A Man’s Guide to Buying Lingerie

Sharp August 8, 2014

Being known for making women feel sexy is no small feat, but Agent Provocateur takes its job very seriously. Or, at least as seriously as you can when you’re selling naughty panties, nipple tassels and Swarovski crystal-covered riding crops. No one does erotic excess quite like these women. Here, Sarah Shotton, Agent Provocateur’s Creative Director, discusses how to buy lingerie for your girl and the biggest mistakes you don’t want to make. Listen up, gentlemen.

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There are a few specific pieces to keep in mind if you’re still at a loss for sizes. A silk chemise, for example, isn’t sensitive to size. Pieces that billow out rather than contour to her body (relax, they’re still plenty sheer) can be easier to pick out as long as you have a general idea of her body shape – which you should.

Waltzing into a lingerie store can also be intimidating, especially if you’re alone. Luckily, you’re not the first (or last) male customer to walk into such a store needing help. During the year, the brand sees about a 60/40 ratio of men to women shopping their selections. When Valentine’s Day rolls around, it jumps to 80/20.

“Of course, all occasions make Agent Provocateur a great gift choice,” says Shotton. “[But whenever you decide to stop by] I’d recommend you let the boutique staff guide you wherever possible. They’re trained to know which styles suit each body type and can find you the perfect set.”

Listening is also key to knowing what a woman wants when it comes to her unmentionables. Keep an ear out for any comments she might make about her current pieces, whether it’s complaints or compliments. That way, you’ll be armed with an arsenal of information to pass on to a sales associate about colours, fabric, size and style. “If it’s not a surprise, [just] ask what item they would prefer,” says Shotton. “[It might be] a kimono, slip or lingerie set. Don’t be scared to ask! You’ll both enjoy the purchase more if you both like it.”

Don’t be afraid to ask for a style you prefer as well. If there are certain parts of her you admire, tell the associate and they’ll point you in the direction of something that will enhance and bring that part to the forefront. For example, if you love your lady’s bottom, garters will sit at the tiniest part of her waist and really emphasize her ‘assets’.

“You can’t go wrong with silk and lace,” says Shotton. “And while there isn’t one style that suits everyone, my personal opinion is that a ‘playsuit’ is one of the most flattering pieces of lingerie no matter what shape you are.”

The playsuit she’s talking about? A true feat of engineering that somehow covers what it should with as little fabric as we’ve ever seen. Basically, it’s a very creative use of strings. Think of it as a glamourous take on bondage.

First of all, before heading to your local Agent Provocateur (Toronto’s new location will be opening early fall of this year), know what you’re looking for. No woman wants a surprise that is a few sizes off.

“Common mistakes we see are men buying lingerie that is too small,” says Shotton. “They also always seem to buy a bright colour which actually isn’t what women normally get for themselves.”

Lastly? It’s important to make sure beforehand (and before you go through the trouble of snooping through her lingerie) that you’re at the part of the relationship where it’s appropriate to be buying her these intimate pieces. Keep in mind: even if she’s never worn them, you can’t return them. Although, we can’t imagine anyone would really object when it comes to this particular brand.

Waltzing into a lingerie store can also be intimidating, especially if you’re alone. Luckily, you’re not the first (or last) male customer to walk into such a store needing help. During the year, the brand sees about a 60/40 ratio of men to women shopping their selections. When Valentine’s Day rolls around, it jumps to 80/20.

“Of course, all occasions make Agent Provocateur a great gift choice,” says Shotton. “[But whenever you decide to stop by] I’d recommend you let the boutique staff guide you wherever possible. They’re trained to know which styles suit each body type and can find you the perfect set.”