Boudoir Photoshoot Lingerie Style Guide

Lingerie is more than just clothing, it's a confidence booster, a mood setter, and an expression of your personality. Choosing the right lingerie can make your boudoir session extraordinary by enhancing your best features and showcasing your unique style. At Belle-Vous Boudoir Photography, your comfort and confidence are our top priorities. Here’s a detailed guide to help you find the perfect lingerie for your shoot.

Understanding Your Body Type & Flattering Styles

Knowing your body type helps in selecting lingerie that highlights your best attributes and gently minimizes areas you're less confident about.

Hourglass Shape

Hourglass body shape for boudoir lingerie fit

Your hips and bust are proportional, with a defined waist.

  • Ideal Styles:

    • Corsets & Bustiers: Accentuate your curves by cinching the waist and enhancing your bust.

    • High-waisted Panties: Highlight your defined waist.

    • Teddies: Embrace your natural proportions with a body-hugging design.


Pear Shape

Pear shape fit guide for boudoir lingerie

You have a smaller bust and waist, with fuller hips and thighs.

Ideal Styles:

  • Babydolls or Chemises: Softly accentuate your upper body and flow gracefully over your hips.

  • Bustiers with Detailing: Draw attention upwards with decorative bust details.

  • Cheeky Panties: Flattering cut that highlights your curves beautifully.


Apple Shape

Apple shape lingerie fit for boudoir shoot

You carry your weight mostly around your middle, with slender arms and legs.

Ideal Styles:

  • Babydolls & Slips: Drapes gently over your midsection, offering comfort and confidence.

  • Teddies & Bodysuits: Look for styles with strategic panels that elongate your body.

  • High-waisted Panties: Provide support and smooth your silhouette elegantly.


Athletic or Rectangular Shape

Athletic shape guide for boudoir lingerie

Your waist, hips, and bust have similar measurements, often slender and lean.

Ideal Styles:

  • Push-up Bras & Demi-Cup Bras: Create curves and enhance your bust.

  • Boy Shorts & Brazilian-cut Panties: Accentuate hips and add softness to your silhouette.

  • Corsets with defined Waistlines: Add shape and dimension, creating a sensual silhouette.

Matching Lingerie to Your Style & Mood

The right lingerie should resonate with your personality and match the vibe you envision for your shoot.

Romantic & Elegant

Soft, delicate, and refined. Perfect for bridal boudoir or gentle, romantic portraits.

Recommended Pieces:

  • Lace bodysuits

  • Silk robes paired with matching lingerie sets

  • Vintage-inspired slips in pastel or neutral tones


Bold & Sensual

Daring styles that highlight confidence and sensuality, ideal for dramatic boudoir sessions.

Recommended Pieces:

  • Black corsets or bustiers

  • Teddies with sheer panels

  • Garter belts and thigh-high stockings


Playful & Flirty

Fun and youthful styles, excellent for sessions with a spirited vibe.

Recommended Pieces:

  • Cheeky knickers with matching demi-cup bras

  • Rompers in bright, playful colors

  • Casual clothing paired creatively with lingerie (like ripped jeans or oversized sweaters)

Empowered & Confident

Celebrating strength and confidence, this style is powerful and assertive.

Recommended Pieces:

  • Structured bodysuits with bold lines

  • Leather or latex accents combined with lingerie

  • High heels in bold colors (black, red, nude)

Choosing Lingerie for Different Boudoir Vibes

Different lingerie choices set the tone and aesthetic for your photo session:

Vintage Charm

Capture timeless elegance with vintage-inspired lingerie.

  • High-waisted briefs paired with classic corsets.

  • Silk stockings and garters with vintage lace bras.

  • Subtle makeup and soft curls complete the vintage vibe.

Minimalist Chic

Less is more, highlighting your natural beauty with simplicity.

  • Neutral-coloured lingerie with clean lines.

  • Seamless bras and panties or bodysuits.

  • Soft lighting and natural, minimal makeup.



Luxurious & Glamorous

For a lavish, upscale session that exudes sophistication.

  • Rich jewel-toned lingerie sets (emerald, burgundy, sapphire).

  • Satin robes layered over delicate lace lingerie.

  • Statement jewellery and dramatic makeup for added allure.

Important Tips & Things to Avoid

Colour Choices

  • Recommended: Classic black, jewel tones (emerald, burgundy), neutrals (nude, champagne, blush), soft pastels.

  • Avoid: Fluorescent colours, overly bright colours, or stark white that contrasts harshly with your skin tone.

Fabric Choices

  • Recommended: Lace, silk, satin (great for luxurious looks), sheer fabrics (excellent for sensual yet tasteful images).

  • Avoid: Fabrics that reflect too much light or overly shiny materials, as they can distract in images.

Accessories & Shoes

  • Recommended: Nude and black high heels elongate legs, subtle jewellery adds elegance.

  • Avoid: Ankle straps on shoes (cut off legs visually), excessive or overly costume-like accessories.

Preparing for Your Session: Last-Minute Essentials

Emergencies happen, prepare these basics:

  • Neutral-coloured shoes (nude/black heels)

  • Lace robes (versatile and flattering)

  • Spare bodysuits and sheer cover-ups

  • Seamless nude underwear and adhesive bra solutions

Additional Quick Tips for Perfect Fit

  • Always try lingerie before the shoot day.

  • Avoid overly padded bras, as they can create unnatural lines or gaps.

  • Online shopping can be risky for lingerie, ensure enough time for returns and exchanges.

Confidence Above All

The ultimate lingerie choice is the one that makes you feel gorgeous, empowered, and confident. Remember, the goal of your boudoir session at Belle-Vous Boudoir Photography is to celebrate your unique beauty and personality. Trust your instincts, choose pieces that resonate with you, and you'll radiate confidence in every photograph.

Need Further Assistance?

We at Belle-Vous Boudoir Photography are here to help you every step of the way. If you have any questions or need personalized recommendations, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

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