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What to Wear for a Boudoir Shoot (By Style + Outfit Ideas)

One of the most common questions I get as a boudoir photographer is: What should I wear?

The truth is, there’s no one right answer. Your outfit sets the tone for your session, but it should reflect you—your energy, your body, your story, and your comfort level. Some clients show up in intricate lingerie sets. Others wear an oversized tee and underwear. Some wear nothing at all. It all works—as long as it feels right.

In this post, I’ll walk you through different boudoir styles and give examples of outfits that match each mood or aesthetic. Whether you’re playful, moody, elegant, daring, or totally new to this, there’s a look that fits your vibe. Let’s find it.

What Makes a Great Boudoir Outfit?

A great boudoir outfit isn’t about impressing anyone else—it’s about wearing something that helps you feel confident, sexy, and fully yourself. Keep these tips in mind when choosing your looks:

  • Comfort is key. If something digs, slides, or pinches, you’ll be distracted—and it’ll show.
  • Good fit matters. You don’t need expensive lingerie—just pieces that hug you in the right places and make you feel held and secure.
  • Textures pop on camera. Lace, silk, mesh, satin, and even well-worn cotton all photograph beautifully.
  • Layering adds drama. Robes, oversized shirts, and jackets are great for teasing reveals or giving shape and movement.
  • Bare skin is an outfit too. You don’t need clothing at all for a striking and tasteful look.

Pro tip: Try your pieces on in advance. Do a little walk, sit, and stretch test to make sure everything feels right when you’re in motion.

Romantic

Soft, feminine, and dreamy—Romantic is all about capturing intimacy and affection. It’s a popular style for bridal boudoir, anniversary gifts, or Valentine’s Day themes.

Outfit ideas:

  • Lace bralettes and high-waisted panties in light colors (white, blush, pastel)
  • Sheer robes, delicate slips, or nightgowns
  • Red lingerie for a passionate twist
  • Floral crowns or a bouquet as a prop
  • Loose waves or soft curls for a relaxed vibe

Signature feel: Gentle lighting, soft textures, and emotional intimacy. A love letter in photo form.

Dramatic

Moody, bold, and sensual—Dramatic is what many people picture when they think of boudoir. It’s all about confidence, attitude, and a bit of mystery.

Outfit ideas:

  • Black lingerie with straps, mesh, or cutouts
  • Bodysuits, corsets, or lingerie sets with bold silhouettes
  • Garter belts, thigh-highs, and statement heels
  • Smoky eyes, deep lipstick, and striking jewelry

Signature feel: Editorial lighting, rich shadows, and fierce energy. Think cinematic seduction.

Casual

Relaxed, playful, and real—Casual boudoir feels like a peek into a cozy, flirty moment. This style often draws inspiration from editorial shoots like Esquire’s “Me in My Place” series.

Outfit ideas:

  • Crop tops, tanks, or oversized T-shirts
  • Cheeky panties or cotton briefs
  • Jeans (buttoned or unbuttoned), cozy socks, or sneakers
  • Light makeup and natural hair
  • Athletic wear or loungewear

Signature feel: Effortless intimacy. Like a slow morning at home with someone you trust.

Business

Powerful, commanding, and a little cheeky—Business-inspired boudoir turns structured wardrobe staples into something daring and unexpected.

Outfit ideas:

  • Blazers with nothing underneath
  • Pencil skirts, trousers, or heels
  • Button-down shirts (worn open or just barely fastened)
  • Ties, suspenders, or glasses
  • Sheer or mesh tops layered under tailored pieces

Signature feel: Editorial edge meets erotic energy. A stylish reversal of the male gaze.

Elegant

Timeless, refined, and luxurious—Elegant boudoir brings a polished, high-end energy. Think vintage glamour or a sexy perfume ad.

Outfit ideas:

  • Matching lingerie sets in satin or lace
  • Robes, corsets, or elegant bodysuits
  • Cocktail dresses or formalwear slipping off the shoulder
  • Heels, pearls, or tasteful jewelry
  • Silk gloves, garters, or high-end stockings to elevate the look

Signature feel: Sophisticated and poised, with a touch of voyeuristic allure.

