Your Boudoir Preparation Guide
light, lingerie, & confidence
Let’s Get Glam
Welcome — I’m so glad you’re here.
This guide was created just for you, to help you feel fully prepared and excited for your boudoir experience with Chelsey Michon Hall Photography. Whether you're feeling a little nervous or eagerly counting down the days, my goal is for you to walk into your session—regardless if it’s in my cozy Northern Virginia studio or a dreamy destination like the beach—feeling calm, confident, and fully supported.
This isn’t just a day of photos. It’s a celebration — of your story, your body, and the strength it holds. Every detail of your session is designed with care and intention to make sure you feel safe, seen, and beautiful from the inside out.
Inside this guide, you’ll find everything you need: what to bring, what to wear, how to prep your skin and hair, tips for feeling your best, and answers to questions you may not have even thought to ask. If you're someone who loves to be organized and informed, this guide is your best friend.
And don’t worry — I’ll be with you every step of the way, guiding you through poses, hyping you up, and making sure you leave feeling like a total knockout.
So take a deep breath, maybe grab a glass of wine or your favorite tea, and let’s get you ready to shine.
Prioritizing Consent: Your Comfort Comes First
Your comfort is everything.
From the moment you walk in—whether it’s to my cozy Northern Virginia studio or a remote destination—I want you to feel safe, supported, and completely in control. Every step of your session is built around your comfort and consent.
Nothing is ever done without your full approval. We’ll talk through poses, wardrobe choices, and boundaries ahead of time, and I’ll check in with you throughout your session. If something doesn’t feel right, we pivot—no questions asked. This space is yours.
I’ll be by your side the entire time to guide, encourage, and hold space for you. My role is not just to photograph you, but to create an environment where you can feel empowered, relaxed, and truly yourself.
You deserve to feel at ease, respected, and celebrated every step of the way—and that’s exactly what we’ll do.
Here’s everything you need to feel fully prepped—mentally, physically, and emotionally—for your session day.
let’s get you ready
6-8 weeks prior
Shop with Intention
After exploring your closet, you might feel inspired to add a few fresh pieces to your wardrobe. Whether you’re looking for statement lingerie, cozy textures, or something unexpected, now’s the perfect time to shop. If you’re not sure where to begin, check out my quick guide for shopping by body type, plus some of my favorite places to find the perfect pieces.
Dream big
This is the time to start envisioning your dream boudoir session. Let your imagination run wild—what vibes speak to you? Are you picturing soft and romantic, bold and moody, outdoorsy and free, or modern and chic? Dive into Pinterest, scroll your favorite outfits, and take note of what makes you feel you. Your vision is the foundation for everything we’ll create together.
Choose Your Outfits
This is where the fun begins! Your boudoir wardrobe doesn’t have to be traditional. What makes you feel sexy, confident, or playful? Bring it. Maybe that’s a slouchy oversized sweater, a fitted blazer, a lacy bralette, your partner’s favorite jersey—or something that’s just for you. Getting married soon? Bring your veil, your “something blue,” or honeymoon lingerie for a personal, romantic touch.
Book Your Beauty Appointments
Make time for a little self-care in the weeks leading up to your session. If you plan to get a haircut, color touch-up, wax or sugaring, facial, or mani/pedi—go ahead and get those on the calendar. You’ll thank yourself when you're feeling polished and pampered come session day.
Think Beyond the Session
This experience doesn’t end with the camera. Begin imagining how you want to showcase your images—whether it's a luxurious album, sleek wall art, or a private digital gallery. Knowing how you want to enjoy your photos will help us shape the session around what matters most to you.
“Chelsey took the time to make sure I felt confident and then guided me through the entire session. If your looking for a little intimate something to give your significant other or just want to feel radiant, you have to try boudoir photography with Chelsey!”
— Miss SB, Boudoir Client
Curves, lines & Confidence
Wardrobe Tips for Every Body
HOURGLASS Hottie
Got curves in all the right places? If your hips and shoulders are roughly the same width with a naturally defined waist in between, you likely have an hourglass figure. This shape is known for its balance and softness—and we’re going to celebrate every inch of it.
Look for pieces that draw attention to your waist and enhance your curves: corsets, high-waisted sets, form-hugging bodysuits, or teddies that show off your silhouette. These styles are perfect for highlighting the natural flow of your figure.
Pro tip: Babydoll styles can sometimes hide that stunning waistline, so if you're going for a more sculpted look, you may want to skip those. But remember—there are no hard rules. If it makes you feel sexy, confident, and radiant, that’s the right choice.
