UK men are choosing sexy knickers over short-lived and often more pricey presents such as roses and champagne¹ this Valentine's Day as they seek a bigger "bang for their buck²" in a tough economic climate.

今年情人节，英国男人放弃昂贵而短命的玫瑰花和香槟，改送性感内裤给恋人，因为在低迷的经济环境下，他们想让自己的钱花得更加划算。

UK men are choosing sexy knickers over short-lived and often more pricey presents such as roses and champagne this Valentine's Day as they seek a bigger 'bang for their buck' in a tough economic climate.
"Lingerie（女内衣裤） is for love on a budget. It really is the gift that keeps giving," said Sharon Webb, head of design at department store group Debenhams, which is seeing demand rocket for knickers priced at 4.50 pounds.

With a dozen red roses costing up to 100 pounds on Valentine's Day, including delivery, some men are prepared to spend a little more on lingerie, and still feel they are saving.

Sales of designer brands carried by the retail³ chain have been rising from one year to the next in the run-up to Valentine's Day, and Debenhams said the demand for silk and lace underwear this year again looked encouraging.

"They're less expensive, last longer and provide hours of fun long after the rose petals⁴ have wilted⁵（枯萎） ," it said.

Retailers⁶ are hoping Britons will set aside worries about rising bills, taxes and public spending cuts, to splash out（滥花钱） on their loved ones on February 14.