A guy’s guide to buying lingerie
December 10, 2011 by admin
Filed under Choosing Lingerie
Mezzanotte bra, £214, high-waist brief, £185, La Perla
Size really is everything when it comes to lingerie. ‘Check her lingerie drawer to get the right sizes,’ advises Helen Attwood, buying manager at Selfridges. If that’s impossible? ‘Opt for a luxurious kimono or silk pyjamas,’ says Agent Provocateur’s creative director, Sarah Shotton.
Don’t veer too wildly from what she already likes. ‘I know it’s tempting to buy that red lace negligee,’ says Niki McMorrough, co-founder of Made by Niki. ‘But you’re never going to enjoy it if she’s not going to wear it.’ Shotton agrees: ‘She’s unlikely to love a skimpy thong if she normally prefers French knickers.’
La Perla’s Lulu bustier, £402
At the same time, do not go for a cotton Lycra mix mini in comfy neutrals. Christmas is meant to be festive. ‘We find that men veer towards safe options,’ say Alex Miro and Amanda Lorenzani, co-founders of Fox Rose. ‘However, we think most women enjoy receiving underwear they might not necessarily buy themselves.’ Alexandra Popa, of Bordelle, agrees: ‘Be bold, go for something versatile and different. Lingerie, especially if it’s a gift, should not be limited to matching sets.
Try a babydoll paired with a minimal thong for a luxuriously sensual look. She’ll appreciate your sense of adventure.’ Damaris Evans, designer of Damaris Mimi Holliday, says: ‘Lingerie is where a woman shows her true style, so push the boundaries. Think about being luxuriously private, humourous, interesting, intricate and essentially functional.’
La Perla’s Sinfonia bra, £206, briefs £103
‘If you really want to play it safe, opt for a night gown, babydoll or teddie,’ says Simon Walters, owner of Dolci Follie. ‘Or, why not buy two gifts – one classic and one edgy?’
Be practical. ‘Don’t be afraid to ask for help in store,’ says Attwood. ‘Staff are trained to help customers choose the right gift.’ Keep the receipt, adds Lorraine Morton, designer for Miss Mandalay. ‘And ask for gift wrapping. It will make all the difference.’
On a budget? ‘Accessories such as a suspender belt can add a naughty twist to a more demure look,’ suggests Popa. ‘Silk stockings make a great gift,’ says Shotton. ‘Back seams are very popular.’
Stay on trend. ‘At the moment, it’s vintage,’ says Walters. ‘Bring on the big, high-waisted briefs and suspender belts. They’re actually really sexy on and extremely comfortable. And on top, you have that shapewear effect that will guarantee that sleek look under the most body-hugging dress.’
