What to Wear for Engagement Photos: A Guide to Feeling Like Yourself
Choosing what to wear for engagement photos can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. With the right guidance, you can pick outfits that feel authentic, comfortable, and YOU. Let’s walk through it step by step.
Why This Matters
Hear me out… what you wear can make or break your photos! Think of your outfit like the quality of paint in a piece of art: poor paint, poor final product. Your wardrobe has the same impact.
So, grab your boo, get comfy, and take 10 minutes to intentionally walk through this blog. At the end of the day, I want you to feel like yourself in your photos—and part of that comes from wearing what truly reflects you.
Obviously, I’m giving guidelines and wardrobe expertise for photography, so don’t just wear sweatpants and a hoodie. Instead, take these tips and apply them to what you already know looks good on you and makes you feel confident!
Start With What You Already Have
Before you rush to buy something new, take a look in your closet. Don’t immediately think: “I need something new!”
It’s totally fine if you want something special for your shoot—but make sure it reflects who you’ve been all along.
If it’s new, try wearing it a few times before the shoot and notice how it feels. Ask yourself: how does this outfit make me feel in social settings or when I look in the mirror? New or old, make sure you love wearing them and feel confident and comfortable.
Movement Matters
You’ll want to make sure you can move easily in your outfit. Bonus points if the fabric itself moves beautifully in photos! Look for flowy, airy, textured, and soft pieces.
Find Timeless Pieces
Pick outfits you won’t regret in five years. I call this the “5 and 5 rule”: could you have worn it five years ago, and could you still wear it five years from now?
Make sure every outfit has your classic you stamp—whether it’s old or new.
Let’s Talk About Color
I always recommend neutrals and earthy-toned colors that naturally fit into your surroundings. Bright, aggressive, or highly manufactured colors tend to stand out in a way that feels out of place.
That said, one or two pops of color pair beautifully with neutrals. Keep it balanced so your outfit complements, rather than overpowers, the scene.
Consider Location & Season
Your outfit should complement the location and season of your shoot. Think of the location as a painting that’s already been painted—your outfit is the color that makes you fit perfectly into the scene.
Winter: Add color or bold textures to stand out against muted tones
Summer: Whites, creams, and neutrals work beautifully with bright seasonal light
What to Wear for Engagement Photos: The Girls
Flowy dresses
Oversized or roomy sweaters
Jumpsuits or rompers
Denim + tee, denim + crop top, denim + tank
Statement jackets or winter overcoats
Wide-brim fedora hats
Footwear & Hair: Leather or suede boots, timeless sneakers (non-athletic), leather sandals, or barefoot. Hair is best worn down and flowing; makeup should match the vibe of your shoot.
What to Wear for Engagement Photos: The Guys
Statement jackets
Henleys or soft button-up shirts
Textured sweaters
Flannel, denim + tee, khakis, chinos, or jeans
Winter overcoats
Footwear & Hair: Leather or suede boots, timeless sneakers (non-athletic), leather sandals, or barefoot. Keep hair natural or with minimal product.
Final Notes for Choosing What to Wear for Engagement Photos
Bring Options: Having a few pieces to choose from on the day of the shoot is always helpful.
Stay in Touch: Send photos or ideas!
Check Pinterest: Boards are full of visual inspiration.
Don’t Stress: Seriously. We’ll make sure you look amazing, so relax and have fun!
Ready to make your engagement photos unforgettable?
I’d love to help capture you and your partner in a way that feels authentic, timeless, and you. Inquire here!
