What to Wear for Your Engagement Session (and Why It Matters!)

Your engagement photos are about you—your connection, your energy, your vibe. And believe it or not, what you wear directly affects how your photos look and feel.

I know what you might be thinking—Do my outfits really matter that much? The answer? Absolutely. The right clothing choices can enhance the mood, help you feel more confident, and create images that feel effortlessly you. But the wrong choices? They can be distracting, uncomfortable, or just not quite right for the setting.

Think about the goal of your photos for a second. Do you picture them framed on your walls? Showcased in a stunning album? Do you want them to feel cinematic and dramatic? Soft and romantic? Laid-back and cozy? Your outfit plays a HUGE role in bringing that vision to life.

I’m here to help you avoid the guesswork and make sure your outfits not only look incredible on camera but also align with the overall mood and vibe you want. Whether you’re drawn to flowy and romantic, bold and edgy, casual and cozy, or something timeless and formal—I’ve got you covered.

Be Yourselves

The clothes you choose for your engagement photos should, first and foremost, feel GOOD. So choose outfits that you like, that feel like you, and you are comfortable in. Go through your closet and see what you already have before you go out and buy anything. 

If your session allows for outfit changes, I recommend picking out one casual outfit and one a little dressier. If you’re doing one outfit only, you get to decide what you want the vibe to be like. 

Fit Matters: Confidence is Everything

Let’s be real—if you’re not comfortable in what you’re wearing, it’s going to show in your photos. Fit is everything. When your clothes fit well, you’ll feel more confident, move more naturally, and focus on enjoying the moment instead of adjusting your outfit every five seconds.

Why Fit is So Important for Photos

• Too tight? You’ll be tugging at your clothes, and they might create awkward lines or bunching that don’t look great on camera.
• Too loose? Baggy outfits can make you look shapeless and swallow your figure in photos.
• Uncomfortable? If you’re wearing something that’s stiff, itchy, or awkward to move in, you’ll be thinking about that instead of your partner (and that’s not the vibe we want).

Choosing the Right Fit for You

• Prioritize comfort and movement—if you can’t sit, walk, or lift your arms easily, it’s not the one.
• If you’re self-conscious about certain areas, pick outfits that complement your body and make you feel amazing. Flowy dresses, high-waisted pants, or structured layers can all work wonders.
• Try everything on ahead of time! Walk around, sit down, hug your partner—see how it feels in real life before the session.
• Not sure if something works? Send me a message! I’m happy to give feedback on what will photograph best.

The goal here is simple: When you feel great in what you’re wearing, it shows in your photos. You’ll look more natural, feel more confident, and focus on what really matters—having an incredible experience with your person.

Setting the Mood: Outfit Styles That Work

Your outfits do more than just make you look good—they set the tone for your entire session. Think about the vibe you want your photos to have. Do you want them to feel soft and romantic? Bold and dramatic? Laid-back and cozy? The colors, textures, and styles you choose all play a role in creating that feeling.

Here’s a breakdown of different styles to help you pick what fits your vision best:

Romantic & Dreamy

If you love soft, ethereal vibes, this is the way to go. Think flowy fabrics, neutral tones, and delicate textures that create an effortless, timeless feel.
What works best:

• Soft, neutral hues like beige, blush, light blue, and warm earth tones
• Flowy dresses, skirts, or tops made of linen, chiffon, or lace
• Soft sweaters, light layers, and delicate details

Bold & Edgy

Want your photos to have a little attitude? Go for darker colors, structured silhouettes, and bold accessories that stand out.
What works best:

• Dark jeans or fitted pants paired with a leather jacket, blazer, or band tee
• Deep, rich colors like emerald, burgundy, navy, or black
• Layered textures like denim, suede, or bold prints

Casual & Cozy

If you want your photos to feel like a relaxed, natural day hanging out together, this style is for you. Great for in-home sessions or woodsy, laid-back locations.
What works best:

• Earthy, muted tones and soft neutrals
• Jeans, brown pants, or casual joggers with cozy knits and layers
• Chunky sweaters, cardigans, flannels, and boots

Adventurous & Outdoorsy

If we’re heading into the woods, onto a mountain, or exploring rugged landscapes, your outfit can match the environment while still looking amazing.
What works best:

• Earth tones and natural fabrics that blend well with nature
• Practical layers like flannel shirts, vests, cozy wool sweaters, or thermal leggings
• Sturdy footwear like hiking boots or leather ankle boots (because walking on rough terrain in flip-flops? Not a great idea.)

