Although lingerie is always a popular gift for Valentine’s Day, finding that no-holds-barred showstopper, or even just a comfortable second skin, is work best done by the wearer. The knowledgeable staff at each of our five favorite lingerie boutiques firmly believe that what you wear beneath your clothing, whether you’re a cable-knit-and-cords or mini-and-stilettos kind of gal, is critical for giving your shape—and your ego—a boost. So dump those boring standbys, embrace your femininity, and discover the sexiest part of fashion.

1
AGENT PROVOCATEUR
Those with a lively imagination will love the slightly kinky finds at Britain-based Agent Provocateur. The shop’s racily clad salesgirls and pale pink and black walls set the mood for adventure. Agent boasts a private label that is stylish but oh-so-naughty (think shiny gold playsuits and garters), along with a selection by hard-to-find designers such as Carine Gilson and Fifi Chachnil. Put together an ensemble here, and you’re guaranteed to seal the deal. 54 Geary St., S.F., 415-421-0229.

2
A LA FOLIE
Don’t be deceived by its size: this small shop on Berkeley’s bustling Fourth Street can keep a shopper intrigued for hours. France-raised owner Nafissa Tayebi brings in delicately embellished tanks from Dessous Sophie Simmons (Tayebi is the only Bay Area retailer to carry this celeb-loved line), as well as more fantastical creations from Christian Lacroix and Kenzo. Tayebi won’t let customers buy anything unless the fit is perfect, and with such lovely pieces in a range of prices, it’s next to impossible to leave empty-handed. 1816 fourth St., Berkeley, 510-845-1616.

3
MY BOUDOIR
This Fillmore Street shop is filled with colorful, playful collections from high-end Euro­pean designers. You’ll find sassy unmentionables for special occasions, cashmere robes for lounging around, and thongs for every day. Discover sexy in Janet Reger’s elegantly embroidered fabrics or go for Aubade’s classically feminine designs, known worldwide for their perfect fit. Frequent introductions of new lines keep even the regulars guessing. 2029 Fillmore St., S.f., 415-346-1502.

4
LULA LU
Being a “big back, small cup” woman herself (the infamous 36A), Ellen Shing knows how hard it can be for petite women to find the right bra. So she’s stocked her sun-drenched, lilac-hued San Mateo store with fit-tested, imported designs from Wacoal Petites, Eberjey, Wendy Glez, and many more. Anyone who falls into the 30AA to 38A size category will be thrilled to finally have such a wide array of choices. 212 E. third Ave., San Mateo, 650-348-8858.

5
ALLA PRIMA
The name, which means to paint directly onto canvas, is a clue: the friendly staff at this steadfast source for classics will help you find undergarments that truly support and conform to your body. They’ll also help you jazz things up with the likes of bra and panty sets with polka dots and ruffles from Andres Sarda, chic sheer designs from La Perla, and sassy leopard-print bustiers by Dolce & Gabbana. Alla

Prima has two locations—an intimate, charming North Beach store and an airy, loftlike space in Hayes Valley. 1420 Grant Ave., s.f., 415-397-4077; 539 Hayes St., S.f., 415-864-8180.