Bridal Boudoir Outfits: What to Wear for Your Bridal Shoot

Discover the 9 Top Bridal Boudoir Outfits you want to consider for your bridal photoshoot.

When it comes to bridal boudoir outfits, choosing the right pieces is key to feeling confident and beautiful. Whether you’re looking to surprise your partner or capture some intimate and elegant shots, we’re here to help with the emotional labor of planning your looks.  Check out these suggestions below. If you’re still struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here for you!

1. Wedding Veil.

bridal boudoir veil image
A veil can add a touch of romance and elegance to your bridal boudoir shoot. It can be worn alone or paired with lingerie or a silk robe for a softer look. We particularly love longer veils at Revealed because you can use them to wrap around your form. When lit from behind or set against a darker background, they’re particularly dramatic and give an old-world, classically elegant vibe.

2. Groom’s Shirt.

Wearing your partner’s shirt can add a personal and intimate touch to your bridal boudoir shoot. It’s a simple yet sexy look that can be paired with lingerie or worn independently. We recommend an oversized white option. If your partner is on the smaller size, don’t be afraid to shop for one that works with your frame. Having a little extra fabric gives us more flexibility with posing, i.e., you can drop it off your shoulders or tug it around your waist for a hint of your tush. So tantalizing! It’ll have him begging the question:  “Whadya got underneath there?”

3. Silk Robes.

Silk robes are a classic option for boudoir shoots, and for good reason. They’re comfortable and elegant and come in various colors and styles to match your taste. They are not only gorgeous to wear, but bonus, they’re wonderful at creating more cinematic images. For example, you can slowly loosen the tie or peel it off your shoulders, then drop it to the ground to create a sense of voyeurism in the best way.

4. Bodysuits.

bridal boudoir body suitWe feel like bodysuits were highly underrated for many years, but they’re finally getting the appreciation they deserve. They’re a great choice for bridal boudoir shoots, as they’re flattering and come in various styles and colors. Whether looking for something lacy or sheer, a bodysuit can highlight your curves while covering areas you might feel less confident about.

5. Lingerie.

Of course, lingerie is a go-to option for bridal boudoir shoots. From bra and panty sets to corsets and garters, there’s a lingerie look for everyone. Choose a style that makes you feel comfortable and confident. Are you a francophile? Why not play off this with a demi-laced bra, lace garter, and sheer stockings? Maybe you’re a bit more edgy; just because you’re getting married doesn’t mean you need to deny that side of yourself and don only white. Bring in the leather and straps. Owning your unique taste will make your bridal boudoir session that much more special for your partner AND you. 

6. Bridal Accessories.

bridal shoesThere’s a lot of value in sticking to the classics. Pearls and diamonds are tried and true options for accessorizing your look. We love seeing a pop of sparkle or the sheen from a pearl. You’re the star of the show, so keep your jewelry simple. 

If you want to step out of the box and need even more bridal boudoir outfit ideas, there are some really elegant and fun statement pieces to consider. These one-of-a-kind gloves are show stoppers that add a personal touch to your pictures. Or, go a little extra with a body chain that still reads elegant but pushes the envelope a bit. 

7. Shoes.

You can never go wrong with a nude stiletto as a bride-to-be. They go with almost everything and are an easy fallback for your photoshoot. However, if you’re like many a bride before you and splurging a bit in the shoe department, get a little extra mileage and bring them in! We love incorporating bridal shoes into pictures.

8. Oversized Sweater.

For a cozy and intimate look, throw on an oversized sweater. It is a timeless, approachable romantic option paired with simple cotton undies, long socks, or worn on its own.

9. Sheer Cover-Up.

For a sexy and mysterious look, consider wearing a sheer cover-up for your bridal boudoir shoot. It’s a versatile option that can be layered over lingerie or worn for a more revealing look.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to bring pieces you feel good in. Even if you bring nothing, we can create epic artwork with a simple sheet from the bed or fallback on some tasteful nudes. Whoever you’re marrying will be thrilled no matter what you’re in! So have fun. Your “all-in” mindset is the best thing you could bring!

How to feel confident during your bridal boudoir shoot

Bridal Boudoir Outfits

Top 10 Tips for Bridal Boudoir Photography

Unveiling Confidence: A Guide to Bridal Boudoir Outfits, Poses, and Photography Ideas

bridal boudoir

For many brides, posing in front of a camera wearing lingerie can be nerve-wracking. However, you can rest assured that you are not alone in this feeling. Our team of professionals working on your bridal boudoir shoot understands how important it is for you to feel comfortable and confident throughout the process. 

bridal boudoir bodysuitIt starts from the moment you reach out.

