What To Wear To Your Engagement Session
I’m so glad you’re here! I wanted to write a post all about what to wear for your engagement or couples session because your outfits will have a HUGE impact on how your photos look and how you feel during the session. You don’t have to stress yourself out over outfits, but if you put some thought and intention into what you choose to wear, it will pay off.
Here are some engagement photo outfit tips and guidelines to help you feel comfortable, confident, and look amazing.
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
Choosing outfits that fit well is crucial for engagement photos because it directly impacts your comfort, confidence, and the overall aesthetic of the photos. Ill-fitting clothes can make you feel self-conscious and distract you from enjoying the special moments during the session. When your outfits fit well, you not only feel at ease but also exude a natural confidence that shines through in the photographs.
First and foremost, prioritize comfort – select clothing that allows you to move freely and makes you feel good. Pay attention to how the outfits make you feel on your body, avoiding items that cling awkwardly or become uncomfortable after a short time. Clothes shouldn’t be too baggy or too tight.
If you’re self-conscious of certain body parts or areas, choose outfits that compliment those spots, minimize, or hide them altogether. Be mindful of how the clothes may appear on camera. If you need a professional opinion, feel free to reach out and I’ll let you know what I think!
Color
Besides fit, color is the most important factor when it comes to your engagement photo outfits. Here are my biggest guidelines to follow if you want your photos to be awesome:
- Coordination is key. Choose colors that coordinate and complement each other but aren’t matchy-matchy. Please don’t wear matching jeans and the same color tops! If you search Google for “neutral color palettes” or “earthy color palettes” you’ll get a better idea of what I’m talking about.
- Stick to earthy neutrals. Since most of my photos are outdoors in nature, choosing colors that complement the natural landscape is best. And, bonus! Earthy and neutral colors are always very flattering to skin tones and the camera!
- Don’t blend in. Keep the location of your session in mind. If we’re going to the lakeshore or high up on a mountain, light blues and grays will disappear in the background of the sky or water. Similarly, dark greens and olives will blend right into a green forest. Pick colors that will stand out from the background.
- Stay away from: The only specific colors I typically recommend staying away from are bright & fluorescent colors as they tend to reflect onto your skin.
Color Magic
Color has a profound impact on our mood and emotions, making it a powerful magical element. Understanding the significance of colors adds an extra layer of magic to your session! Each color carries a unique energy signature and symbolism. For instance, deep oranges evoke warmth and passion, greens symbolize growth and harmony with nature, and yellows radiate joy and positivity.
Incorporating these hues into your engagement session can not only set the mood but also enhance the magical aspects you wish to capture. Whether you’re drawn to the calming energies of blues or the transformative power of purples, choosing colors intentionally adds a touch of enchantment to your special day. So, dive into the spellbinding palette of colors and infuse your nature-inspired celebration with the magical vibes that resonate with your spirit.
Here are some go-to color combos that look great anywhere if you’re having a hard time deciding:
Patterns
Patterns are fun and can bring some personality to your look. I’d recommend staying away from big distracting patterns, and not overdoing it. Flannels and plaids are always a yes and florals are okay as long as the colors aren’t too bright. Also, be sure to iron your clothes before so there are no huge wrinkles. :)
Layers
I always say you can never go wrong with layers. You can have multiple options without actually changing outfits. You can change up an entire look just by adding or removing layers. Plus, if the weather is variable, you can add or remove layers to be more comfortable. Some ideas for layering are jackets, shawls, scarves, blankets, wraps, and/or flannels.
Textures
Interesting & contrasting textures can bring interest and fun into the vibe of your photos! Consider mixing and layering textures & fabrics like lace, velvet, fur, suede, satin, jeans, etc. Feel free to bring options!
Accessories
Adding outfit accessories is another idea I always recommend! It’s another way to add personality and uniqueness to your photos. Some accessories to consider are suspenders, belts, sunglasses, hats, and jewelry. You can even choose accessories that add a big pop of color that compliments your outfits for an easy way to add some oompf!
You can also bring some props as accessories! If your session is in the fall or winter, you can bring mugs of hot cocoa. You could bring a picnic basket, some of your favorite drinks, bikes, kayaks, snowshoes, or whatever you like to do for fun!
Footwear
Comfort and stability are best when picking out what to wear on your feet. Hiking shoes or boots are always great, or some nice leather ones like Blundstones or Doc Martens. Or wear some good, comfy flats or sneakers and go barefoot. I really don’t recommend heels or anything fancy because we’ll probably be walking or hiking over some rough ground and the last thing I want is a twisted ankle or other injury.
Hair/makeup
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 freaking out 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. Whether you’re going to a professional stylist or DIY’ing it, here are my top tips:
- Keep it natural. The best makeup for photos is natural with a nude & neutral palette and just a little heavier application than you would normally wear.
- Keep hair loose. I love hair that’s down and has movement. Stay away from fancy up-do’s and unnatural curls.
- Guys- don’t shave. If you normally have a beard, stubble, or scruff, leave it be!
- Exfoliate and moisturize. Yep, get all that loose, dry skin off and moisturize your skin, especially your lips. This goes for everyone.
- Don’t try a new look. Now isn’t the time to try a new hairstyle or look. I want you to feel totally comfortable and like yourself so you can relax and forget about what you look like.
Indoor Sessions
All of the above applies, but for in-home or indoor sessions I say choose something casual, lightweight, and something that shows a little more skin. No, that doesn’t mean you need to be borderline naked, lol. Maybe it just means going barefoot or wearing a loose shirt that you can slide down over your shoulder. And if we’re completely honest, most of us walk around without pants on at home anyway. Focus on comfort and the ability to get close to your partner.
Be Inspired
Here are some links to my Pinterest boards for engagement outfit ideas and inspiration!
I’m here for advice.
If you’re having trouble putting together your outfits or if you want my advice for your engagement or couples session with me, just reach out and let me know. I’m always happy to help!
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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