You’ve booked an engagement session, but what should you wear? Wardrobe is important, whether you'd like a more casual feel to your images or you want to opt for a more formal look. Before you make any decisions on your wardrobe, here are six tips to keep in mind. You can also ask your photographer for their opinion. I’m always happy to help clients select outfits for their engagement session that will look great on camera and make them feel their best.

Keep in mind that when I recommend certain colours or types of clothing, these are not hard and fast rules. You’ll even see examples in my portfolio that deviate from this advice (like wearing orange or adding sparkle to outfits), but these outfits have often either been put together by a stylist to fit a theme or there was plenty of collaboration with the client to ensure the clothes made sense for the style of their shoot.

Choose colours carefully

The colour of your outfits is incredibly important. Bright colours — like certain shades of red, green, orange, or yellow — can create a colour cast on your skin, for example. I always suggest choosing solid colours or neutrals. Think jewel tones (everyone looks good in these), navy or dark gray (this can be a great alternative to black), dusty tones, cream, tan, or even pastels. Remember that your eye always goes to the lightest thing in the frame first, which is important when choosing tops and pants. If you wear a black top and white trousers, your eye will go to the trousers first.

Avoid large patterns and logos

There are times when logos can’t be avoided, but in general, I advise clients to stay away from them (if they can). A small logo here and there won’t make or break your session, but they can be distracting if they’re covering the entire front of a T-shirt. Logos can also date a photo very quickly, depending on what’s in style at the time. The same thing goes for patterns. Certain patterns were popular 10 years ago that you don’t see anymore (like chevron). If you do opt for a pattern, stick to something more classic (pinstripe, plaid, or even small florals are a safe bet). Avoid overpowering patterns like big floral prints, bold stripes (especially horizontal ones), or large polka dots.

Consider the cut of your garments

Trends come and go, and this can also date your images. If you want to do a trendy shoot and it makes sense for you as a couple, by all means. If you’d like something with more longevity, consider choosing more timeless, well-tailored pieces. I also suggest avoiding really oversized pieces, unless it fits the style of the session (like a shirt jacket during fall engagement photos). These items can make you appear larger on camera than something that’s cut closer to your body.

Choose pieces you'll be comfortable in and that don't require a lot of adjusting as you move throughout the session.

Keep accessories simple
Simple, understated jewelry won't draw focus away from your engagement ring and will be more timeless than large, trendy pieces. If you choose a necklace (or a couple of stacked chains), try small stud earrings. If you'd like your earrings to be your main piece, either skip the necklace or choose a single delicate one. Again, choose items that fit your style. If you'd like your outfit to be edgier and it makes sense to stack some chunkier jewelry, go for it!