Fashion Friday – Summer Sales | San Jose Boudoir Photography

Boudoir Coterie Portrait photographyHappy Friday!

I don’t know how it happened, but Fall is already creeping up on us. As someone who hasn’t been a student for a long time, doesn’t have kids, and lives in the land of perpetual summer, I get pretty bummed when I start to see the telltale signs of Fall. I guess I should clarify and say the “commercial” signs of Fall, like the back-to-school displays that go up at the end of July, since there are actually zero signs of Fall here in Southern California.

I actually really miss Fall in good old New England where I grew up, but somehow this back-to-school display in July makes me a tiny bit sad. Thankfully, there’s an awesome silver lining (okay, I know it’s not THAT bad anyway) – summer sales!

Ahh yes. I love sales! Summer sales are even more awesome in Southern California because I can buy things on clearance that I can still wear in the coming months, but even if you live somewhere where that isn’t possible, there’s always lingerie! Colors and styles might vary a little by season, but lingerie is lingerie all year round.

I’ve been doing a ton of summer sale browsing online (who goes to the mall anymore?), so I thought I’d share a few of my favorite sales and finds.

One of my favorite stores to browse for sales is Anthropologie. I love their clothes, but most are ridiculously expensive, so I almost everything I own from there was a gift or purchased on sale. Their site also has really great user reviews, which I find super helpful. I have purchased a few nighties from there over the years and they are SO comfortable and cute. I love this body suit they have on sale now. It’s simple, sexy and fairly tame in the front, but is unexpectedly revealing from behind.

Next up is Journelle. I have to admit, I feature their lingerie on this blog a lot, but I’ve never actually purchased anything from them. What I love is that they have a HUGE selection, lots of fun styles, and a variety of price points (though they’re still kinda on the high-end). I might just have to finally splurge on something from their summer sale. Most of their sale items are bras and panties in every color you could imagine. Here’s one of my favorites.

Gap Body isn’t typically the first place I think of for lingerie, but I like how most of their pieces look cute and comfortable and are more reasonably priced. It’s definitely more every-day than special occasion stuff, but isn’t that what most of us wear most frequently anyway? Here’s a cute comfy nighty that totally fits the bill.

If you’re looking for something extra special, there’s always the La Perla outlet. Most prices are still pretty hefty, but definitely help make these gorgeous pieces just a little more attainable. Here’s one of their more “affordable” pieces, which is still totally gorgeous!

And finally, since Boudoir Coterie is a big fan of the Dita Von Teese line at Bloomingdales, I have to mention that a few of her pieces have made it to their sale section!

There are so many great summer sales, I could go on forever, but I won’t. Have you scored any awesome lingerie deals lately? Let us know in the comments…and perhaps think about a boudoir session to show off your new pieces.

Nicole

Special Sun Kissed Sessions

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Sun Kissed Sessions- $299.00

Welcome to our fabulous Sun Kissed Session Special. I don’t normally have the opportunity to shoot in the evenings. I did so a few weeks ago and the light was absolutely stunning! It was then that I decided to offer a limited number of evening shoots at a special price!

You’ll have 1 look plus sheets/implied nude. Or you can keep your clothes on for a beauty session. 😉 A beautiful vintage slip, chemise, lace nighty or over sized sweater would be a stunning alternative to just sheets.

Session details:

  • Full hair and makeup application.
  • Evening shoot- start time availability between 5:00- 6:30
  • 40 minutes in front of camera.
  • 20 fully edited images for viewing.
  • All product including digital files sold separately.
  • 20% off all albums.

Sunkissed session

Other details:

– Session must take place in by Sept 5th. I have kept my evenings open so I have a range of dates available!

– Payment plans available.

Sexy boudoir photos San Francisco Bay Area

 

Please Contact Me for available dates!

bcoterie@sbcglobal.net or 408.866.1804

Sexy Photos San Jose Boudoir Photographer

 



Fashion Friday Vegas Style | San Jose Boudoir Photoraphy

Boudoir Coterie Portrait photographyAs some of you may know, I recently moved from Northern California to Southern California, and if this summer wasn’t busy enough already, I’m heading to Las Vegas next week for a girl’s trip.

While it might not exactly be the best timing, I’m super excited because I’ll be able to catch up with some of my Northern CA girlfriends, AND, believe it or not, it’s my first time in Vegas!

While I obviously cannot claim to be an expert on this one, I thought it’d be fun to share a few of the things I’m packing since Vegas seems like an awesome excuse to play dress up.

After professing my love for Rent the Runway a few months back I received a few gift cards, so this seemed like a perfect time to cash in on those. I’ll also be packing some of my new summer staples. Check it out!

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(Top-Bottom/Left-Right)

1. Slate & Willow Erica Dress, Rent the Runway – This dress is fairly simple, but I don’t own any red dresses, so that makes it special for me. I ordered it a few days early too so I can wear it for date night with my husband this weekend.

2. Badgely Mischka Fifth Ave. Showstopper Dress, Rent the Runway – It may be horribly cliche, but I just couldn’t go to Vegas for the first time without a sparkly dress. I really love the rose gold color of this one, which I think makes it a bit more unique and summery.

