There's so many photo shoots leading up to a wedding, but one of the most thrilling experiences is a bridal boudoir shoot. Whether you are doing it to commemorate your wedding or create a gift for your partner, taking these intimate photos is an empowering experience you won't forget. Of course, it can be a bit nerve-wracking to pose in lingerie, so we tapped model and confidence coach Ella Halikas for advice.
With her experience modeling for Sports Illustrated, Under Armour, and major lingerie brands, Halikas knows all about picking the right lingerie to feel sexy and confident in front of the camera. "Just know that you are loved and you are beautiful," says Halikas. If your boudoir shoot is part of a wedding present for your new spouse, she says that it's important to feel good in your skin. "They love you and all of you," Halikas emphasizes. "You don't need to hide away parts of your body," .
Her go-to piece is a good bodysuit, and we love how Dreamgirl's Embroidered Mesh Teddy combines bridal elements with sultry sheerness. If you want more coverage, Halikas recommends layering on a silk robe like Victoria's Secret Lace Inset Robe and letting it coyly drape off your shoulder.
So no matter your body type or lingerie style, here are Halikas' top lingerie picks and tips for rocking your bridal boudoir photo shoot.
Best Bodysuit: Dreamgirl Embroidered Mesh Teddy
Price at time of publish: $52
"A one piece bodysuit makes everyone feel good," says Halikas. "It snatches you in and really accentuates your curves." With an adjustable tulle bow, this lace teddy further highlights your waist, while giving a bridal touch. It's the perfect balance of sweet and sexy.
Colors: White | Size Range: S-3X | Materials: Lace, Mesh
Best Matching Set: Adore Me Tiana Unlined Set
Price at time of publish: $55
"Any matching set—whether it's colorful or just a classic black or red—is a staple to have in your closet," says Halikas. This floral lace set is one that you can wear way beyond the boudoir shoot. The unlined balconette goes up to size 46I and has fully adjustable straps and supportive wings. With nine colors to choose from, you can find the right shade to fit with the theme of your shoot, no matter if it's sweet or moody. Do note that the garter belt is sold separately.
Colors: 9 | Size Range: XS-4X | Materials: Lace, Mesh
Best Silk Robe: Victoria's Secret Lace Inset Robe
Price at time of publish: $90
For an extra confidence boost, Halikas recommends having a silk robe on set, like this pretty one from Victoria's Secret. "I always feel a lot more powerful and sexy when I have a robe," says Halikas. "It's nice having something that you can drape off one shoulder." Bonus: the flare sleeves and lace trim makes it feel extra glam.
Colors: 6 | Size Range: XS-XXL | Materials: Polyester
Best Corset: Adore Me Jasmine Unlined
Price at time of publish: $65
"I love a corset piece," says Halikas. "You can make it tighter and further accentuate your curves, lift your boobs, and hold you in." Thanks to the boning, sweetheart neckline, and lace back closure, this piece looks like a found vintage treasure. We also love that it comes with a matching lace panty and attached garters. Now you just have to decide whether you'll choose the innocent white or naughty red.
Colors: Black/Red, White | Size Range: XS-4X | Materials: Satin, Lace
Best Stockings: Savage X Fenty Butterfly Effect Stockings
Price at time of publish: $33
No lingerie look is complete without some lacy thigh-highs. They play up your legs and lead to some creative photo ops, whether you're pulling them up or down. Halikas says she loves Savage X Fenty for trendy lingerie that's both affordable and inclusive. Featuring a delicate butterfly pattern, these go beyond your basic fishnets.
Colors: Black | Size Range: XS-3X | Materials: Polyamide, Elastane
Meet the Expert
- Ella Halikas is a model and content creator based in Los Angeles who embodies self-confidence and body positivity. She was featured in Sports Illustrated 2021 Swimsuit Edition and regularly models for different lingerie, swimsuit, and fashion brands.
What to Look for in Bridal Boudoir Lingerie
Colors
Deciding on the color of your lingerie really depends on the overall theme of the boudoir shoot. Are you sticking to a bridal look and plan to only wear white? Then go with a white bodysuit like Dreamgirl's Embroidered Mesh Teddy. If you want to embrace your dark, sultry side, try something in red or black, like Adore Me Jasmine Unlined Corset. Halikas say you can never go wrong with the "girl-next-door" look by opting for soft pinks and reds. That's why we like the Tiana Unlined Set from Adore Me because it comes in nine different colors to fit your mood.
Materials
Just like with the color, choosing the materials for your lingerie largely depends on your theme. Mesh and leather lend an edge while lace and satin feels more girlie. Halikas says she loves silk and satin pieces like Victoria's Secret Lace Inset Robe, which skim your curves. "Any material that makes you feel good and confident is great," she says.
Why Trust Brides
Emily Cieslak is an Assistant Commerce Editor and writes about all things beauty and style. Prior to writing for Brides, she worked as a fashion buyer where she managed the lingerie category for a major online retailer. To learn how to dress and pose for a boudoir shoot like the pros, she interviewed model and confidence coach Ella Halikas.