Balanced, bold, and beautifully defined—let’s celebrate every curve, front to back.
apple-shaped beauty
If your curves are fuller through the midsection with a softer or less defined waist—and your bust is more prominent than your hips—you likely fall into the apple or oval category. this shape is all about strong shoulders, beautiful legs, and an effortlessly elegant frame.
To flatter your figure, we’ll guide the eye upward and highlight those standout features. V-neck bodysuits, plunging tops, and scoop necks work beautifully here. Waist-enhancing coresets or pieces with ruching or structure through the torso can help create shape without feeling restrictive.
Skip anything that adds volume around the tummy if that’s an area you’re less confident about—but remember: if you love it, wear it. What matters most is how you feel in it.
Soft curves and striking shoulders—let’s highlight your elegance from the top down.
Rectangle Radiance
If your shoulder, waist, and hips are fairly even in width and you don’t have a strongly defined waistline, you likely have a rectangle or athletic shape. The body type is known for its balanced proportions and natural strength—and trust me, it photographs beautifully.
When it comes to wardrobe, the goal is to create shape and draw attention to your favorite features. Try sets with cutouts, high-waisted bottoms paired with a bralette, or lingerie with belts, ruching, or paneling that enhances your curves. Bodysuits with strategic seams can also add dimension and give you that hourglass illusion.
If you’re going for softness, add texture—lace, mesh, or draped fabrics can bring in movement and flow. And don’t be afraid to go bold with structure too. You’ve got the perfect canvas to play.
Strong, sleek, and versatile—your body is the perfect canvas for playing with shape and movement.
PEAR-SHAPED PERFECTION
If your hips are wider than your shoulders and you tend to carry more of your curves below the waist, you likely have a pear-shaped body. This shape is known for beautiful hips, a narrow waist, and a softer upper half—and we’re here to celebrate that natural flow.
When choosing outfits, aim to balance your proportions by highlighting your upper body and drawing the eye upward. Lacy bralettes, off-the-shoulder sweaters, and plunging necklines are perfect for this. Pair them with high-cut bottoms or cheeky panties to show off those gorgeous hips and elongate your legs.
Skip anything that cuts straight across the hips without shape—like boxy shorts or boyshorts—unless you absolutely love how they feel. The goal is to highlight your favorite features and wear what makes you feel like you.
Curves that flow and a waist that wows—let’s bring balance and softness into focus.
Inverted Triangle Temptress
If your shoulders are broader than your hips and you have a narrower waist and lower body, you likely have an inverted triangle shape. This body type brings all the drama up top—hello, statement shoulders and powerful posture!
To create visual balance, focus on softening the upper body and adding shape to the hips. Look for lingerie with fuller bottoms (like cheeky or ruched panties), skirts, or high cut briefs that add volume below. Pair them with halters, scoop necks, or softer straps to gently minimize the shoulders.
Avoid straight-across necklines or heavily padded bras if you want to balance proportions—but as always, if you love the look, go for it! Your strength and structure are part of what makes you uniquely stunning.
Bold shoulders and confident posture—your presence owns the room, now let’s shape your silhouette.
Petite & powerful
If you’re 5’4” or under with a small overall frame, you have a petite body type—and you’re deserving of looks that pack a punch.
To elongate your frame, keep things simple and streamlined: High-cut bottoms, one-pieces, and plunging necklines will lengthen your lines and flatter your figure. For a soft touch, sheer details can dial up the romance without overpowering your shape.
Optional: Boxy or full-coverage pieces can overwhelm your petite frame—so if you prefer those styles, look for ones that have shape or structure. The goal is to show off that gorgeous body, not hide it.
Small in stature, big in presence—your frame deserves styling that elongates and empowers.
Plus-size stunner
Rocking full curves and a beautiful silhouette? Let’s dress your shape with confidence and style. Deep V-neck bodysuits, underwire bras, and structured corsets are perfect for enhancing your natural shape while offering support and definition.
High-waisted bottoms, cheeky cuts, and textured fabrics like lace or mesh add dimension and highlight all the right places. Want something a little softer? Layer with a sheer robe or flowy piece that brings movement and a touch of drama.
Remember: you don’t need to wear something revealing to feel sexy. Whether it’s a fitted piece or an oversized sweater, the best outfit is the one that makes you feel radiant and powerful.
Full of curves and energy—let’s dress your shape with intention, dimension, and confidence.
A lingerie shopping guide for every body and every mood.
Sweet, Sultry & Everything In Between
where to shop
Find the pieces that speak to your vibe—whether you're feeling cozy, bold, romantic, or ready to splurge. Here's a curated list of my favorite lingerie brands to help you feel confident, beautiful, and fully in your element.
Local Love
Supporting women-owned and community-based boutiques.
