We turned to Ayten’s husband, writer Dan Roberts, to refresh his 2012 classic, A Man’s Guide to Buying Lingerie. With his expert insights, this updated edition is here to help—enjoy
So, I married a lingerie designer! Where the 14-year-old me would be disgusted at how blasé I have become about the fact that most of the rooms in my house are filled with silk bras and knickers, the very fact of me sharing the house with a designer has given me some vital knowhow when it comes to lingerie. And, more importantly, how not to look like an idiot when faced with that most daunting of tasks – buying underwear.
There are few things more intimidating for most men than entering a lingerie shop. So many styles, so many sizes, some stuff you won’t even recognise. Luckily, thanks to my accidental immersion into this mysterious world, I am now able to pass on my received wisdom.
Firstly – and most importantly – is size. Bra sizes have confused men for generations but fortunately, a lot of the pieces, such as the Dawn Black Eco Lace Bralette come in small, medium, large and extra large. Surely everyone can take an educated guess with those simple options? There is a handy sizing guide if needed.
Next, how to know you’re your teddies from your slips. Most men should be able to recognise a bra from a knicker (if not, you probably need a more basic lesson on womankind than this article). There are so many styles that you could be forgiven for giving up now. But just imagine the gratitude of a wife or girlfriend who is pleasantly surprised to find out that their partner seems to have taken an interest in stuff she likes for a change.
Knickers are straightforward and the different options, such as the Selena Side Tie can be worked out quite easily. Sizing is obvious here as well – small, medium, large or extra large. As with any area of study though, it is the technical language that you need to pick up.
Slips – You should know what a slip is but they do come in either a short or a full length – both classic examples of silk nightwear. These are bias-cut, meaning that the silk is cut on the diagonal so that the slip sits on the body for a flattering fit. Your significant other can use the slips as nightwear or just for lounging around the house in luxury.
Camisoles – Can also be described as a babydoll. It is a silk top that usually comes with matching knickers or shorts. You can’t really go wrong with this, especially if you tell her that she “always looks good in camisoles”. She will be so surprised that you even know what a camisole is that she will forget to ask you how you came about this knowledge.
Teddy – Also known as a playsuit, this is basically a camisole and knicker in one. A loose-fit teddy such as the Faye can be used for sleep and loungewear. A high-leg teddy, such as the Clara can also be worn as a camisole under clothing. You’ve probably seen these featured in your partner’s magazines as outerwear, teamed with a skirt or trousers.
Bed Jackets – These can make any woman feel stylish. Perfect with jeans or for relaxing on a chaise lounge (simply put, a posh chair!). One journalist I spoke to recently wondered if she could also adopt the lifestyle of someone who lounges around on chaise lounges after purchasing the set. My wife assured me that she could!
For extra points, you could go for the eco-conscious Bella range. Environmentally-minded partners will be impressed by your thoughtfulness in buying organic bamboo silks.
And, if all of this insider information is still impenetrable to your male mind – or if you are just plain lazy – there is also a selection of eye masks!
There is obviously a whole world of lingerie out there. But at least you now have a little information to get you started. Believe me, it will be appreciated.
Dan Roberts (husband of lingerie designer)
