Hey Beautiful,
One of the questions I hear most often from women preparing for their boudoir photography session is, “How many outfits should I bring?” And I completely understand why! You’ve booked this exciting experience, you’re probably scrolling through lingerie websites, looking through your closet, and wondering whether you have enough options or if you’re about to show up with an entire suitcase full of things you may never wear.
Here’s my advice: I recommend bringing 5 to 10 outfits to your boudoir session. Now, before you start worrying about finding ten completely different looks, let me explain why I suggest bringing so many options and why you probably won’t wear all of them.
On the day of your session, we’ll go through everything you’ve brought together during a personal wardrobe consultation. I’ll help you choose the pieces that photograph beautifully, flatter your figure, complement the setting, and make you feel absolutely gorgeous. Depending on the collection you’ve booked, we’ll select the appropriate number of outfits for your photographs.
The best part? You don’t have to figure everything out on your own. I’ve been photographing women for more than 20 years, and helping you choose what to wear is one of the many ways I make your luxury boudoir photography experience feel comfortable, personal, and fun.
Why I Recommend Bringing 5 to 10 Outfits
You might be wondering why I suggest bringing up to ten outfits when we may only photograph you in two or three. There’s actually a very good reason, and it has everything to do with giving us choices.
Something that looks incredible on a hanger doesn’t always photograph the way you expect. Likewise, an outfit you almost left at home might turn out to be one of my favorites once I see it on you.
Different fabrics, colors, cuts, and textures interact with lighting in different ways. Some pieces create beautiful shapes, while others may have details that don’t translate quite as well in photographs. Additionally, certain outfits might work better with a particular backdrop or the overall mood we’re creating.
By bringing several options, we can experiment a little before your session begins and find the combinations that work best.
I also want you to feel confident in what you’re wearing. If something feels uncomfortable, fits awkwardly, or requires constant adjusting, chances are it won’t be your favorite thing to photograph in.
Having extra options means we can set those pieces aside and choose something that makes you feel amazing instead.
How Many Outfits Will You Actually Wear?
Although I recommend bringing 5 to 10 outfits, the number we’ll actually photograph depends on the Couture Boudoir® collection you’ve selected.
Some of my collections include two outfit changes, while others allow for three or even five different looks. Your session length also plays a role because I want us to have plenty of time to create beautiful photographs without feeling rushed.
For example, a two-outfit session can give us two completely different moods. We might start with something soft and romantic, then switch to a dramatic black lingerie set for a more editorial look.
With three outfits, we can introduce another side of your personality, perhaps something playful, feminine, or a little more daring.
If your collection includes five outfits, we have even more opportunities to create variety throughout your gallery.
However, more outfits don’t automatically mean better photographs. I’d much rather spend time creating gorgeous images in a few carefully selected pieces than rush through a dozen looks just to say we photographed them all.
What Happens During Your Wardrobe Consultation?
This is one of my favorite parts of the experience because I get to see all the beautiful things you’ve chosen and help you put together your final looks.
When you arrive for your session, we’ll go through the outfits you’ve brought. I’ll look at the colors, fabrics, styles, and overall fit, then help you narrow everything down to the pieces I think will photograph best.
We’ll also consider the variety of your selections. For example, if you’ve brought five black lace bodysuits, I might suggest choosing your favorite one or two and adding something with a different color, texture, or silhouette.
Sometimes I’ll recommend an outfit you weren’t particularly excited about because I can already envision how beautiful it will look with the lighting and posing I have in mind.
Other times, we’ll discover that the piece you thought would be your favorite isn’t quite as flattering or comfortable as another option.
And that’s exactly why I love doing this consultation in person!
You’re welcome to bring things you’re unsure about. In fact, I encourage it. I’d rather you bring a few extra pieces than leave something at home because you weren’t certain whether it would work.
What Types of Outfits Should You Bring?
When most women think about boudoir photography, lingerie is usually the first thing that comes to mind. Beautiful lingerie is certainly a wonderful option, but it’s far from the only thing you can wear.
I love creating variety with different styles, textures, and silhouettes. The goal is to choose pieces that reflect your personality while giving us beautiful options for your photographs.
Here are some of my favorite wardrobe choices.
Bodysuits: A beautiful bodysuit is one of my favorite pieces for boudoir photography. They can be incredibly flattering, especially when they have interesting necklines, lace details, or strategically placed sheer panels. Plus, they come in so many styles that you can easily create a romantic, sophisticated, or dramatic look.
Matching lingerie sets: A coordinated bra and panty set is a classic choice. I especially love beautiful lace, delicate embroidery, and interesting strap details. However, fit is everything, so make sure the pieces feel comfortable and don’t dig into your skin.
