Not sure what to wear for your boudoir photos? Stylist Emily McClaren has all your needs covered!
When it comes to deciding what to wear for boudoir photos, there are some who love the opportunity to search the websphere for getups and accessories. For others, it’s panic inducing. Suddenly they’re faced with a million-and-one questions–“Do I get the black bodysuit, or the nude? Wait, can I even pull off a bodysuit? Aren’t only celebrities like Rhianna and Lady Gaga able to wear that sort of thing. Should I google them to see?” And suddenly, they’re lost in a spiral of browser tabs and self doubt.
For those of you who can relate to the latter, good news, we have just what you need. Meet Emily McClaren-fashion aficionado. She’s got your covered. From concept to actual shopping, she’s there to help along the way.
We recently partnered up with Emily for a fun, fresh, spring model session with one of our beloved past clients. Check out our collaboration below and read about Emily’s styling process.
If you’re interested in having Emily style your session or to find out more, message us at [email protected] or call 773-273-9063.
Step 1: Concept
[70’s inspired boudoir session]
First, I begin with finding out the vibe we are wanting to convey for the specific project. I like to start with a conversation with each client, regarding the “feel” they are looking to present for that occasion. This question helps me get into the mindset of the client. I often find that clients struggle with finding exact pieces they are looking for; it is much easier for clients to express the type of look they are going for using specific adjectives (i.e. edgy, cool or soft and sweet). It seems easier to come to a consensus when their own verbiage is used, maybe even alone with a theme (i.e. a decade or location).
Step 2: Inspiration
In addition to talking about the “feel” or look, I ask clients to share any inspiration photos they’ve collected. This further allows our visions to mesh. It’s also an easy way to determine what they like and dislike about a certain style or photo. I also ask for permission to view their social media. This helps me visualize who I am dressing, their personal style, as well as best tones and colors. 
[natural, low-key vibe]
3. Comfort Level
The next question is probably the most sensitive. I ask clients which (if any) areas of their body they wish to conceal more than others. I also ask if there are any looks/styles that do not suit their personal vision. I do enjoy pushing clients out of their comfort zones. I respect the vision of the client, but it is my job, especially with boudoir, to bring a client beyond the realm of everyday wear and into a little fantasy. Furthermore, it is my passion to allow clients to feel beautiful and confident in our collaboration. I do my best to find a balance between keeping them comfortable and confident.
[Intimate and implied boudoir session].
Step 4: Color, Textures, & Styles
Sometimes it’s easier to determine what we hate vs. what we like when it comes to style. We all have our lists of things we would never wear and no amount of convincing is going to prove otherwise. For example, if someone hates the color pink or would never wear anything with lace, I’d do my best to avoid their dislikes. I do ask for flexibility in the collaborative process, because something that would normally make a client not choose a certain piece of clothing, might actually enhance the final look. In the end, I will always respect the feelings of the client.
Step 5: Logistics
It is my goal to respect the timeline and budget of each client. During the logistics discussion, this is where I will confirm measurements, as well as possible first fitting dates to ensure everything looks just right.
From this point on, I begin sourcing and narrowing down looks that I feel will address each component of the project. I provide multiple options from which to choose. This stage of the process can require some back and forth until we can land on the very best selection.
Step 7: Final Touches
After we nail down the exact pieces the client will be wearing, we start talking about any accessorizing we wish to add to complete the look (i.e. necklaces, earrings, rings, shoes, etc.).
Ultimately, my job is to help bring a client’s vision to life. For me styling and fashion is about storytelling and showing off the very best of a client!
