What to Wear for a Boudoir Session

The most crucial factor in deciding what to wear for your boudoir session is that you feel amazing! That means both physically and emotionally. The session is about celebrating your unique style and beauty and empowering you! It is essential to the Studio 34 team that you feel comfortable, confident, and happy. Of course, while traditional elements to a boudoir wardrobe exist, there is no rulebook.

You’ll want to have your outfits selected well in advance and make sure that everything fits as you’d like. This way, there will be time to address any alterations or additions that need to be made. To help you choose your outfits—and give your boudoir team a clearer idea of what you want your session to look like—you will create a Pinterest mood board, which we will review together before your session.

There are so many possibilities for wardrobe, the choices can get overwhelming. But you can feel confident in your choices knowing that our team will work with you to help you find the looks that feel right for you. And remember, this process is a celebration and should be fun!

Start pinning looks to our shared Pinterest board a month or more ahead of your shoot. From there, reach out if you need help narrowing your wardrobe down to 3 to 5 looks.

You can stick with classic white, black, and red in silk and satin. Introduce soft and romantic looks with pastels and lace. Go bold with brights, your favorite color, feathers, and leather. Or find the best of all possible worlds and choose a combination of styles, fabrics, and colors. Look in your closet—and your partner’s—before you shop. You are also welcome to browse and wear anything from our Client Closet ((LINK))

Here are some great options to consider for your boudoir-session wardrobe. You can also check out our Wardrobe Shopping Guide ((LINK)) for ideas of where to shop.

Lingerie

Lingerie is a classic choice for boudoir photography. It comes in various styles, colors, and fabrics, giving you plentiful options for a wardrobe that suits your taste and flatters you.

• Matching Sets: Matching sets of a top (think: bra, bralette or corset) and bottom (think: thong, panties or boy shorts) can create a cohesive look. Many retailers offer mix-and-match sets—a great option to get the best fit for you. Look out for matching accessories like garters and stockings when you purchase.

• Babydolls, Teddies and Chemises: These pieces are flirty, intimate and fun. They usually include a thong or other bottom, but if yours does not, decide if you are daring enough to go bottomless or consider purchasing one separately. 

• Bodysuits: These can be incredibly flattering, providing a smooth silhouette while versatile enough for multiple poses.

• Corsets and Bustiers: Perfect for accentuating your curves, corsets can create a dramatic and sensual look.

• Gartered Lingerie: This accessory is the “cherry on top” of many looks. If your lingerie includes garters, be sure that you also have stockings (generally thigh-highs) to match.

Robes

Robes and kimonos add a layer of sophistication and mystery to your boudoir photos. They can be used as an accessory or worn on their own. Silk and satin robes drape beautifully and can be used to tease and reveal. The delicate fabric of lace robes adds a touch of romance and can highlight lingerie—or bare skin—underneath. Robes with feather trim and elaborate ruffles add a touch of drama.

Oversized Clothes

For a more casual and intimate vibe, oversized clothes—both from your own closet and your partner’s—are excellent choices. They can create a sense of coziness and vulnerability, showcase your personality, and give a sexy nod to your partner.

• Sweaters: For a relaxed and sexy look, choose a soft, oversized sweater that can slip off the shoulder.

• Button-Up Shirts: A classic white shirt can be incredibly alluring when left partially unbuttoned or tied at the waist. Consider wearing it over a bra-and-panty set, with pearls for a classic look, or with nothing at all.

• Sports Jerseys: This is a fun and sexy way to flaunt your personality and personalize your session.
  

Loungewear

Think silk pajamas, a sheer nightgown, or a vintage slip in textures that look and feel luxurious.

Accessories

Accessories can elevate your boudoir photos by adding texture and depth to your outfits.

• Stockings and Garters: These can add a vintage or sultry touch to your lingerie. Consider thigh-high stockings with lace tops or a classic garter belt.

• Jewelry: Statement pieces like chandelier earrings or a delicate necklace can draw attention to your features. If you have pieces that you wear daily and intend to wear to the session, it’s a good idea to clean them a couple of days before your session. Check to be sure this jewelry matches your outfit choices, and if not, consider removing it or swapping it out for certain looks.

• Shoes: High heels can elongate your legs and enhance your posture, adding a touch of glamor to your photos. Fuzzy slippers or vintage shoes can be a creative way to showcase your personality.

• Odds-and-Ends: a ribbon in your favorite color
  

Themed Items

Themed shoots are a fun way to incorporate your style and interests into your boudoir session and celebrate events and milestones.

• Bridal: If you’re preparing for your wedding, bring along your veil, bridal lingerie, and even your wedding shoes to create a romantic and memorable set of photos.

• Vintage Pin-Up: Channel your inner bombshell with retro lingerie, high-waisted briefs, and playful accessories like cat-eye glasses.

• Maternity: Choose some pieces that open in front, such as a robe or oversized button-down shirt.
  

Items with Meaning

Incorporating items that have personal significance or sentimental value can make your boudoir photos even more special.

• Partner’s Clothing: Wearing your partner’s favorite shirt or jersey can add a personal and intimate touch.

• Sentimental Jewelry: Pieces that have sentimental value can add emotional depth to your photos.

• Hobbies and Interests: Are you an avid reader? Bring your favorite book. A knitter? Bring the project you are working on. A baker? How about a wooden spoon and a chef’s hat? Other possibilities: your favorite board game, deck of cards, crossword puzzle, sports equipment, yoga mat, your journal or hiking boots.
  

Nothing at All

If you are comfortable with the idea of being nude, full, partial or implied nudity can be incorporated into your boudoir session. Nudity is never required, and you have the right to change your mind about this option at any time.