Silk robes and flowing fabrics: These are wonderful for creating soft, romantic photographs. A robe can also add movement and texture, which I absolutely love incorporating into my images.
Oversized sweaters and button-down shirts: Sometimes the simplest pieces create the most beautiful photographs. An oversized sweater slipping off one shoulder or a crisp white button-down shirt can feel effortlessly sensual without revealing very much.
Something personal: Maybe you have a beautiful vintage piece, a favorite designer item, or something meaningful that you’ve always wanted to be photographed wearing. I love when women bring pieces that tell a little story about who they are.
If you’re looking for more inspiration, I’ve also shared helpful advice on what to wear for your boudoir session, including ideas for creating looks that feel beautiful and authentic to you.
Should You Bring Different Colors?
Absolutely! While black lingerie is timeless and always photographs beautifully, I encourage you to consider bringing a little variety.
Black can create a dramatic, sophisticated look, especially with lace, satin, or sheer fabrics. White and ivory often feel soft and romantic, while jewel tones such as emerald, burgundy, and deep blue can look incredibly luxurious.
Nude and neutral shades can also be beautiful, particularly when the fabric has interesting textures or delicate details.
However, I wouldn’t recommend choosing colors simply because someone told you they’re flattering. What matters most is how the color looks against your skin and how you feel wearing it.
During your wardrobe consultation, I’ll help you determine which colors work best with the lighting, backgrounds, and overall style of your session.
And please don’t feel that you need to purchase something in every color imaginable. A few thoughtfully chosen pieces are much more useful than an entire collection of lingerie that doesn’t feel like you.
Do You Need to Buy New Lingerie?
Not necessarily, and this might be my favorite piece of wardrobe advice to give!
I know how tempting it can be to go shopping for an entirely new collection of lingerie once you’ve booked your session. And if shopping for beautiful things is part of the fun for you, enjoy every minute of it.
However, you absolutely do not need to spend a fortune on new outfits to have gorgeous boudoir photographs.
You may already own pieces that would photograph beautifully. A favorite bodysuit, a pretty bra and panty set, a luxurious robe, or even a simple white shirt can be wonderful options.
In fact, some of the most beautiful photographs I’ve created have featured clothing that wasn’t originally intended for boudoir at all.
If you do decide to shop, I recommend focusing on quality, fit, and pieces that make you feel beautiful rather than purchasing lots of inexpensive items simply to have more choices.
Also, don’t assume that expensive lingerie automatically photographs better. I’ve seen gorgeous pieces from affordable brands and disappointing pieces from luxury designers.
The label inside the garment isn’t what makes the photograph beautiful.
What If You’re Self-Conscious About Certain Areas?
First, I want you to know that almost every woman who comes to me has something she’s a little self-conscious about.
For some women, it’s their stomach. Others mention their arms, thighs, hips, or something else entirely. After more than two decades of photographing women, I’ve heard just about every concern imaginable.
And while I completely understand those feelings, I don’t want you to spend your entire session worrying about the parts of yourself you think need to be hidden.
Instead, we’ll choose outfits that help you feel comfortable and confident while highlighting the features you love.
For example, a bodysuit might provide a little more coverage around your stomach, while a beautiful robe can create softness and movement. High-waisted lingerie can also be a lovely option if you prefer a different silhouette.
Of course, wardrobe is only part of the equation. Lighting, camera angles, and posing all make an enormous difference.
That’s why I provide full guidance on posing throughout your session. You don’t need to know how to stand, where to put your hands, or which angles are most flattering. That’s my job, and I genuinely love doing it.
What Should You Avoid Bringing?
Although I encourage you to bring plenty of options, there are a few things I recommend avoiding when choosing your wardrobe.
First, be careful with lingerie that’s too tight. Straps and bands that dig into your skin can create uncomfortable lines and may require constant adjusting. Even if you love how something looks, it probably won’t be your favorite choice if you can’t move comfortably in it.
Next, pay attention to worn fabrics, loose threads, damaged lace, and pieces that have lost their shape. These little details can become surprisingly noticeable in professional photographs.
I also recommend removing tags and checking that everything is clean and ready to wear before your session.
Additionally, be mindful of overly complicated outfits with dozens of straps, buckles, or closures. Some photograph beautifully, but others can become frustrating when you’re trying to get dressed or move naturally.
Finally, avoid bringing only outfits that look almost identical. Variety gives us more opportunities to create a gallery that feels interesting and personal.
You can find more helpful advice in my boudoir session preparation guide, which covers some of the little things that can make your experience even better.