From the moment you step into our studio, you’ll be greeted by a group of compassionate and experienced women dedicated to creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. They aim to make you feel pampered and empowered while capturing your unique beauty through stunning photography. You can trust that you are in good hands and will walk away from your boudoir photo shoot feeling more confident and self-assured.

Prepping before your bridal boudoir session

With your wedding on the horizon, we know you probably have a million things on your mind. We want to ease your stress, so we’ve put together 10 tips for your boudoir bridal photography shoot to ease your nerves and increase your confidence. 

10 Tips on how to feel confident during your bridal boudoir shoot

Tip 1: Choose a photographer that you feel comfortable with.

bridal boudoirChoose a photographer you feel comfortable with: Look for a photographer with experience in boudoir photography and whose style matches your preferences. We know how intimate a boudoir is, and trusting your photographer is a massive part of feeling confident about your pictures. 

The first thing we do is schedule a phone call to talk through all your questions and let you know what to expect. You can hear our voices and get to know us a bit. We want to help you feel relaxed and prepared for the experience.

Tip 2: Plan ahead.

One way to feel more confident during a bridal boudoir shoot is to plan and set aside a few hours for the session. Doing this allows you to avoid feeling rushed and gives you enough time to relax and enjoy the experience.

During the shoot, allow yourself to fully embrace the moment and focus on enjoying yourself. Don’t worry about time or feeling like you must rush through poses or outfit changes. Having a few hours to work with can help you feel more comfortable and confident, ultimately leading to better photos.

Tip 3: Choose outfits that make you feel confident.

bridal-boudoir-photography-01Bring a variety of outfits that you feel comfortable in and that make you feel beautiful. We have an article dedicated just to this topic that you can check out here: bridal boudoir outfits. This could include lingerie, robes, or other sexy clothing. Also, we welcome you to bring your veil, garter, and wedding shoes, as they are great accessories to evoke those wedding day feelings! 

If you’re feeling overwhelmed with too many choices, start by limiting yourself to a black, a white, and a color option. Black is always sexy and timeless, and white is appropriate for the occasion.  

If white is not your thing, blush or nude are always great alternative colors. A color choice will also offer a nice accent for variety in your photos. Consider a color that flatters your complexion. Not sure which one flatters your skin tone? Check out this article to learn more.

Tip 4: Rock those heels.

Even if you’re not a heel kinda gal, we recommend wearing them for your bridal boudoir photos. Although they may not be the most comfortable thing in the world, heels create the look of elongating your legs, working your muscles, and lifting your booty. The effect is worth popping those heels on for a bit! 

Our must-have list always includes a nude pump for all our boudoir sessions, and a black pump is a bonus. A simple stiletto heel is amazing, but if that’s not your jam, a strappy pump or a block heel are great choices too.

Tip 5: Indulge in beauty appointments.

If there’s ever a time to pamper yourself, the months leading up to your wedding are it. With the day you say “I do” on the horizon, you’ve got the best excuse for extra self-care. We recommend a few specific services before your session to enhance your boudoir look:bridal boudoir

  • Spray tan: If you’re in the Chicago area, our go-to spot for a beautiful, natural application is Glow Out in the West Loop. Their team is fantastic! Mention us; they’ll ensure you’re the perfect shade without any orange tones. 
  • Mani/Pedi: Refresh your hands and feet with a mani and pedi. While we’re big fans of statement color and shape, we recommend sticking with a more subtle, elegant shape in case you ever change your mind about today’s nail trends.
  • Facial: A facial feels relaxing, and the process preps your skin for your makeup artist. You’ll be set for a flawless application on the day of your session. Tip: Please avoid harsh chemicals the week of your shoot; we recommend facial peels two weeks prior and hydra facials or micro-dermaplaning the week of.
  • Wax: If this is your usual beauty maintenance regime, go for it! But if not, stick to what you know works. It would be best if you had no adverse reactions before your photos.

Tip 6: Practice good self-care leading up to the shoot. 

bridal boudoir outfitsPracticing good self-care leading up to your bridal boudoir shoot is essential for feeling confident and ready for the day. Start by drinking plenty of water, which helps keep your skin hydrated and glowing. Eating healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, and lean protein will also fuel your body to feel its best.

In addition to nourishing your body, ensure you get enough rest in the days leading up to your shoot. Try to get a solid night’s sleep before the shoot day to help you feel refreshed and ready to go.

Tip 7: Indulge in this mantra. “I’m in good hands.” 

Sure, confidence can come from within, but experts have agreed that confidence results from your relationships and experiences. So, practice this mantra: “I’m in good hands.” We want you to remember that you are in good hands. You’ll be in a safe, judgment-free environment surrounded by a team of women whose primary goal is to help you feel supported.

