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THE DRESSING ROOM
Thoughts
&
Musings of Sirens
5 BEST NAIL COLORS FOR BOUDOIR SESSIONS
What do you think of when you hear the words boudoir photography? Maybe you think of sexy women in lingerie, strutting their stuff for the camera. Or maybe you think of models with the “perfect” figure, makeup, and hair. Maybe you think I could never do that or I wish that were me.
When you book a boudoir shoot with us at the Seattle Boudoir & Co., we are sure you would want to look your best from head to toe. You have your designer lingerie ready and your sassy attitude on point, but what about your nails?
Though I want this session to be about you and not your nails, manicured nails will only add to the beauty to your boudoir photos. Dark nail polish can look dirty and be distracting in photographs. So, choose the best one to look your best. Here are my top five choices for your nails.
My Top Five Choices For Nails
French Manicure
This is such a classic look. You can’t go wrong with a classic french manicure. It goes with everything! It can be finished with a clear polish to add a hint of shine under the lights. Nude nail polish is also a neutral and subtle choice that is ideal for boudoir shoots.
Any Soft Pink
If your goal is a soft and dreamy photoshoot, shades of light pink will be your go-to choice. Light pink won’t jump out in contrast and remains neutral in all light. My personal favorite soft pink is Bubble Bath by OPI
Golds and Silvers
Gold and Silvers are a great way to bring bling without being overstated. Glittery nails are perfect for a more playful or glamorous photoshoot. I love gold sparkles around the holidays.
Red
Red is a classic bold color that is a great choice for a retro or edgy look. Red tends to pop quite vividly in photos. So, if you are wearing white or pastels, it will act as an eye-catching contrast and will definitely suit your inner wild.
Natural Look
Maybe you are not into manicures at all and you want a natural look, which is totally fine. You can still get a manicure with clear gel. Your nails will be shaped, buffed, edges filed and cuticles removed.
Nails Do Matter
I would suggest you to stay away from black, almost black, and electric or fluorescent colors. While they are fun, they are the least versatile. I want you to have two or three cohesive looks, so pick something that will look good with all your outfits. Consider the colors that you normally wear, the outfits you have chosen, and then think of a color that will be cohesive with all of them.
Let’s say you have a white lacy teddy, a purple velvet bodysuit and a black leather jacket with black bra and black boots. If you pick something dark it might go well with the black and even the purple, but might throw off the soft and elegant vibe of white. Pick any of the options above and it would flow well throughout all sets.
If you are not used to getting your nails done this will be a nice treat. Be sure to get them done about 2-3 days before your session. You want the redness around your cuticles to subside but you don't want any wear on the polish to occur so 2-3 days is a good time. Personally, I rarely get a manicure. Instead, I opt for the shellac or gel and I know it will hold the longest. You too can try this.
Once you are done beautifying your nails, just sit back and relax. Stay calm and reserve that energy for an exciting boudoir session. To be ready with some poses, you can look up our Instagram and Facebook.
DESIGNER LINGERIE— IS IT WORTH IT?
Let’s talk about designer lingerie…is it worth it? In this post we go over the pros and cons of investing in designer lingerie and what brands we love the most for all bodies.
When booking us for a boudoir photography session at Seattle Boudoir & Co., you might want to shop some of your own lingerie. But many of us have never felt the need to buy designer lingerie or undergarments before this, so it is quite likely that you might get confused about the brands and the fits. Moreover, you might be unsure if designer lingerie is worth spending your money on.
As a boudoir photographer, who has bought lots of designer lingerie for her Clients Wardrobe at Seattle Boudoir & Co. and seen them adorning it in hundreds of her sessions, I can say without any hesitation that DESIGNER LINGERIE IS TOTALLY WORTH IT.
GET FITTED AT A BOUTIQUE
If you have never invested in designer lingerie, I would suggest starting small. If you have never had a good quality bra, I suggest going to a boutique and being fitted. From personal experience — being fitted into the right size after being in the wrong size my whole life really changed my perspective and my posture. You will learn a lot about your body and feel much more confident about yourself. All of a sudden you would realize that good lingerie would fit better.
I learned that many designer lingerie is offered according to bra sizes as opposed to XS-XL. Designer lingerie is made differently keeping all body shapes in mind. It can be custom-made and would justify all the money you spend on it.
Have a look at some of my favorite designer lingerie brands!
