How to Choose the Perfect Lingerie for Your Body Type
A Boudoir Photographer’s Guide to Flaunting What You’ve Got
Hey there, gorgeous! So, you’re on the hunt for that perfect lingerie to make you feel like the queen you are for your boudoir session. Fabulous! But let’s face it, finding the right lingerie can sometimes feel like searching for a needle in a lace haystack. Don’t worry, I’ve got your back.
As a boudoir photographer, I’ve worked with hundreds of women of all shapes and sizes – and trust me, every body is a boudoir body. The secret sauce? Wearing lingerie that celebrates your unique features, flatters your figure, and makes you feel amazing from the inside out.
Let’s break it down by body type and explore what works best – with a few style tips sprinkled in along the way.
1. Hourglass Shape: Accentuate Those Curves
You have: Balanced bust and hips with a defined waist
Your lingerie goals: Emphasize that waist and enhance your natural symmetry.
Try these:
Matching Sets: A well-fitted bra and panty combo highlights your proportionate shape.
Corsets or Bustiers: These sculpt your waist and enhance your bust, giving you classic pin-up vibes.
High-Waisted Bottoms: Think vintage glam – they enhance your waist while giving full booty coverage.
Pro Tip: Stretchy lace hugs curves like a dream, and structured cups provide all-day support during your session.
2. Apple Shape: Flaunt That Bust
You have: A fuller bust and midsection, with leaner legs and hips
Your lingerie goals: Balance your shape while supporting your gorgeous bust.
Try these:
Plunge Bras: Designed to support and shape, they’re perfect for showing off your décolletage.
Empire-Waist Babydolls: These cinch right under the bust and flow beautifully over the midsection.
Shapewear Bodysuits: Don’t underestimate a sleek, sexy bodysuit with tummy control – it’s equal parts functional and fabulous.
Pro Tip: Look for wide straps and underwire for maximum comfort, especially if you’re busty.
3. Pear Shape: Highlight the Upper Body
You have: Narrower shoulders and bust, with fuller hips and thighs
Your lingerie goals: Draw attention upward and elongate the lower body.
Try these:
Push-Up Bras or Halter Tops: Lift and enhance the bust for a balanced silhouette.
A-Line Chemises: These flow gently over the hips while keeping the focus on your upper body.
Detailed Bras: Ruffles, lace appliqués, or bold colors up top can guide the eye where you want it.
Pro Tip: Choose lighter or brighter colors for tops and darker tones for bottoms to create contrast.
4. Rectangle Shape: Create Curves
You have: Bust, waist, and hips that are similar in width
Your lingerie goals: Add volume and definition to create a more curvy shape.
Try these:
Padded Bras and Bralettes: Add dimension up top.
Waist Cinchers and Belts: Accentuate your waist and create an hourglass illusion.
Cut-Outs and Strappy Details: Strategic lines and patterns can sculpt and define.
Pro Tip: Play with textures like mesh or satin to add depth and contrast to your look.
5. Inverted Triangle Shape: Balance It Out
You have: Broad shoulders and bust, with narrower hips
Your lingerie goals: Soften your upper body and draw the eye downward.
Try these:
V-Neck or Plunge Styles: These lengthen the torso and minimize width up top.
Detailed Bottoms: Think fringe, lace-up sides, or ruffles to add fullness to your hips.
Chemises or Rompers: Flowy silhouettes can balance your proportions perfectly.
Pro Tip: Stick to minimal or solid colors up top and go wild with prints and details below!
6. Plus Size: Celebrate Every Inch
You have: Beautiful curves in all the right places
Your lingerie goals: Embrace your body, highlight your shape, and feel like the goddess you are.
Try these:
Supportive Bras with Underwire: Comfort and lift are key – wide bands and straps can make all the difference.
High-Waisted Sets: These offer tummy control and full-coverage glamour.
Lace Robes and Sheer Panels: Add dimension, movement, and drama.
Pro Tip: Don’t hide behind fabric – sheer styles are so sexy, and you’re worthy of showing off.
7. Petite: Play with Proportions
You have: A smaller frame and may be under 5’4″
Your lingerie goals: Elongate your figure and avoid styles that overwhelm your frame.
Try these:
Triangle Bralettes: Simple, minimal designs help avoid bulk.
High-Cut Panties or Bodysuits: These make your legs look longer instantly.
Vertical Stripes and Subtle Prints: These elongate and flatter without overpowering.
Pro Tip: Look for adjustable straps and minimal fabric so nothing swallows your frame.
Color, Fabric & Fit: The Magic Trio
It’s not just about the shape – the color, fabric, and fit matter too.
Color: Jewel tones flatter all skin types, while pastels give soft, romantic vibes. Black is timeless, but don’t be afraid to explore bold hues.
Fabric: Mesh and lace are my personal favorites – they stretch beautifully and photograph like a dream. Satin gives luxe elegance, while sheer fabrics add mystery.
Fit: Above all else, make sure it fits properly. A bra digging in or panties cutting across the hips can be distracting in photos and uncomfortable for you.
My Client Closet Has You Covered
Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t be. My client closet has over 350 pieces in every size from XS to 5XL, including:
Robes, body suits, matching sets, teddies, and more
Specialty pieces like angel wings, sheer skirts, and harnesses
Accessories like garters, heels, and thigh-highs to elevate your look
We’ll even do a try-on session before your shoot to help you find the perfect fit. And yes, I shoot in my own underwear so you know you’re not alone in this.
Final Thoughts: Confidence Is Queen
Here’s the truth: the most flattering lingerie is the one that makes you feel unstoppable. Don’t get caught up in rules – use them as a starting point, but let your energy lead.
Own your body. Celebrate your story. Let your lingerie be the armor you wear to show up for yourself.
You’re not just doing this for photos – you’re doing it for you.
Ready to Book Your Boudoir Session?
Let’s get you into the studio, step into your power, and create magic together.
