A Man's Guide to Buying Lingerie for a Lady

Most men know nothing about picking out lingerie, which is understandable because it can be confusing. What type of lingerie to buy, what size, what color - how is a man to know? Here is a little guide to help you when choosing lingerie for that special someone.

There are a few things to consider before you shop:

What does she like? Remember that although she will be wearing this, you are shopping for something that you will both like. If she is not into lacey, tiny, see-through teddies, chances are if you buy that, she will not be in much of a mood to wear it and you may never see it again, so what's the point? Keep very close mind to shopping for what she likes.

If you do not know, check out her nightgown/lingerie drawer.  Don't worry, it's NOT weird.

Check for material type (cotton, silk, etc.), colors, and most importantly, size. She may be flattered if she wears a large and you get her a small, but if she wears a small and you buy her a large, you may find yourself in trouble. Avoid anything that says "control" on the label. Those items are used to firm and flatten tummies and rears and she would probably not appreciate receiving them as a gift.

Decide where you want to shop.  If you are uncomfortable in the store, you won't stay long enough to buy something nice. Certain stores have made an effort to build male-friendly elements into their retail operation, for example, Victoria's Secret. If you still cannot make up your mind, check out online stores that sell lingerie. Most major department stores sell lingerie.

Now, what type of lingerie is available? Just about anything you can think of! Ask yourself what the occasion is. Is this to let her know you love her? If so, something peekaboo and loud colored probably will not send that message. But, if it is for Valentine's Day or your anniversary, something a little more risqué might be appreciated. Bras alone have many different styles including push up, plunge, gel filled, padded, under wire, seamless, backless, strapless, open cup, and unpadded.

If you are purchasing a bra and panty set, always check out what she has in her drawer beforehand and definitely make note of the size - of both the bra and panties. Most places sell at least one pair of panties that match each bra, but some will sell several so you can mix and match. It will help to know what type of panties she likes to wear too - thongs, briefs, or high cut bikini.

Would you rather buy sleepwear?  Sleepwear, too, can be confusing. One type of sleepwear is babydoll pajamas. They usually have very thin straps, a plunging V neckline, and are very short with matching panties. You will find most of these made out of silk or satin, materials that always make a woman feel good about herself. But, if she feels her breasts are too big or too small, or thinks her stomach is too big, you might want to avoid babydoll pajamas.

There are slips and chemises. Similar to the babydoll pajamas, these are a little longer and a little better at concealing problem areas such as breasts, butt or stomach. They too are usually made of silk or satin.

Gowns are full-length versions of the babydoll. Many are see-through or lacey and can help put your woman in the mood. Babydolls, slips, chemises, and gowns may also come with a robe.

A pajama set might not sound too sexy, but if it is silky, and buttons up the front, it can make your woman feel very sexy, especially if she is a plus size (size 18 or larger). Boxer sets have become very popular lately. The tops are tight, with thin straps and usually a V neckline, although there are boxer sets with normal t-shirt tops.

If you are really looking for lingerie to spice up your love life, take a look at Frederick's of Hollywood (available online). Frederick's has been selling sexy lingerie for over 50 years. They have a wide variety of garter belts, bustiers, corsets, teddies (similar to the babydoll, but one piece), crotchless panties, and fishnet stockings - items that may not be available at many stores that sell lingerie.

What type of lingerie you should get your love depends a lot on her self-esteem. Many big woman love sexy little teddies, but some will shy away from them, for fear of exposing too much of themselves. Most stores sell lingerie in plus sizes, which are a little less revealing. If she is really athletic, a boxer set might be something she would like. Thin women will look good in anything, but especially teddies, corsets, and babydolls.

LAST THING TO REMEMBER. If the store offers to wrap the lingerie, let them. Dainty lingerie will look much better in the store's wrapping than if you wrap it in the paper left over from your cousin's birthday. Presentation is part of the package with lingerie!
 

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