You’ve begun preparing for your boudoir session and the ultimate question must be answered…What do I wear?! Don’t let this trip you up. I’ll let you in on a little secret, THERE ARE NO RULES! I once had a client show up with fuzzy monster slippers, and she rocked them. If you need a little help getting boudoir outfit ideas and inspiration though, I’ve got the ultimate resource for you below.

Whether you have a drawer full of frilly things you’re dying to style or have never shopped for lingerie before, this article will breakdown some different outfit options so you don’t feel overwhelmed!

Remember, there are no hard and fast rules. You can wear whatever you feel most comfortable and confident in to your boudoir photoshoot. This is going to be an experience you’ll never forget and you’re going to look AMAZING!

Wardrobe Options for Your Boudoir Photoshoot

LINGERIE

You might be surprised (as I was when I first started shopping for some sexy little numbers) lingerie actually comes in a lot of different silhouettes – it’s not just lacy push up bras and thongs! Let’s look at some of the most popular lingerie categories and see what might be your favorite.

Chemises

A chemise (also known as a slip) is similar to a nightgown, but a touch less Victorian and more sexy. They are usually tighter around the midsection/hips and less flow-y. Popular materials for this style of lingerie are usually silk or satin. Chemises are not usually sheer & can come with matching undies!

This silhouette is great as a first outfit option, especially if you want something a bit more modest but still want your outfit to hug you in all the right places.

Babydoll

A Babydoll is a specific type of chemise, usually with a tight fit at the top, around the bra area, and flows loosely from the breast line down. The length can range from ending at the belly button to the mid thigh and often is made of sheer material like chiffon.

I LOVE the Babydoll style, personally, and find it gives a great balance of revealing and coverage. I want to minimize attention to my midsection and highlight my other assets 😉 Since these are meant to be flow-y and not tight, it’s easier to land the right size for you if shopping online too!

Bridal Boudoir

Bridal lingerie is traditionally white, frilly, and can come in many silhouettes.

If you’re looking to highlight your Bride Status in your shoot, pick your favorite style from this guide, order it in white and we’ll style your sets and posing to tell the story of this INCREDIBLE event you’re celebrating!

We do this by including details like your veil, a garter, or any other accessories you’d like.

CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR ENGAGEMENT GIRL!

Teddys & Body Suits

Teddies are also known as body suits!

This style of lingerie is fitted and shaped like a one-piece swim suit (from the waist down). They come in a lot of colors, styles and patterns, some even have sleeves.

Teddies are usually made of a very stretchy material and you can find variations for the level of coverage you’d like; Whether you prefer plunging necklines, a thong style, or more full coverage, there are options for you girl!

There’s no right or wrong – Find what makes you feel confident!

Romper

Some brands refer to a Teddy & a Romper as the same thing – however, Rompers are usually a bit looser and often made of softer materials than Teddies. Rompers have more of a boy-short bottom

Rompers can offer more comfortability while still being a sexy loungewear. And since it’s one piece, it feels lower maintenance but gives the illusion of two separate pieces.

Lingerie Sets

Sets are pretty self explanatory! They’re elevated Pjs 😉 These come in so many styles and finishes, you can really find what speaks to you!

Satin, silk and velvet finishes are always a sexy option and these are another great option that can balance being comfy and looking steamy.

Classic Bra & Panty

If you want to kick it up a notch, there is no end to the combinations you can make with a bralette/bra & panties.

“Bralette,” is like a mix between a regular underwire bra and a sports bra. They’re soft & unpadded (so no structured support) often made of lace or mesh.

The sky is the limit for how many styles you can come up with to pair your sassy top with: whether you’re into high-waisted, thongs, strappy, lacey, or sweatpants, there are so many options!

LOUNGEWEAR

Boudoir does NOT have to mean lacy lingerie!

Loose t-shirts, sweat pants, night gowns, band t-shirts, sleep shorts, whatever makes you comfy is going to look GREAT!

If frilly things are not your style, feel free to show up in what IS you.

You can never go wrong with an oversized sweater and nothing but undies underneath.

ACCESSORIES

A girl needs her accessories, right?

Some of my favs would be a robe, kimono, garter belt, & stockings.

Robes and kimonos I love to throw into the mix, especially if a client doesn’t want to be distracted by her arms in photos. They add great layering to an outfit and are a lot of fun to flow pose with!

Don’t see yours mentioned? Inspire me with your favs!

JUST THE SHEET

If you don’t think you have the wardrobe to do a boudoir shoot, I’ve got you girl!

All we need is a sheet and some gorgeous window light. This takes the pressure off of you having the “perfect” outfit and let’s you focus on the important stuff. Like having fun.

Boudoir Session Outfit Tips

• If you need a little extra support, look for pieces with an underwire to give you that boost!
• No matter your size, any of these styles can be flattering! Find what you’re drawn to and don’t second guess it.
• One of my favorite sites to shop for lingerie in (if you couldn’t tell) is Mentionables. They’re a woman owned business committed to, “classy styles, model-free photos, pretty prices and inclusive sizing.”
• Another budget friendly option (especially if you’re wanting to try multiple looks without breaking the bank) is SHEIN! I’ve been incredibly surprised by their inclusive sizing and love experimenting with their inexpensive lingerie for my own closet.
• For more wardrobe tips head over to my post Boudoir Wardrobe Tips!
• To make sure you’re taking proper care of your new lingerie & boudoir outfits check out my Lingerie Care post!