If I had a dime for every time I was asked, “what should I wear for my engagement session?” I could retire by the age of 35. Of course, I’m kidding, but in all reality, this is the most popular question for any photoshoot. But you’re in luck because I’m sharing some of my best tips to help you pick out your engagement session outfit (or for any photo session!). Hint: it doesn’t have to be difficult!

First and most importantly, you want to be comfortable and confident in the outfits that you choose. When you’re feeling confident in what you’re wearing, that confidence shows through your personality and allows you to be more relaxed for your photos!

So, how do you select your engagement session outfit? Let’s dive in:

Don’t try to match.

You don’t want to both be wearing the same color but instead, have coordinating colors. Consider having one person in a solid color and the other person in a pattern with a coordinating color. It’s okay to do two solid colors together as well, just as long as they’re either different shades of the same color or two separate colors that coordinate well together. Neutrals, soft pinks and navy colors photograph best!

Here is a perfect example of wearing the same color, but different shades. It ALSO shows a great example of one person wearing a solid color and the other person in a pattern!

Ladies: Don’t be afraid to be bold!

Accessorize and make your outfits your own! Scarves, bold necklaces, statement earrings, and fun shoes are always welcomed! I recommend adding one of the following to add an extra fun detail element to your images!

examples: blanket as a prop and bride-to-be wearing statement jewelry pieces

another example: bride-to-be wearing a flower crown (which is always a good idea!)

The dressier the better!

This goes for both men and ladies! Don’t be afraid to dress up! This is a perfect time (and excuse) to purchase the dress that you’ve had your eye on! Men, don’t be afraid to dress up in a suit or add a tie! A sharp-dressed man fits perfectly with a beautifully dressed woman! Ladies, Long flowy dresses paired with heels and a statement necklace is always a good idea! Tip: Extend your evening with a formal date night since you’re already dressed up! Win-win!

Things to avoid with your outfits:

• bright colors (yellows, oranges and red). Depending on how neon the colors are, they could cast those colors onto your skin tone which will directly affect the editing of your final images.

• Small patterns (like small checkered shirts) as it can cause a weird distorted look on the final images.

• For the Ladies: super low cut tops – keep in mind, this will limit the amount of angles to pose with!

• For the Men: leave your hats, sneakers, ripped jeans and graphic tees at home!

The best places to find these outfits:

Of course I wouldn’t just give you all of these tips with nowhere to go shopping! haha! Here are some of the most popular places that clients are finding their outfits!

• Ladies: Lulus – Nordstrom Rack – Rent the Runway – J. Crew Factory – Loft
• Men: Express, The Black Tux

Last but not least, relax! Your details will all come together in the end just as they always do! Remember, these tips can apply to any session, not just engagement sessions! Also, make sure to give yourself a few weeks to find the right outfits for you; don’t wait until it’s too late!

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