The Ultimate Lingerie Guide for your Boudoir Shoot: PART ONE | New York Boudoir Photography

Stunning little black lingerie number! 

Embracing Your Personal Style: Finding Lingerie that Reflects You

So, you looooove lingerie. Maybe you’ve got a set (or five) already stashed away. Maybe you’re drooling over that collection you’ve saved on Instagram, just waiting for the right moment. Either way, one of the most frequently asked questions I get is, "WHAT THE HELL DO I WEAR?!" And don’t worry, babe—I come locked and loaded with all the deets you need before your Boudoir by Afton session.

I get it, though. With the endless variety of lingerie options out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Do you go soft and romantic with lace? Maybe a full matching set with garters? Or... are we supposed to wear underwire for boudoir?! And what if lace isn’t your thing at all—what if it’s leather or mesh that makes you feel alive? What if your hottest outfit is that old, cozy college pullover? Is that even allowed?! (Spoiler alert: hell yeah)

Take a deep breath—I got you. Let’s walk this all the way back and talk about three crucial steps to nail down your boudoir wardrobe. Starting here will set you up for success when styling yourself for your shoot.

Setting a Budget: Finding Luxury that Fits You

Before we dive into your dream lingerie looks, let’s talk budget. Money isn’t always the sexiest topic, but it’s the reality of getting those killer outfits. Everyone's budget is going to be different. Some clients can’t wait to drop cash on brand-new looks, while others have different financial priorities. And, of course, there are plenty who land somewhere in between. The good news? No matter where you fall, there are ways to look amazing.

Here’s a little context: A bra and panty set from Victoria’s Secret (we’re talking mid-range here) will set you back about $100. If you’re ready to invest in high-end brands like Agent Provocateur or La Perla, we’re talking more like $300-$500+ per set. But those aren’t the only options! You can get stunning pieces from brands like Savage X Fenty at a more wallet-friendly price, or even explore vintage lingerie shops for unique finds. And when you book your Boudoir by Afton experience, you receive a full guide to styling yourself with endless shopping options.

Start with what feels financially comfortable for you. Whether you’re splurging or going budget-savvy, the right lingerie is out there, waiting to make you feel like the bombshell you already are.

Choose Garments that Reflect YOU—Not Just What’s "Sexy"

Now that you’ve got your budget in mind, it’s time to think about you—the real, incredible human being this boudoir shoot is all about. The goal here isn’t to look like a Victoria’s Secret ad or what someone else thinks is sexy. It’s to showcase what makes you feel sexy and powerful.

Maybe you’re drawn to lace or maybe it’s not your aesthetic. Maybe underwire bras feel like torture devices, or maybe you feel your most confident in a leather bodysuit or something sheer and bold. Maybe chains are your truth! Whatever it is, that’s where you should start. Think about the pieces, fabrics, and materials that you’re drawn to and, make you feel connected to yourself, and show off your personality.

And let’s be real—if what makes you feel sexiest is an old college sweatshirt with nothing underneath, go for it! Your boudoir session should reflect who you are, not who you think you should be. If you're comfortable, confident, and feeling your best, the camera will love it.

Navigating Lingerie Options: How to Find the Best Boudoir Lingerie for Your Body Type

Lingerie shopping can feel like navigating a maze—so many styles, so many fabrics, and it’s hard to know what will actually look amazing and feel comfortable. The key is to focus on what highlights your unique body and makes you feel incredible. Remember, boudoir is about celebrating you—every curve, angle, and shape—so let's break down some tips to help you feel empowered, no matter your body type.

With so many styles out there, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed. Do you go for a bodysuit, a corset, a bralette? Should it be lacy, sheer, or something edgier like mesh? The key is to start by narrowing it down to what makes you feel empowered and beautiful.

If You’re Curvy or Plus-Size:

Your curves are stunning, and they deserve to be celebrated! High-waisted panties are often a go-to for curvier bodies because they emphasize the waist and hips while providing a little extra tummy support if that makes you feel comfortable. Pair that with a bralette or balconette bra to offer support while showing off your natural shape. Bodysuits are also an amazing option—they smooth and highlight while giving a sleek, sexy silhouette.

Look for pieces with stretch in the fabric so they mold to your body comfortably, and don’t be afraid to go for sheer fabrics like mesh or lace. These textures add sensuality while letting you feel supported in all the right ways.