Classy & Formal

If you want your photos to feel elegant and timeless, this is a great option. Formal doesn’t have to mean stiff—think chic, polished, and effortlessly stylish.
What works best:

• Long, solid-colored dresses with simple, classic silhouettes
• Dress pants paired with a button-up shirt, a structured blazer, or a vest
• Monochrome or neutral color palettes for a high-end look

No matter what style you go for, the key is to make sure your outfits feel like you. You don’t need to dress outside your comfort zone—just lean into what you love while keeping in mind how it will photograph.

Color Coordination: Creating a Balanced, Timeless Look

Color is one of the most important elements in choosing what to wear for your engagement photos. The right color combinations can make your photos feel cohesive, timeless, and naturally beautiful—while the wrong ones can feel forced, too bold, or out of place.

Coordinate, Don’t Match

I highly recommend coordinating colors rather than going full-on matchy-matchy. Wearing identical outfits (same color tops and bottoms) can make your photos look stiff and unnatural. Instead, mix up tones and textures for a look that feels effortless and stylish.

Best Colors for Engagement Photos

I always suggest sticking to neutral and earthy tones because they photograph beautifully in nature and don’t distract from the most important thing—you!

Some go-to colors that always work well:

• Neutral browns, creams, and grays
• Natural greens like sage, olive, and deep forest green
• Dark blues and navy (not bright blues—more on that in a second)
• Black, rust, and warm earthy tones

Colors I Don’t Recommend

• Bold bright colors – They reflect light onto your skin and can look unnatural.
• Super bright whites – These can wash out easily in photos. Instead, go for cream or off-white for a softer, more natural look.
• Light blue button-up shirts on men – I don’t know what it is, but I just can’t stand them in photos. Trust me, there are way better options out there.

Color Combinations That Always Work

If you’re not sure what colors to pair together, here are a few combos that never fail:

• Medium brown to dark brown + cream (warm, cozy, and timeless)
• Dark gray + sage or olive green (earthy, balanced, and neutral)
• Black + rust (bold, moody, and dramatic)

Color plays a huge role in how your final images turn out. Keeping your tones natural, neutral, and well-balanced will make your photos look effortlessly polished while keeping the focus on you and your connection.

Textures, Layers & Patterns: Adding Depth to Your Photos

If you want your engagement photos to feel rich, dynamic, and full of life, textures, layers, and patterns are your secret weapons. These little details can make a HUGE difference in how your images look—adding depth, movement, and interest without being distracting.

Patterns: Use With Caution

Patterns can be tricky. When done right, they can add interest and personality, but if they’re too bold or distracting, they can take the focus away from you.
How to make patterns work:

• Plaids and florals tend to be safe choices that don’t overwhelm the image.
• Keep it subtle. Small, simple patterns work best. Avoid loud, clashing prints.
• Balance is key. If one person wears a pattern, the other should wear a solid color.

Accessories & Footwear: The Details That Make a Difference

The little details matter more than you think. Accessories and footwear can either elevate your look or distract from the overall vibe of your photos. The key? Keep it simple, intentional, and practical.

Accessories: Less is More

Accessories can add personality and style, but too many can become distracting. The goal is to enhance your look—not overpower it.

What works well:

• Hats – A stylish wide-brimmed hat or a classic fedora can add character, especially in outdoor or boho-inspired sessions. Just keep in mind that they can cast shadows on your face, so we may use them for just a few shots.
• Minimalist jewelry – Small, simple rings, earrings, or a delicate necklace add just the right amount of interest without being overpowering.
• Suspenders, belts, ties, and bowties – If you’re going for a slightly dressier or vintage-inspired look, these can be a great way to add personality. A well-chosen belt or suspenders can make a casual outfit feel more put together, while a bowtie or tie adds polish to a formal or semi-formal look.
• Layered pieces – A lightweight scarf, a denim jacket, or a flannel tied around your waist adds texture and interest without being over-the-top.
• Sentimental pieces – If you have a meaningful piece of jewelry or an accessory that’s important to your relationship, bring it! It can add a unique, personal touch to your session.

What to avoid:

• Big, flashy watches – They tend to stand out too much and pull attention away from what really matters—your connection.
• Sunglasses – Unless we’re going for a very specific editorial look, they usually aren’t a great choice.
• Overly trendy pieces – Stick to accessories that feel timeless rather than something that might feel outdated in a couple of years.

