What to Wear for Engagement Photos (Advice for REAL couples!)
If you’re wondering what to wear for engagement photos, and you’ve landed here after browsing pages of professional models in mini skirts & suits or flowery dresses & polo shirts and thought “that isn’t us!”, you’ve come to the right place!
But hey, if that IS you that’s totally fine! And I’ve got tips for you too. That’s because your engagement session is the perfect time to express who you are as a couple! I’m going to say that again…
Your engagement session is the time to express who YOU are as a couple!
Here are 8 tips that I share with my couples before their engagement sessions, to help you personalize your session and look like the best version of YOU!
What to Wear for Engagement Photos | Table of Contents
Tip 1: Choose your Location & Season first
It can look weird when your wardrobe doesn’t match your surroundings or the time of year, plus you want to feel physically comfortable, so pick your location & the time of year before looking at outfits.
If you aren’t sure when or where to have your engagement session, check out these unique engagement photoshoot ideas! And if you’re in the Philly or South Jersey area, here are my couples’ favorite Engagement Session Locations.
Tip 2: Choose a Color Palette
This might sound complicated, so I’ll break it down with simple tricks and examples so you’ll be picking colors like a pro in no time!
Simple tricks for picking a color palette –
- Pick 2-3 colors that coordinate well, then incorporate those colors into your outfits in different places & proportions – for example a green shirt on one of you coordinates with a green skirt, or belt on the other.
- Coordinate, don’t match (this isn’t the 90s)!
- Consider the location & time of year, and choose colors that compliment them but don’t blend in. E.g., don’t dress in green and brown during summer in the woods, cause you’ll look like a tree! (:
- Think ahead to where you want to print & frame images, so they’ll blend with your decor!
Real examples of color palettes!
Tip 3: Be the BEST Version of YOU!!
If you take nothing else away from this blog post, jot this down:
If you’re not sure what to wear for engagement photos, just take your personal style and dial it up a notch!
The advice I give my couples is to dress like you’re going out on a date. This is the perfect opportunity to splurge on a new outfit that makes you feel amazing! Don’t just grab something out of your closet. And if you normally wear makeup or do your hair, now’s the time to splurge and get them done professionally!
Tip 4: Patterns, Logos & Prints
As a rule, our eyes are drawn to words or patterns in photos. And the more of these that you have on, the less attention will be on you.
It’s best to avoid logos or shirts with words on them unless you want to call attention to them (we’re not advertising!) and prints can be used subtly, especially if they’re something you’d normally wear.
Tip 5: Flattering Picks to Accentuate Femininity & Curves
Flowy fabrics, which create movement on camera, are a great way to accentuate curves and create a feminine feel. You can opt for a flowy dress or skirt, or a shirt with soft sleeves.
Tip 6: Flattering Picks to Accentuate Masculinity & Create Structure
Incorporate structured fabrics into your outfit for a more masculine look. For example, a tapered pant or jean which holds a crease when ironed, or a sports blazer or vest.
Tip 7: Flattering Picks for EVERY body
Everyone has areas of their body that they aren’t the biggest fans of, and here are a few style tips to help you look & feel like the best version of yourself in your engagement photos! Disclaimer: These are general tips and every one is different, so if you disagree and, for example, love how you look in spaghetti straps, you do you!
In general, it’s best to avoid…
- Tight fabrics that cling to your body. Do a test beforehand and if it feels clingy or uncomfortable, don’t wear it!
- Spaghetti straps (especially if you’re self-conscious about your arms)
- Fabrics that wrinkle easily
- Flip-flops / old gym shoes
- Baseball hats / hoodies / sunglasses (except for a few photos if they’re special to you)
Try these instead!
- Layers, for example an over-shirt, jacket or sweater, are great at adding interest and covering areas that you might be conscious about.
- 3/4 length sleeves tend to be very flattering.
- A wide belt can accentuate the narrowest part of your waistline.
- Tan heels elongate your legs.
- Larger accessories, such as scarves or chunky jewelry, show up well on camera.
Bonus Tips | Preparing for Your Session
3-4 weeks before
- Schedule hair, makeup and nail appointments if applicable
- Finalize and purchase all outfit choices, to avoid shipping delays and make sure everything fits!
1 week before
- Iron your outfits
- Hang accessories (socks, shoes, belts, jewelry, etc.) with each outfit for easy organization
- Pack a bag with water, stain wipes, and comfortable shoes for walking between spots
Day of your session
- Plan extra time to get ready, out of the house and to the session location. You want to arrive refreshed and relaxed, not stressed because of traffic.
- If you think you might be nervous, have a drink beforehand!
In summary, picking out what to wear for engagement photos doesn’t have to be a stress-inducing experience! It really comes down to choosing outfits that highlight the best version of you – as individuals and as a couple. So have fun with it!
If you’re looking for someone to document your unique personalities in a personalized engagement session, Reach out – let’s chat!
Gen Palmer is a South Jersey wedding photographer who documents authentic photography for real couples. Gen documents weddings and unique engagement photoshoots around South New Jersey and Philadelphia.
Gen loves working with couples who cherish relationships over things, and who value printed photographs to display and enjoy their memories every day. Sound like you? Reach out about your wedding!
