Whether the purchase is for daily use or a special event, fashion expert Rachel Zalis knows that a lot of mistakes are made when buying lingerie. And it isn't only men trying to buy a Valentine's Day gift. Women are also at fault.

Zalis, who has shared her fashion tips from "The View" to "The Tyra Banks Show," hosts a one-hour special, "Lingerie Secrets Revealed," Feb. 6 on the cable channel WE tv.

"Women, in general, and not just shopping for lingerie, don't understand their bodies as well as they should. It is not just wearing the most trendy fashion. You buy what will be most flattering," Zalis said.

She says that the reality is that 99 percent of women don't look like Victoria's Secret models. That point is demonstrated in the special as Zalis helps 10 women, of various shapes and sizes, find their right lingerie look.

Those 10 women start opting for baggy clothes and sweat suits.

"By the end they were proud of how they looked. It is just a matter of picking the right lingerie," Zalis says. "The ideas is that you don't have to live up to an image. A person loves you for you. But you can be the sexiest version of yourself with the right selections."

And at this time of year, more men will be hitting stores in search of lingerie to give as a gift. Zalis suggests the best way to avoid a mistake like lingerie that is way too small or way too large is to do some homework. Zalis says that sales clerks are helpful, but some basic information is needed.

Her advice: go through the closet and dresser drawers to look at size.

"Also pay attention to what she wears. If a women only wears pants, then she might not be comfortable with her legs," Zalis says. "There is nothing wrong with talking to your wife or girlfriend's best friend to get some advice."

Zalis suggests that shopping at a small shop that specializes in lingerie may not be the best because choices could be limited. More and more stores, such as Macy's or Target, are offering a wider assortment of lingerie.

The key thing, says Zalis, is to remember that the purchase of lingerie as a gift is a purchase for both people. The woman has to feel comfortable or she won't feel her sexiest.

"A good idea is if you buy something rather risque, then also buy a satin robe to go with it. Heels are also a good addition because women always like their legs to look longer," Zalis says. "When in doubt, buy babydoll lingerie."

Another tip for men is to remember that many women need support. She says look for bras that provide that support.

As for color, darker hues - black, red or dark blue - are best for most women. She suggests women with lighter complexions can get away with pastels.

"In general, stick to darker colors," Zalis says.