Take charge
Men often are not too extravagant when it comes to undergarments. Ensuring they are clean is challenge enough. All of which makes lingerie shopping for the other half a perilous undertaking, strewn with potential pitfalls. Booby traps, if you will. Clueless about what lingerie to buy for your girl? Don’t worry, here are some handy hints to help you. Photo: Bwitch, Boudoir London

Points to ponder...
What exactly is a camisole? How in the hell do women’s sizes work? And precisely why aren’t some of the more ‘specialist’ websites found on the outer reaches of the Internet, not appropriate? If you are among those who haven’t a clue about sizes, shapes and forms and yet want to gift your partner great lingerie, flip on to get those crucial tips! Photo: inegamodels

Go 'underneath'
A little rummage through her underwear drawer can go a long way in helping you: Find out her bra size, find out the general style of bra she likes to wear, see what style co-ordinates she wears, what colours she likes, whether she likes lace or smooth cup bras. Buy something she is likely to wear. It is always a good idea to purchase two co-ordinates (different style bottoms) so that she has a choice between the two. Photo: Malibustrings

Fabric fashion...
An added feel of a sensuous fabric doubles up the sexual energy. Keep away from anything casual, and splurge on fabrics which are excellent to touch and ero*ic in feel. Pieces made in thick lace or heavily textured are complete no-no, if you don't want her to let the world know that she is all flowery underneath. If she has a heavy bosom, avoid styles like the push up, halter neck, cross back and strapless. Photo: eastmanphotography

Be safe than sorry
Just ask the shop assistant to be on the safe side. Ask the shop assistant if they gift wrap; presentation goes a long way. And fellas are genetically programmed to be confused by folding wrapping paper — lumping her new smalls in a pile of cellotaped paper won’t go down well. And keep the receipt, you never know how wrong you may go while shopping. Photo: inegamodels