What to Wear for Senior Portraits: Essential Do’s and Don’ts
When it comes to preparing for your photoshoot, what you wear can make a huge impact on how your photos turn out. Your wardrobe choice isn’t just about looking great—it’s about feeling comfortable and confident, and showcasing your true personality. Use these tips as a guideline while building your senior portrait wardrobe:
Do:
- Choose bright, jewel-toned colors or neutrals with metallics
These colors not only pop on camera, but they also complement a variety of skin tones, making you look radiant in your photos. - Use complimentary layers
Layers add texture, interest, and dimension to your photos. These can be things like jackets and cardigans, but it can also be jewelry (think stacked bracelets), sunglasses, a belt or crossbody bag, even a great pair of statement shoes. Anything that gives your outfit depth without making it too busy. - Choose functional clothing
You’ll want to be able to move freely in your outfits—sitting, squatting, and standing comfortably are key for getting the best poses. Make sure your clothes allow for flexibility and comfort. - Keep jewelry simple and elegant
Classic, thin-chained necklaces paired with delicate earrings are always a win. These will complement your look without overpowering your face. - Select a variety of outfits that reflect your true personality
Mix things up with at least one classic look, casual outfits, dresses, skirts, and jeans. A range of styles shows off different facets of who you are. - Wear nude undergarments and appropriate bra straps
Choose undergarments that smooth things out and don’t make an appearance when they’re not supposed to! - Opt for tailored clothing that flatters your figure
Oversized looks are trendy but they can make you look shapeless on camera. Balance out wide leg pants with a tighter fitting top, or tuck an oversized top so you have more of a form.
Don’t:
- Arrive with wrinkled clothes
Turn your car into a mobile wardrobe rack! If you can’t hang them, lay your clothes flat for transport. Wrinkles can make even the most well-planned outfit look like a sloppy afterthought. - Avoid dull colors or neon hues
Overly washed-out or faded clothes fall flat, and neon colors can reflect on your skin, creating weird color casts. - Be careful with busy patterns
Patterns like camo or plaid can overwhelm your photos. If you do choose something with a pattern, break it up with solid color pieces to balance things out. - Choose overly short skirts, dresses, or shorts
Clothing that exposes too much when sitting or squatting can limit your posing options. One piece like this is fine, but know it will restrict your range of poses. - Steer clear of trendy and bulky jewelry
Say NO to the apple watch for senior pics. It will quickly date your photos, as will chunky, trendy jewelry that draws attention away from your face. - Don’t repeat the same outfit or style too many times
Variety is key! Wearing the same jeans or shoes in multiple outfits will make your photos feel repetitive. Aim for a balance of different styles to keep your gallery diverse. - Avoid cleavage-baring tops or blouses
You’ll want to feel confident, but also comfortable in poses that flatter you. Clothing that’s too revealing can limit your posing options. - Don’t overdo it on one style
I.e. doing all edgy or all trendy looks. Variety tells the story of YOU and makes your portraits stand out. Try to choose a mixture of trendy and timeless, in styles that show off all sides of your personality.
Keep these wardrobe tips in mind as you prepare for your Planning Consultation, and you’ll be one step closer to having ELEVATED senior portraits! Let’s design a session that radiates with the true YOU!
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