Choosing what to wear for your upcoming engagement photos is tough! That’s why I’ve created this guide for all my Colorado couples getting their photos taken. If you’re having a difficult time deciding what to wear for your engagement photos, I hope you find these tips and tricks helpful! If you need any further help on choosing the perfect outfit to wear for your engagement photos shoot me a message, I’ll be happy to give you feedback and help you plan the perfect outfit for your engagement photos!
Top Tips for Engagement Session Outfits
Bring an outfit change (but probably no more than one!)
I always recommend bringing one casual and one fancy outfit for engagement photos, that way you have some variety! But too many outfits can cut into your photo taking time and create a gallery that’s all over the place. So for an hour session, I recommend sticking to two different outfits.
Don’t be afraid to really dress up
This is a great time to really pull out all the stops! Wear that fancy dress you can never find the occasion for, put on a suit, show off them jewels! After your session, make it a date night and go out for a swanky dinner. I love websites like rent the runway where you can rent a super fancy, shmancy outfit and then return it after your session is over.
But if that’s not your vibe, jeans always look great
If you would never be caught dead in a dress, don’t wear one! Your engagement session should be authentic to you. If you’re going to be miserable in a dress, that will show up in your photos. Comfort is still key.
Don’t be too match-y match-y
No one wants to look like siblings from the 80s. Instead find colors that compliment each other. You can stick with the same color family (such as different shades of one color) or complimentary colors (ones that are opposite on the color wheel) One of my favorite combos is mustard and blue!! And jewel tones always look gorgeous. But when in doubt, stick with neutrals!
Layers make you look fashionable
It’s a fact. Basic dress + bomb leather jacket or vintage jean jacket = instant fashionable look.
Pick your color scheme using a print from your outfit
This is the easiest way to create a cohesive color scheme. Grab a color from your outfit’s print and then have your partner wear that in a solid. For example in this photo above, Anthony’s purple shirt tied in the purple flowers on Kristina’s dress. It’s subtle but incredibly pleasing to the eye!
Nip in that waist!
Nothing is more flattering on camera than showing off your curves! Think A-line dresses, high waisted pants, shirts tucked into a dress with a belt, and wrap dresses. These create that gorrrrgeous hourglass figure.
Show off those tattoos!
Your tattoos are a work of art, show em off!
Dress for the terrain
If you choose a location with a lot of hiking, you definitely want to make sure you’re wearing comfortable enough shoes and a clothes that don’t drag. The biggest enemy to stilettos is the outdoors, so if you don’t want to be sinking into the ground constantly consider a chunky heel or wedge. I always recommend walking around in your shoes for at least 20 minutes before your engagement session. Nothing ruins a good mood like uncomfy shoes.
Don’t wear any heavy jewelry or clothing near your face
If you wear anything too busy or heavy it will distract. Keep your earrings simple, like studs or dainty hoops. And don’t wear shirts, jackets, or scarves that are too bulky around your neck.
Wear your glasses if that feels authentic to you
If you are a glasses wearer don’t feel like you need to take them off for your engagement photos. Remember, you want these photos to look and feel like you! Besides, glasses frame your face and automatically are a cool accessory. Make sure however, that they’re clean and not transition lenses. If they are, I’d recommend contacts!
Get your hair and makeup done
Because why not?? Keep your look simple and don’t deviate too far from your normal look. You still want to look like yourself! Doing your own makeup? The easiest way to elevate your look is just with a simple red lip. (just make sure it’s transfer proof so it doesn’t end up all over your partner)
Polish your ring
You’re definitely going to want some close ups of your ring, so we want it to sparkle! You can either take it into a jeweler to get it professionally cleaned, or do it yourself. The best way? Plain old dish soap! Get a bowl of warm water, add some mild dish soap and let your ring soak for 20 minutes. If there’s any leftover residue use a verrrrry gentle toothbrush to polish up any dull bits.
Don’t forget your manicure!
Now that your ring’s in tip top shape, you want to make sure your nails are looking good too! I recommend a neutral polish so it doesn’t take away from your ring. But don’t be afraid to experiment with some glitter or jewels to add some pizzaz!
Bring some props!
I love incorporating props into engagement sessions. It can be flowers, alcohol, pets (yes I know pets are not an accessory, but you get what I mean). You want your engagement session to show of y’alls personality! So choose something that is special between the two of you. Not only will it create super cute, unique photos, it will also give you an activity to do so you don’t feel as awkward in front of the camera.
Have fun and relax!
Laaaaame, I know! But don’t stress too much about what you’re wearing. No one will care if you’re wearing the same dress you wore to college graduation, they’ll be too busy focusing on how incredibly happy you look. Wear something that makes you feel comfortable and confident and that will shine through in your photos. And remember, you’re getting married!! These are your engagement photos, don’t stress too much about what to wear!! Let loose, share a beer, and have a great time!
What to Wear for Every Season
Spring
When choosing your outfits, keep in mind the climate and season. For Spring, most locations will have snow or if later in the season, light green foliage. Colors that pop well against light greens are deep blues and oranges– if you want to compliment the foliage, aim for beiges, soft purples and dusty blues. Don’t forget to bring bug spray for your Spring session!
Summer
With Summer months you will want to make sure you’re wearing something breathable and cool. My engagement sessions usually involve a fair bit of movement and activity; you don’t want to wear something too hot! Consider choosing fabrics like cotton, silk and linen. And opt for lighter colors that won’t show if you sweat!
Fall
Fall is all about layers! The temperature can change drastically during a session, so bring a few layers just in case. For Fall, I recommend sticking to burgundies, mustards, deep greens. Those all look great against the foliage. Usually the green grass has muted, which means you’ll want a vivid jewel tone so you pop!
Winter
I have photographed engagement sessions in the coldest of temperatures! If you’re wanting a Winter engagement session, make sure you dress appropriately! I recommend wearing nude thermal leggings under your clothing and don’t be afraid of wearing some warm accessories. If it’s especially snowy, stick to deep reds, vibrant emeralds, and darker blues– those colors will pop against the snow and match the season. If you are a neutral kinda person, camels look fantastic against the snow and silvers are a great alternative to white. Try adding texture to your outfit with different fabrics to help you stand out against the all white canvas. And don’t forget weatherproof shoes and warm socks!
If you’d like to see more outfit inspiration, take a look at my Pinterest!
Looking for more inspiration for your engagement session? Here are some posts I think you might like!
Best Denver photoshoot locations
My top tips for planning a Colorado wedding
Adventurous engagement session at Arbor Hills
Why you should elope in Colorado
Leah Goetzel Photography is a Denver based engagement photographer specializing in bold imagery for the fun loving & authentic! If you’re interested in learning more, send us a message! We’ll get back to you within 24 hours! Can’t wait to hear from you!
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