How to Purchase Lingerie for Your Significant Other

Just like the first kiss, the first fight, or the first vacation, the first time you purchase fine lingerie for your significant other is a milestone in your relationship. A lingerie gift conveys passion, appreciation, understanding, and a high level of comfort. Still, it’s never easy to select clothing for someone else. And when you consider that an estimated 85% of women wear the wrong size bras that they’ve purchased for themselves, the task can seem insurmountable. That’s why we’ve compiled a few tips for making the experience easier, whether you’re about to be wed and want to find bridal lingerie or just need something to rekindle a flame that’s diminished somewhat over the years.

• Make sure you know your significant other’s lingerie size. This doesn’t require major reconnaissance. Just find an extra second to take a surreptitious glance at her bra and panty size. Be sure to write them down for reference—buying lingerie that’s much too big is the cardinal sin of giving lingerie as a gift. (When in extreme doubt, always buy a smaller size and save the receipt for a return.)


• Do research online. For some people, even looking at sexy swim suits in a store is akin to mortal terror. But browsing websites provides an embarrassment and pressure-free opportunity to decide what type and style of undergarment you’re looking for. There’s a lot to take into consideration: bra and panties? Corset? Chemise? Stockings? If she already owns a fair number of any of these items, you may want to introduce a little variety into her lingerie wardrobe.


• Pay attention to your mate’s clothing preferences. If she generally wears minimalist, elegant clothing, she may lean more towards simple yet feminine fine European lingerie. If she’s more of a sartorial risk taker and loves to have people notice her outrageous outfits, she may prefer the extravagant sensuality of Ravage lingerie. How she dresses for everyday work and play situations, including which colors she favors, is often the best indicator of her tastes in lingerie. However, you could also take the alternative route and buy her something a little unexpected.


• Ask for help. Most people don’t differentiate between French lingerie and American lingerie—or any other type of lingerie, for that matter. That’s why lingerie retailers make it a priority to have a helpful, knowledgeable staff. If you’re shopping online, asking for help is simple and relatively anonymous: email the site’s customer service department and receive a quick response. Purchasing the right item plays a big part in a gift’s success. Don’t be shy!