Wardrobe Checklist: What to Bring (and Leave Behind) for Your Boudoir Shoot

A Grown Woman’s Guide to Boudoir Style That Feels as Good as It Looks

Packing for a boudoir shoot isn’t about pleasing anyone else. It’s about bringing pieces that make you feel powerful, sensual, and elevated. Think less “what would a model wear” and more “what makes me feel unstoppable.”

As a San Francisco boudoir photographer specializing in women over 40, I’ve helped hundreds of clients curate wardrobe collections that celebrate their confidence, not just their curves.

If you're wondering what to pack, what to skip, and how to make every piece feel like a love note to yourself, this checklist is for you.

The Essentials to Bring

1. Lingerie That Actually Fits

Comfortable, flattering pieces are non-negotiable. Think lace, mesh or silk in silhouettes that suit your body.

Bring:

• A supportive underwire or balconette bra

• High-waisted panties or matching sets

• Bodysuits (bonus for mesh panels or plunging necklines)

• Corsets or bustiers if you love structure

Tip: Skip worn-out pieces or ones that pinch or roll. If you don’t love it at home, you won’t love it on camera.

2. A Soft, Sexy Robe

Sheer, satin, lace, or even your favorite cashmere robe adds mystery and dimension. Robes are also a great warm-up piece to ease into the shoot.

3. Something Unexpected

Not all boudoir is lace and heels. Consider:

• A white button-down shirt

• A leather jacket

• A silky slip dress

• A long strand of pearls

• A blazer (trust me—it’s a power move)

4. Shoes That Make You Feel Bold

Heels elongate the legs, add elegance, and shift your posture into goddess mode.
Bring one or two pairs you can walk and pose in comfortably.

5. Accessories With Personality

Less is more—but don’t skip:

• Statement earrings

• Delicate necklaces

• A favorite ring or bracelet

• A scarf or hat if it feels like you

6. Nude and Black Thongs or Briefs

They disappear under sheer pieces and can be mixed with robes or unstructured looks. Seamless is best.

7. Personal Touches

Your favorite perfume. A silk eye mask. A handwritten note to your future self. These little details add soul to the shoot—and help you drop into the experience.

🚫 What to Leave Behind

❌ Anything You Feel Indecisive About

If it doesn’t make you feel gorgeous, leave it out. The camera picks up on how you feel in your clothes.

❌ Loud Logos or Distracting Prints

Clean lines and solid colors photograph best.

❌ Neon Colors

These often reflect unflattering tones on skin, especially in soft studio lighting.

❌ Overly Complicated Lingerie

If it takes 10 minutes to get into, it’ll likely take 20 to adjust mid-shoot. Simple and elegant wins.

👜 Pro Tip: Pack in Categories

Organize your wardrobe into these four looks:

1. Soft & Romantic – Lace bodysuit + sheer robe

2. Bold & Confident – Bra + garter + leather jacket

3. Casual Sexy – Button-down + boyshorts

4. Bare & Beautiful – A sheet, a silhouette, just you

We’ll mix and match from there.

Confidence Is the Real Dress Code

Your wardrobe doesn’t have to be fancy. It just has to feel aligned. When you feel like yourself, the camera doesn’t capture outfits—it captures essence.

And that’s the whole point.

Ready to curate your signature boudoir look?

My San Francisco boudoir studio includes wardrobe consultations and style guidance designed for women over 40 who want to look—and feel—phenomenal.

👙 [Schedule Your Wardrobe Planning Call]