Planning your engagement photo session is exciting—it’s the first big step in documenting your love story before the big day. As a wedding photographer, one of the most common questions I hear is, “What should we wear for our engagement photos?” Choosing the right outfits can truly elevate your photos and ensure you look and feel your best on camera.
Here’s a complete guide on what to wear for your engagement session, including style tips, color suggestions, and what to avoid.
1. Coordinate, Don’t Match
When planning your engagement session outfits, think about coordination over matching. Wearing the exact same color can flatten the visual interest in your photos. Instead, choose complementary colors that work well together.
For example, if one of you is wearing a soft blue, the other might wear neutrals like beige, ivory, or light gray.
Pro tip: Choose a color palette of 2–3 tones and build both of your outfits around that scheme.
2. Choose Timeless Over Trendy
Engagement photos will last a lifetime, so you’ll want your look to remain classic for years to come. Try and avoid loud logos and overly trendy styles that may not age well. Stick with clean lines, neutral or muted tones, and soft patterns like florals or subtle stripes.
Think flowy dresses, tailored shirts, and classic accessories.
3. Consider the Location and Season
The setting of your engagement session plays a huge role in outfit planning. A beach shoot calls for light, breezy clothing, while an urban or downtown backdrop might lean more toward sleek, structured styles.
If you’re shooting in fall, rich tones like burgundy, emerald, or mustard pop beautifully against nature’s backdrop. For spring or summer, opt for lighter tones—white, sage, or soft blue.
Bonus tip: If your session includes hiking or walking, bring comfy shoes for walking to the shooting spot!
4. Dress for Movement
Engagement sessions often involve movement—walking, spinning, lifting, and even dancing. Choose clothing that flows or moves well with you. Long dresses, blouses, or loose button-downs look beautiful in motion and create visual interest.
5. Add Layers and Textures
Layers like cardigans, jackets, or scarves add depth and dimension to your look. Texture—like lace, knits, or denim—photographs beautifully and can subtly enhance your outfit without being overpowering.
6. Dress Like You—Just a Little Elevated
The best engagement outfits reflect your personal style. Think of your session as a slightly dressed-up version of your everyday selves. You don’t need to look like you’re headed to a gala—but you should feel comfortable and confident.
If you rarely wear dresses or suits, don’t force it. Choose outfits that feel authentic to you.
7. Plan Ahead and Try Things On
Don’t wait until the night before to pick your outfits. Try everything on in advance, check for comfort, and make sure everything fits well. Iron or steam wrinkles, and bring backups just in case!
Consider doing a quick mirror test or snapping a few iPhone photos to see how your outfits look together.
8. Don’t Forget Hair, Makeup, and Grooming
While the focus is on outfits, your overall appearance matters too. Schedule haircuts at least a week prior, and consider professional makeup (especially for brides-to-be—it’s a great trial run for the wedding day).
Fresh nails, clean shoes, and steamed, lint-free clothing go a long way in creating polished photos.
Final Thoughts: Confidence is Key
Above all else, wear something that makes you feel amazing. Your engagement session is all about celebrating your love, and your confidence will shine through when you feel great in your outfit.
As your photographer, I’ll guide you through posing, movement, and lighting—but what you wear sets the tone. With the right choices, your photos will highlight not just your style, but your love, too.
Looking for more engagement photo tips?
Check out more posts on the blog for the best engagement photo locations, how to prepare for your session, and more expert photography advice.
Ready to book your engagement session? Contact me here to secure your date—I can’t wait to create something magical with you!
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