So I know I recently blogged about holiday shopping on a budget, but I’m sure there are some gentlemen out there who want to splurge on something fabulous for the light of their life. What better way to show her your love and appreciation than a hand-picked set of designer lingerie? Now you might be thinking, “No way! Won’t she hate me and think I’m just buying it to see her half-naked?” But I assure you, this depends entirely on the lingerie selection, which is a delicate process. Knowing a little bit about her personal style helps tremendously. Vintage lover? Lake and Stars, all the way. Indie Design fan? She’s sure to flip for Araks. No matter what you find at Lille Boutique, it’s guaranteed to bump up the romance level in your relationship, especially if you get something she’ll actually wear. Crotchless panties and pasties? Not so much.

Number one on my list of “Lingerie I’d Kill for but Can’t Afford to Buy Myself” is the Eres Cosmetique Attraction Bra and Volupteuex Panty. Not just another pretty set, this one actually does its job miraculously, putting everything in the right place. Likewise, the ever popular Insolite Bra and Nelly Panty from their sheer black mesh line is fashionable and functional, all at the same time. And let me tell you, once you go Eres, it’s hard to go back.

With the unseasonably cold weather we’ve been having in Portland lately, perhaps your gal might like to snuggle up on the couch with you in the adorable Celeste Oversized Blouse and Scarlet Tap Panty by Dessous. Soft as a kitten and extremely versatile, she’s as likely to wear this one out on the town as in the bedroom. It even has pockets - who doesn’t love pockets?

For the poetry-loving, emo-listening romantic at heart, show your sensitive side by giving her the Crepuscule Silk Bralette and Boyshort by Elise Aucouturier. You’ll be reenacting love scenes from her favorite French films in no time. It’s a win-win situation!

Again, I would be remiss if I failed to mention that a Gift Certificate is always an option, but I strongly encourage men to make the additional effort to pick out something personally. My boyfriend did this for me for years, and we’re married now, so clearly this tactic works!