MY FAVORITE 5 DESIGNER LINGERIE BRANDS
1. BORDELLE
My favorite and most amazing line of designer lingerie is Bordelle. I drool a little and fantasize about it. You can try a few pieces of this line.
This is an expensive option so sometimes I prefer indulging in my other favorites which are a little more economic.
2. ADINA REAY
Adina Reay has a wonderful selection for the busty topped women. One day I saw the most beautiful teddy by her and it was my mission to have it. It was still a bit on the indulgent side. After a great hunt I found one on sale. It was worth the wait.
3. FLEUR DU MAL
Fleur du Mal is my other favorite line. I love the colors they offer in their designer pieces.
4. HONEY BIRDETTE
Another amazing site with high-quality lingerie, accessories, and toys is Honey Birdette. They also offer some daring accessories... Wink Wink.
5. PLAYFUL PROMISES
If you are looking for a variety of high-end lingerie lines with a vintage feel hop over to Playful promises. Playful promises offers luxury lingerie in plus sizes. Gabi Fresh in collaboration with playful promises, is another fantastic designer line for all the curvy gals.
BUY IN ADVANCE
Once you have decided to buy designer lingerie for yourself before your boudoir shoot with us, make sure to plan in advance, leaving you with enough time for shipping. You are not going to get a 2 day delivery on these, so plan for up to six weeks.
If you don’t have that time then hop over to my other blog — Last-Minute Boudoir Solutions. Also, if you are in Seattle and would like to stop by a boutique that offers some of the lines mentioned above I highly recommend stopping by Bellefleur Lingerie Boutique.
Featured Vendors
Bordelle
Adina Reay
Fleur Du Mal
Honey Birdette
Playful Promises
Bellefleur Lingerie Boutique
LAST MINUTE BOUDOIR SOLUTIONS
Quick Last Minute Solutions For A Boudoir Photography Session By Molly Blair of Seattle Boudoir & Company in Seattle, Washington
Did your Boudoir Photography session just sneak up on you? Wasn’t it just last week you booked it? Oh wait, or was it 12 weeks ago? Yes, time flies! The sweet piece you ordered from Playful Promises will not make it in time and you don’t have the time to make it to the mall. Even Victoria’s Secret will not ship in time.
DON’T PANIC AND TAKE A DEEP BREATH! We at Seattle Boudoir & Co., have you covered. I love to solve your last-minute problems. Having been a wedding photographer for 15 years, I had to be resourceful and think of quick solutions for last-minute challenges. The practice continues even with my boudoir session clients.
So here I am going to give you some last-minute boudoir solutions.
GET YOUR LACY LINGERIE FROM HERE
You are running short of time but still want to buy something of your own, then I have some really useful links for you. I am sure you will find something here to suit your taste.
Here we go!
Order this Bodysuit Teddy from Amazon. I am sure you’ll love it. This lacy number suits all body types and looks good on almost everyone. You can get one of the colors in just a couple of days or sooner. Make sure you select a color that is prime. All colors are not classified under prime
Get this Long Lace Robe for yourself. This great piece complements almost everything.
You can buy this Velvet Teddy Bodysuit. It has a great sweetheart line. You can get it in a color of your choice. It is also available in animal prints.
This package of Fishnet Stockings can change your boudoir game, because they will add to your sassy attitude and make you look sensual as ever.
DIG THROUGH YOUR CLOSET
Maybe you are indecisive about what to buy or you just do not want to hurry in spending money and buying something at the last minute. Give us a BIG SMILE because we have a solution for you too.
Just dig through your closet!
Do you have a long white button-down? Or maybe your spouse has one which you can grab. You can even borrow it from a friend. This is always a great idea for a very classic shot.
Do you have any bodysuits at all? They don’t have to be lingerie, but just need to be form-fitting.
What about a blazer and a hat? As a boudoir photographer, I can assure you, this combination is quite saucy.
You can just make a quick visit to Target and pick up a pair of no seam nude-colored thongs. They work great for boudoir shoots.
USE OUR AMAZING CLIENT WARDROBE
You do not need to worry or think about canceling your session just because you couldn’t arrange for some good lingerie. WE ARE HERE TO YOUR RESCUE! You can simply pick up an outfit of your choice from our Client Wardrobe before the shoot. But, do let me know before your session so that I can make sure that your size is fully stocked at the studio.
We have solutions to all of your problems. So chin up ladies! Get ready for a great, sensual photoshoot with us. To get good ideas on posing, you can follow us on our Instagram and Pinterest.
