What to wear to your Engagement Session
Your engagement session is one of the first exciting steps in your wedding journey, and the photos from it are likely to be used for save the dates, social media announcements or on display on your wedding day. So, what do you wear to your engagement session to make sure you feel comfortable and confident while also looking picture-perfect? I’ve got you covered with some simple tips to help you choose the perfect outfits for your engagement photos!
Choose Outfits That Feel Like “You”
The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and true to yourself. If you’re a jeans-and-tee kind of couple, don’t feel pressured to go for a full glam look. Likewise, if you love dressing up, go ahead and rock that formal outfit! Your engagement photos should reflect your personalities, so pick something that feels natural and authentic.
Coordinate, Don’t Match
It’s tempting to go all matchy-matchy, but coordinating your outfits instead tends to look better in photos. Think complementary colors rather than the exact same shade. For example, if one of you is wearing a neutral tone, the other could wear a soft, muted color that complements it. Or, try pairing a bold pattern with a solid color. The key is to make sure your outfits look good together without being overly similar.
Keep Your Location in Mind
Where are you having your engagement session? Your location can help guide your wardrobe choices and create a cohesive look in your photos. Here are some suggestions based on different settings:
- Beach: Think light, airy, and relaxed. Flowy dresses, linen shirts, or soft pastel colors can complement the ocean backdrop perfectly. For a more casual vibe, barefoot or sandals are a great option. Make sure to pick outfits that reflect the laid-back feel of a beach setting.
- City: If you’re doing a city shoot, lean into a chic and modern style. Sleek dresses, tailored blazers, and bold accessories can work well in an urban environment. Neutral tones or monochrome outfits look striking against the city’s architecture and offer a timeless look. Heels or polished shoes can add to the refined aesthetic.
- Bush or Woodland: For a bush setting, earthy tones like greens, browns, or burnt orange will blend beautifully with the natural surroundings. Think casual yet stylish—long sleeves, cozy knits, and layers can create a warm, rustic look. Boots or comfortable shoes are also a great choice for navigating the terrain.
- Rustic Vineyard: If you’re shooting in the beautiful Hunter Valley or a similar countryside location, softer tones and flowy fabrics can complement the natural vineyard backdrop. For a vintage or boho-inspired look, maxi dresses and lightweight fabrics like cotton or lace are perfect. Don’t forget comfortable shoes or sandals for walking through the vines.
Wherever your session takes place, dressing to match the vibe of your surroundings will help create photos that feel balanced and harmonious.
Don’t Be Afraid to Dress It Up
Your engagement session is a special occasion, so if you want to dress up a bit, go for it! A flowy dress or sharp blazer can add an element of sophistication to your photos. If you’re unsure, bring along a second outfit for some variety. A mix of dressy and casual looks can create a nice contrast in your gallery.
Consider the Season
Your outfit should also be weather-appropriate. If you’re having a winter engagement session, layer up with cozy knits and chic outerwear. For summer, lightweight fabrics like linen or cotton are perfect to keep you cool and comfortable. Just remember that comfort is key, so you’ll be able to focus on each other rather than on adjusting your outfit.
Accessorize Thoughtfully
Adding a few accessories can elevate your look, but less is more. Think delicate jewelry, a great hat, or even a cozy scarf for cooler weather. And don’t forget about shoes—comfortable and stylish options are always a win, especially if you’ll be walking or standing for a while.
Stay Timeless
While trends come and go, timeless looks will stand the test of time. Stick to classic cuts, colors, and styles that won’t feel dated in a few years. Think simple, flattering silhouettes and colors that suit your skin tone. Avoid loud patterns or logos, as they can be distracting in photos. Don’t Forget Hair and Makeup!
This is a great opportunity to test out your wedding hair and makeup look, if you’re feeling up for it! Even if you want to keep things natural, consider having your hair professionally styled or adding a bit more makeup than usual to make sure you feel polished and photo ready.
As your Photographer
As a wedding photographer, I love helping couples feel confident and relaxed during their engagement sessions. Whether it’s advice on what to wear, picking the perfect location, or just making sure you’re comfortable in front of the camera, I’m here to make your experience as enjoyable as possible. Your engagement session should be a fun, stress-free way to capture your love—and with the right outfits, you’ll look and feel amazing while doing it.
No matter what you choose to wear, the most important thing is that it feels like you. This is your moment to celebrate your love story, so make sure your outfits reflect your unique style and personality!