What to Wear for Your Engagement Photos: Style Tips for Couples
Your engagement photos are a chance to celebrate your love story and create lasting memories. Choosing the right outfits can make a big difference in how your photos look and feel, but it can also feel overwhelming. Should you match? Should you go formal or casual? How do you dress for the season?
Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Here are essential style tips for couples to help you plan the perfect outfits for your engagement session.
1. Coordinate, Don’t Match
While it’s tempting to match outfits, coordinated looks are more natural and visually appealing. Focus on complementing each other’s style with colors, textures, and patterns that work well together.
- Tips for Coordinating:
- Pick a color palette with 2-3 complementary tones and build your outfits around them.
- For example, soft pastels or warm neutrals work beautifully together.
- If one of you wears a bold pattern, the other should stick to solids to avoid clashing.
Pro Tip: Try laying your outfits side-by-side to see how they look together before the shoot.
2. Dress for the Season
The season plays a big role in determining your wardrobe. Choose colors, fabrics, and accessories that fit the time of year and the location.
- Spring:
- Light, airy fabrics like chiffon or linen.
- Soft, pastel shades like blush pink, lavender, or mint green.
- Incorporate floral prints or subtle patterns.
- Summer:
- Breathable materials like cotton or linen to stay cool.
- Bright colors or tropical-inspired patterns for outdoor shoots.
- Add casual elements like a sunhat or sandals for beach settings.
- Fall:
- Warm tones like burgundy, mustard, or burnt orange.
- Cozy layers like sweaters, scarves, or jackets for texture.
- Earthy neutrals pair beautifully with outdoor autumn settings.
- Winter:
- Elegant, heavier fabrics like velvet or wool.
- Dark, rich colors like emerald green, navy blue, or deep red.
- Layer up with chic coats, gloves, or scarves for added warmth and style.
3. Consider the Location
Your engagement photo location sets the tone for your outfits. Consider how the backdrop will influence your look.
- Urban Settings (e.g., NYC):
- Trendy, polished outfits with clean lines.
- Neutral tones or monochromatic looks that contrast with the city’s vibrancy.
- Nature Settings (e.g., parks, beaches):
- Flowy dresses or loose shirts that move beautifully in outdoor shots.
- Colors that complement the natural scenery, like greens, blues, or sandy neutrals.
- Rustic Settings (e.g., barns, vineyards):
- Casual, earthy looks like plaid shirts, denim, or boots.
- Layered outfits for texture and warmth.
Pro Tip: Avoid wearing colors that blend into the background (e.g., green in a forest) to ensure you stand out.
4. Keep It Comfortable
While you want to look your best, comfort is key. If your outfit is too tight, itchy, or impractical, it will show in your photos.
- Choose outfits that allow you to move freely, especially for outdoor or active shots.
- Wear shoes that are stylish but comfortable enough for walking or posing.
Pro Tip: Bring a backup pair of shoes if your shoot involves a lot of walking (e.g., around a city or park).
5. Avoid Distracting Elements
Certain clothing choices can take the focus away from you and your partner. Keep these tips in mind:
- Avoid large logos, busy patterns, or graphics that can date your photos.
- Steer clear of overly shiny fabrics that might reflect light.
- Be cautious with all-white outfits, as they can sometimes wash out in photos.
Pro Tip: Solid colors and subtle patterns are timeless and work well in any setting.
6. Add Personal Touches
Your engagement photos should reflect your unique personalities and relationship. Add small, meaningful touches to make your session feel authentic.
- Incorporate items with sentimental value, like a scarf your partner gave you.
- Highlight your hobbies or shared interests through accessories (e.g., guitars for music lovers).
- Include props that match your story, such as a picnic basket or a vintage bicycle.
Pro Tip: Don’t overdo it—keep personal touches subtle to avoid overwhelming the photos.
7. Bring Options
If you’re unsure about a specific outfit, bring a backup! Many engagement shoots allow for multiple outfit changes, so you can experiment with different looks.
- Two Outfit Ideas:
- One casual look (e.g., jeans and a cute top).
- One formal or semi-formal look (e.g., a flowy dress or tailored blazer).
Pro Tip: Choose outfits with easy on-and-off changes to save time during the session.
8. Accessorize Thoughtfully
Accessories can elevate your look and add subtle flair to your photos.
- Simple jewelry like stud earrings or a delicate necklace works well.
- Scarves, hats, or a stylish belt can add personality without being overwhelming.
- Keep your engagement ring clean and polished—it will likely be featured in close-up shots.
Pro Tip: Test how accessories look on camera before the shoot to ensure they don’t distract from the overall image.
9. Think About Hair and Makeup
A polished look goes a long way in professional photos. Consider having your hair and makeup done for the session, even if it’s not the full bridal look.
- Opt for natural, timeless makeup that enhances your features.
- Choose hairstyles that won’t need constant adjustments, especially if it’s windy.
Pro Tip: Schedule your makeup trial on the same day as your engagement shoot to test how it photographs.
10. Communicate with Your Photographer
Your photographer is an expert in capturing beautiful images, so don’t hesitate to ask for advice.
- Share your outfit ideas and get their input on what will photograph well.
- Discuss the mood or style you’re aiming for so they can help bring your vision to life.
Pro Tip: Send your photographer photos of your outfits in advance—they may have location-specific tips to help you shine.
Final Thoughts
Choosing what to wear for your engagement photos doesn’t have to be stressful. By coordinating with your partner, dressing for the season and location, and adding personal touches, you can create a look that feels authentic and looks incredible in photos.
Photo by Jose Escobar on Unsplash
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