Tender Trap: Bust out the holiday fun
Lingerie designer Soozie Jenkinson and Sarah Shotton, creative director of luxury lingerie label Agent Provocateur, offer their advice:
Size up
It may seem obvious, but always find out your partner's intimate sizing before you go shopping. Telling the sales assistant that she's a handful just won't cut it.
''If you're really unsure, opt for a baby doll or slip to ensure an embarrassment-free Christmas Day," says Shotton.
Buy a size too big and it's all over for you, buy a size too small and your wishful thinking will also get you in the dog box.
Bypass boring
''Avoid buying white cotton for women," adds Shotton.
The same goes for flesh tones and styles that say ''practical" as opposed to ''present", like T-shirt bras and seam-free briefs. Those are the things she buys for herself, but they're not what she wants to receive as a gift. Think twice about your girlfriend's style before going too pervy.
Focus on fabric
Avoid cheap, scratchy fabrics like nylon and polyester. ''Women love the sensual feel of silk," says Jenkinson. Cotton is comfortable, but silk for Christmas means you will enjoy the rest of the year.
Name your price
''There are lots of great options at different price levels so there's no excuse to buy anything less than beautiful," says Shotton.
Woolworths, Stuttafords, Mr Price, Topshop and Edgars have a number of ranges to suit all pockets, and there are plenty of speciality stores like La Senza, too.
Think for two
''It's important to buy lingerie that you will both like as you want your partner to get as much wear out of the gift as possible," advises Shotton, ''but bear in mind her tastes and find out her favourite colours or materials if you can."
Don't be afraid to ask for help
Though the thought of asking for help selecting underwear may be mortifying, it really could save you a whole lot of bother come Christmas Day - particularly if you haven't done your research.
Avoid harassing that woman in the mall who happens to look like your girlfriend's size. Either she'll peg you for a sex pest, or she'll expect you to book a room. Either way, it's not a good idea.
But lingerie isn't the only option
If the world of lingerie is boggling your mind, think outside the box and opt for luxurious lounge or nightwear.
''This year, boyfriend-style PJs in silk and satin are bang on trend," says Jenkinson. ''If she loves flirty nightwear, feminine negligees will hit the mark."
And if you're still stuck
''Black lace is always a great option - it's normally very flattering and can be worn every day," says Shotton.
''You can never go wrong with panties," advises Jenkinson. ''They make a very cheeky gift. From Brazilians to boy shorts, fun floral prints to bright colour pops, there are panties to fit and flatter every woman's shape and suit her style."