Words: Gentleman's Journal
Few things make a woman feel more special than ripping through sheets of pastel-hued tissue paper to reveal the gift of luxurious new underwear.
Unfortunately for gentlemen, the act of choosing and buying lingerie for your lady is fraught with difficulty. A daunting prospect, this is one step above even buying flowers for your significant other. Get it right and you’ll reap the rewards – get it wrong and you’ll suffer the silent treatment.
Fear not, though, as Gentleman’s Journal have partnered with lingerie powerhouse Victoria’s Secret to talk you through the process of buying underwear for your significant others. Here are the dos and the don’ts, to ensure you don’t get your knickers in a twist whilst shopping for hers.
Don’t be tempted to buy online
Whilst it can be tempting to buy her underwear while you’re sitting in yours, using your laptop is no way to buy lingerie. Victoria’s Secret advocate going into a store to buy a gift. Communication with a store associate is extremely beneficial when buying lingerie, say the underwear experts. The store associate can help make product recommendations based on your partner’s style and preferences ensuring that you find the perfect gift!
It’s also much easier to select lingerie your partner will love in person. You can explore the offerings and see fabrics and colours in real life – which will help you identify a favourite. Also talking it through will avoid making it look like you’re just buying a gift for yourself. A fragrance, bouquet of flowers or some chocolates that remind you of an experience together will also add a personal touch – and there’s no size required!
Have at least a style or colour in mind
Buying in person is clearly best, but what information should you arm yourself with before buying? Try to identify her size, say the experts. Take a peek into her lingerie draw to to find her bra and panty size before heading to the shop.
"Think about her signature style and personality - is she sexy, sporty, sweet, elegant, casual or fashion-forward?"
Also take note of the designs of her existing underwear. Think about her signature style and personality – is she sexy, sporty, sweet, elegant, casual or fashion-forward? These, along with factors such as her favourite colour, should inform you on what style to go for.
Don’t act embarrassed in store
There’s really nothing to worry about. Despite some men acting nervous, the experts at Victoria’s Secret are quick to confirm that the store associates are there to help you. And you don’t need to act as if you know what you’re doing if you’re unsure. Store associates will ask you questions about your partner to simplify the process and make recommendations.
And, while there will inevitably be women shopping in store for themselves, there will also be other men shopping for the exact same purpose. But if you are feeling trepidatious, why not bring along a friend? Shopping is always funner with others, so take along another male friend and pick out gifts for your partners together. Alternatively, bring a girl friend for her point of view.
If in doubt, play safe with your selection
If you run the risk of getting it wrong, the experts warn, go for simplicity. Black is a wardrobe staple – but pink, red and cream shades can work for special occasions, such as Valentine’s Day. Anything with lace also feels particularly special, we’re told.
"You don’t need to act as if you know what you’re doing if you’re unsure..."
But you really find yourself at a loss. This is where thinking about her style and personality comes into play, so trust your instincts. If the product looks like something she would like or reminds you of something about her, shell love it regardless of whether it’s something she would choose herself. Don’t worry too much – if it comes from you, it will mean a lot.
Alternatively, you could go for pyjamas – a great go-to. Most nightwear is sized in small, medium or large, so it doesn’t require a bra size for you to worry about or get wrong. There is so much variety in sleepwear that, whether her style is more sexy or simple, the Victoria’s Secret experts tell us that a girl can never have too much.
With the lingerie successfully bought, why not learn how to take your kit off in a suitably romantic, Valentine’s Day way?
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