Tip 8: Practice deep breathing and relaxation techniques.

If you’re feeling nervous or anxious, try practicing deep breathing and relaxation techniques to help calm your nerves. We’re here to help you relax, as well. We’re going to pamper you as you deserve!

Once you arrive, we’ll help you make final decisions about your outfits if you hesitate about what to wear. We’ll then send you to hair and makeup, where a fantastic artist gets you glammed up. We choose to work with artists who are not only super talented but also have abundant positive energy. By the end of the application, you’ll look like the best, most refreshed version of yourself.

Tip 9: Bring a trusted friend or partner.

curvy-boudoirIf you’re nervous, consider bringing someone you trust to the shoot. They’ll gladly offer support and encouragement throughout your boudoir photography journey.

Tip 10: Don’t be shy about talking to your photographer.

Don’t be afraid to communicate with your photographer throughout the shoot. Let us know if you feel uncomfortable or have any specific ideas or requests. It’s normal to have a few jitters as we start the session. We’ll start slowly, with plenty of coaching through simple pictures to warm you up. 

And no worries! We’ll provide easy-to-follow directions as we guide you through multiple poses that enhance your beauty and confidence. And if you have any posing ideas, please share! 

By following these 10 tips, you’ll be amazed at how confident and comfortable you are during your bridal boudoir shoot, flowing through the experience in a way that leaves you feeling exhilarated, like you climbed a mountain. A bridal boudoir photoshoot might be the release you didn’t even realize you needed before your wedding day. 

Remember to relax, have fun, and enjoy the experience!

 

 

 

 

 

Our favorite lingerie lines that embrace female empowerment

THESE LINGERIE LINES ARE ALL ABOUT GIRL POWER

As bridal season approaches, we found ourselves getting so inspired by new trends in lingerie. As exciting as pretty lingerie is, it’s even more exciting when the company embraces female empowerment and let’s be honest, comfort. We’ve chosen some of our favorite lingerie lines and shared below what makes them so special.

Naja

Whether you’re looking for a funky design, fun colors, or something more classic or soft, Naja has great options. And what we love most about this line, aside from these playful selections, is their commitment to helping women in underdeveloped regions by employing them. Their Underwear for Hope program can turn buying a bra into a socially responsible action.  “Two percent of every purchase you make goes toward supporting our entrepreneurial sewing program for women through local foundations. And for every bra purchase you make, you contribute directly to the employment of a single mother.”

Our favorite lingerie lines that embrace female empowerment

True & Co

This company has a seriously beautiful instagram that we can’t get enough of. True & Co allows you to customize your bra search by answering a few questions about the fits of your bras and shape of the ladies. They also embrace women of all shapes and sizes. Their mission statement feels like something that we would have written for ourselves- “We believe that knowing what makes you unique powers the design of better products for women. We celebrate what makes you so wonderfully you.”

Our favorite lingerie lines that embrace female empowerment

Thirdlove

For the best fitting bras in the world, check out Thirdlove. They take customization one step further in order to take the stress out of finding the perfect fit. You can download their app, take a picture of yourself in a fitted tank, and it can determine your size. They even have half sizes and take into account your breast shape. It’s taking all those awkward bra fittings out of the picture so you can get a bra that makes you feel good about you. “We realized that traditional bra sizing wasn’t serving countless women whose breast sizes weren’t ‘standard’, whatever that means. We had a new mission, and set out to design bras that would really fit real women.”

Our favorite lingerie lines that embrace female empowerment

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ms. C looks the picture of a blushing bride

Real client Ms. C surprises husband with a  bridal boudoir shoot

She was nervous and excited like most of our clients, but as her bridal boudoir shoot progressed we could see her confidence grow with each picture. With such positive energy (and legs like that!) it’s no surprise she’s a yoga teacher. Her photos made for a beautiful album for her future husband, who we’re told, tried to convince her they should keep out out as a coffee table book even when guests came to visit!

We love when a gift for him turns out to be an even bigger gift for yourself! Not to mention, if you are getting married, a great way to celebrate and add on to your pre-wedding festivities.

Real Client's Bridal Boudoir Shoot

Real Client's Bridal Boudoir Shoot

Real Client's Bridal Boudoir Shoot

Real Client's Bridal Boudoir Shoot

Real Client's Bridal Boudoir Shoot

Real Client's Bridal Boudoir Shoot

Real Client's Bridal Boudoir Shoot

Real Client's Bridal Boudoir Shoot

Real Client's Bridal Boudoir Shoot

 

 

Free tix to Indie Wed

For the second year in a row, Revealed Studios is participating in the Indie Wed Wedding Show & Market on Saturday, January 31st, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Come stop by our booth and enter to win a free Revealed portrait session. Laurie and Maggie will be on hand to answer any of your questions about boudoir and the other types of photography we offer.

