the
OUTFIT
GUIDE
THE END GOAL
I always tell my clients... wear something that you feel comfortable and confident in! I want you to feel like YOU in front of my camera, and for the photos to reflect who you and your loved ones are. Pick a style and color palette that make you happy. I'll share some professional tips on the following pages.
WHY this MATTERS
Do you know what colors you look best in?
Hear me out... what you wear can make or break your photos!
Knowing your best colors gives you extra magical powers to choose outfits for your session that will make YOU shine!
This is absolutely not a necessity, however, I learned a couple of years ago that I'm a Soft Autumn, and it changed my world! Before I had my colors done, I would have NEVER worn colors like terracotta or brown... and now those are some of my favorites!
Just a little tidbit from me to you. If there is time before your session, check out Created Colorful and sign up today. It's worth every penny.
Use code YOURYEAR for $10 off of a consult
At the end of the day, I want you to feel like yourself when you look back at these photos, and part of that is wearing what most feels like you!
I want your photos to feel like you, but maybe a little bit elevated. Apply all of this to what you already know looks good on you and makes you feel confident and comfortable!
Here are my pointers...
WHAT do you
ALREADY HAVE?
Take a look at whatever is already in your closet, and go from there! Don't immediately jump to: "Let's buy something new that I'd never wear in real life!" Totally cool if you want something new and special for your shoot, but just make sure it reflects who you've been all along!
If you want something new, maybe wear it a few times before the actual shoot day, and think about how you like it on yourself!
How does it make you feel when you are in social settings or when you look in the mirror? Same thing with something-you've-always-had, make sure you do love wearing it, and it makes you feel confident/comfortable!
Movement
Make sure you can move in your outfit very easily, and it's a huge added bonus if the piece itself moves as well!
TRY: Flowy, airy, fun, textured, soft, etc... AVOID: Stiff, crisp, business, startchy, etc...
Timeless
Look for a piece that you won't regret wearing in 5 years. Maybe something that has already stood the test of time. Use what I call: "The 5 and 5 rule." 5 years ago you could have probably worn it, and in 5 years you could probably still wear it!
All you
Make sure it has that classic, trademark, YOU Stamp on it! Whether it's something old or new!
Here's WHAT TO AVOID:
Avoid crisp or starchy clothes that make you feel constricted or overly formal. stay away from blazers or business-wear. we want a comfortable, cozy, fun version of you!
At all costs, avoid sports/athletic wear, gym clothes or gym shoes.
If logos or branding are bigger than a quarter, try to look for something else without any branding or words on it!
last thing: stay away from trendy patterns and bright/neon colors!
Let's talk about COLOR...
I always recommend neutrals and earthy-toned colors that visually fit into the natural/earthy surroundings we are shooting in!
When it comes to color, you do want to stand out from your surroundings, but still look like you belong there.
That said, One or two pops of color pair nicely with neutrals everywhere else. For example, If you do have a pop of color in the outfits, it’s nice to not overcrowd that color (or 2) with other ones. on the right are some recommended neutrals and colors!
Soft Neutrals
Pops of Color
Let's talk about COORDINATING...
Outfit coordination will look different depending on where you choose your session to be.
Choosing colors that complement your surroundings is important, especially when you are outside. In general, both earth tones and neutrals photograph best in our beautiful Colorado landscape!
Depending on the season, you will also want to consider bringing layers that photograph well. I suggest sweaters, cozy blankets, or classy coats.
Winter weather: I highly recommend bringing hand warmers on a cold day, particularly if you are bringing kids. We can stick these in their pockets or shoes.
If you choose to have photos in your home, be sure that your outfits coordinate with your decor.
Depending on the studio you choose - you can choose to be casual, glam, or somewhere in between.
Remember to try and stick with all cool tones or all warm for the best overall effect!
OUTFIT IDEAS for GIRLS
Flowy dresses oversized/roomy sweaters, jumpsuits/rompers
denim & tee, denim and crop top, denim and tank, Statement jacket, Winter Overcoat, wide-brim fedora hats.
Cosmetics & Footwear
Leather/suede boots, timeless sneakers (non-athletic), leather sandals, or barefoot are all recommended!
makeup should make sense with the scene/vibe.
hair needs to move. It’s best worn down!
OUTFIT IDEAS for GUYS
Statement jacket, henley or soft button-up shirt, textured sweater
flannel, denim & tee, khakis, chinos, jeans, winter overcoat
Cosmetics & Footwear
Leather/suede boots, timeless sneakers (non-athletic), leather sandals, or barefoot are all recommended!
try to wear your hair naturally or with limited product.
LOCATION and SEASON
When you think about what clothes will look best for your shoot specifically, you want to take into account the location you are shooting at and the season you are shooting in.
Location can oftentimes dictate what the best colors and outfits are going to be, because the location is bringing its own vibe, colors, textures, and theme.
Second, take the season into account.
During the winter and for snowy sessions you want to add something with color or bold texture that makes your photos POP and gives them dimension.
During the summer months you could probably wear all whites/creams or all neutrals and still get away with it (I wouldn’t always recommend this), because the light and the color of the season would be captivating enough on their own!
Let me know what questions you have - I am here and ready to help!
Final notes
Bring Options!
Bring some options to the shoot (as long as you've booked enough time to allow outfit changes!)! It’s always nice to have different pieces to choose from the day-of.
Keep in touch.
It’s so helpful if you can keep me in the loop about what you’re planning on wearing!
Check out my Pinterest boards!
I have so many great ideas saved to my Pinterest boards where you can get plenty of inspiration.
Don't. Stress. Seriously!
Last thing: don’t stress about this! I'm here to help!
