What to Wear for Your Senior Portraits: Fashion Tips for the Perfect Look
Your senior portrait session is the perfect time to show your style and what truly makes you unique. Picking out the right clothes not only affects how you look but also how you feel! Here are a few tips and ideas to help you pick what to wear for your senior portraits.
01.
Reflect Your Personal Style
Your senior portraits should show your personality. Choose outfits that reflect who you are and what you love. If you have a signature style, make it part of the outfits you want to wear. Make sure your outfit choices feel authentically you.
02.
Coordinate Colors and Patterns
Solids generally photograph better than patterns. However, if patterns are your thing, choose classic patterns and styles. Another important thing to consider is the color palette of the season and the location of your session. Earth tones work well in natural settings, while bold colors can pop against urban backdrops.
Tips:
Avoid logos and text on clothing as they can be distracting unless a specific brand is part of your style.
Complementary colors make it easy to avoid clashing.
Layers are a great way to add depth and make for a quick outfit change to mix things up.
03.
Dress for the Location
Make sure that the outfits you pick match the location. A “country” style may not work very well in a city setting. Try to plan ahead so your outfits work for the environment you’re going to be in.
For Outdoor Sessions:
- Light, flowy dresses or skirts for a garden or park setting.
- Cozy sweaters and jeans for a fall or forest backdrop.
- Bright, casual outfits for a spring or summer session.
- For Urban Sessions:
- Trendy outfits for a city or downtown area.
- Stylish jackets, boots, and accessories can complement the urban environment.
04.
Bring Multiple Outfits
If you’re stuck deciding what to wear for your senior portraits, having a few outfits is a great way to change the look and feel of your session. It allows you to show different aspects of your personality and style!
Outfit Ideas:
- A casual look (jeans and a nice top)
- A formal look (dress or suit)
- A fun, personal look (something that reflects your hobbies or interests)
05.
Fit and Comfort
Clothes that fit well and are comfortable will make you feel relaxed and more confident in front of the camera. Avoid any clothing that is too tight or too loose. Make sure you can move easily and feel good with what you’re wearing. Be aware of any clothing that may be slightly see-through.
Tips:
- Try your outfits beforehand to make sure they fit well and look good from all angles.
- Practice sitting, standing, and moving around in your outfits. Try a few poses out to be sure that you don’t have any difficulty with movement.
06.
Accessorize Wisely
Accessories can enhance your outfit but shouldn’t draw attention away from you! Simple classic accessories like watches, necklaces, and earrings always work. Scarves are great for late fall/early winter. Hats are always welcome too. Just be aware of how it can affect your hair, and maybe save it for the end of the session.
Tips:
- Avoid overly shiny or reflective accessories that might catch the light in an unflattering way.
- Bring a few options and decide what works best. You can always take them off or add them on.
07.
Pay Attention to Grooming
Your hair and makeup should complement your outfit and the style you’re aiming for. Consider booking a professional hair and makeup artist for your session to ensure you look your best
Tips:
- Keep your hairstyle simple and timeless.
- Avoid getting your hair cut the day before or the day of the session. Give yourself a little time to get used to it.
- Opt for natural makeup that enhances your features.
Still want to know more about senior portrait sessions?
Frequently asked questions
Here are some of the most commonly aske questions about what to wear for your senior portraits.