What to Wear for a Couples Boudoir Session
What to wear for a couples boudoir session
If you feel restricted, your photos will look restricted. If you feel comfortable and at ease, that’s exactly what the camera will capture. We want you to be able to focus on your partner, not on whether your bra strap is digging in.
The Golden Rule: Comfort is Queen (and King).
If you usually spend your Sunday mornings in oversized jumpers and thick socks, don’t feel like you have to turn up in a three-piece suit and a floor-length silk gown. Unless, of course, that’s your "vibe." The goal is to wear things that feel like a slightly elevated version of your real life. Think "you at yours" on your best day.
Texture is Everything.
Focus on how things feel against your skin, and each other’s skin. When we shoot, we’re looking for those tactile moments.
•Silk and Satin: These catch the light beautifully and feel incredible to touch.
•Chunky Knits: Perfect for that "snuggled up on the sofa" feel.
•Denim: Rougher textures provide a brilliant contrast against soft skin.
•Lace: Adds a bit of intricate detail without being overwhelming.
The way a soft wool jumper contrasts against a partner’s bare shoulder tells a much more intimate story than two people in matching stiff fabrics. Matching without being "Matchy-Matchy". One of the biggest questions we get is: "Do we need to wear the same colour?"
The short answer is: please don’t. Unless you’re planning on forming a 90s boy band immediately after the session, matching outfits can look a bit forced. Instead, aim for complementary styles. Think of it like dressing for the same party. If one of you is in a formal lace bodysuit, and the other is in a pair of old football shorts, there’s going to be a bit of a visual disconnect. You want to look like you belong in the same room.
A few tips for coordinating:
Pick a palette: Choose 2-3 colours that work well together (e.g., deep greens, creams, and browns) and mix and match them.
Vibe check: Decide on a mood. Is it "Lazy Sunday morning"? "Sultry evening"? "Edgy and modern"?
Vary the levels: If one person is wearing something very detailed (like lace), the other might want something simpler (like plain cotton) to balance it out.
Ideas for Her (or Feminine-Leaning Folks).
When choosing your pieces, think about movement. Can you sit comfortably on the floor? Can you wrap your arms around your partner?
•The Oversized Shirt: One of our absolute favourites. Whether it’s a crisp white button-down or your partner’s favourite flannel shirt, it’s timeless, comfortable, and offers a beautiful "peek-a-boo" element.
•The Bodysuit: Great for creating a sleek silhouette and keeping everything tucked in place, allowing you to move freely.
•Simple Underwear: Don’t underestimate the power of a high-quality, well-fitting T-shirt bra and matching knickers. It’s classic, honest, and very "you."
•Loungewear: Think silk robes, camisole sets, or even just a pair of high-waisted jeans and a bralette. If you’re feeling a bit nervous about showing skin, remember that plus-size boudoir is about celebration, not correction . We aren’t here to hide you; we’re here to show how incredible you look when you’re being yourself.
Ideas for Him (or Masculine-Leaning Folks).
Gents, you don’t need much to look fantastic. The focus is often on your strength, your tenderness, and how you interact with your partner.
•Fitted Jeans or Chinos: Simple, classic, and easy to move in.
•The "Unbuttoned" Look: A simple shirt with the top few buttons undone (or completely open) works wonders.
•Good Quality Underwear: This is the time to ditch the "funny" boxers and opt for something simple, dark, and well-fitted.
•Layering: A t-shirt under an open shirt gives us options to play with different levels of undress as the session progresses.
The "No Photoshop" Promise At You At Yours.
We have a very firm stance on photographers that use Photoshop . We don't do it. We don't airbrush out your "flaws" because we don't think they're flaws. Your stretch marks, scars, and the soft curve of your tummy are part of your story. They are what make you you. Knowing this should influence what you wear. Don’t choose an outfit because you think it will "hide" something. Choose it because it makes you feel powerful, or soft, or sexy. When you aren't worried about how a filter is going to change you later, you can truly be present in the moment. This is why you will love your photos : they are a genuine reflection of your relationship, not a digital fabrication.
Personal Touches and Shared Stories.
The most powerful couples boudoir photos often involve items that have a story.
•Did you steal his jumper on your first date? Wear it.
•Do you have matching tattoos that usually stay hidden? Choose clothing that lets them peek out.
•Is there a piece of jewelry that means the world to you?
These small details add a layer of depth to the images. It transforms the session from "two people in a studio" to "a celebration of our life together." This is why couples boudoir is the ultimate way to connect. It’s a dedicated space to appreciate each other.
A Note on Hair and Makeup.
We often get asked if you should "go all out" with professional styling. While we love a bit of glamour, our philosophy usually leans towards "you, but on a really good hair day." If you never wear heavy makeup, your boudoir session probably isn't the time to start. You want to look back at these photos and recognise the person staring back at you. If you’re torn, have a read of our thoughts on hair and makeup vs no hair and makeup to see which path feels right for you.
Summary Checklist for Your Session.
Before you pack your bag, give this a quick run-through:
Can I breathe and move? If you can't sit comfortably, don't bring it.
Do the textures feel good? Think about what your partner will be touching.
Do we look like we’re in the same room? Check that your "vibes" complement each other.
Are we bringing a few "safe" options? It's always good to have a backup over-sized shirt or a simple pair of jeans.
Am I wearing this for me (and us)? Forget the magazines. Forget what you think "boudoir" should look like.
Final Thoughts:
The Best Thing You Can Wear.
At the end of the day, the best thing you can wear to your session is your genuine affection for each other. Everything else is just "window dressing." Whether you’re in matching silk robes or just your favourite worn-in jeans, the magic happens in the space between the two of you. Our job is just to hold the camera and let that connection shine. If you’re still feeling a bit of the "what-ifs," that’s totally normal. Most of our clients start off a bit nervous, but through our confidence-building method, they leave feeling ten feet tall.
So, stop scrolling through the clothing sites. Pick something that makes you feel like you, grab your partner’s hand, and we’ll see you there. It’s going to be brilliant.
The 3-Stage Couples Outfit Strategy
Stage 1 — Personal anchor: something you already love and feel safe in. A jumper, your favourite jeans, a soft tee.
Stage 2 — Lingerie or matching basics: sets the scene. Doesn't have to be lacy; matching tones often works better.
Stage 3 — The stretch item: something slightly outside your comfort zone. Pushes you into the new place.
Coordinate textures, not colours. Linen and denim sing together; matching outfits look forced. Bring twice what you think you need. We use a third of it. Skip anything that requires double-sided tape unless you genuinely love wearing it.
Couples boudoir London, You at Yours