Best Rack Around – A personalized, woman-run boutique right here in NOVA.
Belle Mode Intimates – Fairfax-based shop offering hard-to-find sizes of bras, lingerie, and swimwear.
Trousseau – A Vienna gem with over 160 bra sizes in stock. Known for luxury lingerie, expert fittings, and bridal intimates.
Lotus Blooms – A sex-positive, boutique in Alexandria with bold and empowering lingerie.
Everyday Comfort & Confidence
Soft, wearable styles that still feel sexy.
Adore Me – Affordable, versatile, and easy-to-wear sets for every day or play.
Aerie – Comfort-first and cozy, with size inclusivity and a body-positive mission.
CUUP – Modern, minimalist, and made for real bodies. Supportive without sacrificing style.
ThirdLove – Known for half-cup sizing and ultra-comfy bras that actually fit.
Journelle – Fashion-forward basics for luxury lovers and everyday beauty.
Bold, Flirty & Editorial
For when you’re ready to make a statement.
Savage X Fenty – Rihanna’s iconic line: playful, powerful, and size-inclusive.
Lounge Underwear – Playful sets that combine sexiness with comfort.
Wolf & Whistle – Quirky, sustainable, and fun for a flirty look.
Playful Promises – Vintage-inspired, body-diverse, and full of personality.
Bluebella – Bold and modern with clean lines and editorial flair.
Fleur du Mal – Fashion-lingerie fusion for the daring and chic.
Plus-size & Curve-loving
Made to celebrate fuller bodies-without compromising on style.
Torrid – Trendy, comfy, and made for curvy women.
Elomi – Great support for fuller busts and plus-size frames.
Savage X Fenty – Repeating for a reason: their size range is unmatched.
Playful Promises – Curve – Same pinup flair with extended sizing.
Luxury & Splurge-Worthy
For clients who want something extra-special (or editorial).
Honey Birdette – High-end and unapologetically provocative.
Agent Provocateur – Seductive, luxe, and fearless.
La Perla – Iconic Italian lingerie for timeless elegance.
Fleur du Mal – Sophisticated meets sultry. Stunning under studio lights.
Tisja Damen – Handcrafted, artistic, and wildly romantic.
Kiki de Montparnasse – Sleek, high-fashion, and built for luxury.
1-2 weeks prior
POLISH + PREP
Your session is getting close—this is the perfect time to finalize your outfits and organize your bag. Try on every look again in front of a mirror. How do you feel in it? Confident? Strong? That’s a good sign it’s a keeper.
Steam anything with wrinkles, snip visible tags or labels, and gather accessories like earrings, necklaces, and shoes. Start packing your session bag early so the night before feels calm, not chaotic. Include things like a robe, water bottle, lip balm, extra underwear, and a cozy layer for touch-ups or downtime.
KEEP IT NATURAL
Avoid tanning beds, self-tanners, or sprays—they can leave streaks, patches, or orange undertones that are hard to correct in post-processing. Trust that your natural skin tone photographs beautifully under my lighting and editing. Your glow is already built in.
HYDRATE + MOISTURIZE
Now’s the time to love on your skin. Stay hydrated throughout the day and moisturize daily—ideally after showers when your skin can soak it in. Focus on legs, arms, and anywhere that’ll be seen on camera. Pro tip: skip anything with shimmer or heavy oils right before your shoot.
FINISHING TOUCHES
Now’s the time to schedule or finish your beauty appointments—nails, brows, waxing, facials, or anything that helps you feel polished. Try to complete skin-related treatments now so your body has time to recover and glow.
For nails, keep things simple and timeless—neutral or soft tones like blush, nude, or clear will never clash with your wardrobe.
Stretch & Move
Boudoir is a movement-based experience—you’ll be stretching, arching, kneeling, and holding poses. Start giving your body a little love with stretching, light yoga, or gentle walks to stay limber and relaxed.
If you're doing this session to mark a transformation, milestone, or moment of reclaiming yourself—give yourself space to acknowledge that. Journal your intention. Write yourself a note. This is about more than photos. It’s about you.
Reach out if needed
Have questions? Feeling last-minute nerves? I’m just a message away and always happy to help you feel prepared, excited, and grounded.
Polished & Ready to Shine
Your final few days of prep to help you arrive confident, glowing, and fully in your element.
final days
Keep Up the Glow
Glow starts from within! By now your skin is loving the extra hydration—keep up your water intake and daily moisturizing. No need to overdo it, just stay consistent. And skip any last-minute shimmers or heavy scents.
Stretch + Center Yourself
Boudoir is movement-based—you’ll be arching, bending, and holding positions. Keep up a light stretching routine to stay flexible and relaxed. Whether it’s yoga, Pilates, or a quick flow video, a few minutes a day can make a huge difference. And don’t forget to breathe—this is your moment.
