What To Wear For Your Boudoir Session | Huntington Indiana Boudoir Photographer

I've photographed hundreds of women over the years, and somewhere along the way I've learned a thing or two about what looks good in a boudoir shoot.  The bottom line is it doesn't have to be complicated!  I'll outline a few simple tips here to help get you started on your wardrobe prep. ​

First thing, boudoir and being sexy doesn't necessarily always mean less clothing...  As a matter of fact, some of my all-time clients favorite shots are portraits, or shots in jeans and button-downs!  Clothing, lingerie, or implied nudity can all be sexy in their own right.  It's the woman that makes the outfit.


The biggest topic of discussion I have with my clients pre-session is wardrobe.  Every year I answer tons of texts and emails about this very subject.  The simple key to success is to plan.  Plan your boudoir outfits around your comfort level.  --And don't wait till the night before to start trying to bring it all together.

Getting ready is part of the fun.  Some of the best items to bring  are the ones you already have.  Break out some old favorites that have been sitting in your closet, just waiting for the perfect occasion.  Hit the lingerie shop and pick up a new piece.  Whatever the strategy:  the goal is to wear items that make you feel beautiful.  You'll look sexiest when you feel confident.  

I do not shoot with a time limit.  We are free to switch outfits during your session as desired, or needed.  You are welcome to bring as many items as you wish to haul along on your session day.  Once in a while, an item may seem like a good idea, but may not photograph quite the way you expect, so its always great to have a few backups on hand.  Changing outfits is fast and easy, so trying something new just takes a few minutes.


My clients will receive a comprehensive Prep Guide upon booking that contains lots of great ideas & tips-- both simple, and down-right sexy.  For those of your doing some general boudoir research online, here are a few simple wardrobe guidelines to help you get started...
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Dress it up

One simple and good idea is you may like starting the session wearing a cocktail, or other fitted dress. Paired with some great heels...what's not to like?  Wait, what?  A dress?  This is supposed to be boudoir, right?  Yes, yes.  Hang in there with me for a moment.  A tight dress is great to bring along.  How many great photos do you have of yourself?  Not many, huh?  Not only is taking a few shots "clothed" at the start of your session fun, but its a great way to "ease" into your boudoir session, and to get a chance to get used to taking photos-- before you have to start baring it all.  Not only that, your portraits will get lots of mileage.  They're great for sharing and for online use. Fitted clothes are best when you are photographed.  Leave loose fitting attire home.  I prefer starting your photo session in this type of outfit.


Casual Attire

Not a big lingerie person?  Keep it simple.  What about your favorite jeans? Some of my favorite all time photos are shots in a button down shirt and a pair of jeans.  Jeans can be used a hundred ways in a boudoir session-- and all of them cute.  Paired with a bra, or photographed slightly unbuttoned...  now you're getting the idea! A simple white tank top can be the hottest thing you own.  Don't forget sheer tops, pajamas, pajama bottoms paired with a bra.  If you are doing your photos as a gift:  His tie, sports jersey, or uniform.  One of the most popular looks is a mans white button down shirt.  It may be big on you, but it's still cute.  


Bra Sets
Bra sets are probably the "must have" boudoir outfit of any session.  Who doesn't own lots?  Bring your favorites, or pick up something new.  Opt for lacy, and leave your t-shirt bras & casuals at home.  

Lingerie
I understand not every woman is a lingerie person.  The great thing about a boudoir shoot is that its your chance to dress up.  A lot of lingerie may not really be practical for every day wear, but hey, your boudoir session is tailor made for these items. That corset you bought for that special occasion?  Now is the time to break it out of the closet.  The same for garters and stockings.  Classic lingerie is a perfect choice.  A vintage slip or cami to keep it demure.  They all incorporate really well in a boudoir shoot.  As you know, lingerie can range from demure to sultry, to down-right "en fuego", and can lead to some undoubtedly sexy photos.  So bring what suits your mood!

Accessories​

Accessories are important!  I've seen them all, so Ill pass a few ideas along to you:  stilettos, thigh high boots (ouch!),  Scarves,  Jewelry,  Pearls,  Fishnet stockings,  Thigh highs,  Garters,  Necklaces--  OK, I'm going to stop here for a second.  Please bring a few long necklaces.  They are a must.    


"Under The Sheets"

Lots of women like to shoot photos "under the sheets" to give the look of "implied" nudity.  If you are planning on shooting in this fashion, please bring a nude g-string if you are not comfortable being nude.  It can be removed in editing and will give you the appearance of being nude in your "under the sheets" shots.

...And oh, by the way


Lingerie Tags.  Please removes tags from your underwear and lingerie.  Tags are not sexy. Nowadays it seems some tags are even larger than the lingerie to which they are attached!  Be mindful of tags.


Mani-Pedi.  Do it. Get your nails done before your shoot or make sure polish is fresh or nails are clean. Chipped polish is NOT a good look.


It's ok if you don't wear Deodorant. 


Don't overdo it with tanning.  Sunburn is not a good look, and cannot be fixed.


Do not wear any body makeup, body powder or bronzers.  


Get a good nights sleep the night before.  I can fix a lot of things, but a tired face isn't one of them.