No need to sit on the floor of your closet thinking you have no idea what to wear, I've got you [un]covered

The single most important thing to remember when you are thinking about what to wear is that I want you to feel as comfortable as you can while also pushing out of your comfort zone. If lingerie isn't your thing, don't stress because I will talk about options in this guide (maybe bring one piece so we can try it out!) If you're a serious shoe collector, bring the whole thing! Don't own a single pair of heels? That's perfect too, you don't need them! This shoot is about being raw, real, and authentic, so while I want you to push your comfort zone, you need to be true to your personal aesthetic.

Lingerie

Go full out with a lingerie set! Garter belts and bustiers will allow you to feel like a bombshell model while also flattering any areas you may be uncomfortable with. The number one thing to remember when you set out to look at different lingerie pieces is that fit is everything. You want to make sure your outfit fits you well, as ill-fitting lingerie is difficult to hide. Check to make sure the piece you choose isn’t too large (specifically in the chest)--no gaps, no excess fabric, nothing ‘droopy’ in the booty area. Also make sure it isn’t too small--that it isn’t too restrictive and cutting into your skin, hugging you in unflattering areas, or creating bulges/rolls.

bra/panty sets

Bra and panty sets are perfect if you want to show off your stomach, hips, booty, back and chest! If you are interested in wearing a killer bra and panty set to your session, one of the best pieces of advice I can offer you (that I really hope you take!) is to be properly fitted by an expert! I don’t want to knock a particular brand that is seen in every shopping mall and offers a plethora of bras, many of their associates aren’t thoroughly trained to fit you for a bra. Instead, try to find a specialty bra/lingerie store, or walk into Nordstrom and find an expert fitter in their department. If that isn’t an option, the website abrathatfits.org is a great at home solution. There are many different bra cuts and styles, and each one flatters a different body type/circumstance. Talk with a fitter about which cut and style will highlight your favorite features the most! More than 80% of women wear the wrong size bra, so know that you aren’t alone if you are totally off in choosing the correct size!

make it your own

Sheer fabrics, slight textures, modest crystals or beading, and feminine straps are all great ways to amp up a bra and panty set.

Not quite your thing?

Try a Calvin Klein set! These are sort of like a bra and panty set, but with a much more laid back, comfy/sporty vibe. These come in a variety of colors, cuts, and styles and are undeniably sexy while maintaining a low-key vibe!

BodySuits!!!

Yes, I put exclamation points next to this one, I can’t put enough emphasis on how much I love them. Bodysuits are my absolute favorite type of outfit to photograph! The reason is simple: they look amazing on every body type! You can get a bodysuit that highlights your favorite features. If you are feeling your super sexy back, get one that is cut low, if love your collarbones, get one with regular bra or off the shoulder straps. The options are endless and all amazing. They normally comes in XS-4XL sizing, although some companies do use bra sizes. You don’t need to consult an expert fitter for these, just make sure they are form fitting and hug your body. If you are ordering online, definitely consult the size charts before ordering!

Gems in your closet

You don’t have to go out and buy a ton of new outfits! Shopping your own closet is a great way to authentically integrate your personality in your session.

That ‘old faithful’ tee--something soft, oversized, worn
A women’s button up--something linen, see through, more fitted
Tank top
Crop top
Leather jacket
Leather pants/leggings
Daisy Duke shorts
Distressed jeans
Sweaters
Swimsuits (!!!)--something sleek that could pass for a bodysuit or bra/panty?
Fur--coat, vest
Knee/thigh high boots
Cowboy boots
Heels

Outfits to Avoid

Corsets

While they look amazing, corsets are very difficult to pose in. The majority of posing is based on arching and moving, which is very difficult to do in a corset. I aim for images to be classic and timeless, but corsets can sometimes date images.

His Shirt/Jersey

It’s sweet to want to bring something of his, but the boxy cut of mens clothing can hide your curves. If you want to bring something of his I recommend a tie or his favorite hat

Babydolls

Babydolls are pieces that are fitted in the chest and then has a bunch of fabric that flows down to your hips. Many women think that this will hide their stomachs in images, but all of that fabric can add the illusion of inches around your waist, making you appear larger than you are. It also makes posing more difficult because the fabric tends to lay weird, and you’ll be fighting with it the entire time. If you want to ‘hide’ your stomach, I highly recommend a bodysuit! They will smooth out the area while still making you look curvy and sexy as hell (I seriously can’t say enough good things about them).

Distracting colors/patterns

I always point clients towards solid/subtle colors and patterns so that the focus remains on you. Outfits should enhance and compliment you rather than take center stage.

What to wear for your boudoir session