Get down to the bare essentials (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Valentines treats all wrapped up

10:46am Friday 30th January 2009 in Leisure By David Barnett

Valentine’s Day is approaching.

There. I’ve said it. Now you can’t say no-one reminded you.

Which still means you’ll probably be running into the lingerie section of the nearest department store on the morning of February 14, desperately cupping your hands in front of your chest and shouting: “What have you got left? She’s about this big!”

If you don’t know your balconette from your booster and think a basque is someone from northern Spain, then you need our essential guide to buying ladies’ smalls, courtesy of boutique lingerie company Myla, which has these top tips: * Remember the three golden rules – size, shape and style – and you’re there. Well, halfway there.

* If your partner’s more Dolly Parton than Kate Moss, a fuller bra that supports her best assets will fill her with confidence – and earn you brownie points.

* If she loves to dress up in the bedroom, let your imagination run wild with more provocative styles. But if she’s the coquettish type, go for something ultra-feminine that will make her feel fabulous and girly.

* Comfort is key. If you don’t already know her size but don’t want to ask, take a sneaky peek in her underwear drawer. Check the labels for her bra size (a number and letter combination, such as 32A or 36C) and her knicker size. As a general rule, if she’s a dress size 8, she’ll need extra small, small for a dress size 10, medium for a dress size 12, and large for a dress size 14.

* When choosing colours, look at her wardrobe to see what shades she normally favours. If you’ve never seen her wear red before, don’t buy her red underwear. If in doubt, black is always a flattering option.

* Keep in mind that you’re buying lingerie for her, not you – but get it right, boys, and you’ll reap the benefits.