Why What You Wear Matters
Believe it or not, I actually believe your outfit is more important than your location for your photos. While they both make an impact, your outfit can impact how comfortable, confident, and like yourself you actually feel. It can set the tone, whether that's more spring-y and sweet, classic and romantic, comfy and fun, or whatever your vibe is. It doesn't have to be over the top, because the goal is to let you be the star of the show, but it should be something you actually enjoy wearing, and it should match with the energy you're hoping to capture. Don't worry though, I don't expect you to wing it. Here are some great tips straight from my guide I give all of my clients to help!
Setting The Tone
Not sure what your vibe is? Don't overthink it! Think about 3 words that describe you and your partner's relationship. Maybe that's fun, silly, and easy going. Maybe it's quiet, romantic, and personal. Whatever your words are, that's your style! It's way more important to represent who you are than something you're not, because if you're not comfortable, trust me, it'll show, and that doesn't make for great photos OR memories. If you never wear heels, don't wear them for the first time to your shoot! If you live in jeans, wear them in at least one of your outfit choices, because with me, you get at least 2. Refined elegance more your speed? Go for something a little more structured, like a more formal dress and a suit. The location can help you narrow that down too. If you're a more country couple, formal wear in Downtown Dallas will probably not feel right. You do want to stand out in your shoot, but you also want it to be cohesive!
Picking Your Color Palette
Now that you have a guideline, think about color. I always recommend sticking to neutral bases with small pops of color, just because it works in a variety of spaces. While you don't have to match perfectly, you also don't want to wear clashing patterns or colors. Classic white is always great, but if you're wanting more vibrant photos, you can always incorporate your favorite color, or maybe the colors from your wedding sparingly into your clothes. My best advice: stick to one pattern max, and avoid neon colors. They just distract from your beautiful face!
These are two great examples of how to incorporate some color without it being overwhelming.
What To Avoid:
- Mixing patterns (don’t wear two different patterns or two of the same - flannel + flannel, florals + stripes)
- Horizontal stripes (they're widening)
- Shiny fabrics
- Super fitted outfits (they limit movement and aren't flattering at all angles - like sitting or laying)
- Baseball hats
- Super short dresses or skirts (again, limits movement, not always flattering, and risks flashing.)
- Big logos or words
Instead Try:
- Textures (pleats, ribbed fabrics, knits, embroidery, collars, etc.)
- Layers (open button down, ONE flannel max, jackets, vests, cardigans)
- Something you can sit, stand, lay down, dance in
- Small/simple jewelry
- Accessories (brimmed hats, satin scarf in hair, headbands, bows)
- WEAR THE RIGHT UNDERGARMENTS! I'm a master at editing, but having to remove bra straps or biker shorts from every photo means you have to wait that much longer to get your photos back.
Abby & Hayden
Take a look at one of my favorite engagement shoots with a couple that utilized color in the best way, stuck to their style, and let their personalities take center stage.
Movement, true to tone (florals and pastels for a spring engagement in the garden), and confidence you can see and feel.
In The End...
In all honesty, you two are beautiful and in love, and I could make you look great even if you were wearing trash bag. BUT, I know you want to look amazing for this milestone, and this part at least is up to you! So I leave you with this: wear something you not only like, but that you like yourself in.