MAXINE GORDON suggests some Fifty Shades of Grey style for St Valentine’s Day.


"For this was on seynt Volantynys day

Whan euery bryd comyth there to chese his make"

["For this was on St. Valentine's Day, when every bird cometh there to choose his mate."]


SO wrote Geoffrey Chaucer in 1382, giving us our first recorded association of St Valentine's Day with romantic love.

Today, we still mark the day with words of love, in the shape of a greetings card (don't even think about texting), but also with an intimate gift.

As love tokens go, what can be more personal than lingerie?

With the long-awaited movie version of E L James's best-selling erotic novel Fifty Shades of Grey opening in cinemas for St Valentine's Day, it's worthwhile going over the golden rules of buying lingerie as a gift (ladies you might want to 'cut out and keep' this for the lover in your life.).


Size matters

It should go without saying that buying the right size is essential.

Hopefully, Valentine's lingerie will be worn that evening, which won't be possible if it has to be returned for a refund.

The trick here is to be prepared. That means rifle through her knicker drawer and find a recent set of undies and note down the sizes (bra and briefs). If in doubt, take some with you into the store.

Still not sure? Buy an all-in-one teddy or a satin slip.


Style counsel

Be prepared to take advice over what pieces will suit her best. You might like the look of the itsy-bitsy lace thong but will she really thank you for one if she is more of a cami-knicker sort of a gal?

If you want to pick a winner, do your homework.

Study the shapes of her favourite bras and briefs: does she like her bra padded, balconette or underwired? Again, if you are not sure, take examples with you when you go shopping.


Colour coding

You probably know this already, but most women don't really want red, lacy underwear.

There is always the exception to the rule and if your chosen one is indeed a lady in red, then by all means follow your heart. Black is another seemingly "sexy" choice, but it can be a harsh colour on the skin.

If you opt for black, oft for a design that incorporates some softer colours too. Gentle neutrals are often sexier and more flattering on skin tone: think taupe, or pink, or grey (just be mindful there are Fifty Shades from which to select).


Work of art

Remember this is a gift. Don't buy anything too practical and boring. So go for lace, or a pretty pattern, something she might not choose for everyday. In simple terms: choose something beautiful.


Final word

If after all this you still get it wrong, make sure you keep the receipt. And get back to the drawing board for next year...