Aug. 3, 2015 By Jackie Strawbridge
After nearly 40 years in business on Steinway Street, an old-school hosiery shop will close its doors at the end of August.
Located at 30-14 Steinway Street, Madeleine’s Hosiery – named for owner Michel David’s wife, who once ran the store – has been selling stockings, pantyhose, lingerie and more from this location since the ‘80s.
The closure was first reported by the Huffington Post.
David, who is Belgian and Jewish, came to the U.S. after living in France, where he had spent part of his youth fleeing the Nazis with his family. In the 70s, he settled with his wife in Flushing and each took work in jewelry and garments, respectively.
After deciding to open a store together, the couple found a spot in Manhattan and started out their hosiery business “blind,” David said. However, they learned quickly, eventually moving the shop closer to home – a narrow space next door to the current shop – and then expanding into the space he is now leaving.
When asked why he’s closing down, David said simply, “I’m exhausted.” At 82 years old, he noted, he is ready for relaxation.
Up until the store closing, all merchandise will be sold at half price.
David said his “heart breaks” at the thought of leaving his customers, many of whom have been shopping with him for decades, since their teenage years.
“I’m so close to the customers,” he said. “My emotions, now, leaving – it’s very hard.”
Michel David
