What to wear:10 Style tips to help you look good and feel amazing in your photos.
You have your date booked, your photography session planned, but now you're stuck staring into your closet groaning. What the heck am I going to wear?
What Should I wear is the number one asked question. I hear you and I have experienced firsthand the dread mingled with anxiety that facing the wardrobe or, in my case, unending baskets of laundry. I have been in that panicky, sad state brought on by trying on every single article of clothing that might look good in photos. I get it; I know that defeated feeling after trying and failing to wriggle in to those to tight jeans. Followed swiftly by the crushing blow, when you realize, I Have Nothing to wear!
Still feeling like you having nothing to wear for your photography session after frantically trying on everything you already own is the most stressful and draining feeling after swim suite shopping. You now have nothing you feel good wearing and the not so fun bonus of cleaning because all the outfits you tried so hard to make work are now tossed in heaps around your bedroom. Instead of folding and hanging them all back up, all you have energy for is a Netflix binge, and maybe some wine and chocolate.
It’s hard to think positive after an emotional storm brought on by a full-blown closet hurricane. So if this is where you are at mentally, please book mark this and take a pause. Go relax for a bit, reset and treat yourself to that mini TV binge and a hot bath.
Feeling better now? Outstanding, now for the tips!
#1.) Know that you are beautiful!
I know it’s an ego tantrum waiting to happen, but you are a completely beautiful and unique human. Those who truly know and love you will agree with me! Even if you can’t see it yourself right at this moment. Be kind to yourself and wrap yourself around those you love. Family hug piles always make me feel special.
#2.) Focus on how you want to feel.
What? Yes, truly! It’s so much easier to pick anything if you decide how you want to feel before you go shopping. Remember to decide before you go shopping! Do you want to feel sultry, romantic, fierce, or relaxed? Not sure? It’s okay, message me Here and I can help you narrow down how you want to feel at your session. Seriously, this tip is golden!
#3.) Keep it simple, gorgeous!
When all else fails, think Coco Chanel or Posh Spice, er...Victoria Beckham. These ladies are style icons for their serious chic factor. They are most described as classic, chic, effortless and timeless. Classic is classic for a reason! Think of cool neutrals or warm earthy tones. Think subtle prints, simple shapes and rich natural textures like velvet, linen, lace, knits and corduroy. These always photograph beautifully.
#4.) Celebrate you!
Pick an outfit you love, one that makes you feel comfortable and fabulous. If there is a special piece in your closet that makes you feel amazing and confident, choose that. If you seriously have nothing to wear, congratulations! This is the perfect time to splurge a little and buy that Anthropology dress you have had your eyes on.
#5.) Set a Budget.
Even the word budget can set the kindest, most loving people off. Photography is an investment and so is buying clothing that makes you feel like the best version of yourself. Whether you go thrifting or to Prada, if you don’t set and keep to a budget, you will not enjoy your purchase as much as you otherwise would.
#6.) Pick a stand out accessory.
Sometimes all you need to spice up and complete an old favorite is a fun new accessory. Yes, hair, tattoos and beards can count as an accessory, show them off! Remember to focus on how you want to feel while picking your accessories. Romantic, what about a beautiful fringed Kimono or a shawl that will flutter in the wind? Sounds cheesy but shawls are a staple in our favorite romantic dramas like Titanic, Outlander and, oh so many other love stories for a reason.
#7.) Don't be afraid to get dressy!
You will look stunning in that Rent the Runway sequin number or that flowy boho Free People dress. To my non-binary and or anti dress wearing friends, be daring. My favorite is a mix of dressing up and casual. I love the brands Wildfang and Olderbrother for inclusive fashion inspiration. They have superb look books for non dress wearing humans. Any Pops of color, textures or unexpected parings always add interest to photographs.
#8.) Don't worry about going casual!
This is the P.N.W. and it gets cold, rainy and muddy! Getting photos done in an outfit that makes you feel cold, soggy and uncomfortable is the worst! My focus is on capturing you, getting your genuine connection, and capturing your raw emotions. If you feel best in your favorite hoodie, biker boots or ripped jeans, then please wear them. They all look just as good in the city or up on the mountain as they do on your couch.
#9.) When unsure go with neutral colors.
I know beige can be boring, but if you are at a complete loss on what to wear, neutrals are easy to find and photograph beautifully in any setting. Neutrals such as beiges, creams, whites, tans, grays and other soft muted tones can add warmth and sophistication.
#10.) Don't be afraid to break the rules!
When you feel confident, you are self empowered. If you feel your best in bold patterns and colors; outstanding! In a feisty neon number; Rock it! If you love, and I mean capital LOVE, a brand, then logos are in! Sure bright clashing colors and huge logos can make photographers break down in agonized sobs. But, I can handle it P.P.P. (Perfect Pinterest Photos) can suck it! You do you.
If you prefer lists, I made this What to wear:10 style tips list recap for you.
Pin this on Pinterest if you’re short on time, follow me on Pinterest – and you’ll get photography tips and inspiration for your sessions delivered straight to your feed!
