What should I wear for my boudoir shoot?
Apart from ‘what is a boudoir shoot’, this is probably the next most common question that I get asked and the answer isn’t as obvious as you might think.
What kind of woman are you?
A woman’s relationship with her body and her lingerie drawer is deeply personal. Some women buy lingerie like others buy shoes or lipstick – in quantity, quality and to suit the occasion. Others prefer to put comfort over aesthetics and there are those who prefer to go commando – each to their own I say. So let’s be clear that there isn’t a perfect, one size fits all, list of the best things to wear for a boudoir session. What matters is what feels right for you and I have styled my home to offer two very different styles of boudoir photos – from light, airy and girly to dark, sultry and fierce. You can choose to focus on one boudoir style or have a mix of the two. Before you start planning it is worth looking at my boudoir galleries and reading this blog on ‘How to Style Your Boudoir Shoot‘ because it introduces you to the different spaces and props that you will find at my boudoir location.
Boudoir Lingerie Inspiration
For a 2 – 3 hour boudoir shoot I recommend that you focus on 3 or 4 different ‘looks’. Here are some things to think about
- Colour: We all love the purity of white lingerie (and it’s perfect for a wedding boudoir shoot) and the contrast of sexy black sets but don’t disregard the beauty and power of a matching lingerie set with strong colour. It can be gorgeous for shots that focus on the face and we can match lips and nails to really make the images ‘pop’. Push ups, demi cups or sheer bras are better than full coverage. Do think about the fact that you will probably be lying down so make sure the bra fits you well.
- Waist enhancers: Women’s bodies should be curvy and shapely so any lingerie that enhances that is a good thing – think corsets, bustiers and suspender belts.
- Texture: Lingerie can be crazy expensive but the top end designs are luxurious and the materials include silk, chiffon and lace. Soft and feminine textures look and photograph beautifully when contrasted with skin.
- Loose fitting items can be beautiful too: A boudoir shoot doesn’t have to mean exposing lots of skin – sometimes a suggestion of flesh can be just as stylish and sexy. Think cosy jumpers, cardigans, camis, teddies, vintage slips, babydolls and bed socks, oversized shirts or just a simple sheet.
- Heels: Do feature in some of the images – ideally bring a black and a neutral/nude pair. 100% stilettos and ideally the kind of shoes you can’t walk very far in. The higher the better. Try to stay away from platform and wedges for your shoot. Check the bottoms – ideally you don’t want to bring heels that are really scuffed on the sole.
- Stockings: Are definitely great for boudoir. I’m not a huge fan of ‘stay ups’ due to the rubber lining which has a tendency to pinch so try and find stockings that are designed to be used with a garter. Generally stockings with a plain top are best if your lingerie is quite intricate and detailed. I like the Maison Close brand which can be found here.
- Jewellery: Again a very personal touch and not a necessity – but I’m a real Niffler so I would always accessorise. Jewellery tends to look better in the sitting/standing poses but we can discuss what will work best when you arrive.
Wedding Boudoir
If you are having a bridal boudoir shoot don’t forget to bring flesh coloured or cream stockings, your veil, garter and your wedding shoes. Many women end up wearing ‘invisible’ underwear with their wedding dress so this is the time to showcase the wedding night vibe.
Popular Brands for Boudoir Lingerie
Have a look at some at instagram account @boudoirbykhs for some lingerie inspiration in my Lingerie Highlights.
And if you like leather and chains…MARIEMUR
Pieces that you can use for your Boudoir photo shoot
Over the years I have collected some beautiful pieces that I know work well on camera and you are very welcome to use for your boudoir photo shoot. If it is one of the sets then I just ask that you bring a simple nude thong – this is what lingerie models do – this is the kind of thing you need to look for. I’m a size 7 shoe and have a pair of nude and black heels that I’m always happy to share for shoots.
I sourced both the cream jumper and the bed socks for the new boudoir room – a lovely look to start a boudoir session.
This set is Rosie for Autograph – in theory a B cup but fits many size boobs!
This beautiful chiffon wrap is Ell and Cee and the nude set is Elle Macpherson 30E and size 12 knickers.
I love these nude lace and silk side tie briefs – you have to check out the full range of lingerie at Fleur of England.
Let’s not forget a simple white sheet – I have found the perfect soft, silky one!
For Wedding or Bridal Boudoir I have a 3/4 length veil that is perfect for shoots – very light weight and sheer!
I love a pop of bold, beautiful colour and this stunning set is Agent Provocateur – a 34 B and medium thong. the grey cardigan is also mine.
I have lots of Agent Provocateur items because there used to be an outlet at Bicester Village which is only 15 mins from me….
I have 3 pretty, sexy black sets that all fit approx 34 B – including this suspender belt.
This gorgeous blue/black corset is also Agent P – happily fits up to a C/D chest.
This bustier is a small medium.
And finally this cute little number by Be Cheeky (no longer in business I believe) is a medium too.
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