Lingerie is a popular gift for women if you get it right. However, lingerie shopping can be a minefield!

The first crucial point when buying lingerie is know her size! If you buy her something too large, she will be offended; if you buy her something too small, she will never wear it.

Know her tastes - not all women are happy with thongs. Find out her favourite colours, styles and materials. If you aren’t too sure about what sort of style to go for, here are a few ideas:
- If she has fantastic legs, got for something short like a baby doll or a short chemise
- If she has great cleavage, a halter or bustier style (such as a corset) may go down well
- If she has toned arms, a camisole will look fantastic.

Black and white (or cream) underwear is a fairly safe option. Red also looks good on most people. Blondes tend to look better in pastel colours, whereas brunettes can carry off slightly stronger colours such as deep purple with style. Red-heads look great in greens and blues and earthy colours.

Materials such as silk, stain and velvet have that tactile appeal, but make sure that it is tasteful! If it feels awful to the touch, she will not wear it. If in doubt, go for cotton.

Presentation of the gift is nearly as important as the actual lingerie itself. If possible, wrap the lingerie in tissue paper before placing it in a pretty box or bag. If you are feeling particularly creative, add scented beads or dried rose petals into the bag too. If possible, get a gift receipt with your purchase, just in case you have bought the wrong size.

Not sure about the difference between all those types of underwear?

- Chemise: A straight gown that skims the body
- Negligee: A sheer gown, normally quite loose.
- Peignoir set: A negligee with matching sheer robe
- Baby-doll: A short gown that is tight around the bust-line and flares at the bottom
- Bustier: A less-restrictive corset that helps lift the breasts
- Camisole: A sleeveless top, often with matching knickers
- Teddy: A one-piece style pajama (similar to what babies wear)
- Thong: Full frontal coverage with a thin strap at the back
- Balconette Bra: A bra that has a straight line across the breasts when worn
- Plunge Bra: A bra that enhances cleavage. Normally a small centre piece between the two cups.

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