What to wear (and avoid wearing) for your engagement session

I have resisted writing this blog for SO long because my whole approach is to capture couples as they ARE. Whatever is true to them, that’s what I want to capture. However, I do realize that taking professional photos is certainly not an every day occurrence for most people so maaaaaybe I get that you need some guidance ;)

Think of these as guidelines, not actual rules. At the end of the day, whatever you choose to wear will be perfect but, here’s some tips and tricks.

First, look at texture! Texture looks so good on camera—layers, lace, velvet, etc. Love an outfit with texture!

Colors:
Deep and rich jewel tones are always a safe bet and look good on all!, particularly if one partner keeps it neutral 👇

A neutral color story for both partners is also a total win and is totally on trend right now: denim and white tops, black and white combos, browns and tans and of course, denims. 👇

Avoid neon colors and outfits with logos.

Patterns can be fine but make sure they don’t clash with one another. For example, if I am wearing a patterned jumpsuit, I put my husband in a complimentary solid color like the two photos below. Make sure the pattern isn’t really tiny as that can look weird in photos, at the same time make sure it’s not too large as that can overpower an image and more importantly, overpower YOU as a person. Tiana’s choice of a patterned flower dress is the perfect scale below and David her fiancé in neutrals and a jewel toned shirt fits perfectly.

One outfit: If you’re thinking about wearing just one outfit, the pros are: you save time because you don’t need to pause to change. The cons are: not a ton of variety.

Two outfits:
Cons: there really aren’t any, I love two outfits most!
Pros: gives you a chance to change it up!

Go with one fancy/epic outfit, preferably with movement. A blazer or collard shirt for the guys and a flowery skirt/dress or badass jumpsuit for the ladies.

Then, switch to a more casual “everyday” outfit that you can move in and makes you feel great. This outfit may get dirty and that’s okay!

Three outfits:
Cons: takes more time
Pros: perfect for all you indecisive folks!

Start with something CASUAL and seasonally appropriate: jacket in the winter, sundress in the heat.

Next, move on to that epic outfit I talked about with movement.

Last, your favorite normal outfit that makes you feel like a knockout. Remember if you create an outfit with layers, it’s like having two looks in one when you add or remove that jacket, scarf, hat, etc.

DO’s:
- Do look at your own closet. You’d be surprised what photo worthy things you already own or can style into something new and fun!
- Focus on comfort. If you’re not comfortable, that will come through in your photos trust me.
- Do get your hair and makeup done if you’re nervous about doing your own. I personally believe having pro hair and makeup done is more empowering than a new outfit anyway!
- Think about the season and dress appropriately. Nobody likes to be overheated or freezing and that discomfort will show through in photos.
- Think about dressing your outfit up or down with jewelry or accessories—a simple scarf, hat or statement earrings can make all the difference with very minimal effort or expense.
- Go for texture! Texture looks great in photos — lace, velvet, etc, it all adds visual interest!

DON’TS:
- Don’t wear things that aren’t your size. Photoshoot day is not the time for broken zippers. No I can’t edit that out of 100+ images. TRY THINGS ON BEFORE THE DAY.
- Don’t give into the pressure that you have to buy a certain look — your photos will be your own and they will be awesome!
- Don’t overcomplicate it. If you want one outfit, cool. If you want 2, cool. Don’t stress or think you need more just because you see other people doing it. Again, it’s all about you.
- Don’t wear outfits out of season. For example, a sweater dress in July will not make you feel or look your best. Neither will a tank top in December. Think about the weather and be realistic about how you’re going to feel and move in the outfit and season you’ve selected. If you plan to swim or get dirty towards the end of the session, pack accordingly—getting soaked in jeans makes less sense than a swimsuit trust me!
- Don’t break the bank. If you want to splurge on one epic outfit, awesome! But by no means do you have to spend a ton to look bomb. Which leads me to all my store recs below 👇

Here are my favorite places to shop for photoshoots

Epic and swoon-worthy outfits:
Baltic Born
Lulu’s
Rent the Runway
Free People
Reclamation

Photoshoot worthy on trend pieces:
Roolee
Gigi Pip
Urban Outfitters
Abercrombie and Fitch (I know I know, but really, they are BACK)

Casual and cheap trendy finds you’ll def wear again:
H+M
Shein
Asos