The Men’s Guide To Buying Lingerie

Seriously, who wouldn’t like to unwrap a well-chosen set of beautiful European lingerie? If you’re thinking of buying lingerie as a gift for the woman in your life this holiday (and naturally, we think that’s an awesome idea), here’s our guide to getting it right first time. Spoiler: even if the world of lingerie is new to you, it’s actually not that difficult.

Check her size

You could ask her sister/mother/BFF, or sneak a peek into her lingerie drawer when she’s in the shower… however you go about it, you won’t get far without knowing her size. Every bra has a band size (the number) and a cup size (the letter). You’ll need both. Then check out our new lingerie collections, and filter by size.

But if you’re really not sure…

The good news is that lingerie gifts are not restricted to bra and panty sets. If you’re not confident about getting the right bra size, nightwear is a brilliant option as the small/medium/large size bands can be easier to navigate. We love this Montelle babydoll, $52, which comes with a g-string. On a similar note, some of our bralettes are also sized this way; or try Montelle’s just-arrived Boudoir Glamour long line demi cup bra, $48, in sizes S to XL.

What’s her style?

The key to successful gift giving is to think about what she wants, as opposed to what you’d like to see her in. If she usually goes for sexy lingerie with peek-a-boo cut outs, then feel free to go for it! (We love the Blush Fame bra, $58, and matching strappy panty, $32). If, however, she’s never been a fan of thongs, she’s unlikely to change her mind now — so treat her to a gorgeous bra with a high waisted panty. Just arrived, this semi sheer bra, $52, and brief, $27, by Stefi L is sure to please.

Beyond basic

OK, so that thing about sticking with her usual style? We didn’t mean buying her the same beige t-shirt bra that she wears every day of her life. Once you’ve figured out her essential preferences (thong or high waisted panty? Full cup bra or bralette?) up the ante with a set she’ll love in an unexpected color. We’re tipping navy this year (Try Montelle’s Flirt Twilight bra, $44, and panty, $24, in midnight blue), as well as deep green (Check out the Gorteks Ariel bra, $45, and panty, $19).

The big reveal

And, finally, a word of caution. Giving lingerie as a gift is pretty intimate. So once you’ve found the perfect set, resist the temptation to hand it over in the middle of a big family dinner. However much she loves that lacy little number, she might not want to unwrap it in front of an audience.