Featured Vendors
Playful Promises
Victoria’s Secret
Amazon
Target
LINGERIE OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE? HERE’S WHAT TO WEAR INSTEAD
Tips on what to wear for a boudoir photography session when lingerie is out of your comfort zone by Molly Blair of Seattle Boudoir & Company in Seattle, Washington
You have been wanting to get a boudoir photography session done for yourself, but what takes you two steps back is the idea of having to wear lingerie. It’s simply is out of your comfort zone and a big no-no for you.
If that is the case, then we have GOOD NEWS for you! There’s no rule stating you need to wear lingerie for your boudoir session. You have the option of ‘Just the Sheets’ or a ‘White Sheet Session’.
WE HELP YOU PICK MOST FLATTERING OUTFITS
Believe it or not, a lot of women who walk through our doors at the Seattle Boudoir & Co. have never worn lingerie. Some women have, but there are many who straight up say, "I have never worn anything like this before and would never wear this at home." That’s absolutely fine!
For those, who are not used to wearing lingerie, I am here to help! If you want to try out the Client Wardrobe or take my styling advice, I am very familiar with the different body shapes/types and can guide you towards pieces that are going to fit and flatter you the best. When it comes to choosing the pieces you want to wear for your shoot, I will help pick out the best options for you as well.
In the end, every single one of our clients ends up absolutely falling in love with the way they look in our pieces. Just as they should! During your boudoir session, we always set aside about 30-45 minutes for you to try on and select your wardrobe. I have key pieces in every size, and I stock a variety of styles and colors in each size. All of my clients receive a copy of the Wardrobe Guide prior to their session with shopping tips and suggestions.
If you'd like to explore purchasing your own wardrobe, I would say, lingerie shopping can be very overwhelming and frankly deflating for a newbie. We say skip it for your first session, and stick to using the Client Wardrobe! We do suggest you screenshot some of the images you find on our Facebook/Instagram or our website of outfits you like so that I can pull similar items for you on your session day.
WHITE SHEETS ARE ALL YOU NEED
The majority of the images portray women in lingerie, but please don't think for one second that you have to wear that for your session too. We have had lots of women bring in what we consider an 'Out of the Box' wardrobe for their shoots.
Other options include, ‘Just the Sheets’ or ‘White Sheet Session’. In these sessions, you use sheets to cover yourself in various ways. It is simple and elegant. You can wear simple undergarments, just bottoms, or nothing at all. This is a comfy option for you. Imagine lying comfortably on a mattress, covered in a white sheet, while we photograph you.
Bring a jacket (denim, leather or blazer), a white button-down, tie, suspenders, short shorts, ripped up jeans, tank tops, slouchy sweater, or absolutely nothing at all. Whatever you feel best in, we will photograph you wearing.
Now that the doubt about lingerie is out, book us right away and get set for a great boudoir session with us!
Featured Vendors
Hair and Makeup Artists
Kat St John Kelsey Rae Knoll
Jessica Rockwell
10 Reasons you don't need a partner to do a Boudoir Session
Molly Blair of Seattle Boudoir & Company in Seattle, Washington shares why you don't need a partner to do a boudoir photography session.
Do you want to have a boudoir photography session but are hesitant because you're single? There is simply NO REASON for you to hold back. It is a common misconception that you need to have a partner to do a boudoir photography session which is not the case.
A boudoir session is a great opportunity for women to display their confidence while exploring their sensuality in an intimate setting. The most beneficial aspect of a boudoir shoot is what you get out of it — high self-worth and increased love for yourself. It truly is the best thing you can do for yourself.
There is nothing wrong with owning a photo of yourself that screams how utterly gorgeous you are. And there is absolutely nothing wrong with indulging in yourself.
We at Seattle Boudoir and Company can give you not just one but 10 reasons to get a boudoir photography session done and treat YOURSELF!
10 REASONS FOR WOMEN TO HAVE A BOUDOIR SESSION
It’s Your Birthday or Anniversary
Gift gorgeous photographs of you to yourself on your birthday. If you have a partner or spouse waiting to celebrate an anniversary with you soon, get this session done and gift your sensual best to them in photographs.
You Have The Courage FINALLY!
You’ve been telling yourself for years that you should get one boudoir shoot done, but never had the courage until NOW. Let your body express your courage in an edgy yet beautiful way.
