The GQ Guide to Buying Her Lingerie
So, it is that time of year, and whether you like it or not, you do have to get that special someone in your life a gift. And as much as every girl would probably love a Tiffany bracelet or something with diamonds in it, why would you get her something only she can enjoy?
Our suggestion? Lingerie. It’s a win-win situation. And while you may think buying her underwear is an impossible task (you really, really can go wrong), we’ve elicited the help former fashion editor, Marishka Denicker, to guide you through the potential lingerie-shopping minefield. So when she slips into your present, she’ll want to thank you (a lot).
– Check her size before buying. Seriously. Not just because you can’t exchange lingerie (you really can’t), but because if you buy her a size too small, she’ll feel ashamed and think you think she should be smaller, and if you buy it too big, she’ll think you think she’s fat. Complicated, we know, but do you really want her hating on you when she could be loving on you?
– Do you know her style preferences? No? Well, get to know them. And quick. Don’t buy her a thong just because you like it – she’ll never wear it. The only time we suggest moving away from what she likes, is if she’s into granny panties (which we hope to God she isn’t), then you should get her something slightly sexier like boy-cut briefs. Because as much as you want her to be comfortable, no man should promote over-sized underwear.
– Don’t buy lingerie on the cheap. Girls will know if you’ve skimped on quality and cheap lingerie is an incredibly unsexy gift.
– Nude is a no-go. No girl wants boring underwear she could’ve bought for herself at the Woolworths sale. Plus, nude will be as boring for her as it will be for you – think lace or silk – hell, just head to the Victoria’s Secret website for some inspiration.
– Wrap it up nicely. Don’t go spend all your hard-earned cash on lingerie and then throw it in wrapping paper with Santa’s face on. Rather ask the shop where you’re purchasing it from to wrap it up nicely – if you’re spending enough money there, they’ll most likely to do it with pleasure.
– Finally, why not throw in some chocolate body paint, a sex toy or something you’ve fantasised about, as a ‘joke’. Who knows – she might laugh it off or she may want to put it to use, immediately.
Not sure where you should be shopping? Marishka suggests:
Passionata, call Gina (082 935 8135) for stockists
Triumph at Edgars stores nationwide
Cotton On stores nationwide
La Senza stores nationwide
Princesse Tam Tam (011) 327 0260