So your significant other just popped the question, and you’re now engaged – congrats! The next steps are to set a wedding date and plan for your engagement photos. We love engagement sessions because they’re such a great opportunity to learn more about you and your fiancé as couple – and get you guys comfortable in front of the camera before the big day. Oftentimes, engagement photos are used for save-the-date announcements and wedding invitations – or they’re printed out and displayed on the wedding. Regardless of how you choose to use those images, you’ll want to make sure your outfit is on point. So, if you’re not sure what to wear for engagement photos, we’ve put together this style guide just for you!
First things first… Be sure to plan for two outfits – one that is more casual and then another that is dressier. Wear pieces that you’ll feel comfortable in otherwise it becomes very obvious in photos that you’re awkward and uncomfortable. Now that we’ve got that covered, let’s dive into the guide.
If your style is traditional and casual…
If you’re strictly a jeans and tee kind of girl, now’s not the time to go all out. We’re huge proponents of couples dressing in outfits that make them feel comfortable, and it’s totally ok to wear jeans.
Change up your usual jeans outfit with a camisole and cardigan or a festive sweater. If you prefer a more modest look, you can’t go wrong with a neutral-colored button-down top and pointed-toe pumps. Dainty necklaces and stud earrings are great ways to accessorize and dress up your outfit. For your second look, opt for a sheath dress and ankle-strap heels.
If your style is feminine and romantic…
Your options are truly endless if your style is feminine and romantic. Everything from a-line midi skirts to floral prints and maxi dresses to ruffle accents will pop in photos.
For your casual look, we recommend a pleated skirt and basic top or skinny jeans a shoulder-baring blouse. For more of a casual chic vibe, a mini skirt paired with a knit top and boots (or flats) is another fun option. You can end the session with a slit maxi dress or ruffle mini.
If your style is trendy and edgy…
There are so many ways to incorporate the latest trends into your engagement shoot, but we recommend doing it sparingly. For instance, leopard slip skirts, PVC heels, over the knee boots, and leather moto jackets are all trend-forward but still come off very classic. Jumpsuits are also very in right now and super cute too! We won’t say too much here because those of you who fall into this category need not be told what to wear 🙂
If your style is modern and minimal…
Those of you with simple style will appreciate being able to pair your jeans with structured pieces, such as a blazer or cutout top. For your evening look, try a slip dress with minimalist heels. This combo is one of our favorites – it’s so simple yet endlessly striking!
Key Takeaways…
Dress for the season… Context means everything in photography, so don’t bring over the knee boots to a summer engagement session or wear a sundress in the fall and winter. If wearing a dress in the fall, layer it up with a cardigan or coatigan.
Dress for the location… If you’re shooting in the mountains, it’s better to dress down in light layers while shooting on the beach calls for flowy dresses and flip flops. Formal outfits, on the other hand, photograph beautifully against city backdrops.
Dress in timeless pieces as you would on your wedding day.
Colors that always photograph well include white, pastel tones (peach, blush, light blue) and bright, feminine colors like yellow and red. Any of those will never feel dated.
Dress for your body type. Fitted pieces that show off your curves typically photograph better than oversized silhouettes that drown out your body.
What to Avoid…
Empire waist dresses and big, bold prints are usually not flattering, especially on petite frames and athletic builds. Plus, they’re distracting and busy in photos.
Don’t get too matchy matchy with your partner. Instead dress in complementary colors and light neutrals, which help a photo feel light and bright.
This goes without saying, but refrain from super high heels or platforms you won’t be able to walk in. Engagement sessions tend to be interactive with lots of walking, and you don’t want to be caught in shoes you can hardly stand in.
Don’t be afraid to bundle up. Fall and winter can get chilly on the East Coast and winter accessories like scarves and beanies can be super cute.
If going after timeless, classic photos, avoid neon hues like lime green, orange, fuchsia, and hot pink (although they’re super trendy right now).
Outfit Tips for Him…
Guys are always easy peasy when it comes to picking outfits. For bottoms, jeans, chinos, or slacks are all great options. We don’t recommend shorts unless of course it’s the summertime. Collared shirts, such as polos and button-downs are no-brainers. But if you’re stud is willing to venture outside the box, you can play with cardigans, lightweight sweaters, and layers during the cooler months. Just make sure the color he wears complements what you’ll wearing. We love clean sneakers with a casual ensemble but switch it up with oxfords or loafers for the dressier outfit.
Hope you guys found this helpful! If you need more style advice, you can always contact us here!
