When preparing for a portrait session, it’s vital to let your wardrobe reflect your creative aim. Whether you’re after a look that conveys authority, whimsy, or personal storytelling, the clothes you choose will set the tone from the start. Once you’ve established what you want your portrait to say, you and your photographer can begin coordinating the wardrobe details accordingly.
1. Opt for Tailored Pieces That Fit You Well
Fit matters. Ill-fitting suits or overly tight dresses create awkward shapes that distract from the subject of the photo. Having your clothes tailored ensures a polished silhouette: sleeve lengths and pant hems should be correct, waistlines should sit properly, collar and seam alignments should be even. A wisely altered wardrobe not only flatters your proportions, it boosts your confidence on camera. In case of last-minute issues, a stylist might even use binder‐clips on set to improve the fit—but why rely on that when you can start with well-fitting pieces?
2. Avoid Wrinkles Like the Plague
No one likes visible wrinkles in a portrait image. Wrinkled clothing gives the impression of being unprepared or careless, and during the shoot the viewer’s attention could drift from your face to the creases instead. Transport your chosen outfit on a hanger, avoid sitting in it or driving long distances in it, and if possible arrive in comfortable clothes and change just before the session. A garment-steamer is a smart investment for ensuring everything looks sharp before you’re photographed.
3. Choose Clothes That Move Naturally
Your outfit should allow you to pose with ease and comfort. Garments with movement—flowy skirts, chiffon blouses, open jackets—let your body settle into a pose and give the image dynamic energy. For women, the suggestions might include flutter‐sleeve dresses or airy tops; for men, try a casual blazer, shawl-collar jacket or light trench. Avoid outfits that restrict you or feel too rigid; a portrait session should feel effortless, not like a struggle to squeeze into your clothes.
4. Layer Up and Play with Texture
Layering and punctuation with textures add visual richness to your images. Rather than defaulting to a basic t-shirt, consider a collared shirt under a blazer, or a waistcoat paired with a wool jacket. These combinations introduce angles and depth, making your portrait more visually compelling. Layers are especially useful outdoors—scarves, jackets or coats add both style and comfort. In warmer months pick breathable fabrics like linen or silk so you look great and feel comfortable throughout the shoot.
5. Earth-Tones Are a Safe Bet
If you’re unsure of the setting or background of the session, go with earth-tone colours—think russet, soft peach, sage green, slate blue, burnt orange. These hues flatter most skin tones and adapt easily to a variety of environments. They also let the viewer’s attention focus on your face and expression rather than being distracted by overly bright, clashing colours. The goal is harmony—not competition—between your clothing and the background.
6. What About Black and White?
Black and white can work—but cautiously. Black is slimming and can look elegant, but against a dark background you risk merging into the backdrop. If you wear black, go for something rich in texture so it still reads in the photo. White conveys freshness and simplicity, but it’s harder to keep clean, easy to overexpose in photos, and dissolves into white or light-coloured backgrounds. If you choose black or white, coordinate with your photographer ahead of time so lighting and background are planned accordingly.
7. Let the Outfit Reflect You
Authenticity matters. The best portraits feel like they’re telling your story. Choose accessories that are meaningful—jewellery, rings, scarves—that you already identify with. Your clothing and styling should reflect your personality, not just follow a trend. When you feel comfortable and yourself, that relaxed confidence shines through in your posture, expression and overall presence in the photo.
8. Bring Options
If you can, bring two or three outfits to your session (and perhaps a few accessory choices). This allows you and the photographer to peruse and select the best fit for the setup. Having backup wardrobe options also helps if you’re doing group shots—multiple people in an ensemble can adjust for colour harmony and styling. If time is tight, at least pack an alternate outfit you can change into quickly.
9. Special Note for Professionals
For professionals whose portrait will highlight their career—e.g. doctors or scientists—a white lab coat may seem like the obvious choice, because it signals expertise and trust. And it can work in certain contexts. But it also risks looking generic and boxy in a photo, and may blend into neutral studio backgrounds. If you want to communicate professionalism but also personality, consider wearing tailored attire that still conveys your role—but with more visual interest than a standard lab coat.
