Your Headshot Wardrobe: What to Wear and What to Avoid

Start with a Simple, Solid Color Shirt

Forget the busy patterns. I once had a client show up in a gorgeous floral blouse—it was stunning in person. On camera, the small roses created a weird, moiré shimmer that made her face look fuzzy. We switched to a plain navy tee, and suddenly, she was the focus. A solid color acts like a clean frame for your face. It tells the viewer, "Look here, not at my clothes." This rule holds for 95% of professional headshots. Keep the texture subtle—a fine-knit or smooth cotton works perfectly.

Choose a Color That Works for You

Don't just grab black. It's a safe choice, but it can be severe and drain color from some skin tones. Your best color is probably one you already own and get compliments in. Think about that sweater your partner says makes your eyes pop. For most people, mid-tones are magic: think slate blue, forest green, burgundy, or charcoal grey. They add depth without fighting with you. Bring three options. I always have clients hold fabrics under their chin in natural light right before we shoot; the winner is obvious when you see their skin brighten.

The Fit is More Important Than Brand

I've photographed people in a $5 thrift store shirt that looked like a million bucks because it fit their shoulders perfectly. I've also seen a $300 designer blazer ruin a shot because it bunched at the back of the neck. The camera exaggerates fit flaws. Your shirt should skim your body, not cling or bag. For jackets, the collar should lie flat without gaping. A telltale sign of a bad fit? Wrinkles that radiate from the armpit or collar. Try this: sit down in the outfit you plan to wear. If it pulls, buttons strain, or fabric rides up, it's the wrong choice for a seated portrait.

Two Common Mistakes That Date a Headshot

First, the overly wide spread collar. A collar point that extends past the edge of your shoulders instantly shouts "2012." Modern, updated collars are more moderate. Second, shiny fabrics. A satin blouse or a glossy tie reflects light in odd patches, drawing attention to your chest instead of your smile. Matte fabrics photograph with a professional, soft finish. I keep a lint roller and a small steamer on set because those are the only texture details you want visible.

Also, consider your neckline. A crewneck tee can make a neck look shorter; a V-neck or open collar creates a longer, more flattering line. For women, a jewel neckline is often the most universally elegant choice.

How to Prepare the Day of Your Shoot

Hang your chosen outfits in the car. Don't wear them to the session. You'll avoid wrinkles from the seatbelt and any last-minute spills from your coffee. Get dressed at the studio. If you're doing multiple looks, bring them in this order:

• Look 1: Your darkest outfit (navy, charcoal).
• Look 2: Your mid-tone or color.
• Look 3: Your lightest option (like a soft grey or cream).

This prevents any dark lint from transferring to a light shirt. Hydrate well, but avoid a huge salty meal right before—it can cause puffiness. Your final prep step? Look in a mirror and give yourself a genuine smile. That's the energy you want to bring into the room, more than any specific garment.

The right wardrobe isn't about fashion; it's a tool. It builds a foundation of confidence so you can forget about your clothes and focus on connecting with the camera. When you wear something that fits well and feels like you, that comfort translates directly through the lens. Bring the pieces you feel good in, and we'll handle the rest.