One of the most common questions I hear—aside from “I have no idea how to pose, will you help me?”—is “What should I bring to my boudoir shoot?”
And while you might expect a simple checklist, the answer is much more personal than that.
Start With You
Your body, your lingerie, your style—these are deeply personal choices. Some women have lingerie collections that rival their shoe closets, while others prefer comfy cotton basics or even skipping lingerie altogether. Here’s the secret: there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. What matters is what makes you feel amazing.
At Boudoir by Belinda, we’ve designed our photography sets to capture two distinct vibes:
- Light, airy, and feminine
- Dark, sultry, and bold
You can choose one style or mix both! Before your session, take a look at our boudoir gallery for inspiration, but remember—it’s all about what feels right for you.
Planning Your Looks
For a typical 3-hour boudoir shoot, we recommend bringing 3 to 4 different outfits or looks. You’re welcome to bring more, but keep in mind that extra outfit changes mean less time in front of the camera!
Here are some tips to help you pack your boudoir bag:
1. Colours That Pop
- Classic white lingerie exudes purity and is perfect for bridal shoots.
- Sexy black sets bring timeless allure.
- Don’t shy away from bold colours—they can highlight your features and bring a unique energy to your photos. A red or jewel-toned set can look stunning, especially when paired with a pop of matching lipstick.
- For nails, stick to neutral or nude tones if your lingerie is colourful.
2. Bras That Flatter
Push-ups, demi-cups, and sheer bras work best; steer clear of full-coverage styles. Remember, the fit is key, especially since some poses involve lying down.
3. Waist-Enhancing Pieces
Pieces like corsets, bustiers, and suspender belts add shape and drama, emphasising curves in all the right
places.
4. Textures Matter
Luxury materials like silk, chiffon, and lace photograph beautifully. Brands like Honey Birdette have also popularised strappy, edgy designs with chains and fetish-inspired details—perfect for adding a modern twist to your look.
5. Loose-Fitting Options
Boudoir isn’t just about baring skin. Sometimes, a hint of coverage is even sexier. Think oversized shirts, vintage slips, babydolls, cozy jumpers, or even a simple sheet.
6. Add Sentimental and Personal Touches
To make your boudoir photos truly personal and unique, consider bringing items that reflect your personality or have special meaning to you. Sentimental pieces add a layer of intimacy and can make your photos even more memorable.
Here are some ideas:
- Your husband’s wedding tie or a piece of his clothing.
- A favourite pair of trainers—if they’re part of your story, why not include them?
- Jewellery or accessories with sentimental value, such as a necklace gifted by a loved one.
- Any item that symbolizes who you are or where you’re at in life.
The key is to make your shoot reflect you. These little details can bring out your personality and create images you’ll treasure forever.
Our Client Wardrobe
At Boudoir by Belinda, we want every client to feel confident and empowered during their shoot, which is why we also offer a curated selection of unique wardrobe pieces. From elegant lingerie to statement accessories, our Client Wardrobe is designed to complement a variety of styles and preferences.
If you’d like to explore these options, please don’t hesitate to reach out for the complete list of items available for your session.
Accessories & Extras
- Heels: Bring a black pair and a neutral/nude pair—stilettos are a must. The higher, the better! Avoid platforms or wedges, and check that the soles aren’t scuffed.
- Stockings: Stockings work wonders for boudoir photos. We recommend styles that pair with garters rather than stay-ups, as the rubber lining on stay-ups can pinch. Look for simple, plain-topped stockings if your lingerie has intricate details.
- Jewellery: While optional, statement pieces can add personality to your shoot. Delicate necklaces, bold earrings, or stackable rings are all great choices.
A Quick Reminder About Labels
Delicate lingerie often comes with an abundance of tags—make sure to remove any visible ones ahead of time. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference in your final images!
Bridal Boudoir Must-Haves
If you’re planning a bridal boudoir shoot, don’t forget to bring:
- Flesh-toned or cream stockings
- Your wedding veil
- Garter and wedding shoes
This is your chance to channel the wedding-night vibe your partner will adore.
Where to Shop for Boudoir Lingerie
Need inspiration? Check out our Instagram highlights at boudoirbybelinda.co.uk for ideas. Some of our favourite brands include:
- Aubade
For edgier looks featuring leather or chains, explore WILLIAM WILDE or MARIEMUR for that extra touch of daring.
Remember, your boudoir session is all about celebrating you. Whether you’re rocking silk and lace, cozying up in an oversized shirt, or borrowing from our Client Wardrobe, the most important thing you can wear is confidence. Let’s create something beautiful together!
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