Props as Accessories: Make It Personal!

Your engagement session is about you and your story, so why not bring a few items that reflect what you love to do together?

If your session is in the fall or winter, consider bringing:

• Mugs of hot cocoa, coffee, or tea for cozy, intimate moments
• A plaid blanket to wrap up in for a few shots
• Snowshoes or winter gear if you love exploring in the snow

For spring and summer, you could bring:

• A picnic basket with some of your favorite drinks or snacks
• Bikes if you love riding together
• Kayaks or paddles if you’re a water-loving couple

If you love the outdoors or adventure, think about bringing something that reflects what you enjoy doing together. It adds a fun, natural element to your session and helps tell your unique story!

Footwear

Let’s talk shoes. Engagement sessions usually involve walking, climbing, hiking, or just moving around a lot—so choosing the right footwear is key.

Great options:

• Hiking boots or sturdy ankle boots – Perfect for outdoor sessions, plus they look great in photos.
• Leather boots – A solid choice for both men and women (Blundstones, Doc Martens, or any classic leather boot works).
• Comfortable flats or stylish sneakers – Keep it simple, especially if we’re shooting in a city or casual setting.
• Barefoot – If we’re shooting somewhere sandy, grassy, or in the water, going barefoot can add a natural, relaxed feel to your photos.

What to avoid:

• Heels (unless you bring them for a few photos!) – If you love the look of heels, you can absolutely bring a pair and swap into them for a few shots. But for most of the session, you’ll want something more practical—especially if we’re walking on uneven terrain.
• Super bright or overly sporty shoes – Leave the neon running shoes at home.
• Flip-flops – Unless we’re on a beach, they tend to look too casual.

Shoes might not seem like a big deal, but they can make or break your comfort level. The goal is to feel good, move naturally, and not have to think about your feet the whole time.

Hair & Makeup: Keep It True to You

One question I hear a lot is whether or not to get hair and makeup professionally done on the day of your session. This is totally up to you. I’ve had some people show up to their session upset because the stylist gave them a look that doesn’t feel like them- maybe too heavy on the blush and lipstick, or a hairstyle that ends up looking very unnatural. The best approach? Keep it natural, effortless, and true to your everyday style—just slightly polished. Whether you’re going to a professional stylist or DIY’ing it, here are my top tips:

Hair

I love windy hair in photos—it adds so much movement and magic! So instead of fighting it, embrace it and let your hair do its thing.

What works best:

• Hair worn down in its natural texture – Soft waves, straight, curly—whatever feels most like you.
• Braids or messy buns (that can be taken out mid-session) – This gives some variety in your photos while still allowing for movement.
• Natural volume & texture – If your hair tends to fall flat, a little texture spray can help add movement without making it stiff.

What to avoid:

• Pinning it all up. Unless it’s a super relaxed updo that can be undone later, I don’t recommend a full updo—loose, natural hair looks best.
• Trying a brand-new style. If you’re thinking of changing your hair drastically, wait until after the session. Stick with what makes you feel confident.
• Overloading on hairspray. Wind + too much product = crunchy, stiff hair that won’t move naturally.

Makeup

Even if you don’t wear much makeup daily, a little extra for your session can help bring out your features on camera. Natural light softens makeup, so a slightly heavier application than usual often works well.

Simple makeup tips:

• Even out your skin tone. A light foundation or tinted moisturizer keeps your complexion fresh and smooth.
• Skip shimmery products. Dewy skin looks great, but too much shimmer can reflect light in weird ways.
• Define your eyes. A bit of mascara and soft eyeliner can help your eyes pop without looking overdone.
• Lips matter! A tinted balm or soft color keeps lips from looking dry or washed out.
• Exfoliate & moisturize beforehand. Dry patches and flaky skin are more noticeable in photos, so give your face a little TLC before the session.

Glasses: Totally Fine—Just Be Mindful of Lenses

If you normally wear glasses, wear them! They’re part of you, and your photos should reflect that.

A few things to keep in mind:

• If your glasses have transition lenses, I may ask you to take them off in certain lighting situations (or, if you have a non-transition pair, bring those instead).
• Glare can be a thing. Anti-glare lenses are ideal, but if you don’t have them, I’ll work around reflections as best as possible.
• If you go back and forth between wearing glasses and contacts, choose the option that feels most like you.

