Discretely doing your homework key to getting intimates

Lingerie shopping for the woman in your life can be an intimidating task at the best of times. Try picking something out all by yourself among thousands of other anxious holiday shoppers and the results can be uncomfortable at best and offensive at worst.

With a little research there are ways to ensure everyone is happy with your choice this season. Here are a few tips to help avoid disaster.

Sizing

Do your homework and do not ask. First, it will spoil the surprise, and secondly I doubt you will get the right answer. Women tend to fib a bit when it comes to weight and size. So, how on earth can you find out her size without asking?

A stealthy look through her unmentionables drawer should stop your choice from turning up at the returns counter.

Look at the label on the bra and locate the two-digit number followed by a letter (e.g. 34C). On the panty label you will see either a number (e.g. 8 or 12) or letter S for small, M for medium, etc. Jot it all down so you do not forget. If ordering online, check the company's size chart.

If all else fails, try the "fruit comparison" to find her cup size - is she a lemon, orange, grapefruit or melon?

Color

When considering what color to go with, think about what she normally wears. Black, red and white look good on just about everyone. Try a pastel for blondes and something in a bright color for a brunette. Redheads dazzle in green. Ivory highlights all and is a great choice for elegance.

Style

The most unnerving thing about buying lingerie for your significant other is what to buy! Do not be tempted to purchase what you want to see her in. Spend some time investigating what she buys for herself. At the end of the day your gift should mirror your lady's personal style so she will feel comfortable and confident in it.

While rummaging through that unmentionables drawer, what did you notice? Were her underthings plain, sexy, lacy or sporty? This will help you pinpoint the style. Consider what your mate likes about her body and then choose something to show it off.

Lingerie basics

Get fluent in the language of her intimate apparel. Shopping for intimates will be far less daunting if you know what you are looking for. Knowing the lingerie basics and how to go about purchasing it are key factors in making your special someone feel sexy and special.

Camisole: Normally worn day-to-day, short-fitted top with thin straps that offers little support up top.

Chemise: A short under dress or slip.

Baby doll: Short nightgown that is fitted up top and flares to the hip, many tie at the bust so that the rest of the fabric floats away from the body. Most baby dolls have matching panties.

Teddy: Sexy one-piece that is similar to a bodysuit.

Bustier: Accentuates the bust and usually fastens in the back. Many have straps at the bottom that attach to thigh highs.

Corsets: Similar to a bustier with boning over the bodice and laces or hooks in the back. Corsets generally extend beyond the waistline and are tight at the waist to give an hourglass effect.

Garters: Garters that hook onto a bustier or corset usually comprise of simple adjustable straps that hook onto stockings. Stand-alone garter belts resemble a very short skirt or narrow band that fits around the hips and sports the same adjustable straps to attach to stockings.

Robes: Do not discount the sexiness of robes as a lingerie essential! They may provide more coverage initially but leaving a little to the imagination goes a long way in the end!

Material

Men and women tend to go for the satiny feel, just as long as it is genuine (say no to polyester!) Don't be afraid to ask for help from a shop assistant. They have seen thousands of female shapes in their loungewear, and with a little help from you, they can send you on your way with a little something you and your partner will like.

Online shopping

If you're too intimidated to shop for lingerie in a store, try the Web:

Victoria's Secret: victoriassecret.com

Frederick's of Hollywood: fredericks.com

Figleaves: figleaves.com

Bare Necessities: barenecessities.com

HerRoom: herroom.com

Lula Lu: lulalu.com