Let’s talk boudoir wardrobe ladies…

Now this is a topic that comes up at every boudoir photography session consultation. What do I wear? What do I bring for the shoot? Where can I get cute things that are flattering?

Fear NOT ladies! I got you! Shopping has been an addiction of mine for a very long time, and I have to say I’ve gotten really good at knowing what and where to find the best pretty things. Styling was another career I was very interested in at some point, and I still have a huge passion for it! Studio photography has really put the best of both worlds together for me - portraits and shopping! Now I pass on my wealth of information to you.

First things First….the BODYSUIT.

A good versatile bodysuit is a must at any boudoir portrait session. It flatters everyone, and is masterful at disguising some areas you might want to cover a bit.

A long-sleeve body suit with a boat neck or deep v neckline is a very modern twist on the old teddy lingerie and can look extremely sexy!

Here is a great option from Amazon (click here), shown in the picture above. Another great source for bodysuits is Forever 21, they have a ton more options online so check them out HERE.

Second - KIMONOS/DUSTERS OR BATHING SUIT COVER UPS.

Yes, you heard me correct. In my rabbit hole Amazon shopping I stumbled across some awesome kimonos that look INCREDIBLE over a cute lacy bra and undie set, or even bare for a semi nude boudoir portrait. They are extremely versatile and seriously hide things. Here is a great example of one I have in my studio wardrobe for your use!

Third is UNDERGARMENTS.

Ladies….I can’t stress enough the importance of fit. Don’t worry about the size on the tag, what matters is that it doesn’t cut into your skin, leave red marks or simply looks too tight. Looser is better when it comes to photography. Padded bras are also something to watch out for. Laying down poses don’t often fare well with too much padding as often it creates a gap between you and it….which does not look flattering. Stick to well fitting bras that will be a nice snug fit to your body no matter what pose you are in!

Awesome options to bring:

BLACK, Always black. Lacy, black and always super sexy. You can’t go wrong. Tons of options here that won’t break the bank (click here)
Jewel tone colors - red, emerald or a nice rich purple are also great options to bring depending on what colors flatter your skin tone the best. Jewel tone colors look amazing in boudoir pictures! Here are some really cute ones (click here)
Blush, soft blue and neutral colors. The idea is to go for a romantic look….there is nothing more beautiful than a gorgeous back lit boudoir portrait pose in tulle or a romantic soft color bathed in natural light or on white sheets! Here is a super cute example from Shein.

Fourth - Do you love a man’s shirt? I DO!

Ah the man’s white shirt….the look is oh so sexy and the great news is all you have to do is raid your man’s closet! A button down white or black dress shirt is all you need. I have one in the studio wardrobe but if there is a specific one your man uses that you love - bring it to your portrait session. He will LOVE to see you in it. Another great option is a sports jersey, uniform, anything that is personal to him will make for a super cool sexy boudoir photo that he will be sure to love. Here are a couple of examples of what I do with the traditional man’s shirt… I LOVE IT!

The last tip….just be yourself when it comes to wardrobe.

Truth be told the more comfortable you feel with what you are wearing - the better your portraits will turn out. Boudoir photography is not about having the best body, being the thinnest or having the least imperfections. It is about confidence and feeling good in your own skin. If you are wearing outfits that you don’t feel good in - that will translate into your pictures. Sexy is about a feeling….and if you have that confidence in a sweatshirt I promise the camera will capture that. One of my favorite boudoir portraits I’ve taken was in an animal print duster. No fuss, just gorgeous lighting and amazing confidence.

So go on with your sexy, confident selves and happy boudoir shopping!

I’m always available to help or make suggestions. You would make the stylist in me happy!

XO- Ana