Lingerie is always a popular option for wives and girlfriends, but unfortunately men tend to gravitate towards red lacy numbers that most women can't stand.

With a bit of covert research and a few tactful questions, it's possible to find out what your woman would like and you can buy a gift that won't end up stuffed in the back of her sock drawer.

Michelle Bonnick from Michelle's Lingerie has these top tips for men looking for Christmas presents: "Make sure you buy the right size. Secretly rummage through her knicker drawer and have a look at the sizes. There's likely to be two or three different sizes in there, so take an average and go for the most popular size.

"Look at the size and shape, if you buy her anything totally different she's likely to moan. Men always seem to go for red, but although women do like red, they often prefer to buy it for themselves.

"Go for a colour like black, white or ivory. Have a look at the kind of colour she likes, but you could also go for a new colour.

"If you can't get to her knicker drawer, ask her in advance. You could be coy and find out her size or just ask her outright if she will tell you. It's good for lingerie to be presented nicely, so get the present gift wrapped."

Michelle's Lingerie is based in Silver Street, Trowbridge and offers a gift wrapping service. Call (01225) 775234 for more information.