I’ve done a non-random sampling survey of what women think when men buy lingerie for them and I’ve received rather mixed comments. Some girls think it's hot when their guys buy them lingerie, some find it pretty much impossible to get what they like, and some take it the wrong way when they’re given something that’s not even close to their size or taste. Guys are probably as good at buying lingerie as girls are at buying boxers, so here's a quick guide on what to look for in bras and knickers and where to find them in Hong Kong.
 

What to Look For

Size

Everyone I spoke to agreed picking the right size is the most important part so it’d be great if you could pinch one or two numbers she has already in the drawers and take it on your shopping trip. Remember, even if you buy something that’s so small she can’t actually wear it, that’s better than getting her something too large. Her ego won’t recover. Sizes between brands also vary hugely - a 36C from Calvin Klein Underwear can be markedly different to one from Wacoal - which is why just reading the sizes on the labels doesn't work. In fact, if you don’t know if the pieces will fit her, it’s likely to be a waste of money.
Fitting

The easiest way to buy something that fits is to get soft cups (unlined) instead of moulded cups which have a pre-formed shape and provide fuller support. Although soft cups are more revealing, they tend to offer less form because of the lack of support. Equally, if you’ve noticed that most of her bras have underwires, it’s a good idea to stick with them. You can also opt for a 1/2 cup which is more alluring, a 3/4 cup which creates uplift and offers greater support, or a full cup which gives great coverage. It’s a subjective matter so choose whatever you think she’d prefer most, but let’s face it you’ll probably be getting quite excited yourself.
Material

As for the materials, satin, lace, silk, and chiffon combine sexiness as well as comfort while cotton tends to lack sex appeal. On the other hand, lingerie made from synthetic material isn’t easy on her skin which also shoots yourself in the foot. If it’s not to her liking she’ll only bring it out on high holy days so pick well because really you’re picking for yourself. 

Colour

When you’re choosing the colour and style you should examine her current collection… in as un-perverted way as possible of course. Take note of the colours she goes for, whether black and white or pink and fluffy – although we hope not the latter for your sake. She’ll be inclined to like the garments because she knows you like them (you bought them after all) but it’s worth taking her current collection into account as well.

Price

Guys are often shocked when they realise a bra can range from a few hundred Hong Kong to several thousand. Less can certainly be more, so you just need to be aware you’re not getting conned. It’s also worth handling all that lace and other delicate materials with care otherwise you’re just throwing money away.

Where to Buy From
 
It can be a bit embarrassing stepping into a lingerie shop in the IFC so Flaunt can be a good option. You can either buy from their online shop or you can head over to their shop in Central which is pretty discreet. On top of that it has a sofa, a handful of magazines and a fridge full of beer which should suit most of you guys and could lead to absolute carnage. Founder Emily suggests this Demi Bra/Cheeky Bikini combo from their latest collection by Jenna Leigh. It’s made from lace while the bikini cut shows just a little more than your average panty. She also recommends Eberjey's Delirious Bralet/French Briefs matching set.

Sheer is a new lingerie shop on Wyndham Street which has a splash of high fashion about it. Owner Lisa says “If you don’t know her size or you find out that she wears more than one size, a fail-proof solution is to buy her something more flexible and versatile but equally as sexy. Slips, body suits and wireless bras all come in easy small, medium and large sizes and they're tailored with room for adjustments so you really can’t go wrong with that.” For something firmer, however, she recommends this black and pearl combination from Damaris as well as this lace cup balcony bra and brief by Fleur of England.

Even if you’re bra buying rookie, you’ve probably heard of La Perla. For their 2011 F/W season they’re offering a Roaring Twenties collection which combines patterned lace, tuxedo details, fluffy fringing and animal prints. If leopard skin is your bag. Samantha from La Perla recommends the Smoking Triangle Bra with shorts in Nero/Verde which has lots of lace, tulle and silk. Another recommendation is the LULU in Oro, which was inspired by the twenties.

Avec Amour is right in the heart of Central so you can pop in after work. Pret-a-Manger and some knickers might be a bit much for lunch. Avec Amour’s Rachel suggests the Bisou Bisou Blush from Mimi Holiday which has black pearls and a graphic scallop lace (very indulgent) mixed with soft pearl silk satin. Another of Rachel’s suggestions is Kitty from Lascivious which has strategically placed tulle that accentuates your lady’s curves.

Stefanie, owner of Showtime Lingerie, is a big fan of this satin and sequin embroidery corset by Shirley of Hollywood – an American brand that’s been around since the 40s. If that doesn’t catch your eye, she suggests this four piece swirl lace bra top with floral trim from another US company, Leg Avenue. It comes with garter belt, a g-string and some rather saucy matching stockings.

Agent Provocateur has some great stock and is available at Lane Crawford in the IFC. It’s actually located in a corner of Lane Crawford so you won’t bump into your other half. Or your mistress. Their 2011 F/W Collection includes Emenuell which combines midnight blue satin with red and black French lace. The cut is revealing while also offering a good fit. The Basque on the other hand is made from French floral vintage lace and black satin which harks back to the 60's.

Guest contributor Gillian Chu is a Hong Kong based Canadian who likes to fiddle with the latest sports equipments, learn about up-to-date fashion trends and travel around the hottest destinations in Asia. See what else she's been up to lately on her blog, www.gillian-chu.blogspot.com