How to choose outfits for your engagement session

series: engagement session planningfor couples

Nov 25

One of the most common questions I get from couples planning their engagement session is: What should we wear? While it might feel like a daunting decision, I promise it doesn’t have to be. Choosing outfits is a chance to express your personality, complement each other, and set the tone for your photos.

Here’s a guide to help you select outfits that will make you feel confident, comfortable, and camera-ready for your engagement session.

01. Coordinate, don’t match

When it comes to choosing outfits, think of your looks as players on the same team rather than identical dancers in a kick line. Coordinating your colors and styles will create harmony in your photos while still allowing each of you to shine individually.

Here are some tips for coordinating:

Stick to a color palette with complementary tones. For example, if one partner wears a soft blush shirt, the other could wear earthy neutrals or darker shades within the same family.
Avoid being too matchy-matchy (think identical plaid shirts). Instead, mix textures and fabrics to add visual interest.

And if you want to wear patterns, keep them larger than a dime to avoid chromatic aberration in digital images. Trust me on this one — tiny patterns can cause a strange effect in your photos. Logos are best avoided unless they hold special meaning for you, and even then, consider a second outfit without logos to keep your gallery versatile.

02. Match your outfits to the season, location, and you

Your outfits should feel like you. If you’re not someone who wears ball gowns or three-piece suits, don’t feel pressured to dress up just because it’s an engagement session. Wear what makes you feel your best.

A great starting point is to match your outfits to the vibe of the season and the session’s location:

For a fall session: Cozy sweaters, layered scarves, and warm earth tones work beautifully.
For a spring session: Light pastels, flowy dresses, and soft fabrics capture the freshness of the season.
For an urban location: Edgy looks with structured pieces or pops of bold color can add flair.
For a nature session: Soft, neutral tones or airy fabrics blend beautifully with outdoor settings.

No matter the season, choose at least one outfit that’s your favorite. You know the one — the outfit that makes you feel like a million bucks every time you wear it. Feeling comfortable and confident will translate beautifully in your photos.

03. Bring two outfits

I always recommend couples bring two outfits to their engagement session:

One formal outfit: Think cocktail attire or something dressy enough for a nice dinner out.
One casual outfit: Think weekend date vibes — jeans, a cozy sweater, or something relaxed and fun.

We’ll usually start with the formal look, transitioning into the casual outfit as the session progresses. This change not only gives your gallery more variety but also helps you relax into the session — most couples find the casual portion feels like a fun, laid-back ending to the shoot.

04. Don’t be afraid to ask for help

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by outfit choices, start with some inspiration.

Create a Pinterest board: Pin photos of engagement sessions, fashion looks, or anything that resonates with your personal style.
Notice patterns: Are you drawn to certain colors, textures, or overall vibes? Chances are, you’ll find your style already reflected in your wardrobe.

Your closet is usually the best place to shop, but if you’re envisioning something totally new, that’s fine too! I’m here to help. Reach out to me with outfit ideas, and we’ll strategize to bring your vision to life. Whether that means choosing the perfect accessories, deciding on shoes, or finding the right level of coordination between the two of you, I’ve got you covered.

05. A few extra tips

Fit is key: Make sure your outfits fit well and allow you to move freely. Engagement sessions are full of movement — walking, twirling, hugging — so you’ll want to feel comfortable.
Layers are your friend: They add dimension to photos and can be removed or added for variety.
Accessorize thoughtfully: Hats, jewelry, or scarves can add a pop of personality without stealing the show.

Let your personality shine

Your engagement session is all about capturing your connection and celebrating your love story. The outfits you choose should reflect who you are as a couple — whether that’s playful and casual, chic and modern, or a little bit of everything.

Remember, this session is for you. There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to what to wear, so focus on what makes you feel amazing. And if you’re still not sure? That’s what I’m here for. Let’s chat and make sure your engagement session is everything you’ve dreamed of.