A Brief History



Picture this: a woman in the 1890s, slipping out of her corset and into something daring—perhaps nothing at all—striking a sultry pose for the camera in a private room. Scandalous? Perhaps. But also… liberating. In the intimate spaces of 19th-century France, behind closed doors, women found a way to express what society told them to suppress. These weren’t just photographs; they were quiet acts of rebellion. And if you're clutching your pearls, you're not alone.

These rooms—often bedrooms—offered sanctuary. Here, women could sulk, pout, and pose in ways that defied the rigid expectations of the era. It’s no coincidence that the term boudoir comes from the French bouder, meaning “to pout.” This genre of photography was born from a desire to capture something raw, real, and deeply personal: the female form in its truest expression. And trust any art historian—the female form has long been muse to the world of art.

Though often considered taboo, boudoir photography dates back as early as the 1840s. Over 130 years later, the allure still burns strong. While privacy remains paramount for many, the spirit of boudoir has evolved. Today, women—and increasingly, men and couples—step into this space proudly, owning their narratives, their bodies, and their beauty.

The three images below are a tribute to that legacy. Captured in France and inspired by the elegance of the French Riviera with a hint of Parisian flair, they embody the timeless essence of true boudoir: sensual, stylish, and boldly authentic.