WHAT TO WEAR GUIDE

 

A Note Before We Begin

This guide is a generalized style direction inspired by timeless, feminine, and refined looks.

It is not a set of rules, the most important thing is that you choose outfits you genuinely love and feel confident in.

A helpful way to think about it:

Choose something you would still love 10 years from now.

It doesn’t need to be trendy or high fashion, what matters most is that it feels like you, both today and years from now.

 

Overall Style Direction

• Think: timeless, feminine, polished
• Aim for outfits that complement each other, rather than match exactly
• The focus of your images is your connection, with clothing supporting that story

 

Fit & Silhouette

• Clothing that follows your natural shape often photographs beautifully
• Defined waistlines and balanced proportions tend to create a more refined look
• Both structured and softly flowing pieces work well

 

Hair & Makeup

• Many clients enjoy a slightly more polished version of their everyday look
• Makeup can be softly enhanced if desired, as photography naturally reduces intensity
• Natural looks translate beautifully as well

Hair:

• Styling that feels like your usual look—just a bit more finished—tends to photograph best
• Some prefer to avoid major changes right before a session, simply to feel their most comfortable

 

Details

• Nails: clean and well-groomed complements any look
• Jewelry: personal, meaningful, or simply something you love
• Shoes: chosen to pair well with the outfit (clean soles are helpful if visible)

 

Coordination Tips

• Coordinated outfits often feel more elevated than identical ones
• Consider:
  • Shared tones
  • Complementary colors
  • Similar level of dressiness

 

COLOR PALETTES (WITH VISUAL GUIDANCE)

Below are combinations that consistently photograph beautifully together.

 

Soft & Feminine

• Cream #F5EFE6
• Blush #E8CFC4
• Soft Pink #F2D6D0

A light, delicate palette that feels romantic and airy.

 

Classic & Elegant

• Black #000000
• Ivory #FFFFF0
• Camel #C19A6B

Clean, timeless, and sophisticated.

 

Rich & Refined

• Burgundy #800020
• Emerald #0F7A6C
• Soft Beige #E6D3B3

Deeper tones that create a luxurious, polished look.

 

Muted Neutrals

• Taupe #B8A99A
• Warm Gray #A8A8A8
• Dusty Mauve #C4A3A3

Subtle, understated, and very timeless.

 

Light & Airy

• White #FFFFFF
• Soft Lavender #E6E6FA
• Powder Blue #D6E6F2

Fresh, soft, and luminous on camera.

 

OUTFIT IDEAS

Classic Dresses

• Both wear dresses in a similar palette
• Different textures or cuts add visual interest

Mixed Elegance

• One in a dress
• One in a blouse with tailored pants or a skirt

Monochrome Styling

• Same color family, different shades
• Adds depth while staying cohesive

Soft Contrast

• One in a lighter tone
• One in a deeper complementary tone

 

BACKGROUND STYLING

White Background

Look: soft, bright, feminine

• Best with:
  • White #FFFFFF
  • Ivory #FFFFF0
  • Blush #E8CFC4
• Creates a light, airy feeling with minimal contrast

 

Gray Background

Look: balanced, timeless

• Best with:
  • Navy #1F2A44
  • Emerald #0F7A6C
  • Cream #F5EFE6
• Works well with both light and darker tones

 

Black Background

Look: dramatic, elegant, editorial

• Best with:
  • Black #000000 (layered textures)
  • Ivory #FFFFF0
  • Deep tones like Burgundy #800020
• Slight sheen (silk, satin) adds dimension

 

Hair Length Notes (Optional Consideration)

• Short hair: often pairs beautifully with structured outfits and defined necklines
• Medium to long hair: soft movement or gentle waves photograph elegantly

 

FINAL THOUGHTS

This experience is about more than just photos.

It’s a chance to:

• Spend meaningful time together
• Enjoy the process of getting ready
• Share a moment that feels intentional and memorable

Come in a great mood, relaxed, and ready to enjoy each other.

Many clients turn the session into a full experience—
getting ready together, laughing through the session, and even planning something after.

You’ll already look and feel your best—
it can be the perfect reason to continue the day with something special, like a dinner out.

 

Final Reminder

Wear something you love.
Something that feels like you.
Something you’ll be happy to see in your home for years to come.