Lingerie gift ideas for her: how to get her size just right

For a successful lingerie gift for her, there are two routes: give a piece whose size leaves some leeway, or give the gift card, which leaves the choice to the person receiving it. At atelier culotté, both lead to lingerie sewn by hand by the designer, in her workshop in Andoins.

Why give handmade lingerie

Giving lingerie means giving an intimate garment. A handmade piece adds a story to it:

• Each piece is imagined, drawn and made in the workshop, in the south west of France.
• Each label states how long it took to design the piece: you know what you are giving.
• The collections are small (“Less quantity, more quality”), and slight variations may exist between two copies of the same design.

Chloé, the designer, sums up her intention like this: “My role? To give you confidence through design, colour and my know-how.” That is a good starting point for a gift: a piece that gives confidence, not one that imposes an image.

The gift card, the lingerie gift that never misses

When you do not know her size, her taste or what she fancies right now, the atelier culotté gift card settles the question. Here is what its page says:

• Amount of your choice: €50, €100, €150 or €200.
• Sent by email immediately after purchase.
• Valid for 1 year across the whole shop.
• Can be used in one or several orders.
• Can be combined with current promotions.

It covers every collection, lingerie and swimwear alike. It is also the perfect last-minute gift: sent by email, it waits for neither preparation nor carrier.

Choosing the size without getting it wrong

If you would rather give a piece, a few reference points reduce the risk.

Go for one size

Some pieces come in one size, which fits sizes 34 to 40 according to their pages: the KITTY tank top, printed with little hearts, the GRRR tank top, in leopard print with little red hearts, and the EXPRESSO draped top in brown lace. This is the safest option when you do not know her size.

Prefer double sizes and adjustments

The tanga bloomers, the ruffle thong and the EXPRESSO bloomer briefs come in S-M or L-XL; the VALENTINE tanga bloomer in S/M or L/XL. A double size covers a wider range than a single size. For tops, the 50 NUANCES soft bra hooks at the back with three settings.

Investigate, discreetly

Checking the label of a pair of briefs or a bra she wears often is still the most reliable method. Then compare with the reference points of the models photographed, given on each product page: Noémia is a size 36 and wears an S, Audrey is a size 38 and wears an M or an L depending on the piece. The size guide gathers all these reference points.

Know what can be returned

Returns are possible within 14 days, with return costs paid by the customer, except in case of a defect. However, as the terms of sale point out, briefs, a thong or a swimsuit whose hygiene protection has been removed cannot be returned under the right of withdrawal. For bottoms, it is therefore best to be sure of the size, or to go for the gift card.

A few ideas depending on who she is

• For someone who loves comfort: the KITTY tank top and the KITTY thong, in soft, stretchy 100% cotton jersey. The tank top is designed “to keep you company at night”.
• For someone who loves signature pieces: the VALENTINE tanga bloomer, in sheer polka dot tulle, which the designer presents as the brand’s iconic design. It belongs to the Saint Valentine’s collection.
• For someone who loves lace: the CARMELIA triangle, in red and pink lace with a central jewel in stainless steel, from a very limited collection.
• For a complete set: a matching top and bottom, chosen separately. The article putting a set together gives the pairings planned by the designer.

All the pieces are gathered in the lingerie section. As a guide, the thongs and tanga bloomers cost €35, the tank tops €49, the soft bras €55 and the CARMELIA triangle €60.

Plan ahead for delivery

Every order goes through the designer’s hands: allow 2 to 5 working days for preparation, plus the delivery time by tracked Colissimo. Delivery starts at €8.55 and is free in France from €120; it costs €9.86 to Europe. For a specific date, a birthday or Valentine’s Day, order early or choose the gift card.

Frequently asked questions

How do you give lingerie without knowing her size?

The safest option is the gift card, which lets her choose the piece and the size. Otherwise, go for a one-size piece, such as the KITTY and GRRR tank tops, which fit sizes 34 to 40.

How long is the gift card valid?

It is valid for 1 year across the whole shop. It can be used in one or several orders and combined with current promotions.

Can lingerie given as a gift be returned?

Returns are possible within 14 days, with return costs paid by the customer except in case of a defect. Briefs, a thong or a swimsuit whose hygiene protection has been removed cannot be returned under the right of withdrawal.

What budget should you plan for a lingerie gift?

In lingerie, allow €35 for a thong, briefs or a tanga bloomer, and €49 to €65 for a top. The gift card ranges from €50 to €200.