You Lost Or Gained Weight
This is a great time to celebrate your new form. Embracing your curves and feeling comfortable with yourself, you can just go ahead and rock it.
You Broke Up With Your Partner
Breakups are tough and have a way or making of making you feel terrible. But you need a reminder that you are amazing! Chuck out those feelings of abandonment and embrace your vulnerability and femininity in the most raw and natural state.
You Love To Play Dress-Up
You already enjoy to dress-up differently and admire your beautiful self. This shoot can give you a lot of satisfaction and happiness.
You Have Reached a Goal In Life
You had set a goal for yourself in life and have finally achieved it. You are oozing out confidence and feel proud of your capabilities. Celebrate this feat and convert your confidence into a beautiful photographic memory.
You Are Busy With Job and Don’t Get To Dress-Up
You have a job at hand and a mundane routine. Your life is getting boring and you don’t get to dress up much. Spice up your life and get all that energy back. A boudoir shoot will fill you with enthusiasm and excitement to quench that thirst.
You’ve Forgotten Doing Something For Yourself
You’ve been busy keeping others happy but have forgotten the last time you did something for yourself. Do yourself a favor! Awaken your inner diva and be the sensual goddess you are. Celebrate yourself through a boudoir shoot.
You Have No Reason Other Than You Want To
You have already set your heart on this path and are ready to take the road ahead. We are happy and will ensure you get the best of you in your photographs.
You
There are so many reasons to experience a boudoir session even if you are single. The most important reason should be focused on you. When you lift up your soul, you present yourself in a whole different way. Let go of the guilt and embrace your beautiful self!
GET READY TO ROCK A BOUDOIR SESSION WITH US
I am sure, by now, you have made up your mind to get a boudoir photography session done for yourself. You can book us here to get your best photographs ever. You can also follow us on Instagram and Pinterest, to see more of our work.
Featured Vendors
Hair and Makeup by Kat St John, Kelsey Rae Knoll and Jessica Rockwell
Top five tips for every boudoir session
5 Tips For Boudoir Photo Session by Molly Blair of Seattle Boudoir & Company in Seattle, Washington
Getting a boudoir photography session done for yourself might not be an easy decision for some — just the idea can be intimidating. But, It’s definitely so much more than just intimate photos and it can do wonders for your self-image.
The truth is, boudoir photography is all about creating comfort in your own skin, loving your natural form, highlighting your beauty and letting go of your perceived flaws. The two biggest takeaways I see from my boudoir photography sessions are a boosted confidence and body positivity. These photos can also be used as a way to document how great you look and feel about yourself at this given time.
Having shot several such sessions over the years, I would say a boudoir photography session is for everybody.
So, once you have decided to go ahead and book your session, you might want to go over a few tips to help you thrive during the shoot. I always want to make sure my clients are fully prepared when they walk through the door for their first boudoir photography shoot with me at the Seattle Boudoir & Co. Here are my top five tips that we give every client before their session with me.
FIVE TIPS FOR EVERY BOUDOIR PHOTOGRAPHY SHOOT
1. Don’t Forget to Stretch
You may think this sounds funny, but boudoir photography can be kind of a workout, and I may move your body in ways you haven’t before. I call it boudoir yoga.
Stretching before will definitely make a difference, even if you are already really active and fit! I promise you, even physical fitness trainers have commented on how challenging some of these poses can be. Focus on stretching your neck, back, shoulders, and practice pointing (and holding) your toes/feet. Arch your back and pull up your core. Kneel, dip rear into a mid squat while toes pointed, core in, back curved and hold that for 2 minutes. Trust me! This boudoir yoga is going to help you pose like a pro in your photographs. Here is a great article about some simple stretching you can do.
2. Drink Tons of Water
It's important to stay hydrated, especially on the day of your shoot! Drinking plenty of water leading up to your session helps clear up your skin and helps flush out any belly bloat. It will also help prevent cramps during some of the posing on the day of your shoot! So ladies, drink up and make your skin shine.
3. Arrive with a Clean Face and Clean, yesterday’s Dry Hair
It's very important to show up on the day of your shoot with yesterday’s clean, blow-dried hair and a clean face. You can put moisturizer on if you wish but other than that my Professional Hair and Makeup artist will do the rest! You will look nothing less than a professional model, we promise!
4. Practice the Poses
Seriously! If you're following along on my Instagram or Facebook Group, practice some of the poses if you want! Occasionally, we do Facebook Lives in our private Facebook Group. You can totally follow along with the posing as we go and be the sensual goddess that you are!