Boudoir Bag Check
Everything should be ready to go! Double-check your outfits, heels, hosiery, accessories, and personal touches. Don’t forget deodorant, lotion, water, and a snack. You’ll feel so much better walking in with everything in place.
Take a deep breath—you’ve prepared beautifully. Whether this session marks a personal transformation, a milestone, or a moment of self-love, it’s a celebration. Set your intention, get excited, and get ready to step in front of the camera fully yourself.
RELAX + CELEBRATE
Pack with Confidence
Pack your bag at least a day or two before your session so your night before feels calm and intentional. Below is your curated checklist to make sure nothing is forgotten and everything supports your confidence.
What to Pack: Boudoir Bag Essentials
Final Outfits — organized by look, if possible.
Heels — the higher the better! Closed-toe always photographs beautifully.
Hosiery — thigh-highs or stockings; VienneMilano is a favorite.
Jewelry — daily favorites or statement pieces that feel you.
Accessories — robe, hat, oversized sweater, leather jacket, button-down shirt, favorite sports jersey, knee-high socks—whatever makes you feel sexy and powerful.
Robe or Cover-Up — Easy to wear between looks or during hair and makeup touch-ups
Deodorant — Preferably clear/unscented to avoid residue or overwhelming scent
Touch-Up Items — body lotion, lip balm, favorite makeup or hair tools
Water Bottle + a light snack if needed pre- or post-session
Pro Tip:
Simplicity is key. The goal is to let you shine. Your wardrobe is here to elevate your energy—not distract from it.
Here’s everything you need to know to arrive confident, calm, and ready to glow.
The Boudoir Experience Begins
Camera-Ready & Confident
ARRIVAL
Plan to arrive about 10–15 minutes early so you can settle in, take a breath, and soak in the energy of the space. This isn’t just another appointment—this is your experience, and you deserve to ease into it without feeling rushed. We’ll start with a relaxed wardrobe review, chat through your hair and makeup vision, and tailor the session to match your unique style and energy. Take this moment to let the outside world melt away—you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.
HAIR & MAKEUP PREP
Please come with a fresh face—clean, moisturized skin and dry hair (washed the night before is totally fine!). From there, my professional hair and makeup artist will work her magic, enhancing your natural beauty and crafting a look that feels like you, only elevated. Whether you want soft and subtle or bold and glam, we’ll create a look that makes you feel confident, radiant, and camera-ready.
This is your time to be pampered—sip something bubbly, chat, laugh, and let the transformation unfold.
DRESS COMFORTABLY
What you wear to the studio matters—loose-fitting clothes are key! Choose something comfy and line-free like a button-up shirt, loose robe, soft jumpsuit, or cozy lounge set. Skip bras, tight socks, or anything that might leave marks on your skin. The goal? Smooth, glowing skin and a seamless transition when we change into your first outfit.
Trust me—comfort at the start of the day sets the tone for everything that follows.
Don’t skip breakfast! You’ll need energy for your session, and even though we’re striking poses, it’s more of a workout than most people expect. Stick to a light, nourishing meal (think eggs, toast, fruit, or a smoothie) to avoid bloating while still giving your body what it needs to shine. Bring a small snack if you think you’ll need something mid-session—and water is always a good idea.
Your comfort matters. Fuel up—you’re going to rock this.
EAT SOMETHING LIGHT
NO NEED TO POSE
If you're worried about posing, breathe—you don’t need to know anything. This is what I do best. I’ll guide you every step of the way, from where to place your hands to how to angle your chin. Whether we’re going soft and sultry or bold and powerful, I’ll coach you into each pose so it feels natural and true to you.
This session is a dance between movement, emotion, and expression—and I’ll be with you every moment. You just have to show up. I’ll handle the rest.
TAKE IT IN
This isn’t just about taking beautiful photos. It’s about celebrating you—your strength, your softness, your story. Let yourself be seen. Trust the process. Whether this session marks a milestone or simply honors who you are today, you deserve to be celebrated.
This is your time. Your body. Your moment.
So breathe deeply. Laugh freely. Take up space.
Let go—and let yourself shine.
"The beauty of a woman is not in a facial mode but the true beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul. It is the caring that she lovingly gives, the passion that she shows. And the beauty of a woman, with passing years, only grows."
— Audrey Hepburn
Boudoir FAQ
Got more questions? You’re not alone. Here are the most common things clients ask me—and everything you need to know before your session.
Thank you for trusting me with this chapter. I can't wait to see you soon and create something magical together.
With love,
Chelsey Michon Hall
