If you’re planning a boudoir photo shoot, first, congratulations! You’re about to experience something bold, empowering, and entirely yours. Whether you’re doing this for yourself, a partner, or to mark a milestone, one of the biggest questions we hear at Chérie Amour is: What should I wear?
Let’s talk about lingerie. The right pieces won’t just flatter your figure, they’ll help you feel elegant, confident, and totally in your element.
Lingerie is Less About “What’s Flattering” and More About How You Feel
Boudoir photography is all about expression and transformation. Our goal isn’t to change you, it’s to celebrate you. So when it comes to lingerie, skip the pressure to “hide flaws” or “accentuate assets” and ask yourself what feels good on your body. What makes you stand taller? What gives you goosebumps when you catch your reflection?
Confidence will always photograph better than discomfort. Every time.
The Best Boudoir Lingerie Styles (And Why They Work)
We’ve styled hundreds of women of all shapes and sizes, and here’s what we’ve learned: certain lingerie styles consistently photograph beautifully, and not just for the reasons you’d think.
Bodysuits are a go-to for good reason. They elongate the body, hug curves in all the right places, and look incredible in both seated and standing poses. Look for ones with a plunging neckline, sheer panels, or lace details. They offer structure without stiffness, and they move with you.
Two-piece sets are perfect if you want to show a little more skin and play with layering. A high-waisted bottom can feel vintage and elegant, while a matching bra or bralette brings symmetry and polish to your look. This combo is especially great for posing, you can arch, twist, or lie down without worrying about anything shifting awkwardly.
Robes and sheer layers can add movement and texture to your photos. Whether it’s a lace robe or a silk wrap, these pieces can be slipped off slowly, draped over shoulders, or used as a styling tool to add softness and mystery.
Harnesses and strappy details bring a bold and vibrant touch to boudoir shoots. They photograph beautifully, especially in black, and they highlight the body’s natural lines in an empowering, unapologetic way.
Choosing the Right Colors for Your Skin Tone and Vision
Don’t feel locked into classic black, although yes, black is always sexy.
If you want something romantic and soft, consider blush tones, ivory, or dusty rose. These hues look dreamy against the skin and work especially well in natural light.
Looking to turn up the drama? Deep wine, emerald green, or sapphire blue adds richness and dimension to your boudoir photography. These tones stand out beautifully against darker backdrops and complement a range of skin tones.
Still not sure? Jewel tones and neutrals tend to be the most universally flattering and photograph well in nearly every lighting scenario.
Confidence Comes in All Sizes (And So Does Great Lingerie)
At Chérie Amour, we photograph women of all sizes and walks of life, it’s our mission to make sure that everybody feels beautifully seen and that every BODY deserves a chance to be empowered and celebrated. The key to a great boudoir shoot isn’t changing your body, it’s choosing lingerie that works with it. For fuller busts, look for underwire support or balconette bras. For petite frames, bralettes and mesh panels can add just the right amount of visual interest without feeling bulky.
If you’re concerned about midsection coverage, bodysuits and high-waisted sets are a dream. And if you want to show it off, lean into strappy pieces, cutouts, or sets that frame your waist. It’s your session, and you call the shots!
Remember: boudoir lingerie isn’t about impressing someone else, it’s about expressing yourself. Choose pieces that make you feel powerful, beautiful, and seen. Bring options to your shoot and trust your photographer (hi, that’s us!) to guide you in what photographs best for your unique body and vibe.
Because at the end of the day, the most powerful thing you can wear is confidence, and the right lingerie is just the spark.