5. Self Care After
Take some Tylenol or ibuprofen before bed after your shoot and soak in a hot bath. Trust us on this one! You WILL be sore the next day! This will help with some muscle inflammation. Take a good rest and get ready to witness the amazing results of your boudoir shoot only to realize that it was worth all that effort you put in.
I hope you found these tips helpful, especially for those of you who have an upcoming Boudoir Session booked with us! We can't wait to see you. And I can't wait to get those of you who haven't pulled the trigger yet into our studio for a session!
Personal Note:
From being in the wedding industry as a wedding photographer for 14 years, many of these tips are applicable there as well. When I started to transition into boudoir as my primary genre a few years ago, I added the stretching and practicing poses because boudoir is such a workout! So follow these five tips and I’m sure your next boudoir photography will be a success!
You might have noticed not one of my tips here included shopping for lingerie. I do recommend you shop for lingerie, and I have some great tips for what to wear and where to find it. I even have a blog where to get stuff in pinch. Also when you book your session, you will get lots of pointers on what to bring.
Ready to learn more? Set a quick 15 minute chat with me on how I can help you prepare for your session. Click here to schedule a 15 min chat ;)
Featured Vendors
Make Up Artists
Tracey Saunders
Kelsey Hayes Instagram @renderingbeauty
Quincee Camille Instagram @quinceecamilleartistry
Jessica Rockwell Instagram @jessica.rockwell
Bold & Edgy Boudoir Photography | Ms. K
Boudoir photography can take be personalized to reflect any style or personality. Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing the stunning Ms. K. Ms. K’s edgy boudoir session was truly one of a kind. I really enjoyed working with her to create this wild studio boudoir photography session!
Bold, Edgy Boudoir Photography
Ms. K wanted to create a boudoir session that reflected her personality. I love how she has such a strong, bad-ass energy and personality while still being so romantic and seductive. She brought her pet snake with her, a gorgeous python. It was amazing to be able to have her snake in her shoot. He added such a bold element to the entire photoshoot. Her short, stylish hairdo really set the stage for an edgy, bold look. She also had some amazing jewelry pieces that really were so unique. I loved showcasing the necklaces. They were truly one of a kind.
Boudoir on the Wild Side
The snake was not always cooperating, but he was always content. Mainly, when we wanted him to do something, he would just tuck himself away in the dark corner of her folded knee. He just wanted to go to sleep! Trust in knowing that this animal is very well cared for. Ms. K is a professional, very capable of owning and caring for this animal. Before I allow any exotic animals into a boudoir photoshoot, I must ensure for the animal’s safety and temperament. I need to know that the animal is well-cared for, and I also need to verify that being in the photo studio with the different lights and sounds won’t stress them out.
During the photo session, the well-being of the animal is just as important as my model! At any point, if the animal is exhausted or overwhelmed, then they can be done. I do have quite a bit of animal handling and care myself. I feel very comfortable with most all animals. If you are interested in incorporating an animal in your shoot, I am open to it. Contact me to tell me about how we can create a customized boudoir session to reflect your style and personality!
Hair & Makeup by Kat St John with Paper Dolls NW
Sensational Plus Boudoir Photography
Embracing your body and loving her for all she does for your everyday. Celebrating the skin you are in today will elevate you to a higher ground. Confidence breeds beauty, and that comes from within.
In the years I’ve spent as a boudoir photographer, I have seen women totally confident in their body at every size. Women of all shapes and all sizes find their inner confidence to love the skin that they are in. But when it comes to plus-sized boudoir photography, sometimes people get nervous. Self-doubt and self-consciousness can creep in. So, let me say it loud for everyone in the back: everyone is beautiful enough for a sensational plus-sized boudoir session!
So many women struggle with their weight and their self-image. I’ve been there, too! Sometimes it’s hard to love yourself. We women hold ourselves to a high standard. We’re critical of things that other people may not even see. When it comes to scheduling a boudoir photography session, I hear so many different concerns and self-conscious comments. One of the amazing things about boudoir photography, especially boudoir for plus-sized women is that it can really help you to feel better about yourself.
Struggles with Self-Image
I have been happy with my size and extremely discouraged by my size at various points in my life. I have found that I am happiest when I fully accept myself, and when I take care of my body. The times I was most terrible to my body was when I didn't take care of it. It seemed like a vicious cycle: trying to improve myself while truly loving myself. I did have an ah-ha moment in my late 30's when I realized I was trapped in a terrible cycle of self-sabotage. Now that I take a concerted effort in loving myself, some parts of self-care come easier.
