When most people think of boudoir, I assume they think of nude, or mostly nude women. Or women wearing teeny-tiny lingerie. And if you’re not that type of person, you might not think boudoir is for you. But that’s where you’re wrong! I’ve seen people wear dresses, robes, comfy sweaters, jerseys, jeans… whatever made them feel empowered and sexy. So I thought I’d write a blog for the conservative girlies… the ones that like to leave a little to the imagination. So let’s dive in!
So, to be honest, I wrote this blog before and my computer restarted overnight and I apparently didn’t save it first - ugh!! And I was feeling SO inspired writing it and felt like it had so many good ideas. So here’s to hoping I can remember all the information and ideas I had… again!
There are a few things you can do if you’re looking for sexy, but not baring it all. Some parts will be what *I* can do, and other some parts will be in your hands. Let’s start with what I can do to make sure you have a comfortable photoshoot.
POSING
The main thing I will do if you’re looking for a more conservative boudoir photoshoot comes down to posing. I draw inspiration from vintage photoshoots, or a more feminine style of posing. More sweet and less… grabby or showy… if that makes sense. Sure, I will still have you arch your back and feet so much that you will be sore, but the rest will be a more gentle style.
LIGHTING
Another part I have control of to make your photos feel more feminine and gentle is lighting. Although the majority of my clients choose me for my choice to use front- and back-lighting (front lighting produces brighter images and back lighting produces darker images, usually), you can always opt of backlighting if you’d like to avoid the sultry vibes it implies.
OUTFITS
This part will be up to you! Of course, I’m happy to help guide you and send you ideas, too. There are so many kinds of outfits that I think would work really well for a more conservative look. The examples below are mainly for outfits inspiration, and not all will necessarily be what I consider conservative posing.
Robes
These are probably one the more popular pieces my client’s use in their photoshoots. Long, short, sheer, silk; these really give the idea of leaving things to the imagination.
Sweaters
These are definitely another really popular options. Some oversized, some with cute cut outs, cardigan-style, paired with long socks or bare feet. They give that lazy Sunday morning vibe that we all are obsessed with!
Regular Clothes
Jeans, white tanks, tshirts, dresses, shorts, kimono. If you love it, I bet it would make a fun, unique outfit for your session!
Teddy/Bodysuit Lingerie
My personal favorite when it comes to outfits, although, it’s easier to find more skin-baring in this category than the alternative. But it IS possible!
Baby-doll Style Lingerie
For me, this is what I’d consider the epitome of lingerie that leans more conservative and sweet. It’s the perfect mix between sexy and covered, in my opinion.
Jerseys
For the sports fans, THIS is a fan-fave!
Button-up Shirt
The classic white button up shirt - his or yours. His work shirt. Flannels. These make for such a cute look.
Bralette/”Sports” Bra Set
It might be simply because these don’t scream lingerie that these can pass for a slightly more conservative vibe, in my book. But you will likely be showing almost just as much skin.
Vintage-vibes Sets
These tend to have more full coverage bottoms and tops!
“Nighties” or Night Dresses
Just the Sheet
These photos can show as much or as little skin as you’d like! So, yes, that can definitely be LESS conservative, but especially if it’s obvious you’re wearing lingerie/bra/undies under it, these can help with a more covered look!
Swimming Suit Coverup
Dress, robe style, top or skirt style, traditionally these are breathable, a little see-through but still providing some coverage. So these might be a great option for you if you’re wanting something different.
Extra Outfit Tips
Wearing more full-coverage underwear (as opposed to a thong) is a great way to err on the conservative side. Even high-waisted underwear give a more conservative look as well. Another idea that might help you feel more comfortable is wearing nude underwear or even nipple covers/pasties under your outfits.
I’ve also started a Pinterest board with links to outfits I think would be a great addition to your conservative boudoir photoshoot. I hope you find them a great place to start when looking for outfits! (I am an Amazon Affiliate so I do make a small commission from any purchase made from these links.)
I hope you feel inspired! If you’re looking for a photographer who will help you plan your perfectly conservative boudoir session, I’d love to!