Whether you're prepping for your boudoir session or just want to feel incredible in your own skin, finding lingerie that flatters your body type can make all the difference. The right fit not only enhances your natural beauty but boosts your confidence and lets your personality shine through on camera—and off.


Here’s a breakdown of common body types and lingerie styles that flatter each one. Keep in mind: every body is different, and the most important thing is wearing what makes you feel beautiful.


 

(Bust and hips are proportionate with a defined waist)


Hourglass Shape


Hourglass figures have a naturally balanced bust and hip ratio with a defined waist. You’ll want lingerie that hugs your shape and highlights that beautiful symmetry.


Recommended styles:


Corsets or bustiers that cinch your waist and showcase your hourglass silhouette

High-waisted panties paired with a balconette or underwire bra for a classic pin-up look

Wrap-style lingerie or robes that draw attention to your waistline

Bodysuits that offer structure while hugging your curves in all the right places

 

A collection of boudoir photography shots showing a person posing elegantly on vintage furniture in soft lighting.

 

(Wider hips, smaller upper body)


Pear Shape

Pear-shaped bodies typically have narrower shoulders and a smaller bust, with wider hips and thighs. Your goal is to draw the eye upward while still celebrating your lower half.


Recommended styles:


Push-up or embellished bras to add visual volume to your chest

A-line baby dolls or chemises that skim over the hips while defining the waist

Lace or sheer robes to add movement and softness while balancing proportions

Longline bras with detailing around the neckline to emphasize your shoulders and collarbone

 

A model in black lingerie poses elegantly on a cream colored chaise lounge during a boudoir photoshoot.
Elegant boudoir photograph with vintage beige sofa and decorative green plants in dark moody lighting.

 

(Fuller bust and midsection with slimmer legs and hips)


Apple Shape


Apple-shaped bodies tend to carry more weight in the midsection with a fuller bust and slimmer hips and legs. You’ll want lingerie that offers support and shape without feeling restrictive.


Recommended styles:


Empire-waist lingerie that sits just below the bust and flows gently over the stomach

Bodysuits with mesh panels or tummy control for smooth lines and structure

Deep V or plunging necklines that elongate your torso and flatter the bust

Shapewear-inspired lingerie that’s as sexy as it is supportive

 

A black and white boudoir photo collage showing dramatic lighting and intimate poses against dark backdrops.
A dramatic black and white boudoir portrait of a person lying on a bed in moody lighting.

 

(Straight figure with fewer defined curves)


Athletic Shape


Athletic or straight body types usually have fewer natural curves and a more linear silhouette. The key here is choosing lingerie that adds texture, movement, and the illusion of shape.


Recommended styles:


Cut-out bodysuits or strappy sets to create visual interest and curves

Ruffled, ruched, or layered pieces that add softness and volume

Triangle bras with cheeky or side-tie panties to draw attention to hips

Bold fabrics like lace, mesh, or even leather to break up straight lines and add depth

 

Woman in white lingerie lying on white surface with red rose petals scattered around.
Figure in black lace lingerie poses on red satin fabric backdrop.
A model in white lace lingerie poses elegantly on a white surface with tropical plants in the background.

 

(Fuller bust, hips, thighs, and everything to love)


Plus Size or Curvy


Curvy and plus-size bodies are beautifully diverse, and the key to stunning lingerie is finding pieces that offer support, structure, and style without sacrificing comfort.


Recommended styles:


Underwire bras and structured bodysuits to lift and support the bust

High-waisted panties with matching bras or bralettes for a chic, coordinated look

Garter belts or thigh-high accessories that add a sultry touch and variety to posing

Sheer robes or off-the-shoulder pieces that add softness while still showing shape

 

A woman in a black mesh bodysuit poses sensually on white bedding in boudoir style photography.
Person in white lingerie lounges on beige couch in intimate boudoir style photo.

No matter your size, shape, or style, the best lingerie is whatever makes you feel amazing. The right fit can empower you, bring out your best features, and help you walk into your boudoir shoot feeling like your most radiant self.


If you’re still unsure about what to wear, I offer wardrobe guidance before every boudoir session and encourage you to bring a few options. Together, we’ll create a look that feels true to you—so you can focus on having fun, feeling confident, and capturing your beauty exactly as you are.


Want more in depth guide? Every booked session gets a prep guide to help get you ready for your session including finding the right lingerie!

I also keep a full client closet with sizes ranging from xxs - 5xl!