What to Wear for Engagement Photos in 2022
Let's talk about outfits for your engagement photos. It can be surprisingly difficult to land on an ensemble you feel comfortable in and that will look amazing in your photos. If you’re wondering what to wear for engagement photos, I have recommendations here for what to look for in your closet, as well as what to avoid. Finally, I have some additional suggestions to help you coordinate with your partner, go shopping if you need to, and then you’re off to the races! This is a great reference to have handy as you’re planning your session with me. Let’s get started!
What to Wear for Engagement Photos: Outfits to Avoid
Let’s start with what you don’t want to wear during your session. Here’s a quick list of things to avoid:
Anything with logos!
Polka dots
Small patterns don't always show up so well in photos, like delicate florals or flannel prints
Horizontal stripes
Being too matchy-matchy (both wearing blue jeans and the same color shirt, for example)
Old tennis shoes
Wrinkly or baggy t-shirts (I think t-shirts can be done well, but make sure they fit nicely!)
Golf polos
What to Wear for Engagement Photos: Outfits to Choose
Now that you’ve eliminated all your outfits that include items on the “avoid” list, here’s what to wear instead:
Neutrals neutral neutrals. They allow photos to age well as opposed to super trendy colors! And remember, neutral doesn’t mean only grays and blacks. Creams, blush, black, gray, jeans, white, and toned-down greens are all amazing neutral color choices.
Clothes that fit your body well (see above — nothing too baggy!)
Clothes that are comfortable and make you feel confident
Hats/beanies are soooo cute!
Black jeans are my personal favorites. They go with anything, and make photos look dressier while staying casual.
Other Considerations for Your Engagement Photos Outfits
These two lists of what to avoid and what to include in your outfits for your session make it seem very simple, but you might still be having trouble. Maybe you have SO many options you aren’t sure where to start. Maybe you have a favorite top you’d love to wear but it has a detailed pattern on it. That’s okay!! Here’s some more tips to help you balance out your outfits with your partner, while still wearing things that you love.
I recommend bringing 2-3 outfits. Most of my couples bring one dressy outfit and one more casual outfit, and then one that’s in-between. Overall, you should dress comfortably! Wear things that fit properly (unless you're wearing a dress — then let's get that baby to flow!).
Coordinate with your partner, but don’t match. Unless, of course, you want to re-do the engagement session from the movie “Masterminds.” That’s a different story! (Netflix that if you haven’t watched it — you won’t regret it!)
If you’re having trouble with the neutral color palette and want to wear something bold and trendy, consider one outfit that fits this bill, and another that sticks to neutrals.
If one of you decides to wear a patterned dress or shirt, awesome! But, make sure the other person goes more neutral so that you don’t clash.
FELLAS! Pay attention to your outfits, too! Most often, I encounter ladies who already know how to kill it with their clothes, but it’s just as important that you look and feel good in your photos. The number one thing you may run into is wearing clothes that are baggy and too big for your body. Try to opt for something more fitted or tailored.
LOCATION and SEASON. Your outfits should reflect the where and when of your session! For example, dress casual in more relaxed locations — like a bar, your house, or in nature. Dresses/flowy clothing are best worn at the beach! Seasonally, you don’t want to be sweating in a beanie during summer or freezing in a tank top in winter, so plan accordingly!
Need to Go Shopping?
You don’t have to stick to pieces you already have in your wardrobe when you’re picking out what to wear for engagement photos. Who doesn’t love a little shopping spree?! Here’s some of my favorite places to shop for pieces that fit the criteria of modern, neutral, and comfortable:
My Final Thoughts on What to Wear for Engagement Photos
It helps to pretend like you're going on a nice, (but somewhat) active date for your session. I want you to feel comfortable, confident, and chic. Pick out things that you may have already gotten compliments in. The hotter you feel, the better you'll look. Don't be afraid to get a little weird, if that’s you. Remember, these are your photos! Wear something that feels like you. If you and your partner aren't overly fancy, no worries! Stick to a couple of casual outfits. If you want to wear a super trendy, sexy dress in the middle of the woods, let's make it happen!
I love getting creative and adventurous for your engagement photos, too, so don’t be afraid to think outside the box! Some ideas include: engagement session on an airbnb rented boat, swimming in lake Michigan, a laundromat shoot, photos with a vintage car rental, drinking or cooking in your home. I'm happy to help you pick out what to wear for these unique engagement photos!
Here’s my Pinterest board for couples session outfit inspiration. Browse to find things that speak to you, and then reach out to me here to book your engagement session! I can’t wait to hear from you.
