Wondering what to wear for a professional headshot or portrait session? From colors and patterns to jewelry and comfort, here’s how to choose outfits that feel authentic and photograph beautifully.
Outfit Tips, Colors, Patterns, and Jewelry Answered
One of the most common questions I get before a headshot or portrait session is:
“What should I wear?”
Closely followed by:
Can I wear patterns? Bright colors? Jewelry?
The short answer is: yes—if it feels like you.
The longer (and more helpful) answer is below.
✨ Wear What You Love—and What Makes You Feel Confident
I always tell my clients to wear clothing they love and feel genuinely good in. This applies to headshots, branding sessions, and portrait sessions of any kind.
When you feel confident in what you’re wearing, it shows. That confidence comes through in your posture, your expression, and especially your eyes. It’s not something that can be faked or “posed”—it’s energy.
✨ Fit, Comfort, and the Whole Outfit Matter
Your clothing should:
Fit well
Be clean
Be wrinkle-free (iron or steam if needed)
Even if I’m not photographing your legs or feet, I recommend wearing a complete outfit from head to toe. If you’re wearing a beautiful blouse but sweatpants underneath, your body knows—and your confidence shifts.
There’s a big difference in how someone shows up when they’re fully dressed versus halfway dressed. Feeling pulled together helps you relax and be present during your session.
Pro tip: Try everything on a few days before your session. Make sure it still fits, feels good, and doesn’t have any stains, tears, or missing buttons. The studio is not the place to discover a zipper issue.
✨ Dress Like the Version of You People Actually Meet
Another important thing to consider:
Does this look like you in real life?
I once had a client who wanted more casual headshots because she had received feedback that her existing images looked much more formal than how she showed up day-to-day. When people met her in person, the disconnect felt confusing.
Your headshot should align with how clients, colleagues, or collaborators experience you in real life. Whether you’re polished, creative, casual, bold, or somewhere in between—your images should feel honest.
✨ Can I Wear Bright Colors or Patterns?
Absolutely—if that’s part of your personal style.
Some photographers recommend neutral colors only and advise against patterns, but I don’t believe there’s a one-size-fits-all rule. If you naturally wear bold colors, interesting textures, statement jewelry, or patterns, those elements can be part of telling your story.
Your headshot isn’t just about what you look like—it gives the viewer information about who you are.
That said, a few guidelines can help:
Avoid logos or large text that can distract
If you’re unsure, bring options—we can decide together
Some people bring a suitcase of clothes to select from!
Jewelry, Accessories, and Personal Details
Jewelry is welcome! Just make sure it feels like you and is something that you wear often
Statement earrings, layered necklaces, or meaningful pieces can add personality and warmth to your images. If accessories are part of how you express yourself, they belong in your portraits.
Still Not Sure What to Wear? You’re Not Alone.
Most people don’t get photographed professionally very often, and it’s completely normal to feel unsure. That’s why every session includes guidance—from planning your outfits to helping you feel relaxed and confident in front of the camera.
If you’re ever on the fence, bring a few options. We’ll look at them together and choose what photographs best and feels most authentic to you.
Because the best headshots aren’t about following rules—they’re about showing up as yourself.