3. Nicole Miller Southern Plantation Earrings, Rent the Runway – Aside from the jewelry I wear every day, I haven’t unpacked a whole lot, which I decided was good excuse to rent a few pieces.

4. Factory Denim Roll Up Short, J.Crew Factory – The temperatures in Las Vegas are 100+ this time of year, so I’ll be slipping these on and heading to the pool.

5. Factory Bouquet Necklace, J.Crew Factory – I picked this up on sale while ordering a second pair of the Factory Denim Roll Up Shorts. See #3.

6. Jules Smith Viva Glam Necklace, Rent the Runway – See #3.

7. Vanessa Virginia Capuchina Dress, Anthropologie – This dress has become another summer staple for me since it’s super comfortable and can easily be dressed up or down.

8. Havianas Slim Legend – I’m not sure what party shoes I’ll be bringing yet, but you better believe I’ll be giving my feet a break at pool time (and every chance I get). I don’t have this exact pair of Havianas, but have similar ones I picked up at TJ Maxx a few summers ago. These are super cute and I love the bit of bling, but would definitely not pay $40 for rubber flip flops.

For the Vegas Veterans out there, what are your Vegas must-haves? Sunscreen and a bathing suit are also pretty high up on my list since I anticipate more time relaxing at the pool than hitting the casinos.

 

Fashion Friday Summer Brights from Agent Provocateur | San Jose Boudoir Photography

Boudoir Coterie Portrait photography I’ve been meaning to feature Agent Provocateur for a while now, so I decided to do a little browsing over there today. I was totally planning to feature some classic pieces in black and other neutrals, but I was really struck by their bright summer collections!

While I usually prefer lingerie that’s a little more timeless and classic, I think it’s good to have a little more fun once in a while — and summer is a great time to do that.

There’s no denying it — Agent Provacateur is expensive, but they’re known for their unique and beautiful styles and are totally worth it if you’ve got the spare cash.

Also, while it’s totally not necessary to spend a lot of money on outfits for a boudoir photo shoot, if you want to spend a little more on some really special pieces, a boudoir photo shoot is the best time to do so.

If you think about it, you probably wear most special lingerie for a few minutes, and then it gets tucked away in a drawer and often forgotten. If you wear something for a boudoir session, you’ll have photos to cherish forever, whether you wear the item again or not.

Now it’s time for a few my favorites from Agent Provocateur’s summer collection.

I’m not sure I could pull off bright lime green with my pasty skin, but for those of you who can, how fun is the Brittnie collection?

Lime green definitely isn’t for everyone, but Agent Provocateur’s summer collection has a bunch of different brights, so there’s something for all skin tones. Check out this gorgeous grape number from the Janet line.

If you don’t want to commit to a fully bright ensemble, the Petunia collection is mostly black with a few bright details.

Last but not least, one of my favorite summer colors – turquoise! This color reminds me of blue skies and tropical beaches, and is flattering on so many skin tones. The beautiful Lavelle collection has some fun peek-a-boo details and bright pink accents.

 

Ready to rock your favorite summer bright for a boudoir photo session?

Sexy Portraits San Jose Bay Area

Nicole

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Keep updated on all that is happening with Boudoir Coterie by joining our VIP Mailing list. You’ll also be the first to hear about upcoming events and specials, be privileged to VIP only offers, makeup and fashion tips and much more! P.S. We do not share or sell your info and you can unsubscribe at any time!





Gloria AKA “Glowpinkstah” Was Here! | San Jose Bay Area Boudoir Photography

I am so excited to share all these goodies, not only is there some fun videos but there will be lots more to come!

I had the pleasure of working with Gloria last weekend after sending out a tweet a month or so ago saying that I would love to photograph her one day, and she responded. Yay! If you have never seen any of Gloria’s YouTube videos, you need to go check her out on her Glowpinkstah channel! She’s a comedian who is known for her fantastic makeup tutorials…hehehe. From that link you can find her on all your favorite social networks(I’m loving Instagram)!

We had so much fun last Saturday, with some pretty outfits from Curvy Girl Lingerie— Thanks Chrystal!! Gloria not only posted a video of her experience, but a quick behind the scenes(so you can check out the studio and see me in action). So please check these out. Now be for you rush to watch these videos, here’s a little sneak peek of one of her final images and be sure to check back for lots more photos and another fun video soon to come!!

Glowpinkstah boudoir shoot san jose

Now for some video fun! I have to admit, I feel so awkward in front of the camera! LOL.

And the behind the scenes…

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Keep updated on all that is happening with Boudoir Coterie by joining our VIP Mailing list. You’ll also be the first to hear about upcoming events and specials, be privileged to VIP only offers, makeup and fashion tips and much more! P.S. We do not share or sell your info and you can unsubscribe at any time!





Fashion Friday Rent the Runway | San Jose Boudoir Photography


Boudoir Coterie Portrait photography
 I wanted to share a recent discovery of mine that’s not totally new, but new to me and totally fabulous.

