Engagement Photo Outfits:
Best Ideas and Tips for Your Photoshoot
Ah, yes, the age-old question: “What should I wear for our engagement photos?” Finding something to wear only gets harder as we get older, and when it’s for something as special as engagement photos, it can feel daunting. Trust me, I get it! When my husband and I did our engagement photos, I spent weeks obsessing over our engagement photo outfits.
There were countless Pinterest boards, online orders, in-store returns, and hours of frustration. But fear not! Choosing your engagement photo outfits doesn’t have to be a pain. Here’s a guide to help you nail it with style, ease, and maybe even a little laughter.
1. Choose Light, Soft, Neutral Tones
When it comes to engagement photo outfits, think light, soft, and airy colors. Whites, beiges, taupes, and soft pastels like dusty blue or blush are flattering, timeless, and keep the focus on you. Here’s why: lighter colors naturally photograph well and give a romantic, gentle quality to the images, so all eyes are on your faces rather than a bright, bold outfit choice. Darker colors like black or navy can sometimes make the image feel heavy or too formal, while neon or bright colors can be distracting.
- Pro Tip: Soft colors like blush, taupe, or pastel blue look particularly great in natural settings, blending beautifully with greens, flowers, and earthy tones.
- Exceptions for Bold Colors: Have your heart set on a bold red dress or a sleek black suit? Go for it! Just keep the setting and vibe in mind. Dark or vivid colors can work well in urban settings with muted backdrops, like city streets or industrial areas.
Personalize It: At the end of the day, it’s your session, so if you love a specific color or pattern, wear it confidently! A strong color that’s “you” can be just as memorable as any neutral.
2. Coordinate, Don’t Match, with Your Partner
Ah, the age-old “matching” debate. For engagement photo outfits, you and your partner should complement each other, not look like you’re ready for a family portrait circa 1994 in matching denim jackets. Instead, focus on coordination. This means picking colors that go together rather than the same exact hue. You want your colors to look cohesive without feeling over-planned or like you’re auditioning for a twin act.
- Cool Tones vs. Warm Tones: One trick is to decide on a tone family. Cool tones (blue, green, gray) and warm tones (pink, beige, red) each work beautifully, but mixing them can feel a bit off. Try sticking within one tone family to make sure your looks complement each other.
- Pairing Options: Soft blush pairs well with light blue or beige, while earthy tones like mustard or olive green go well with denim or taupe. Mix textures too — if one person is in a soft fabric like a flowy dress, the other might look great in a more structured outfit, like a suit or blazer.
Tip: Lay your outfits out next to each other or try them on together before the session to see how they look as a pair. If it feels cohesive and makes you smile, you’ve probably nailed it!
3. Match the Vibe, Not Just the Outfit
Imagine this scenario: one of you shows up in a formal suit and the other in ripped jeans and sneakers. It’s a look, sure, but it can feel disjointed. A quick tip is to match the level of formality so your outfits look intentional and make sense as a pair. Decide ahead of time if you’re going formal, semi-formal, or keeping it casual, and make sure you’re both on the same page.
- Formal Looks: Think classic attire like a midi or full-length dress for women, and a suit or at least dress pants and a button-up for men. If you’re going somewhere iconic, like Central Park or an art gallery, formal attire can look stunning and dramatic.
- Casual Vibes: Planning a beach session or a sunset picnic vibe? Keep it relaxed! Flowy sundresses or jumpsuits work great, and a short-sleeve button-down or jeans for the guys is just right. The aim is to look like you belong in the setting, so choose clothes that match the feel of the location.
Tip: Think of where you’re taking your photos and plan accordingly. If your setting is scenic or upscale, formal outfits elevate the look; if it’s a more laid-back spot, casual attire is the way to go.
4. Two Outfits? Yes. An Entire Wardrobe? Maybe Not
Bringing an outfit change can add variety to your engagement session, but try to keep it to two outfits max. You want to avoid spending half your session changing or hauling around a suitcase. A quick swap can help you capture different vibes, especially if you’re doing a mix of indoor and outdoor shots or want both a dressed-up and dressed-down look.
- Choosing Your Outfits: If one outfit is formal, consider a second that’s more casual to reflect a different side of your relationship. For instance, start with something elegant and switch to something comfortable, like jeans and a cozy sweater, for a more relaxed feel.
- Keep It Simple: If your location doesn’t have a private area to change, be strategic. Try layering, or bring pieces that are easy to change quickly (like swapping a top or adding a jacket) so you’re not hunting for a restroom mid-session.
Tip: When in doubt, stick with one outfit you love. An outfit change can be fun, but it’s not essential, especially if it’s going to stress you out!
5. Wear What Makes You Comfortable
Comfort is key. Engagement photos are about capturing your natural connection, so pick something that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and totally you. If you’re fidgeting or feeling self-conscious, it’ll show in the photos.
- Go-To Outfits: Choose pieces that you already know you love. This could mean a dress that makes you feel amazing, a flattering pair of jeans, or a shirt that highlights your favorite features. Don’t try something drastically different just for the sake of photos.
- Think About the Angles: Your photographer will likely take shots from every angle, so choose clothes that flatter you from all sides. If you don’t love how something looks from the side or back, it might be worth choosing a different piece. And if you have any insecurities, let your photographer know so they can work with you to highlight what you love!
Tip: If you’re considering heels, bring a backup pair of comfy shoes for walking between spots. Your feet will thank you!
6. Dress for the Weather, Please
Weather can be your best friend or worst enemy in engagement photos, so plan accordingly. No matter the season, be prepared so you look happy and comfortable (not frozen or sweating through your outfit).
- Winter Engagement Photo Outfits: Think layers! A cute jacket, scarf, and gloves can look amazing and keep you warm. Don’t try to brave it in a sleeveless dress if it’s freezing.
- Summer Engagement Photo Outfits: Hot and humid? Go for light, breathable fabrics and consider how your outfit will handle sweat or tan lines.
And Most Importantly…
Remember that your engagement photos are about capturing you two as a couple. Don’t stress about every detail; focus on enjoying the experience. Relax, have fun, and choose engagement photo outfits that make you feel like your best selves.
You’ve got this!