We also have five free Indie Wed tickets to give away. First come, first serve. Drop us a line at [email protected] if you are interested.

Hope to see you there.

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(taken from website) Indie Wed is THE alternative to traditional wedding expos.  For those in the midst of wedding planning, Indie Wed offers a one stop shop for all the best wedding artisans and professionals around the country.  Indie Wed is the longest running independent bridal fair in the U.S.

 

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Saturday, January 31st, 2015
10 am – 4 pm
at the Ravenswood Event Center

entrance at 4043 N. Ravenswood Ave
Chicago

Plenty of free parking is available along Ravenswood Ave.
Venue is also 1/2 block north of the Irving Park brown line  station.

Indie Wed will feature:

*100+ amazing vendors from the Midwest and beyond
*two full floors of vendors
*food tastings
*musical performances
*wandering models featuring spectacular bridal fashions
*a special 3rd floor lounge with lots of surprises
*and much more

Tickets are priced as follows:

* Early Bird (through Dec. 19th) = $12 per single / $20 per 2-pack
** Online  (through Fri. Jan. 30th at noon) = $15 per single / $25 per 2-pack
* At The Door  = $20 per person CASH ONLY

 

 

Boudoir Inspiration Board – Classic Sexy

Keep it Classic – Boudoir Inspiration Board

In our last blog post we talked about one of the most commonly asked questions during phone consultations with our clients, “what do I wear?”  We’re answering that question in a series of posts featuring our favorite looks in boudoir inspiration boards, as well as a few fun, unique options!

Here’s another of our favorites!  The classic sexy look.  The go-to pieces to create this effect: black thigh-highs, a smoky eye, close-toed pumps, jewelry that sparkles, and of course, the transformative power item–a corset!

Boudoir Inspiration

Bridal Inspired shoot with The Hue Studio + Co.

Chicago Bridal Photography with The Hue Studio Company

This month we had the pleasure of working with event planning company, The Hue Studio for a Spring bridal shoot.  With gorgeous dresses from Veronica Shaffer, jewelry from Zurina Ketola, makeup by Tanya Renelt, pastries from Sugar Hill Bakery, and a lovely painting from Agustina Diez Sierra, the result was a wonderful collaborative effect. With green and pink inspiration, Jeff created gorgeous tablescapes with intricate details, sparkle, and of course, lots of color!!

chicago bridal photography

chicago bridal photography

chicago bridal photography

chicago bridal photography

chicago bridal photography

chicago bridal photography

 

chicago bridal photography

chicago bridal photography

chicago bridal photography

chicago bridal photography

chicago bridal photography

chicago bridal photography

chicago bridal photography

chicago bridal photography

chicago bridal photography

chicago bridal photography 

Sneak Peek from our recent bridal inspired shoot

Bridal inspired shoot with the Hue Studio and Co.

We have sooo many more pictures to share, but we wanted to give a sneak peek into our recent bridal inspired shoot at our studio.  We collaborative with an amazing team, Jeff Hughes of The Hue Studio and Co., Tanya Renelt Artistry, Flowers Flowers, Veronica Shaffer (bridal gowns), and our fabulous model, Olivia Kalmanson. Check back soon for many more from the shoot!

bridal inspired shoot

A dark and vintage bridal shoot

Gothic Chicago Bridal Shoot

This Fall we collaborated with makeup artist Jen Johnson, jewelry designer Zurina Ketola, and florists Joanne Leiman of Flowers Flowers to create this gothic inspired Chicago bridal shoot.  Follow us on Pinterest to see the styleboard, full of rich burgundy and the hair that inspired model Brooke’s bouffant up-do.

Chicago Bridal Shoot

Chicago Bridal Shoot

The first bouquet by Flowers Flowers.Chicago Bridal ShootChicago Bridal Shoot Chicago Bridal Shoot
Chicago Bridal Shoot
Chicago Bridal Shoot Chicago Bridal ShootChicago Bridal Shoot

The second bouquet designed by Flowers Flowers.
Chicago Bridal Shoot Chicago Bridal Shoot Chicago Bridal Shoot

 

 

Sister Bridal Portraits: Molly and Krista

Capturing the bond of sisterhood with fun bridal photos

Whew!  Maggie and I are in the thick of wedding season and shooting a lot of portraits for Revealed.  Now it’s time to give a little love to our Revealed Studios website.  We gave you a sneak peek of this a while back, but here are all our favorite bridal photos with sisters Molly and Krista. Wer’e in awe of these lovely ladies and their gorgeous wedding gowns.bridal photos bridal photos bridal photos bridal photos bridal photos