Welcome to the Gentleman's Club!
Here at La Petite Coquette we all get such a kick out of watching men steal furtive glances through the windows of our boutique as they walk back and forth, finally working up the nerve to enter. It happens all the time. We know how intimidating lingerie shopping can be for men when they're with a lady companion, let alone when they step into a store without proof that they're not browsing for themselves.
As seriously as we take lingerie, we know it's not that serious! Lingerie is supposed to be about the pleasure principle, and buying it should be no different. So gentleman, start your engines...because this section is geared just for you.
First of all, accept the fact that entering a lingerie store, no matter how confident you are, may be a little awkward at first. You're entering a woman's domain. In this case you're browsing our website, and although it's not the same experience as entering a store and dealing with a sales woman, it can be intimidating and overwhelming if its your first time. So let's get started...
- Price is usually a good way to begin your search for that perfect piece of lingerie, so gentlemen embrace yourselves. In cost per square inch, lingerie is more expensive than real state. It might seem extravagant to pay so much for things that are so small, but fabric content, craftsmanship, and the country of origin are the details that count when it comes to lingerie. It's safe to assume that the lingerie she'll really appreciate will often cost more than you expect so get ready for sticker shock-especially if you're the kind of guy who buys his boxers in a triple-pack for less than ten bucks.
- Lingerie is an upper echelon of personal gifts-somewhere around jewelry, but more personal. It is the gift appropriate only for a woman you get naked with. Lingerie is something that both the giver and the getter should enjoy, so buy something that will satisfy both of you, not just your porn fantasy (at least not at first). Like foreplay take it slowly with the lingerie and work your way up- don't start with the skimpiest, sheerest thing if she's shy or you don't know her well otherwise you could end up sleeping on the couch.
- Get in the habit of buying lingerie early on in the relationship. It sends the message that you see the lady in your life as an object of desire (not objectifying women, but being objective rather than an object). There is no woman who wouldn't love receiving exquisite lingerie.
- Size matters! The most common question is "What size is she?" The guessing game is fun, but a little strategic planning is a good idea. Do some detective work. Sneak a peak inside her drawers- her lingerie drawers! Find the type of item you are looking to buy, or something similar, and locate the size. Check out few tags, because size can vary from brand to brand. Ask her close friend or as her. If these are not options than use your imagination and take our "fruit test".
Fruit Test: If you have not obtained her bra size, and can't track down her actual digits, here is you last resort: a visual aid to help you approximate her size. Just imagine which of these fruits most resembles her breast size.
- The Style Guide is where the fun begins! Men often go for bras as presents because they house what may be a particularly favorite body part. But sizing of bras can be tricky, so instead try a slip, or a robe with a matching chemise which are more forgiving and come in all different types of fabrics and length. Start by eliminating anything that accentuates a part of the body she's sensitive about.
If she's sensitive about....
- Hips or thighs: Try a chemise, slip or sexy silk pajamas that flow loosely over that area.
- Derriere: Find something that doesn't hug the hips-a chemise, slip, long gown, pajamas or a camisole and fluttery shorts set.
- Cellulite: Get her something that deemphasizes her dimples. Loose silky slip knee length or a low cut camisole or a long gown with open back.
- Tummy or waist: Go for anything with an empire bodice that flaunts her top. A Babydoll fits this bill.
- Large breasts: A beautiful bra in a larger size, camisole or a nightgown with extra support in bust or an underwire sewn into it.
- Small breasts: A demi cup bra or a bra with padding. Cami or a nightie with riffles, ribbons and contrasting textures.
- Legs: A long gown, or sexy long leg pajamas.
- Upper arms: Look for something with sleeves or a cute/ sexy bed jacket.
- She's pregnant: Play it safe with loose, comfortable items that have empire waist (fitted at chest loose below).
- The final factor is colors and fabrics. The number one thing men go for in our shop is anything black and sheer. Is black and sheer sexy? You bet. But it's not the only thing. You want to consider her eye and hair color and her skin tone. Also does she go for understated or bold? Do you want the virginal look or more vampy? Do you want her to feel like a queen in jewel tomes or more free spirited in pastels? Think about what she usually wears and fantasize about what might bring out another side. Also look for something that's smooth and sensuous instead of rough or scratchy. look for something you won't be able to keep your hands off.
Happy Endings
Don't take it too hard if your carefully chosen item has to be returned. This is very common, not just with lingerie, but also with most clothing. Think of it this way now you guys can pick something out together. Sure, you could take her out to a fabulous dinner at five-star restaurant. But, unlike a meal, lingerie has no calories, and its effect lasts much, much longer.
All wrapped up your carefully selected purchase will get a better reception if its delivered in a tempting wrapping that, like lingerie, is seductively designed to lead to the present within. Remeber we do free gift wrapping, so just let us know!
Excerpts taken from "The Lingerie Handbook", written by Rebecca Apsan owner of La Petite Coquette, with Sarah Stark, from the chapter "Tips for Men".
