Heidi and Marissa shopping for lingerie

I am often asked by men for tips on how to buy their partner lingerie.

I know it stumps men. I know it’s a difficult task meandering through the sticky world of female bras, undies, crop tops, tank tops, boy shorts and g-string. Heck, I’m sure it’s mightily embarrassing, especially when men find themselves having to stand awkwardly in the corner while a gaggle of giggling teenagers try on their first bra in the change rooms.

So ladies, incase your man is looking to buy you some sexy lingerie, tell him to check out this article. Better yet, print it out and stick it to his fridge. You’ll thank me for it later …

1. Stick to a budget: There’s no point wondering into La Perla when your budget doesn’t cater for Victoria Beckham’s big toe.

True, she dropped nearly $5000 on lacy underwear in London. And yes, Paris Hilton spent $2750 at Sydney lingerie store Arianne (and skipped out on her $9.80 lunch bill).

But gents, you don’t have to go that far because ask most Aussie gals and you’ll find we like to keep it simple. The good news is that the largest variety (and most gorgeous styles) are usually found in the bigger department stores, so you don’t need to break the bank.

2. Know her size! If you don’t already know it, it’s worthwhile to snoop around in her lingerie drawer (just this once blokes, but no trying on).

3. No holes! Decide the type you’re after and the type she’s most likely to wear. There’s no point in getting her a see-through, lacy, crotch-less bodysuit with leather suspenders if she’s the conservative type who loves her Bonds briefs and baggy singlets.

A matching bra or camisole and underwear set is usually a winner; nighties are always a cute option (and easily wearable) and if she wears g-strings, a classy range in sorbet colours is a must!

4. Go shopping! Now it’s time to go shopping – in an actual lingerie store. Yes, you can do it over the internet (www.pashparties.com.au is a favourite of mine), but don’t be shy to get out there and ask the salesperson for assistance. After all, you’re not the first gent who’s asked for their advice – that’s what they’re there for.

5. Wrap it up. Give it to her with a smile, but always keep the receipt … just in case.

What lingerie do you like? What lingerie have you bought or your man bought, that you’ve loved or hated? Do you think it’s a good gift?

heidi strutting her stuff

During my last trip to New York, I was lucky enough to get an interview with the gorgeous Heidi Klum.

At the Manhattan store-opening for the latest in the Victoria Secret Franchise, Heidi and I talked all things girly as she shared with me her beauty tips, exercise regime and the things that keep her and her husband Seal’s marriage alive.

“You don’t want to look like a slouche bag for a hot man,” she told me, referring to why she likes to work out. “That’s what motivates me to work out.”

The good news is that despite Heidi giving birth only a few weeks ago, she will be returning to the VS catwalk on Nov 19. While we’re certain she’s going to rock up in tip-top bikini shape (that girl must seriously work out), we are enthralled to discover that there’s a new diamond-encrusted bra on the way too… And it’s worth $3 million!!

Now that’s a serious piece of fashion…

Marisa Miller in the diamond-encrusted $3 million bra