Nature

Ethereal, grounded, and connected—this outdoor boudoir style takes advantage of natural beauty, from woods to fields to meadows. It’s one of the most requested location-based options.

Outfit ideas:

  • Flowy dresses or sheer wraps
  • Lingerie or nude under a veil or blanket
  • Earth-toned casualwear or bridal-inspired pieces
  • Barefoot styling and minimal makeup
  • Hair loose and wind-tossed

Signature feel: A connection to the land, to breath, and to self. Part fairytale, part wild woman.

Urban

Daring, playful, and just a little bit rebellious—Urban boudoir brings sensuality into a more public setting (carefully and creatively). It’s a great fit for a client with a hidden exhibitionist streak.

Outfit ideas:

  • Denim jackets, bralettes, or tank tops
  • Mini skirts, thigh-highs, or crop tops
  • Props like sunglasses, coffee cups, or jackets to “hide” behind
  • Lingerie peeking out from streetwear
  • Plunging V-neck tops or wrap blouses—easy to flash or tease with

Signature feel: Voyeuristic and edgy. A glimpse of something private in a very public space.

Shower / Bath

Intimate, vulnerable, and cinematic—this style is all about wet skin, steam, and closeness. It’s growing in popularity for its sensual and moody atmosphere.

Outfit ideas:

  • Sheer white tank tops or shirts that cling when wet
  • Slips, mesh robes, or nothing at all
  • Towels as wardrobe or prop
  • Lingerie made of mesh or lace

Signature feel: Water, reflection, and warmth. A raw and sensual space for self-expression.

Artistic

Creative, expressive, and abstract—Artistic boudoir is less about looking “sexy” and more about evoking emotion, shape, or concept. It’s a more staged and collaborative process.

Outfit ideas:

  • Draped fabric, body paint, or dramatic makeup
  • Textured or avant-garde lingerie with unusual shapes or cutouts
  • Vintage pieces or fashion-forward looks with strong silhouettes
  • Partial or full nudity with artistic framing

Signature feel: Evocative and often experimental. Ideal for clients with a strong creative vision—or those open to one.

Erotic

Raw, bold, and unapologetically sexual—Erotic boudoir focuses on personal power, body confidence, and full sexual expression (within limits). It isn’t for everyone, but it’s deeply liberating for the right client.

Outfit ideas:

  • Strappy lingerie, leather, or fishnet
  • Toys, cuffs, or rope
  • Open cup bras, crotchless panties, or other provocative cutout designs
  • Body jewelry or harnesses that accentuate curves and skin exposure

Signature feel: Visceral, honest, and deeply personal. Not for the faint of heart—but unforgettable when done right.

Note: While this style is more sexually expressive, all activity is simulated. I don’t shoot clients engaging in explicit acts—but I’ll help you push your boundaries in a safe, empowering, and artistically tasteful way.

Final Tips for Choosing Your Outfits

  • Mix it up. You don’t have to commit to one vibe—many clients explore 2–3 styles in a single shoot.
  • Start with what excites you. If there’s a piece in your closet that always makes you feel sexy, build from there.
  • Talk to your photographer. (That’s me!) I’ll help you craft a session that makes sense for your look, your space, and your comfort level.
  • Keep it fun. You’re allowed to play, experiment, and surprise yourself.

Ready to Plan Your Look?

Your boudoir shoot should reflect you. If you’re not sure where to start, I’m happy to help guide the styling process—or you can download my free Boudoir Style Guide PDF for even more visual inspiration.

To see more of my work and what I offer, take a look at the Boudoir page. If you have any questions or are ready to discuss a shoot, simply use the form below.

Contact Me
I’d love to hear more about what you’re looking for—whether you’re ready to book or just exploring ideas. I respond quickly and personally to every message.
Include the purpose of the shoot, your timeline, and anything else you’d like me to know—ideas, inspiration, or questions.

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