What About Shoes, Jewelry, and Accessories?
Accessories can be a wonderful way to complete your look, but you don’t need to bring your entire jewelry collection.
A beautiful pair of heels can add elegance and help create gorgeous lines in certain poses. However, if you don’t wear heels or simply don’t feel comfortable in them, please don’t worry. We can create beautiful photographs without them.
I also love delicate jewelry, statement earrings, and meaningful accessories that complement your outfits.
For example, a simple necklace might be perfect with a romantic lace bodysuit, while bold earrings could add a little drama to a more editorial look.
Just remember that accessories should enhance the photograph rather than compete with you.
When we’re going through your wardrobe, I’ll help you decide which pieces work best together. Sometimes less really is more, especially when we want the focus to be on your expression, your beautiful features, and the overall mood of the image.
What If You Don’t Feel Comfortable Wearing Lingerie?
Then you don’t have to wear it!
I think one of the biggest misconceptions about boudoir photography is that you have to wear revealing lingerie or show a certain amount of skin.
That’s simply not true.
Boudoir photography can be sensual, romantic, playful, dramatic, or beautifully understated. The experience should reflect your comfort level and personality, not someone else’s expectations.
Maybe you love the idea of being photographed in a silk robe, an oversized sweater, or a beautiful off-the-shoulder top. Those are all wonderful options.
Some women feel confident wearing very little, while others prefer more coverage. Neither approach is better than the other.
I will always respect your comfort level, and you never need to wear anything that makes you feel uneasy.
In fact, I’ve found that when women feel comfortable in what they’re wearing, their confidence naturally begins to show in their photographs.
And that confidence is far more beautiful than any particular piece of lingerie.
How Should You Pack for Your Boudoir Session?
Once you’ve selected your 5 to 10 outfits, I recommend organizing everything so it’s easy for us to go through during your wardrobe consultation.
Keep matching sets together, and make sure you’ve packed all the pieces that belong to each outfit. It’s surprisingly easy to forget the matching bottoms or an important strap when you’re excitedly packing everything the night before.
I also suggest bringing your accessories in a separate bag so jewelry doesn’t become tangled or lost among your lingerie.
If you have delicate pieces, consider using individual garment bags or pouches to protect the fabric.
Before leaving home, double-check that everything fits comfortably and that you’ve removed any tags. You’ll also want to avoid wearing tight clothing immediately before your session because elastic waistbands, socks, and snug bras can leave temporary marks on your skin.
Most importantly, don’t stress about making every outfit decision in advance. That’s exactly why we’ll have our wardrobe consultation when you arrive.
You bring the possibilities, and I’ll help you narrow them down.
Your Boudoir Wardrobe Should Feel Like You
After photographing women for more than 20 years, I can tell you that the most memorable images aren’t necessarily the ones featuring the most expensive lingerie or the most elaborate outfits.
They’re the photographs where a woman’s personality shines through.
Sometimes that’s a beautiful black lace bodysuit. Other times, it’s an oversized sweater, a favorite shirt, or a piece of lingerie she never imagined she’d feel confident wearing.
What matters most is that you feel comfortable enough to relax, enjoy the experience, and allow yourself to be photographed in a way you may never have seen before.
And if you’re wondering whether you need to lose weight, tone up, or change something about yourself before booking, I hope you’ll reconsider that thought.
You don’t need to become a different version of yourself to deserve beautiful photographs.
My job is to help you see the beauty that’s already there.
Ready to Plan Your Charlotte Boudoir Session?
If you’re preparing for your first boudoir session, here’s what I hope you’ll remember: bring 5 to 10 outfit options, don’t worry about choosing the perfect pieces on your own, and trust that we’ll figure out what works best together.
Your wardrobe consultation is part of the experience, and I’ll help you choose the outfits that complement your figure, reflect your personality, and photograph beautifully.
Whether you’re dreaming of something soft and romantic, bold and editorial, or a little bit of everything, we’ll create a collection of photographs that feels uniquely yours.
At Couture Boudoir®, I offer a luxury boudoir photography experience in Charlotte, NC, with collections beginning at $2,500. From wardrobe guidance and professional hair and makeup to fully guided posing and beautiful finished albums, I’ve thoughtfully designed the experience to help you feel comfortable, confident, and celebrated.
If you’ve been thinking about booking a session, I’d love to hear from you. Send me a message, and we’ll schedule a quick conversation about the experience, the collections, and what you’re envisioning for your photographs.
And please remember, you don’t have to arrive knowing exactly what to wear, how to pose, or even how to feel confident in front of a camera. You just have to show up as yourself, and I’ll help you with the rest.
xo, Critsey