For the Guys: Skip the Fresh Shave

If you normally have a beard, stubble, or scruff, leave it be! A freshly shaved face can sometimes look too bare or irritated in photos.

Shaving tips for best results:

• If you do plan to shave, do it at least six hours before the session to avoid redness and irritation.
• If you want to clean up your beard, trim it a day or two in advance so your skin has time to calm down.

Skincare & Grooming: Don’t Skip the Basics

A few simple self-care steps can make a big difference in how your skin looks on camera.

Things to do before your session:

• Exfoliate & moisturize – Smooth, hydrated skin always looks better in photos. This applies to both faces and hands!
• Take care of your lips – Dry, cracked lips can be noticeable in close-up shots. Use a lip scrub or balm leading up to the session.
• Don’t forget about nails – Your hands will be in the photos (especially for ring shots), so make sure they’re clean and trimmed. If you wear nail polish, go for neutral, classic colors that won’t distract.

Indoor Sessions: Cozy, Casual, and Intimate

If your engagement session is happening indoors—whether at home or in a cozy Airbnb—your outfit choices should reflect that relaxed, intimate setting. Think of it as a casual date night at home, just with a camera around.

Keep It Comfortable & Natural

Since we’re indoors, there’s no need for heavy layers, structured outfits, or shoes that were made for hiking. Instead, focus on light, cozy fabrics that feel effortless and reflect the way you actually dress when you’re spending time together at home.

What works best:

• Soft, breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or cozy knits
• Relaxed, slightly oversized sweaters paired with leggings, joggers, or soft pants
• Barefoot or comfy socks – No need for shoes unless they’re part of the vibe you’re going for
• Layered textures – A cardigan or soft blanket adds warmth and depth to the photos
• Light, neutral colors – Creams, grays, warm earth tones, and soft pastels help keep the look timeless and natural

A Little Skin is Totally Okay!

No, I’m not saying you need to show up half-naked (unless that’s the look you’re going for—then hey, no judgment). But in-home sessions feel more intimate and connected, and showing a little skin can add to that.

A few ways to do this without overdoing it:

• Going barefoot instantly makes the photos feel more natural and homey
• Wearing an off-the-shoulder sweater adds a cozy, effortless touch
• A loose, button-down shirt can be relaxed and stylish without feeling forced

And let’s be real—most of us don’t wear shoes or even real pants when we’re lounging at home. So if you’d rather rock a cozy oversized sweater and no pants, go for it.

Make It Personal

One of the best things about indoor sessions is that they feel super personal and unique to you. You can incorporate little elements that reflect your life together—things that wouldn’t make sense in an outdoor shoot.

Some fun ideas to bring in:

• Your favorite drinks – coffee, tea, wine, whiskey, whatever fits your vibe
• A cozy blanket – Perfect for snuggling up together
• Playing records or reading books together – If that’s something you love to do
• Cooking or baking – A fun, interactive way to capture natural moments

Your indoor session should feel like a slice of real life—just a little more polished and intentional.

Final Thoughts: Dress With Intention & Confidence

At the end of the day, your engagement session isn’t about what you wear—it’s about you and your connection. But the right outfits can absolutely enhance the overall look and feel of your photos, making them more timeless, natural, and reflective of your unique vibe.

A few last things to keep in mind:

• Think beyond the moment. These photos will last a lifetime, so choose outfits that align with your long-term vision.
• Consider your end goal. Are these images going in an album? On your walls? In a frame on your desk? Choose colors and styles that will work beautifully in those spaces.
• Wear something you LOVE. If you feel confident and comfortable, it will 100% show in your photos.

Need More Inspiration? Check Out My Pinterest Boards!

If you’re still trying to figure out what to wear, I’ve put together some Pinterest boards with outfit ideas and color combinations that work every time. Take a look and find something that speaks to you!

📌 Engagement Outfits Inspiration #1
📌 Engagement Outfits Inspiration #2

And if you have any questions or want feedback on your outfit choices, just ask! I’m happy to help you find the perfect look for your session.

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Hi! I’m Andrea!

Photographer, storyteller, nature lover

Lume Photography is a creative Michigan elopement photographer & planner based in the Upper Peninsula. Behind the camera, you’ll find me (Andrea) photographer, forager, paranormal enthusiast. My passion is helping free-spirited couples craft their dream wedding in nature, and documenting the moments, emotions, and story in amazing photos. READ MORE ABOUT ME

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