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
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7 Comments
Oh no ur closing and leaving us.i know u from Cheryl,ND Michelle I was such a great costumer of your.Wow it’s sadens my heart David..Steinway will not ever be the same without you.Thanks for such great Memories..love you Connie.I last spoke to you a few months ago.
Hi
I hope you remember me Denise Knight the flight attebdant Iremember u with a bright Smile you were always kind nd friendly. I bought all my stockings from you. I wish you nothing but the best and enjoyable retirement years. God Bless you I will try to get in touch w u to say hi nd catch up
How about another ISIS Hooka place for the terrorists?
He sounds like a very nice man but I have to say it strikes me as funny that a woman would approach an 80 year old man and inquire about what lingerie he would recommend. 🙂
The last thing we need on Steinway is another bank or bagel shop
I guess you didn’t notice the sarcasm. Anyway, it looks like David owns the building so can profitably rent out the space and will do all right.
Too bad, but it seems like he is OK with it.
Maybe we’ll get a bank or a fancy bagel shop.