Let’s talk about something that comes up often when clients are preparing for their boudoir session: the client closet.
If you’ve been researching boudoir photographers, you’ve probably seen this term floating around. It’s exactly what it sounds like: a wardrobe of lingerie pieces available for clients to borrow during their shoot. While it’s a current trend, I’ve made the intentional decision not to provide a client closet, and I’d love to tell you why.
This isn’t just about logistics and there are logistics to it, but it’s about creating the best possible experience for you.
Let’s Be Honest: One Size Never Fits All
We all know lingerie sizing can be a bit of a mess. You might be one size in bras, another in panties, and a completely different size in bodysuits. Add in different body shapes, heights, and personal preferences, and suddenly a client closet becomes more frustrating than helpful.
When you bring your own pieces, you’re choosing items that you feel good in. You know they fit. You know how they sit on your body. That confidence will come through in your photos, and that’s something no borrowed outfit can replace.
A Quick Note: No Shade Here
I want to be super clear: there’s absolutely no shame in loving the idea of a client closet or being a photographer who offers one. Everyone runs their business and boudoir experience in a way that feels right for them, and that’s the beauty of this industry. Some clients love having access to a curated collection, and that’s a wonderful option. For me, it just wasn’t the right fit. I’ve found so much more magic when clients choose pieces that feel personal to them. It’s all about choice, comfort, and what makes you feel your best.
Hygiene, Comfort, and Confidence Matter
Boudoir is an intimate experience. You’re showing up vulnerable, raw, and ready to step into your power. That can be hard to do if you’re unsure who wore the outfit before you or how it was cleaned. Even with the best sanitizing intentions, wearing lingerie that’s been worn by others can feel uncomfortable for some clients. I want your boudoir session to feel luxurious and personal from start to finish. You deserve fresh, new, yours.
You Have So Many Affordable Options Now
One of the biggest myths about boudoir is that you have to spend a ton of money on fancy lingerie. But the truth is, some of the most stunning pieces I’ve seen come from places like:
Amazon: Fast, affordable, and tons of variety
Shein: Great for budget-friendly bodysuits, robes, and sets
Target: Surprisingly chic options that are flattering and easy to wear
Aerie: Comfy and sexy with real-body vibes
Savage X Fenty, Hips & Curves, Victoria’s Secret for when you want to splurge a little. And don’t forget what you already own. An oversized sweater. A sheer robe. A silky button-down. Even a Chiefs jersey. Sometimes those personal pieces turn out to be the most powerful.
Finding Your Style Is Part of the Empowerment
Picking your own outfits is part of the magic. It’s the moment where you take up space in your own sensuality. You get to explore what feels like you. Do you want soft and romantic? Bold and dramatic? Fun and flirty?
I love helping guide clients with ideas. I’ll send you a style guide, inspiration board, and we can even chat about options before your session. You’re never doing this alone. But the final say is all yours, and that’s what makes it meaningful in my humbled opinion ;)
Pro Tips for Shopping and Styling Your Session
If you’re wondering where to start, here are a few tips:
💗 Start with what makes you feel good. Don’t worry about trends. Do you love lace? Go for it. Prefer a sleek satin slip? Say less.
🖤 Layer and play. Robes, thigh-highs, statement jewelry, leather jackets. Accessories can take a look to the next level and add variety.
💫 Pick 2–3 outfits. Variety helps you get more from your session and gives us flexibility to move between moods and setups. Even if your package is one outfit, bringing 1-2 extras for us to look at together can help you decide.
📷 Try it on ahead of time. Move around in it. Sit, stand, arch. See how it behaves and how it makes you feel.
Boudoir is more than lingerie. At the end of the day, this session isn’t about the outfit. It’s about you. Your energy. Your journey. Your beauty, exactly as it is. Choosing your own wardrobe is just another way of stepping fully into that experience. When you show up wearing something you picked, something that hugs your body and speaks to your style, you walk in with a little extra confidence. And I promise, the camera feels that.
Still need help? I’ve got you. I may not offer a client closet, but I’m 100% here to help you plan your looks. Every client receives a detailed prep guide with ideas, tips, and links to affordable finds. I’ve styled women of all body types, sizes, and styles, and together, we’ll make sure you’re ready to rock your session. So go ahead and shop for that lace number, throw on your favorite band tee, or steal your partner’s button-down. This session is yours. And every piece you wear should feel like you.
