So you just got engaged, congratulations! You’ve got the ring, you’ve set the date, and now you’ve booked your engagement session. And then comes the question that almost every couple asks me: “But what do we even wear?”
I get it. It feels like a lot of pressure. You want to look like yourselves, but also kind of like the best version of yourselves. You’re scrolling Pinterest at midnight saving eleventy-seven outfit inspo photos and somehow feeling more confused than when you started while trying to remind yourself, it’s just an outfit.
Here’s what I want you to hear first: you genuinely cannot mess this up. But I do have a few guidelines that will make your photos feel more cohesive, more timeless, and more you – and that’s exactly what we’re going for.
Start With a Color Palette, Not a Matching Set
The number one thing that elevates engagement photos is a cohesive color story and that does NOT mean you have to wear the same color or match perfectly. Matchy-matchy can actually feel a little stiff and dated so unless you’re going for that early 2000s nostalgia, I suggest steering clear of it.
Instead, think about pulling a few colors from the same family or choosing colors that complement each other without competing. Here’s some that I personally love:
- Earthy neutrals: Cream, tan, camel, warm white, sage, rust. These tones glow in golden hour light and feel cozy in photos.
- Moody, rich tones: Deep burgundy, forest green, navy, terracotta. These are especially gorgeous in fall sessions or wooded settings.
- Soft and romantic: Dusty rose, blush, mauve, champagne, lavender. Beautiful for garden settings or anything with soft natural light, these colors are great for morning sessions too.
- Classic neutrals: White, ivory, black, grey. You truly cannot go wrong here, especially if you want images that feel timeless.
A simple starting point: one person picks the anchor color, the other person coordinates around it. You don’t have to consult a color wheel, just hold your outfits up next to each other and ask “do these feel like they belong in the same photo?” If yes, you’re good.
Mix Textures and Layers to Make Outfits Interesting
Here’s a styling secret: texture is what makes a simple outfit look intentional in photos.
A cream linen blouse reads as more interesting than a basic cotton tee. A chunky knit cardigan adds dimension. A flowy chiffon dress moves beautifully. Denim, suede, velvet, lace, linen – all of these catch light differently and add depth to your photos in a way that flat, textureless fabric doesn’t.
Easy ways to add texture:
- A lightweight scarf or wrap draped over one shoulder
- Linen or chambray instead of basic cotton
- A cardigan or blazer as a layering piece
- Boots instead of basic sneakers – leather adds texture instantly
- A flowy midi skirt instead of straight jeans
- Pants with a flare or design in them
Layers also give you options during the session. You can start with the jacket on, take it off halfway through, and suddenly it feels like a completely different look without a full outfit change.
Outfit Ideas That Always Work
If you’re staring at your closet feeling stuck, here are some tried-and-true combinations that photograph really well. Mix and match these between the two of you however feels most like you:
Casual and relaxed:
- Sundress or flowy midi skirt + simple top + sandals or boots
- Jeans or chinos + a linen button-down (untucked is perfectly fine) + clean casual shoes
Put-together but not overdressed:
- Tailored wide-leg pants + a feminine blouse or fitted top
- Dark jeans or dress trousers + a well-fitted button-down, sleeves rolled up
Boho/outdoor:
- Flowy floral or solid maxi dress + sandals
- Jeans + a henley or simple fitted tee + boots
Classic and timeless:
- A simple white or cream dress or linen set
- Dark jeans + a tucked button-down or structured top
Second outfit option (if you want to do a change):
- Go casual for one look and slightly more dressed up for the other – it gives your gallery more variety and feels completely natural.
Sometimes Casual Really Is Best
I want to say this loud for the people in the back: you do not have to be dressed up to have beautiful engagement photos.
Some of my favorite sessions have been couples in jeans and simple tops who just looked like themselves. There is something so genuine and real about that. When you’re comfortable in what you’re wearing, it shows. You move more naturally, you laugh more easily, and the connection between you two comes through so much more than any fancy outfit.
If you’re a jeans and t-shirt couple in real life, lean into that. Just make sure the jeans are dark wash (no harsh fading or rips unless that’s really your thing), and the shirts are clean and not too logo-heavy.
The goal is to look like you on your best day, not like a version of you that you don’t recognize.
What to Avoid
A few practical things that tend to cause issues in photos:
Logos and graphics on shirts: they pull the eye and can date your photos quickly. Solid colors or subtle patterns are safer.
Shorts on men: unless it’s a very casual, intentionally beach or summer vibe, shorts tend to read as too casual and can make the proportions feel a little off in photos. Long pants almost always photograph better.
Strapless dresses without a supportive fit: you’ll spend the session tugging at it, and it shows. If you love a strapless look, make sure it fits really well.
Clothes that are brand new and stiff: wear your outfit around the house first. If it’s uncomfortable or you keep adjusting it, it will show in your photos.
Shoes you can’t walk in: we may be walking through fields, stepping over roots, or exploring a venue. Comfort matters. Bring flats in your bag if you want to wear heels for a few shots.
A Note About Jewelry and Accessories
Keep jewelry simple enough that it doesn’t compete with your faces but don’t feel like you have to go completely bare. Meaningful jewelry (a necklace you wear every day, heirloom earrings) adds a personal touch and photographs beautifully.
Don’t forget:
- Clean your engagement ring
- Hair accessories like a simple clip or ribbon can add a sweet, intentional detail
- A belt can define a flowy outfit and add polish
Bringing a Second Outfit
I love when couples bring a second look – it gives your gallery more variety and makes the session feel more dynamic. A good rule of thumb:
- Look 1: More dressed up or polished
- Look 2: More casual, relaxed, or fun
We can plan a natural transition point during the session, usually at golden hour or when we move to a different location.
Your Location Should Inform Your Outfit
Think about where we’re shooting and let that guide the vibe of your outfits.
- Urban setting (downtown, brick walls, city streets): You can go a little more structured and elevated. Think blazers, trousers, sleek boots, form fitting dress.
- Wooded or natural setting: Flowy, earthy tones, textures. This is where linen and soft neutrals shine.
- Open fields or golden hour in a meadow: Anything flowy photographs beautifully here – dresses, linen, soft colors.
- Lake or waterfront: Keep it relaxed. Clothing like jeans, casual layers, and sandals work really well.
If you’re not sure where we’re shooting yet, or want help picking a location that fits the vibe you’re going for, reach out and let’s chat – I love helping couples plan sessions that feel like them.
When In Doubt, Send Me a Photo
Seriously. Before you panic order five dresses at 11pm, just text or email me a photo of what you’re thinking. I’ve seen a lot of outfits in a lot of lighting conditions and I’m happy to give you honest feedback. That’s what I’m here for.
Your engagement session should feel fun and easy, and honestly, it will be. Getting dressed up a little, being in a beautiful place with your favorite person, and having someone capture how you actually look at each other? That’s a really good evening. It’s going to be great!
I can’t wait to photograph you two!
Bekah Cabrejos is a wedding and engagement photographer based in Charlotte, NC, serving couples across the Piedmont Triad, the Triangle, and all of North Carolina and beyond. View the portfolio or get in touch to start planning your session.
comments
posted in: