It’s staggering to learn that 80 per cent of men never buy their own undies – they get their wife or girlfriend to do it for them. So is it any wonder that they struggle when it comes to buying gift lingerie for their loved ones?

Still, plenty make the effort every year, and it’s just as well they do. Get it right, and lingerie can be the most romantic and personal gift of all, but get it wrong and you’re destined for the dog house.

Before you head off to the nearest department store, take a look at our top tips and how to overcome any little problems on the way to a perfect gift.

Embarrassment – You’re bound to feel it, there’s just no way round it. After all, you’re entering an extremely female shopping zone, and everyone knows what you’re there for.

What to do: Be brave.

There will be other men there in exactly the same situation.

What not to do: Skulk furtively. March boldly up to the nearest assistant and ask for help.

Size – Most men haven’t a clue about what size undies the woman in their life wears. But don’t feel too bad – most women are a bit mystified about bra sizes themselves.

What to do: Take a peek in her knicker drawer before you go – make sure she doesn’t see you!

What not to do: Buy too big. She’ll only be insulted.

Style – You may think she’ll look great in a red satin basque, but are you sure that’s what she likes?

What to do – Notice the lingerie she wears for special occasions such as going out; it’s probably quite different to her everyday wear. If it’s red satin, go ahead – but if not, be more restrained and buy something pretty in the kind of fabrics and colours she likes. If she feels great in it, she’ll feel sexy too.

What not to do – Find out what she likes and then buy something completely different. She’ll wear it to keep you happy, but probably not more than once.