Let her know that you find her very attractive, and that you love her being sexy; that you'd like her to be a little more restrained because you respect her, and think she's classier than she might appear. Mention that you feel a little sorry for your mates' girlfriends because she outshines them.

Personal stylist Cindy Newstead (stylewithcindy.com.au) says that, in her experience, women's clothing choices fall into two categories: dressing too old for their years, or dressing too young. Unfortunately, the latter is more common.

Dressing "cheap" can not only give a woman a reputation for being trashy, it can also affect her professionally. Employers don't take her seriously, and don't feel that they can trust her to be appropriate. She could miss out on promotions, or fail to get the jobs she wants. Finding a style that is more suited to her character is an investment.

You could take your girlfriend shopping. That way you could try to steer her in the right direction. If, however, like most men, you hate shopping, you would have no real idea anyway.

Many men buy their partner a gift voucher to have a private consultation with a stylist. In all her years, Newstead has only ever had one woman take this gift as an insult. Usually, the chance to be pampered and given one-on-one advice and attention, is seen as great fun. I guess it depends on how you present it.

People sometimes fear that a stylist will push them to spend a fortune on clothes or will make them look like someone they're not. In fact, after the initial consultation, the stylist can come to your home and help you to sort through your existing wardrobe. She can then come shopping with you to help you select a few key pieces to complete it. With the right advice, it is possible to dress better for less.

With some insights into what suits her, some tips on cut, colour, fabric, and styles, your girlfriend could end up being eternally grateful to you for helping her to discover her style and to make the best of her attributes.