Styling Do's & Don't's for Boudoir Photoshoot Outfits
- Jennifer Hennigan
- Jan 10, 2024
- 9 min read
Whether you're preparing for a steamy photoshoot or just looking to enhance your intimate wardrobe, this post is packed with invaluable tips and tricks to help you feel confident, sexy, and utterly magnetic. Join us as we explore the art of boudoir styling, uncovering what works and what doesn't, so you can showcase your truest, most authentic self in these intimate, empowering moments. Get ready to embrace your sensuality and turn heads with our expert advice on all things boudoir fashion!

Do: Embrace Fun Colors within your Boudoir Photoshoot Outfits
When it comes to boudoir, the first colors that often come to mind are black and red, synonymous with sensuality and allure. It's true that wearing a favorite black strappy leatherette bra and panty set can instantly make you feel like an absolute bombshell, and if that's the outfit that empowers you, go for it! However, it's essential not to limit ourselves to what we perceive as "safe" or conform to a specific idea of sexy. It's time to step out of your comfort zone and explore a kaleidoscope of colors that can ignite your confidence in unexpected ways. Perhaps you stumble upon a luxurious purple bodysuit that exudes elegance and mystery, or a daring hot pink bustier that showcases your vibrant energy. Let's not forget the enchantment of a yellow corset made entirely of lace, radiating warmth and playfulness. The key is to find what truly suits you, to embrace the shades that enhance your natural beauty and make you feel like the captivating individual you are. So, don't be afraid to experiment with a myriad of colors and discover the transformative power of embracing what truly speaks to your inner desires. It's time to unleash your unique, irresistible charm and rock it with unapologetic confidence!
Don't: Embrace Bold Patterns
When it comes to boudoir photoshoot outfits, the focus should always be on you and your own unique brand of sexiness. While bold patterns can be eye-catching and fun in everyday fashion, they tend to become distracting in photographs. The essence of boudoir lies in capturing intimate moments that celebrate your sensuality, and it's important to ensure that your outfit doesn't overshadow the primary subject – you. Opting for simpler, more understated patterns or solid colors allows the viewer's attention to be drawn towards your enticing features, your alluring body language, and the overall vibe you exude. Remember, the goal is to create a captivating image that showcases your self-assured confidence and magnetism, with the outfit playing a supporting role rather than stealing the spotlight. So, while bold patterns may bring excitement to your everyday wardrobe, for the boudoir, it's best to let your radiant allure shine through without any distractions.

Do: Wear a Bodysuit
If you find yourself feeling a bit nervous or self-conscious about how your body looks before a boudoir session, there are plenty of options that offer a little more coverage while still allowing you to feel confident and embrace your feminine curves. A bodysuit is a fabulous choice in such situations, providing a versatile range of styles that cater to individual preferences. Whether you want to exude a daring, sultry vibe with a sexy and skimpy design, or prefer a more modest and conservative look, you'll find a bodysuit that fits your comfort level. These one-piece ensembles offer the perfect balance of coverage and allure, hugging your body in all the right places and accentuating your natural curves in a flattering way. The beauty of a bodysuit lies in its ability to empower you to feel sensual and captivating, all while providing that extra bit of reassurance. It's the ideal garment that allows you to explore your sensuality in a way that suits your personal style and comfort level, ensuring that every moment captured during your boudoir session is an authentic reflection of your unique beauty and confidence. So, embrace the versatility of a bodysuit, and let it be your trusted companion as you embark on this journey of self-expression and self-love.

Don't: Wear a Baby Doll
It is quite common for women to bring a baby doll style lingerie outfit to their boudoir session in the hopes that its flowy top will provide some coverage and hide their tummy. However, it's important to be aware that this particular style can have unintended consequences when captured in photographs. Contrary to popular belief, the flowy top of a baby doll lingerie outfit can actually make a woman's mid-section appear larger in photos than it actually is. This can interfere with the intention of showcasing and celebrating your natural curves, as some of the poses during a boudoir session are specifically designed to highlight and accentuate those curves, regardless of whether you believe you have them in all the "right" places. Professional boudoir photographers have a wealth of experience and expertise in posing techniques that can bring out the best in you and create flattering angles that emphasize your sensual allure. However, the presence of a baby doll lingerie outfit can disrupt the flow and ruin these poses, hindered by the excessive fabric and lack of definition around your mid-section. As a result, we recommend leaving baby doll style lingerie at home and opting for more form-fitting or structured pieces that accentuate and enhance your natural curves.
Do: Bring Stilletto's
Stilettos are undeniably synonymous with sexiness and have the power to instantly elevate the glamour quotient of any outfit. They hold a special allure, particularly because of their ability to make legs appear longer, toned, and irresistibly captivating. Even if you're not the most proficient when it comes to walking in them, fret not! In the realm of boudoir photography, we're not embarking on a walk, but rather capturing mesmerizing moments while you are expertly posed, either reclining, sitting, or engaging in various enticing positions. This means that the practicality of walking gracefully in stilettos need not be a concern during the session. Wearing stilettos for your boudoir session is an invitation to embody the essence of seduction and channel a heightened level of femininity that will translate beautifully in the photographs. So, embrace the magic of stilettos, regardless of your walking abilities, and allow them to add a touch of luxury and elegance to your boudoir experience.

