What to Wear to Your Boudoir Shoot
Wardrobe is the question I get asked about more than anything else. And I get it — you're standing in your closet the night before your session wondering if what you have is "enough." Let me just say this upfront: it always is.
That said, a little intention goes a long way. Here's everything I'd tell my best friend before her session.
How Many Outfits Should You Bring?
Most sessions include 2–4 outfit changes, and that's a sweet spot. Too few and you might feel like you didn't explore enough. Too many and you spend the session changing clothes instead of being in front of the camera. I'd aim for 3 looks that feel different from each other — think one delicate, one bold, one effortless.
What Actually Works on Camera
- Lace bralettes and matching bottoms — timeless, always stunning
- Silk or satin robes — easy to pose in, looks luxurious in photos
- An oversized button-down shirt (unbuttoned) — one of my favorites
- Bodysuits — clean lines, flattering on every body type
- A corset or bustier — structured and dramatic
- Nothing at all — the most vulnerable and often the most powerful
- A dress or slip you already love — your wardrobe counts
- His shirt, her hoodie, something that means something to you
Colors & Fabrics to Prioritize
Neutral tones photograph beautifully — cream, blush, ivory, black, deep wine. They let your skin and your expression be the focal point. Busy prints and neon colors can distract from you, which is the opposite of what we're here for.
When it comes to fabric, texture matters. Lace, silk, velvet, sheer — these all catch light beautifully and add dimension to a photo. Avoid anything with logos or heavy graphics unless it's intentional and meaningful.
You don't need to go shopping. The most powerful thing you can wear is whatever makes you feel most like yourself.
What to Skip
Avoid anything that leaves deep marks on your skin — tight waistbands, underwire that digs in, socks with elastic. If you're wearing something like that before your session, take it off at least 30–45 minutes before we start so the indentations have time to fade.
Pack everything in a bag and lay it out the night before. Try each piece on and ask yourself: "Do I feel like myself in this?" If the answer is yes, bring it. If you feel uncomfortable or like you're wearing a costume, leave it. Photos pick up on how you feel — not just how you look.
What If I Don't Have Anything?
You don't need to spend a lot. ASOS, Target, and Amazon all have beautiful options in the $20–60 range that photograph incredibly well. A simple lace bralette and high-waist bottoms, a silk slip, or a sheer robe are all you need. I'd rather you feel completely comfortable in a $30 set than stiff in something expensive.
And if you want help shopping before your session, just reach out. I'm always happy to look at what you're considering and give honest feedback.
Let's build something beautiful.
Have wardrobe questions? I answer every message personally.
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