Professional Headshot Wardrobe Guide
Making the Right Impression: Your Complete Style Guide
Your wardrobe choices significantly impact the effectiveness of your professional headshots. This guide will help you select clothing that photographs beautifully, aligns with your professional goals, and ensures you feel confident and comfortable during your session.
The Foundation: Colors That Work
Best Colors for Professional Headshots
Navy Blue - The ultimate professional color that conveys trust, reliability, and competence. Works excellently for all industries and skin tones.
Charcoal Gray - Projects authority and sophistication. Perfect for executives and legal professionals.
Deep Jewel Tones - Burgundy, forest green, and sapphire blue add personality while maintaining professionalism.
Classic Black - Timeless and elegant, though can be stark for some skin tones. Works best with proper lighting.
Rich Earth Tones - Deep browns, olive greens, and warm grays offer sophisticated alternatives to traditional business colors.
Colors to Avoid
Bright White - Creates glare and can wash out your face
Neon or Fluorescent Colors - Distracting and unprofessional
Red - Can appear too bold or aggressive on camera
Pastels - Often appear washed out in professional settings
Busy Patterns - Stripes, plaids, and small prints create visual noise
For Men: Building Your Professional Look
Suits & Jackets
Classic Business Suits: Navy, charcoal, or dark gray in wool or wool blends
Modern Fit: Well-tailored but not too tight; jackets should button comfortably
Blazers: Navy or charcoal sport coats for a less formal but still professional look
Quality Fabrics: Wool, wool blends, or high-quality cotton that holds its shape
Shirts & Neckwear
Dress Shirts: Crisp white or light blue cotton shirts with properly fitted collars
Casual Professional: High-quality polos or button-down shirts for more relaxed industries
Ties: Conservative patterns or solid colors; silk ties in complementary colors
No Tie Look: Open collar with well-fitted shirt for modern, approachable appearance
Styling Details
Fit is Critical: Shoulders should fit properly; sleeves should show 1/4 inch of shirt cuff
Grooming: Fresh haircut, trimmed facial hair, clean nails
Accessories: Simple watch, conservative cufflinks if desired
Shoes: While not usually visible, wearing dress shoes helps with overall confidence
For Women: Professional Elegance
Blazers & Jackets
Classic Blazers: Navy, black, or jewel-toned jackets in well-fitted cuts
Modern Styles: Contemporary cuts that flatter your figure without being too trendy
Quality Fabrics: Wool, cotton blends, or structured knits that maintain shape
Proper Fit: Shoulders should align properly; jacket should close comfortably
Blouses & Tops
Professional Blouses: Solid colors or subtle patterns in flattering necklines
Neckline Options: Crew neck, V-neck, or scoop neck that's appropriate for your industry
Sleeve Length: 3/4 sleeves or long sleeves photograph better than sleeveless
Fabric Choices: Cotton, silk, or quality synthetic blends that drape well
Styling & Accessories
Jewelry: Simple, classic pieces that complement rather than compete
Necklines: Avoid extremely low or high necklines; choose what flatters your face
Hair & Makeup: Professional styling that enhances your natural features
Colors: Choose shades that complement your skin tone and convey your desired message
Industry-Specific Considerations
Corporate/Finance
More conservative styling
Traditional business attire
Darker, authoritative colors
Minimal accessories
Creative Industries
Slightly more personality in color choices
Modern cuts and styles
Interesting textures (still professional)
Thoughtful accessory choices
Healthcare/Education
Approachable yet professional
Colors that convey trust and competence
Conservative but not overly formal
Clean, polished appearance
Technology/Startups
Business casual to business formal
Modern, updated styling
Can incorporate some personality
Less formal than traditional industries
What NOT to Wear
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Patterns & Prints
Small checks or stripes (create visual vibration)
Busy florals or geometric patterns
Any logos or brand names
Polka dots or repetitive patterns
Problematic Fabrics
Shiny or reflective materials
Wrinkled or poorly fitted clothing
Thin fabrics that show undergarments
Overly textured fabrics that distract
Styling Errors
Clothing that's too tight or too loose
Outdated styles that date the photo
Overly trendy pieces that won't age well
Inappropriate necklines for professional settings
Preparation Tips
Two Weeks Before Your Session
Select and try on complete outfits
Schedule any alterations needed
Plan grooming appointments
Shop for any missing pieces
One Week Before
Confirm all pieces fit properly
Steam or iron selected garments
Practice your complete look
Prepare backup options
Day of Session
Bring clothes on hangers to prevent wrinkles
Pack 2-3 complete outfit options
Bring essential touch-up items
Wear comfortable undergarments that don't show lines
Final Considerations
Comfort Equals Confidence
Choose clothing that makes you feel professional and confident. If you're constantly adjusting your outfit or feeling uncomfortable, it will show in your expressions.
Fit Over Fashion
A well-fitted, classic outfit will always photograph better than a trendy piece that doesn't fit properly. Invest in good tailoring if needed.
Bring Options
Pack 2-3 complete outfits so we can choose what works best with the lighting and your session goals. Different looks also provide variety for multiple uses.
Trust the Process
Your photographer will help guide final wardrobe decisions based on lighting, backgrounds, and your specific goals. Come prepared, but stay flexible.
Questions About Your Wardrobe?
Don't hesitate to reach out if you have specific questions about your outfit choices. We're here to help ensure you look and feel your absolute best during your professional headshot session.
Remember: The goal is to look like the best, most professional version of yourself. Choose clothing that enhances your natural confidence and aligns with your career goals.
