What to Wear to a Boudoir Shoot: The Minneapolis Photographer's Checklist

What to Wear to a Boudoir Shoot

I''m Emma Ziegler, and after hundreds of boudoir sessions in Minneapolis, I''ve watched clients pack everything from racy lingerie they bought that morning to their husband''s flannel from 2008. The flannel almost always makes the gallery. Here''s the wardrobe guide I send every client before their shoot.

Quick Answer

Bring 3–5 outfits: (1) a classic black or neutral lingerie set, (2) a bodysuit or one-piece, (3) an oversized button-down shirt (white or chambray), (4) a slip dress or robe, and (5) one wildcard piece that feels uniquely you — a sports jersey, fishnets, a leather jacket, your partner''s t-shirt. Stick to clothes that fit today, not aspirational sizes. Avoid tight elastic an hour before the shoot — it leaves marks on camera.

The 5 Outfits Every Boudoir Client Should Bring

1. A Classic Lingerie Set

Black, ivory, deep red, or champagne. Two-piece (bra + bottoms) photographs better than busy patterns. Brands clients love: Honey Birdette, Lounge, Adore Me, Savage X Fenty, Victoria''s Secret Body by Victoria.

2. A Bodysuit

Sheer mesh, lace, or solid stretch. Bodysuits elongate the torso and are forgiving across every body type. Black sheer is the most-photographed item in my entire studio.

3. An Oversized Button-Down or Sweater

This is the "cozy" outfit and almost always the gallery favorite. A white men''s button-down, a chunky cream knit, or your partner''s flannel all work.

4. A Slip Dress, Robe, or Long Lace Kimono

Adds movement and drape. Silk, satin, or lace — think old Hollywood. Great for bed shots and standing window light.

5. A Wildcard That''s Uniquely You

Examples: a Vikings jersey, a leather jacket over bare skin, fishnets and combat boots, a cowboy hat, a vintage band tee, your wedding veil. This is the outfit that turns a beautiful gallery into your gallery.

What to Leave at Home

• Anything that doesn''t fit today (do not buy lingerie one size down "as motivation")
• Brand-new shoes you haven''t broken in
• Heavy patterns or logos (unless it''s the wildcard)
• Anything with stiff underwire that digs in
• Bronzer or self-tanner applied within 48 hours (it photographs orange)

The 24-Hour Prep Checklist

• Take off rings, watches, tight socks, and bras at least an hour before
• Drink water — like, a lot of water
• Eat a real meal before hair and makeup (sessions run 4+ hours total)
• Skip the gym (post-workout flush photographs splotchy)
• Bring nude thong underwear for under sheer pieces
• Bring a robe to walk between sets

Frequently Asked Questions

What size lingerie should I buy for boudoir?

Your current size. Always. Lingerie that''s even half a size too small creates rolls and red marks; too loose looks sloppy on camera. If in doubt, size up — I can pin or clip in the back.

Should I get a spray tan before my boudoir shoot?

Generally no. Most spray tans photograph orange or streaky under studio light. If you always tan, do it 4 days before so it''s faded and natural by shoot day.

Do I need to wax or shave before boudoir?

Your call entirely. Most clients shave or wax 24–48 hours before to avoid razor irritation showing on camera. Body hair is also gorgeous and is increasingly part of the natural-boudoir aesthetic.

Can I wear jeans or athletic wear for a boudoir shoot?

Yes — denim shorts with a bralette and a "girl-next-door" set is one of my most-requested looks. Sports bras and bike shorts also work beautifully for athletic-style boudoir.

What if I don''t own any lingerie?

Bring an oversized white t-shirt and white cotton underwear — it''s the most-printed outfit in my studio. We can also order pieces together before your session.

How many outfits do I actually need?

3 is the minimum, 5 is the sweet spot, 6+ is too many to shoot in one session.

Ready?

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