One of the questions that I get asked the most is what to wear for their engagement session. I hope this post helps with that question and gives you some ideas on how to dress and accessorize your engagement session.
- Wear Clothes that make you feel comfortable. The best advice I’ve heard for this is to look like yourself, but at your best. If you go too far out of your comfort zone you could feel awkward and it will show in your pictures. Wear something that compliments your body and skin type. If you don’t like your legs, for example, maybe it would not be the time to wear short shorts or a mini skirt. Or if you are self-conscious about your arms, maybe wearing sleeves or a jacket would help you feel more comfortable. If there is certain style, color, fit that you don’t like on a normal day, you won’t like it in your pictures.
- Don’t Match. Complement each other, but don’t match. Don’t look like twins, but feel balanced.
- Be sure your outfits are equally yoked. Meaning, if you are wearing a formal dress make sure your guy is in a suit, so everything looks equal. Or make sure you are both casual.
- Mindfully choose your color palette. Typically pastels, cool colors and neutral tones photograph best. But blacks are the most slimming. Also, think about how you want to use your engagement pictures. Save the dates? Centerpieces? Sign-In Book? It may be a good idea to coordinate with your wedding day colors.
- For romantic images, think a flowy dress. I love photographing the movement in a light airy dress. And if that dress is in the pastel, cool colors or neutral tones, it can’t help but be romantic, no matter the season. Dresses, in general, are flattering, short, long, or medium. They can accentuate the positive and/or cover perceived “problem” areas. Check out places like Rent The Runway for possibilities also.
- It is best to stay away from small or busy patterns. Think patterns as an accent and the bigger the better. If you are going to wear a pattern, have your partner wear a more neutral tone to balance it out.
- Accessorize! A statement necklace, hat, a scarf, a belt, it will all add so much visual interest and it is a great way to show some more personality. For the guys (or the girls), layers can also be considered an accessory. Start with your base layer of clothing and then add layers of texture and/or accessories. It is a WIN! Oh! And don’t forget shoes are an awesome accessory (or even the lack of them, if we are on the beach, for example).
- Most couples bring a max of 2 outfits and I find that is perfect! Most bring a dressier outfit and then a more casual one. But you DO NOT have to! One is just fine! The more outfits that you bring, the fewer images you will have, but you will have a greater variety, it is completely up to you!
- Bring props that will individualize your engagement session. A lot of my couples bring a bouquet, flower crown, a quilt or a blanket to sit on, etc. Or bring your dog or pet!!! But you do not have to, just bring yourselves!
- Get your hair and make-up done! This is a great time to have your trial done for your wedding. Or even your nails. Treat yourself! What a fun times to splurge on yourself! You will feel so confident and beautiful! And it will show in your pictures.
Florals: Flour and Flower Designs
Hair and Make-up: Beautiful Day Brides