Engagement Session Style Guide

You picked your photographer, you are in the middle of planning a wedding, and you’re a bit stressed out. But now it’s time for the fun part, the engagement session!! But wait, the stress returns… what should you wear to the engagement shoot? Clients ask me this all the time. Here are a couple of tips to help you feel confident and to show up to your engagement session in style! 

1. BE YOURSELF!

First point is to be yourself! This style guide is here to help you feel confident when picking out your outfits. If you feel overwhelmed after reading this, remember that these are just suggestions. Whatever you do, wear something that makes you feel beautiful. Keep in mind that all of these tips are here to help you coordinate with your partner. Don’t be afraid to show off your unique fashion. I love when my couples get creative, break the rules a little, and wear something bold that makes them feel awesome! 

2. COMPLEMENT, DON’T COMPETE

Make sure your attire compliments one another. However, try not to match each other. For example, if your man decides to wear a darker navy blue top, then you wouldn’t want to wear the same or adjacent color to navy blue (eg. black). Instead, compliment him with a lighter tone such as pale pink, yellow, baby blue, etc. If you decide to wear a bright red dress, have your man wear more of a subtle or dark color so that it doesn’t look like your outfits are trying to compete against each other. This same rule applies to patterns. If you wear a floral or plaid top, then have your fiancé compliment you with a solid or simpler one. 

3. FEEL GOOD, LOOK GOOD

Wear something that makes you look and feel good! Pick a color that looks flattering on your skin tone without washing it out. As most of you know, I am a redhead and have to be very careful with the colors I choose. If I wear a light yellow or orange it tends to draw from my already pale skin and gives a sickly appearance. Now, if I were to wear a baby blue, that would be a different story…. 😉 

4. FORMAL VS. CASUAL

Most of my couples bring two outfits, a dressier one and a casual one. Yes, bringing multiple outfits cuts into portrait time, but it also adds more of a variety to your session! I suggest showing up in your casual first and then saving the dressy outfit for those breathtaking sunset portraits. 

4A. THE CASUAL LOOK

Casual doesn’t mean “wear whatever.” Guys, I’m talking to you! Sometimes men think this means work boots/sneakers, t-shirt, or even gym clothes. I know these may be comfortable, but this undermines the photoshoot. Consider a long or short sleeve shirt, pants, or even nice shorts. Girls, you can compliment your man with jeans and a cute top, or a maybe sundress/skirt! 

4B. THE FORMAL LOOK  

I honestly don’t think you could over dress for your engagement session. Ladies, now is the time to wear that long dress you’ve been eyeing in the store or the one ready to be freed from your closet. I love when my brides wear long flowy dresses which catch in the wind and make amazing portraits! Whatever you decide to wear, just make sure that you both come with an equal level of formality. For example, if you decide to wear a long flowy dress, don’t have your man show up in shorts and a t-shirt. This is by far one of the biggest mistakes people make when it comes to their engagement attire. Instead, have your man wear a sports jacket, slacks, and a button down shirt to compliment you (see point 2). A suit would do well too. Remember guys, when buying a suit, make sure it’s tailored to you and at least form fitting. Baggy suits are soooo 90s. 

5. LAYER IT ON  

If done right, wearing multiple layers can shape, slim, and tone your figure. Layers add intricacy to your photos to enhance the point of focus. In many cases, multiple elements in an outfit can help thinner gentlemen appear bulkier.  I have seen a leather jacket work wonders in broadening shoulders and adding bulk when desired. 

6. ACCESSORIZE

Don’t worry this one’s easy. Last but not least, dress your style up with a necklace, scarf, belt, jewelry, headpiece, etc. Add another element to your outfit and create and intricate style of your choosing! These photos are specific to you and yours (see point 1), so make sure they capture your essence.

Pro Tip: Some couples plan their attire to coordinate with their wedding day so that their “Save The Dates” match the wedding theme and decor!

I hope that this helps guide you to picking out the perfect attire for your engagement photoshoot! Remember that whatever you decide to wear, make sure you feel beautiful and comfortable! Can’t wait to see what you’ll wear for the engagement session!