My mother-in-law told me about Rent the Runway (RTR) a few years ago when I was looking for a wedding dress. They didn’t really have what I was looking for then, but I must have signed up somewhere with my email, because a couple weeks ago I got a promotional email from them (the first one ever) offering $25 off my first rental.

If you’re not familiar with RTR, it’s a shop that rents designer dresses for a fraction of the purchase price. You simply pick your style, order it, and it’s shipped to you via UPS. You can even order a second size for free. After your event you return your dress in a prepaid envelope and RTR takes care of the cleaning for you. You even get to keep the garment bag it’s originally shipped in (I don’t know why, but this was a big plus for me. I could see these coming in handy later.)

First of all, I have to commend them for good email marketing. If they’d been spamming me weekly since I signed up, I probably wouldn’t have bothered. I loved that they didn’t contact me for more than a year, and when they did, it was with a deal. Kudos.

RTR must have known is was a good time to contact me because my wedding anniversary was this past weekend, my birthday is this coming weekend, and my husband’s birthday is at the end of the month.

After browsing the site a bit, I decided to take them up on the $25 off my first rental and got the “Some Like it Hot” dress by Milly to wear for my anniversary dinner. The price tag on this rental was a little high (to me at least), but with the $25 deal, I decided to go for it.

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I have to admit, I was a little nervous about falling in love with the dress and wanting to buy it (it retails for more than $400), but I actually didn’t. The dress was fabulous, but not something I’d wear enough to warrant even thinking about buying it, and the fit wasn’t perfect.

After my first rental I was totally hooked. Thankfully, I didn’t have to wait long for my  next one, because I ordered the “Guilty as Charged” dress by BCBCMAXAZRIA  for a casual birthday party earlier this week. This dress was super cute a comfy, though a little hot. I had no idea it was going to be 90 degrees this week!

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This dress I actually might have considered buying because I think it’d be great with tights and boots in the winter, and I would actually get a lot of wear out of it. However, I checked the BCBGMAXAZRIA site and couldn’t find it anywhere, which leads me to believe it’s an older style. Oh well.

What I really love about Rent the Runway is that there are reviews from real people, and many post photos of themselves in the dresses. This way you get an idea of what the dress would look like on someone your size, and not just the model. You can actually enter your body type, age, height, weight, bra size, etc. into the site and then search for photos of other users with similar proportions. It’s pretty neat! Most of the dresses I’ve looked at go up to size 12 or so, and they also have a plus-size page too.

On top of having fabulous dresses, Rent the Runway also has a huge collection of accessories, which would be perfect for a boudoir session. Rental prices range from $5 all the way up to $400. Since most of us don’t typically purchase jewelry to match our favorite lingerie, this is a perfect opportunity to borrow something that would. They have a lot of pretty fancy stuff, so it would be great for weddings too!

Have you tried Rent the Runway? If so, let us know what you think in the comments. I know I’m hooked!

Nicole

 

Fashion Friday Dita Von Teese | San Jose Boudoir Photography

I Boudoir Coterie Portrait photography have to admit, I didn’t know a whole lot about Dita Von Teese other than that she was once married to Marilyn Manson and is often seen showing off her curves in sexy lingerie, but when Danea told me about her new line at Bloomingdale’s, I decided it was time to find out more.

From my quick Wikipedia research, Dita Von Teese (born Heather Renne Sweet) is most famous for re-popularizing burlesque performance, and is also a model, actress and entrepreneur.

Her most recent entrepreneurial endeavor is her Bloomingdale’s lingerie line, and I have to say, it is gorgeous!

Unfortunately, I haven’t had a chance to actually check any of these out in person since the closest Bloomingdales is a bit of a trek from my house, but based on the reviews on their site, Dita’s line is not only gorgeous, but also good quality (as I’d expect from Bloomingdale’s).

This collection definitely has a lot of burlesque influence and is classically sexy. I really like how black lace seems to be the uniting element, but it’s accented with pops of color and other unique details. Here are a few of my favorites:

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What I really love about Dita’s lingerie is that it’s all timeless, which is especially important when you’re planning a photo session. No one wants to look back at what they were wearing in a few years and wonder “what was I thinking?”

Although red isn’t always advised for boudoir sessions, this set is gorgeous. Check out the details on the bra!

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And then there’s these panties! Is it weird that I wish they could show the back of these panties on a model? I guess it wouldn’t be appropriate for the Bloomingdale’s website, but I have a sneaking suspicion that this photo is not even close to doing them justice.

Dita Von Teese Bikini - Savoir Faire #Y22957 | Bloomingdale's

So there you have it. Has anyone tried on or seen this collection in person? I’d love to hear about it!

Of course, we’d also love to see some of this lingerie in the studio, so if you’ve got some and want to schedule a session, give us a call or shoot us an email today!

bcoterie@sbcglobal.net or 408.460.1855

 

Nicole

 

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Keep updated on all that is happening with Boudoir Coterie by joining our VIP Mailing list. You’ll also be the first to hear about upcoming events and specials, be privileged to VIP only offers, makeup and fashion tips and much more! P.S. We do not share or sell your info and you can unsubscribe at any time!