The short answer is, absolutely. And whether you choose to wear lace, a suit, some cellophane or nothing at all – it’s entirely up to you.
Boudoir doesn’t need a uniform. So let’s unpack that…
At Velvet Thyme, I see boudoir photography as a creative, collaborative space – a chance to honour your body and self-expression in whatever form feels right for you. For some, that’s lingerie. For others, it might be your favourite dress, a kick-ass suit or simply skin.
There’s no right way to show up here.
Lingerie is welcome. So is everything else.
If you love lingerie – wear it.
If it makes you feel amazing and powerful? Bring it on in all its lacy, strappy, shimmery glory!
But if you’re not feeling it or you never did, why force it?
Some of the most amazing moments come in:
- A worn-in t-shirt
- Draped fabric
- Layered textures and jewellery
- Meaningful props
- Or nothing at all
The point isn’t what you wear – it’s how you feel in it. Here’s a few ideas to get you thinking about what might work for you.
Is it still boudoir if I’m not wearing lingerie?
Absolutely.
I know that might be an unpopular opinion in some circles. During a recent mentorship, I was surprised to hear that a student studying boudoir photography was required to follow a very traditional, rigid definition – where lingerie was compulsory. As if that was what made it boudoir.
But to me, boudoir is a space for personal self-expression. It’s about creating something intimate and meaningful – on your terms. That’s why I often call it you-doir.
I also tend to describe what I do broadly as fine art photography, because it weaves across several genres – a mix of boudoir, nude, portraiture, pregnancy and more. It doesn’t need to fit neatly into a box.
When we define boudoir too narrowly, we start making assumptions:
- That everyone wants to feel sexy
- That sexy always looks a certain way
- That lingerie alone can make someone feel that way
But here’s the truth: lingerie isn’t magic. It doesn’t automatically create confidence, empowerment, or sensuality. For some, it’s joyful and affirming. For others, it feels awkward or irrelevant. Both are completely valid.
Sexiness isn’t about lace or push-up bras – and it’s never the only way clients want to see themselves. It’s a part of a much bigger picture of the self and that’s what we work to represent… and the self is complex, multifaceted and ever-changing.
Boudoir should make space for all of that – no matter how you show up!
What matters most: comfort and agency
This space is yours. You won’t be styled or posed into something that doesn’t feel right. The goal is to explore what you want this experience to mean – through conversation, creative exploration, and working in a safe space.
That’s the root of empowerment here: you choose.
Lingerie or not - you’re invited to take up space
So yes, you can absolutely do boudoir without lingerie. You can also do it with lingerie, if that’s what lights you up.
You don’t need to change anything. You don’t need to present a version of yourself. This isn’t about fitting a mould – it’s about reclaiming your image, your body, your gaze.
Curious about your own session?
Let’s chat. There’s no pressure. Just possibility!