Don't: Bring Wedges
While wedges are undoubtedly a fantastic choice for pairing with a summer dress during a delightful picnic in the park, when it comes to your boudoir photoshoot, it's time to turn up the heat and amp up the sexiness. Wedges are more commonly associated with practicality and comfort rather than the desired level of glamour and sensuality that we aim to capture during your boudoir session. It's best to save these church shoes for the next family reunion or other daytime activities where they can add a touch of style and comfort.
By leaving the wedges behind and selecting shoes that exude sexiness and elegance, you can help create an ambiance that perfectly complements your boudoir photoshoot, allowing you to shine as the captivating, empowered woman that you are.
Do: Shave
In the year 2024, it is widely acknowledged and celebrated that women should be free to make personal choices regarding their body hair without fear of shame or judgment. However, even in this progressive era, there may still be some women who feel most confident and sexy when shaved. For those who choose this particular grooming preference, it is crucial to remember a prep tip that can often slip the mind until it is seen through the lens of the camera. It is important not to solely rely on the editing skills of your photographer to achieve that desired silky smooth appearance. Taking a few minutes before stepping into the studio to grab a razor and give yourself a quick shave can go a long way in ensuring your confidence and satisfaction with the final outcome of your boudoir photos. Remember, the camera can capture even the tiniest details, and attending to areas such as your legs, armpits, bikini area and buttocks can contribute to a more seamless and polished look. By being proactive about this aspect of preparation, you can further enhance your overall appearance, aligning it with your vision of empowerment and sensuality. Embracing this mindful approach allows you to take control of your personal grooming and confidently step into the studio knowing that you have done everything possible to present yourself exactly as you wish to be seen. So, as you embark on this transformative boudoir experience, don't forget this small but impactful step in preparation, ensuring that every aspect of your body reflects the stunning, confident woman you are.

Don't: Wear thigh highs/tights
While thigh highs undeniably exude a seductive allure, it's important to consider their visual impact when it comes to capturing photographs. In the realm of photography, particularly boudoir photography, certain wardrobe choices can affect the perception of body proportions. Dark thigh highs, while undoubtedly sexy in person, have the potential to visually shorten the appearance of your legs when captured in photos. This is due to the contrast created between the dark fabric and your skin tone, creating a visual "cut-off" point that can give the illusion of shorter legs. However, it's essential to note that this doesn't make thigh highs any less glamorous.
Many women may also have concerns about visible imperfections, such as cellulite, bruises, or marks, which may make them feel inclined to cover up. It's completely normal to have these concerns, and it's important to emphasize that there's no need to worry. Boudoir photography is not about trying to hide or erase these natural attributes. Instead, we have the ability to retouch your photos to ensure that you have the best skin day ever.
Through the magic of editing, we can artfully enhance the overall appearance of your skin, creating a flawless and radiant final image while still maintaining your natural beauty. Retouching can help diminish the appearance of cellulite, soften any visible bruises or marks, and create a polished look that aligns with your vision of perfection. The aim here is not to fundamentally alter who you are or erase the uniqueness of your body but rather to enhance your already stunning features and boost your confidence. Our experienced team of photographers and editors understands the importance of creating a space where you can fully embrace your body, imperfections and all, while still feeling absolutely gorgeous and confident.
Do: Go with Bold Eye OR Lip
When it comes to embracing a makeup look, it's often best to choose a focal point and make a statement either with your eyes or your lips. By selecting one area to accentuate, you can achieve a more balanced and polished look that showcases your features in a captivating way. If you choose to emphasize your eyes, you can create a mesmerizing gaze with dramatic eyeshadow, defined eyeliner, and volumizing mascara. This approach allows your eye makeup to take center stage, drawing attention and highlighting their natural beauty. On the other hand, if you prefer to captivate with your lips, opt for a vibrant or deep lipstick shade that adds depth and allure to your overall look. This bold lip color can become the focal point, enhancing your smile and exuding confidence. By choosing to focus on either your eyes or your lips, you create an element of balance, allowing that chosen area to shine and make a statement. So, embrace the power of choice, and let that singular feature speak volumes, elevating your entire makeup look to new heights of allure and sophistication.

Don't: Go with Bold Eye AND Lip
When it comes to boudoir photography and enhancing a woman's natural beauty, it is generally recommended to avoid pairing a bold colored eye with a vibrant lip. The combination of both can create an overwhelming effect that may detract from the timeless and sensual aesthetic that boudoir photography seeks to capture. Boudoir makeup aims to accentuate a woman's natural features. Achieving this delicate balance is key to capturing the essence of a woman's beauty, highlighting her unique qualities in a way that radiates confidence. Instead of going for an overpowering look, it is often more flattering to choose one focal point - whether it be the eyes or the lips - and create a subtle, harmonious enhancement. This approach ensures that the final result captures the essence of the woman's natural beauty while accentuating the most captivating aspect of her face. By embracing a more muted and sophisticated color palette, the boudoir makeup can achieve a timeless and elegant allure, elevating the overall experience and celebration of a woman's sensuality.
When it comes to styling yourself for a boudoir session, it's essential to focus on enhancing your natural beauty while capturing your unique sensuality. Be mindful when choosing lingerie and outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable, embracing your body shape and curves, and communicating your personal style to the photographer. It's also crucial to prioritize grooming and pampering, ensuring your skin and hair are well-cared for and feeling their best. Remember, boudoir photography is about celebrating your individuality and embracing your unique beauty. By following these guidelines, you can style yourself for a boudoir session that not only captures stunning images but also leaves you feeling confident, empowered, and beautifully yourself.
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