When your wife buys underwear for you

Short answer: If your wife is buying underwear for you, the easiest thing is to give her a pair you already wear and that fits well. She can read the size and cut straight from the label. Also say whether you prefer a short or long leg, so you avoid a return.

Give her a pair to go by

Take a pair of briefs that fits well and lay them out for her. She can find the size on the label in the waistband and see how the cut is made. That is far safer than guessing from how you look. If the label has worn off, measure the waistband while the pair lies flat.

Say what you actually like

Some want a short leg, others a longer one, and some prefer a loose fit. Say it out loud rather than hoping she guesses right. It takes a few seconds and saves you both an annoying exchange. Also mention anything that has bothered you before, such as a scratchy waistband.

Measure yourself if the label is missing

If there is no old pair to go by, you can measure your waist at the navel with a soft tape measure, and she can help you. Write the number down and let her use it with the size chart on each item. You can see how that looks at bamboo underwear for men, where the chart is on the page.

Choose to suit your day

Think about what the underwear is for. If it will sit under work clothes all day, a soft waistband and few seams matter. For exercise, a closer cut can feel better. Point out the difference so she chooses to suit your life and not by what looks nicest in the packet.

Think about the rest of the layer

While she is at it, she can think about what else should lie closest to the body. A thin layer under a shirt or jumper can be nice in the cold months, and you can see options among bamboo tank tops for men. That is only something to look at, not something you must buy for that reason.

Socks belong too

Socks are an easy gift because the size usually follows the shoe size. If she knows what you wear, little can go wrong. Show her bamboo socks so she knows whether you like them short or long. Say too if your feet sweat, so she thinks about thickness.

Agree what happens if it does not fit

Even with the best plans, the size can miss. Agree that the parcel is not opened until you have checked the size, so it can be exchanged if needed. Keep the order confirmation, and read the terms for exchange and return before you order. Then it is a small matter to put right.

Make it a habit

Once your shared measurements are written down, the next purchase is much easier. Save the size in your phone, and bear in mind that the body changes over time. Check the number again if you gain or lose weight, and give her the update. Then she can buy without asking every time.

Frequently asked questions

Where does my wife find the size of my old underwear?

The size is usually on a small label in the waistband or at the side. If it has worn off, she can measure the waistband lying flat and compare the number with the size chart.

Should she choose by how I look?

No, that is rarely safe. Fit depends on the body and on how you like it. Use a pair that fits well, or your own measurement, and let her use the chart.

What if the size does not fit anyway?

Then it helps to have agreed beforehand that the parcel can be exchanged. Keep the order confirmation and read the exchange terms before you order.

See our range of bamboo boxers.