exquisite and beautiful." The store stocks a range of high-end European brands, including Aubade, Lise Charmel, Prima Donna, and Wacoal, known for their craftsmanship and quality materials. The owner, Tessa Brand, who has run the shop since 2003, emphasises the complexity and quality of the garments, noting that up to 47 different pieces can go into making a single bra. This commitment to quality positions the store as a destination for those looking to invest in premium erotic lingerie and sexy outfits. While it may not offer the explicit BDSM gear found in a dedicated fetish store, the slips, suspenders, and beautifully constructed sets could certainly complement such a collection, providing a touch of luxury.

The Uncomfortable Encounter: A Significant Risk of Judgement

Despite the glowing reviews, a significant and concerning counter-narrative exists. Several detailed accounts describe experiences that were far from welcoming, painting a picture of a judgemental and uncomfortable atmosphere. One customer felt an "uncomfortable vibe" from the moment she entered, stating the shopkeeper immediately critiqued her body, looking at her chest and telling her she was shopping for the wrong size. This confrontational opening, combined with a perceived high price point of around £150 for a two-piece set, left her feeling unwelcome.

An even more troubling account comes from a university student who was a self-described passionate buyer of boutique lingerie. She describes being treated with a "disgusting look of judgement" by a shop assistant, who allegedly shared condescending looks and laughter with another customer. The student felt she and her friend were treated like "scum on a shoe," presumably because of their age. The experience was so intimidating and offensive that she put back the item she intended to buy and left. She made it clear that price was not the issue, but the "appalling" treatment was. These reports suggest a stark inconsistency in customer service. While some patrons receive supportive and expert care, others face a cold, judgemental attitude that can ruin the shopping experience and deter them from making purchases, regardless of the products' quality.

Price and Atmosphere Considerations

Potential customers should be aware that The Dressing Room operates at a premium price point. The focus is on luxury, handmade items, and the pricing reflects that. This is a destination for investment pieces rather than budget-friendly basics. The shop itself is described as having an "intimate setting." This can be a significant advantage, allowing for the personalised, one-on-one service that many customers cherish. However, as the negative reviews illustrate, this intimacy can quickly become uncomfortable if the staff are not welcoming. In a small space, a cold shoulder or a judgemental glance is amplified, making a swift and discreet exit difficult.

Practical Details for Your Visit

For those considering a visit, here is the essential information:

• Address: 7 Quiet St, Bath BA1 2JU, United Kingdom
• Contact Number: 01225 330563
• Website: dressingroombath.com
• Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
• Services: Offers delivery, curbside pickup, and has a wheelchair-accessible entrance.

The Dressing Room presents a complex picture. It is undeniably a source of exquisite, high-quality lingerie and swimwear, with a proven track record of providing exceptionally supportive, inclusive, and expert service that has created a loyal customer base. However, the recurring theme of judgemental and unwelcoming behaviour from staff in other accounts cannot be ignored. A visit here seems to carry a degree of risk: you may have a wonderfully affirming experience, or you may feel judged and uncomfortable. The quality of the garments is not in question, but the quality of the service can evidently vary dramatically, making it a high-stakes choice for anyone seeking new intimate apparel.