Screw the LBS, ok I said it! I went through this exact experience two months ago. Take her measurements and figure out sizing online. You can get it used, new from bikesdirect, or from a shop, whatever. If the reach isn't exactly right, get an adjustable stem and pay $45 or whatever for a fitting at a shop afterwards. But whatever you do, and this is by far the most important thing, MAKE SURE she likes how it looks and likes the color and all that. I cannot emphasize this enough. Most first time women cyclists don't care about Shimano v. Campy or the minute differences in the various wheelsets. But if she doesn't like the frame color, she'll never really feel good about herself when riding it. I ended up buying my wife an ugly bike on sale, and switching all the parts over to a budget (but attractive) frame. She loves it, and I saved money over trying to buy whatever a shop happened to have in stock.