If You’re Petite:

For petite bodies, it’s all about finding pieces that enhance your proportions without overwhelming your frame. Delicate bralettes, lace bodysuits, or sets with thinner straps can highlight your natural shape without feeling bulky. If you want to elongate your legs, garter belts and thigh-high stockings are a killer way to create that illusion. High-cut panties can draw the eye upward and enhance your length.

Avoid overly padded or structured bras unless they’re your personal preference. A soft triangle bra or plunge neckline can give a softer, more natural shape, emphasizing the delicate beauty of your small frame!

For Smaller Busts:

If you’re someone with a smaller bust, you have a lot of flexibility in the lingerie department. You can totally rock bralettes with little to no padding, which can give you that effortlessly sexy look. Sheer or lacy tops are great for adding texture and drawing attention to your décolletage without needing a ton of support.

If you want a bit more shape or volume, try a balconette or lightly padded bra for a little lift. But again, the focus is on whatever makes you feel the most you. If a voice is coming into your head saying, you need more of this or less of that, ask yourself if that feels authentic. If it does, go for it! If not, I’ll be the first to tell you to leave it behind.

For Larger Busts:

Having a fuller chest means finding pieces that support and lift while still looking sultry. Look for bras with underwire or more structured cups that keep everything in place without digging in or feeling uncomfortable. Plunge or balconette bras can be great for support while also showing off your natural cleavage.

If you’re not into the idea of a bra at all (as a fellow friend with a bigger bust, some days a bra is Public Enemy #1), a supportive bodysuit or longline bralette can give you a smooth, flattering shape without feeling too restrictive. Bonus: bodysuits look stunning in photos and give a beautiful, elongated silhouette.

For Taller Bodies:

If you’re on the taller side, thigh-high stockings or a garter belt can really accentuate your height and draw attention to your legs, if you’re looking to show them off. Bodysuits with a high cut at the leg can also highlight your natural shape, giving you a sleek and sexy look.

Because you have more length to work with, you can experiment with pieces that have more detail—like strappy lingerie or pieces with cutouts that draw attention to your natural shape. Don’t be afraid to play with bold looks!

If You Have a Maternity Body:

Parent-to-be, I see you! Whether you're rocking your bump proudly or looking for ways to feel supported, there are plenty of options that can make you feel gorgeous and comfortable. Look for pieces with soft, stretchy fabrics that mold to your body as it changes. A flowy robe or kimono can be a great addition to give you something to drape over your lingerie while still showing off that beautiful shape.

Empire waist bodysuits or soft bralettes can provide gentle support without pressing too much on the belly. Focus on comfort, and know that your body is glowing—let’s celebrate it!

For Gender Non-Conforming Bodies:

For those whose bodies don’t fit neatly into traditional lingerie categories—or for anyone navigating how to feel affirmed in their lingerie—know that your boudoir session is all about celebrating your body, exactly as it is. Lingerie doesn’t have to fit a binary idea of “feminine” or “masculine.” You can rock a bralette with a boxer-style brief or go for a more androgynous bodysuit. There are some great lingerie options out there that are tuck-friendly, such as Untag and Gaff and Go.

If you prefer something less revealing, layering pieces like sheer robes, oversized shirts, or mesh fabrics can give you that sultry vibe without feeling too exposed. The goal is for you to feel seen, validated, and totally you in whatever makes you feel amazing.

Comfort Comes First—Always

Regardless of body type, the most important thing is that you feel comfortable in what you're wearing. Boudoir shoots are about empowerment, and that starts with you feeling at ease in your own skin. If something doesn’t feel right—whether it’s an underwire that digs into your ribs or a fabric that’s too itchy—ditch it! The most flattering lingerie will always be the one you feel your best in, because confidence is what makes the magic happen.

Pro Tip: Bring a variety of pieces to your shoot so we can play around with different looks. That way, we can figure out what flatters your body and highlights your favorite features.

No matter what your body looks like or what styles you gravitate toward, the goal of your boudoir shoot is to make you feel empowered, celebrated, and unstoppable. Trust that whatever you choose will look incredible because it’s about you—not the lingerie itself. And don’t worry if you’re unsure what’ll look best—I’m here to help guide you through the process. During our pre-shoot consult, I’ll make sure we’ve got a clear idea of what will photograph beautifully and feel amazing.

This is just Part 1 of our Ultimate Lingerie Guide series, where we’ll continue to dive deeper into all things boudoir and lingerie. But for now, remember that your boudoir session is about embracing you—budget, style, and all.

In love and lace,

Afton