What to Wear – A Free Style Guide
How do I pick an outfit/style for my session?!
Surely, we have all asked ourselves this question! I’m a photographer and I still struggle with what to wear on a day to day basis! I’ve created this free wardrobe guide for you, in hopes it can take the stress and pressure out of choosing an outfit for your photo session!
When you are trying to find your style, Comfort is key…
First and foremost, when choosing an outfit, I want you to prioritize your comfort. Do your clothes represent YOU? I want to make sure that no matter what, regardless of what you wear, you feel like yourself. When you think of your favorite outfit, what does that look like? Is there a pair of jeans you own that does all the right things?! Do you have a jumpsuit that when you put it on you feel extra sassy?! I would say the best route is to go with an outfit you’ve worn before. Something you know moves with you and fits you perfectly! That 100% does not have to be jeans and a t-shirt, by the way! And if you want to try something new I’m all for it, as long as you feel confident! If you’re not sure though, I just might stay away from that new edgy dress that you’ve been eyeing just in case you don’t love it. The truth is, my camera sees everything, and you’ll be able to tell if you’re uncomfortable!
How to Incorporate Patterns, Texture, + Movement…
I always suggest picking fabrics that move with you! I love to grab items that add a cozy texture, like an oversized sweater. You could also style a cardigan or flannel with some jeans! Or, if its a warmer day, you could opt for a flowy dress! Anything that lets you move freely is an immediate yes!
I suggest staying away from big logos or prints unless it’s a look you’re intentionally trying to create! Generally, having large patterns takes focus away from everything else. If you really wanted to do a print or pattern, opt for something small and subtle and build the rest of the outfits on that piece!
Let’s talk colors...
When deciding outfit colors, I would aim for neutrals, earthy, or muted tones. These colors truly look good with everything! I might be a little biased (my favorite color is brown) but who cares, right?!
I know, I know. You’re saying, “Meghan why can’t I wear bold colors?!” Don’t get me wrong, I love a bright pop of color just as much as the next person! However, primary colors, while incredibly striking, can again take away the focus from the main subject (cough cough *you*). Say, you really love wearing green, I would opt for either a sage or a muted olive! If your favorite color is pink, grab a light blush or coral!
For families it’s best to keep your color scheme limited to, at most, four colors. Similar to how you’d pick patterns, I would choose one person to wear a feature color and work on putting together everyone else’s outfits according to that.
Another reason to stay away from bold colors, is my editing style! I lean towards warm brown tones in my editing, so the neutrals just work perfectly. There’s just something about those earthy colors, dude, I can’t get enough of them! They ALWAYS look good. I will stand by that forever haha!
And last, but certainly not least we have the topic of…
Matching…
Should I, or should I not?
Long story short, no. You shouldn’t wear matching clothes to your session. As much as we adore matching flannels and PJ’s, when too many of you wear the same color, they tend to blend together. I don’t want any of you to get lost in a sea of matching prints!
In order for the photos to really pop, you’re going to need a variety of textures, colors, patterns, etc. You want to make sure your outfits compliment whoever you’re with, so that everything looks really cohesive! That’s where the magic happens. When you get those creamy neutrals with giant rolling hills behind you…ugh. Delightful!!
Lets recap…
- Comfort is the most important factor!
- Choose fabrics that are easy to move around in!
- Smaller, simpler patterns, and flowy fabrics look incredible always!
- Neutrals, Earthy, and Muted colors are a YES!
- Compliment – don’t match!
- Try to stay away from large prints, logos, and patterns
- Pair your outfit with a cute hat, or some bracelets to finish the look! *That’s an extra 😉 *
Okay!! That’s it! A quick and painless outfit + style guide, that you can reference whenever you need to! I am also always available to answer any questions that might come up as we are planning your session!!
Want to know more about color theory?
https://xd.adobe.com/ideas/process/ui-design/what-is-color-theory/
Good info well presented and helpful
Thank you! I appreciate your feedback!
Biggest question for me just in my day to day lol. Definitely going to apply this.
It’s such a struggle, I feel it! I’m so glad you’re able to use this as a reference!