BUYING lingerie for the lady in your life is a task that instils fear in most men, but it doesn’t have to be so scary.

Get it right and you could give her a huge confidence boost – and score yourself some big brownie points - explains ANGELA POPLETT, Lakeside’s Personal Shopper.

“The best place to start is to think about your partner and what she likes before you head out to the shops. Shopping with her taste in mind rather than yours will help you avoid a disaster.

"Price doesn’t have to be a determining factor, either, as you can find beautiful lingerie no matter how big or small your budget.

“For an instantly affordable option, take a peak in Primark for elegant but understated underwear. My favourite is a blush and black lace set that looks expensive and feels lovely.

"Primark has recently expanded its range of sizes, too. Pick up a present there for as little as £10 (£7 for the bra and £3 for the thong).

“If your partner watches Mad Men and has mentioned she loves the 50s look, head straight to Boux Avenue for pin-up styles. A great alternative to skimpy little knickers, the 50s was full of high waisted briefs - ideal for women who aren’t particularly secure about their tummies.

"An animal print set in this style costs £24 for the bra and £14 for the briefs. If you want to splash out a bit more though, Boux also stocks fluffy high heeled slippers (£40) that are sexy but sweet and great as a gift.

“No lingerie shopping column would be complete without a mention of Ann Summers. Top of a lot of men’s lists, Ann Summers delivers once again with a stunning red and black range that’s great for women with curves.

"Again, there’s a high waisted option – a suspender belt this time – plus an assortment of matching briefs, bras and even a basque. The wide range really gives you the freedom to find the right look for your lady.

“The department stores don’t disappoint, either, and are the best places to find top brands. House of Fraser now stocks Calvin Klein’s ‘full coverage’ range which delivers a fuller bra than their standard range – perfect for petite ladies.

"My favourite is the floral set (£32 for the bra) with a choice of a matching boy short or thong. As you’d expect from a brand like Calvin Klein, the quality is great and it will last for years.

“If you’re brave enough to shop for hold ups or stockings, there are a couple of simple rules to remember.

"Firstly, hold ups are sized according to the size of the leg rather than a lady’s height so even if she’s not very tall, think about whether small will be the right fit for her.

"Secondly, the bands at the top of hold ups come in different thicknesses so buying a slimmer banded pair could make her legs look longer.

“And, finally, if you know your partner wouldn’t feel particularly confident wearing just lingerie, buy her a silk dressing gown to put over the top and help her feel her absolute best. Make sure you tell her how beautiful she is, too. Romance is about more than just gifts, after all!”

For more fashion advice, why not book your very own personal shopping session with Angela?

Just call 01708 684 351 or visit www.lakeside.uk.com for details. Lakeside is open from 10am - 10pm weekdays, 9am – 9pm Saturday and 11am – 5pm Sunday.