Not all is perfect. I have my days and even weeks where I self-critique beyond what is acceptable. But here are five things that I have learned about loving myself. These five ways to love the skin you are in will help you to prepare for your sensational plus boudoir session!
1. Love the Body You Have Today
Don't wait to drop 10, 20 or even 50 pounds for your boudoir session. Loving your body right now is the first step in taking care of yourself. Love your body just the way it is. Love all the curves, all the edges, and know that even your imperfections are beautiful.
2. Dress for Success
Boudoir photography is all about the pose, the light and the right outfit. I do not change you, I help you pick the right garments to flatter your body. News flash: it is not a babydoll. The right garment for plus boudoir is usually a bodysuit. It gives a long line and lets you flaunt your sexy curves.
Want more info? Book a call with me, and I will point you in the right direction. From your chin down to your toes, I'll point you in the right direction to elongate and accentuate your curves in the right places. I am happy to consult to make sure you know what to wear for your boudoir shoot.
3. Forgive Your Flaws
Stretch marks? We all have them. And it’s ok if you don't like them. I am on the journey too. I have them and truth be told, I hate them, but they are there. I have spent a ton of money on creams that claim they will help them fade. None of them worked. So, while I hate them, I accept them as part of me. I choose to embrace and highlight the features of myself that I love.
A wonderful habit to begin is to start complimenting yourself more. Every morning, compliment your body on a part of it you love. Say it out loud. You can start loving yourself more one piece at a time.
4. Unleash Your Sensational Self
It is a powerful experience to let go and shine as the goddess you are. It is my job as a boudoir photographer to show you your Sensational Self though the magic and art of light. You might not see her in the mirror, but I promise you that I can catch her in my camera.
5. Let go of fear
I see so many different women. We are all so unique and all need to be celebrated. You don’t need to drop any weight or drop a few hundred dollars on a skincare regimen. The only thing you need to drop is the blanket of fear that you are not worthy of feeling sensational.
You are worthy.
You are sexy.
You are amazing. Just the way you are.
Don’t let that voice inside your head tell you otherwise. In a sensational plus-sized boudoir session, you will get in touch with that sexy, sultry, sensuous inner goddess that is hiding inside. Don’t be afraid to unleash her. The most confident thing you can put on is self-confidence, and wear it with pride.
Are you ready to meet the sensational inner goddess that lives inside you? Let’s set up a call and talk more about your own plus-sized boudoir session!
And thank you to our sensational hair and makeup artists: Kat St John, Kelsey Hayes, Jessica Rockwell, Quincee Camille — you guys rock!
What to wear for a boudoir shoot
Are you asking yourself what to wear for a boudoir shoot?
To some lingerie is the obvious answer for what to wear for a boudoir shoot, but to many the struggle is real. Lingerie is not made to fit the average woman. Most lingerie comes in small, medium, large and extra large. The problem with this is in the sizing. The sizing for lingerie really isn't based on your measurements but a generic standard. You are not generic, and women truly have very diverse shapes.
Shopping for lingerie can be a depressing experience if you walk in blindly. On the outside I look like like a size 8 and wear clothing from a size 6-8, but lingerie is a totally different story.
My Experience
My bra size is a 34DDD. If I shop according to my dress size I should buy a small or medium, but when it comes to lingerie I am in a large or extra large unless it is slip style. I often feel very lost searching for something that fits. When I weighed 25 lbs more the frustration was epic! My boobs were a 34G and 2x sort of fit the boobs, but I was swimming in the bottoms.
I know I am not the only one struggling with the issue. I photograph many women with more curves than me and I know they must feel so defeated in the dressing room.
For years I struggled finding the right bra size. I walked into an upscale lingerie boutique and they measured me. In about 5 minutes, I went thinking I wore a 38DD to being supported and yes empowered by a 34G brassiere. My life changed. I know that sounds dramatic, but in that instant my shoulders were upright and it slimmed me. I felt the only places that catered to me were small pricy boutiques, which I do love to support because they are local.
Once or twice a year I would splurge and drop $200 tp buy 1 or 2 bras. I would wear these bras until they had worn out. After spending over $96 on the most beautiful turquoise and silver bra my large puppy chewed it up in less than 30 seconds. I cried over my chewed up lacy support system crafted in France and vowed to get that same bra again. Sadly that style was discontinued.
