“What do I even wear?” is the question I get more than any other — and the answer is so much simpler, and so much more freeing, than you’re imagining.

You’ve booked (or you’re thinking about it), the excitement is real, and then it hits you: you open your drawer, look at what’s in there, and panic a little. Everyone does. The good news is that a gorgeous boudoir wardrobe has almost nothing to do with owning a closet full of lingerie — and everything to do with a few pieces that fit and make you feel like the most confident version of yourself.

Let’s take the guesswork out of it. Here’s exactly what photographs beautifully, where to shop for it right here in Louisville, and the little pro tips that make all the difference on the day.

Rule #1: Fit beats trend, every time

If you take one thing from this whole post, take this: the “right” outfit is the one that fits your body properly — not the one that’s trending, not the one that looked incredible on someone else. A perfectly fitted bra or bodysuit will always photograph better than an expensive set that gapes, digs, or slips. On camera, fit reads as confidence. Ill-fitting reads as fidgeting. So before you buy anything, get the fit right.

The pieces that always look stunning

You don’t need a dozen looks — three to five is plenty for a session. A few endlessly-flattering options to build around:

A classic bodysuit. The hardest-working piece in boudoir. It elongates your frame, smooths everything, and looks incredible in lace or with a low back. If you’re nervous, start here.

A matching lingerie set. A bra-and-bottom set in a color you love. Jewel tones (emerald, deep red, sapphire) and soft neutrals both photograph beautifully against studio light.

His shirt or an oversized knit. The pieces clients almost forget to bring end up being everyone’s favorite. An unbuttoned white shirt or a slouchy sweater over bare skin is effortless, cozy, and so timeless.

Something textured — lace, satin, sheer. Texture catches light and adds richness. Delicate lace and soft satin always read as luxurious.

A great pair of heels. Even a simple set transforms the moment you add heels. They change your posture and lengthen your legs instantly.

Where to shop in Louisville

If you’re local, do yourself the biggest favor and get professionally fitted before your session. My go-to recommendation is Underpinnings Lingerie in Norton Commons (9414 Norton Commons Blvd, Prospect). It’s a woman-owned boutique with trained fitting consultants, genuinely inclusive sizing, and a warm, no-pressure vibe — exactly the kind of place that makes trying things on feel fun instead of stressful. They carry beautiful lines like Marie Jo, Panache, and Simone Pérèle, and a proper fitting there will do more for your photos than any amount of scrolling online. Tell them you’re prepping for a boudoir session; they’ll take great care of you.

Shopping online instead? Order a size up and a size down of anything you’re unsure about, and don’t cut the tags until you’ve decided — returns are your friend. And don’t wait until the night before. Give yourself a week or two so nothing has to be rushed.

A few pro tips for the day

Bring more than you think you’ll need. It’s always better to have options and not use them than to wish you had one more.

Skip anything with tight elastic right before we shoot. Snug bras and waistbands leave marks that take time to fade. Loose and comfy until you change.

Bring the personal touches. His favorite shirt, a piece of jewelry that means something, the heels from your wedding — the meaningful pieces make the images yours.

When in doubt, we’ll figure it out together. Styling is part of what I do. You are never on your own with this.

Still not sure what suits you? I made a little quiz for exactly this moment. Take “What Should You Wear?” in the BombShell Arcade and find your signature session style in about two minutes — lace or leather, soft or bold, it’ll point you in the right direction before you ever step into the studio.

XO, Michelle