Guessing games

When buying lingerie as a gift the first rule of thumb is the underwear should be sexy and not functional,' believes Nicky Clayton, creative director at Rigby and Peller.

'I have never met a woman who welcomed a gift of a nude satin bra and control pants, however useful they may be! But don't stray too far from her comfort zone - for example, if she regularly wears briefs, buy sexy hipster briefs rather than the g string as the set is likely to get more outings. Think of the mood you would like to create - is it playful and wicked or sensuous and romantic? This will help narrow the choice of underwear and helps prevent panic buying.