A Road Map and A Plan
Never start a journey without a plan. With a plan you can follow a map on how to end up with the desired results you are looking for. The whole point to accentuate your assets and divert attention away from what you don't like. Think about what you love about your body. Are your boobs exploding with amazingness? Do you love your long legs? Not loving your arms but think your hands belong on an ad for lotion?
Below I have a few links to great spaces online picking out clothing pieces for a boudoir shoot. When in doubt know that you can just wear sheets and robes. You can be basic, because a boudoir session is more about you than the clothes you wear.
Places to Start
The suggestions below are based purely on my experience with myself and previous clients. None of theses companies are endorsing me in anyway.
Adore me . www.adoreme.com - They have a wide variety of pieces that fit all sizes and don't look like your grandmother will wear them. I am currently loving their October colors out. Every thing is very nice on your wallet so you can stock up on some super amazing deals.. I was able to find beautiful pieces when I was 34G and now also at a 34DDD.
Mentionables - While I have not actually purchased from them yet it is easy for me to tell that they have beautiful pieces. The current colors are swoonable.
Amazon - As much as I hate to say it, you can find some great things on Amazon. Make sure to read the reviews because a lot of the stuff is made in China and you will have to buy a few sizes higher than what you would buy here in the US. Make sure you look for a review from someone who states their height and size. Likewise when you purchase something, help the rest of us out and post a review with your details.
Their Closet - Look in your partners/spouses closet. Do they wear button downs or ties? Do they have a bomber jacket, favorite sunglasses or hat that might work into part of a session.
Your Closet - Dig through your own closet. Have you ever purchased something because you felt bold only to chicken out at the last minute and throw on your safe outfit. You know you have one.
Still wondering what to wear for a boudoir shoot? I have a few more ideas for you, so please reach out. All boudoir sessions come with a 30 minute consult about what specific pieces would be a good match for you. You can bring as many outfits as you want. While you are getting your hair and make up done I'll pick out the top three. My goal is to make you look ravishing. I am going to paint you with light and your are going to feel like a masterpiece.
Check out more of my boudoir tips by signing up below. From preparing for to the day of the shoot to the actual day of the session I make sure that every step of the way you feel empowered and beautiful.
Bridal Boudoir, more for them or more for you?
Bridal Boudoir a Gift for You Too
Boudoir is a specialized gift that shows your confidence and is one of a kind
Bridal boudoir, also a gift for yourself.
You may have heard that boudoir is the perfect groom’s gift. It is. But you may not realize that this experience is truly a gift for the bride.
Boudoir photography was introduced as the “sexiest gift for the groom” not too long ago and the new trend really took off rapidly as more and more grooms received these gifts and were left speechless. As a photographer that was a part of this new movement, it was very fun to see momentum and words spreading as groomsmen watched the grooms’s eyes widen with amazement as they saw him open his secret album just minutes before seeing his bride walking down the aisle toward him.
A must-have item. Boudoir was once considered too risqué or taboo and it has now converted into what I love it to be… a private celebration of the beauty and confidence of intimacy within a couple. And not just for the couple as a unit, individually for the bride herself as well.
Boudoir is a way to celebrate and document what as old as time, has been one of the most special traditions in womanhood… the season of wedding preparation. It is much different than it was even 100 years ago. Now you have pinterest, wedding magazines, and trying to figure out your #wedding hashtag.
The overall anticipation and tradition remains. While our preps definitely look different, the sweet sentiment swirling in a bride’s heart is all the same as it ever was. She radiates with the hopes, wines, and dreams this memorable time inspires. And as a photographer, I love that I get to celebrate and document the bride, aglow with anticipation and rosy with the frantic pace that accompanies this season.
It’s wonderful seeing our brides experiences. She comes to the studio, feeling nervous, but eager for the pampering. She enjoys the confidence boosting experience more than she ever thinks she will, feeling better in her own skin when she leaves, and she romances her groom with this sweet gesture. It’s a win/win. As a boudoir photographer, I feel my job is to enter into that space with her, inspired to create something that represents her beautifully.
Again, I know exactly what you are going through… so much of the wedding prep is about tasks, to-do lists, deadlines. I love that a boudoir session is a time slow down, tune out the must do-dos, and to step into this season by being present. I highly encourage you to do this for your spouse-to-be, but even more so for yourself.