Buying Stockings as a Gift for the Special Lady in Your Life? Here's How to Make the Right Choice

When it comes to stockings and suspenders, the main general complaint from the ladies appears to be "he obviously bought them for himself based on some model in the shop – it's not my style." And you really don't want to be accused of that, else your choice of garment(s) may just end up gathering dust in a drawer.

The key is not to go for something drastically different to what your girlfriend or wife currently wears. Another tip: if you are still at the ‘getting-to-know-you' stage and you're not sure of her size, whatever you do, don't ask her. A woman's size is a delicate issue (even when it comes to the most confident of women) – and one where women are frequently economical with the truth.

The best thing to do is to sneak a peek at something she has worn already on a date with you. Another option is to ask her best friend. Failing this, you may have to check out her lingerie drawer yourself, but do bear in mind this could be fraught with danger – so do try to be discrete about it!

Remember that lycra stockings will offer some flexibility in the fit, but a suspender belt needs to fit her body perfectly, otherwise it will move and chafe and very likely cause irritation.

Stockings and suspenders make a really exciting gift for women who are lovers of beautiful hosiery, but again the colours should be right for her. Black is possibly the safest colour to pick if you're unsure, both for stockings and suspender belts. Though surveys repeatedly reveal that many men tend to buy red suspender belts and lingerie because it is said to represent excitement and red-bloodedness.

Again, if you haven't witnessed your loved one in red underwear and she hasn't dropped a hint that she would like some, it is probably best avoided.

Sexy stockings make fantastic presents, but don't go too flimsy – as fine as 10 denier for example – as sheer stockings are easily snagged and you most certainly want them to last longer than one evening.

As for cost, you could easily pay up to £30 or more for a pair of designer stockings. Unless your gift is for a wonderfully special occasion like a trip away, might I suggest a budget of around £12 - £16 for your stockings is reasonable. You just need to team them with a matching suspender belt, plus other compatible lingerie items if you wish.

Buying mid-priced stockings will guarantee you high-quality, great looking garments she will appreciate. Get it spot on and I'm sure you will appreciate the outcome too . . .