Do You Need to Buy Lingerie for Your Boudoir Session?
This is one of the most common questions I get asked before a boudoir session. The short answer is no, you don’t need to buy lingerie for your boudoir photos. Will lingerie make you feel powerful, sexy, and elevated in front of the camera? Absolutely. But does every single client bring a bag full of brand-new matching sets? Not at all.
At Arielle Roth Boudoir, my focus is not on what you’re wearing but how you feel during your session. Lingerie can be part of that, but it’s only one option. I’ve photographed women in lace bodysuits, cozy sweaters, leather jackets, swimsuits, their favorite bra and underwear, and even nothing at all with my “Just the Sheets” add-on.
Your boudoir experience is about you, not the tags on your lingerie.
Why Lingerie Feels Like the Default
Lingerie and boudoir have been linked together for decades, so it’s natural that people assume one requires the other. The marketing, the Victoria’s Secret catalogs, the Pinterest inspo boards, lingerie gets the spotlight.
But boudoir has evolved. My Michigan boudoir studio is not about cookie-cutter sexy looks. It’s about real empowerment. If lingerie is your thing, let’s play with it. If it feels intimidating, we’ll find other ways to celebrate your body and personality.
Your Options Without Buying Lingerie
You might be surprised by how many boudoir clients never buy a single new piece. Here are tried-and-true alternatives that photograph beautifully:
The Client Closet: My Bay City studio has over 400 lingerie and wardrobe pieces in different sizes, styles, and colors. You can try them on before your shoot and pick what feels best.
Everyday Favorites: Your comfiest bra and panties, an oversized tee, ripped jeans, or your partner’s button-down shirt can create intimate, powerful photos.
Add-Ons: My studio offers options like the “Just the Sheets,” “Wet Skin,” “Honey,” “Angel Wings,” or “Kink” add-ons. These don’t require lingerie at all and give you editorial-level images.
Nude and Implied Nude: Many clients choose to skip outfits entirely. Draped sheets, strategic posing, and creative lighting can make stunning images without a single garment.
Non-Traditional Wardrobe: Think leather jackets, swimsuits, robes, thigh-high boots, or even your favorite dress.
Bottom line: boudoir is not limited to lingerie.
The Case for Buying Lingerie
With that said, lingerie can be a fun investment. Here’s why you might want to treat yourself:
Confidence Boost: Wearing something specifically purchased for your shoot can make you feel special and intentional.
Fit and Style: You can select colors and cuts that highlight your favorite features.
Future Use: Lingerie doesn’t have to be one-time. You can wear it again for date nights, anniversaries, or even just lounging at home.
Keepsakes: Many clients love keeping their boudoir outfits in a special drawer as a reminder of the day they stepped into their power.
If you enjoy shopping or have a vision in mind, lingerie can enhance your experience. Just don’t feel pressured.
Tips for Buying Lingerie If You Choose To
If you do decide to shop, here are my top recommendations:
Focus on Fit, Not Size: Every brand runs differently. Try pieces on before your shoot and prioritize comfort and fit over the number on the tag.
Think Variety: Bring different styles—maybe one bold, one romantic, and one casual. This gives us options for different vibes in your images.
Neutrals and Bold Colors: Black, white, or nude always work. But jewel tones like emerald, ruby, or sapphire look incredible in studio lighting.
Avoid Busy Prints: Simple, solid colors photograph better than heavily patterned lingerie.
Accessorize: Don’t overlook stockings, heels, or jewelry. Small details elevate your look.
Need a starting point? Victoria’s Secret, Adore Me, and Savage X Fenty have options at different price points.
How My Client Closet Makes It Easy
One of the biggest perks of booking with Arielle Roth Boudoir is that you don’t have to stress over shopping. My Bay City studio has over 400 pieces ranging from lingerie sets to bodysuits, robes, and accessories.
You’ll have time before your session to try pieces on, see what flatters you, and decide what makes you feel good. There’s no pressure to bring a thing unless you want to. Many of my Michigan boudoir clients walk in with nothing but their everyday bra and underwear and walk out with a gallery full of stunning images.
This closet is always included in your session. No extra charge.
Beyond Lingerie: Add-Ons That Change the Game
Not sure about lingerie but still want striking, artistic photos? My session add-ons are designed for exactly that:
Just the Sheets: Romantic and intimate implied nude images using nothing but white sheets.
Wet Skin: A glossy, editorial look with water misting to highlight curves and light.
Honey: Dripping with golden sweetness, perfect for bold and sensual shots.
Angel Wings: Dramatic floor-length feathered wings that create unforgettable, goddess-like portraits.
Kink: Leather, chains, and props for an edgier, darker vibe.
Each of these can be styled with or without lingerie.
Why Pressure Doesn’t Belong in Boudoir
Boudoir should never be about pressure. Not pressure to lose weight, not pressure to pose a certain way, and definitely not pressure to buy outfits you don’t want.
Your boudoir session is an act of self-love. If lingerie feels like part of that for you, let’s make it happen. If not, you’re still going to walk away with gorgeous, empowering photos that remind you of your worth.
Do you need lingerie for your boudoir shoot? No. Do you have the option if you want it? Always. At Arielle Roth Boudoir, my Michigan studio is built around choice, comfort, and empowerment. Whether you shop for something new, borrow from the closet, or strip it down to nothing, your images will reflect the most confident, authentic version of you.
That’s what boudoir is all about.
