What you really need to know to choose an outfit that makes you feel flawless

This is one of the most popular questions I get as a photographer, and I totally get it, you are planning a fantastic date out with your love and you want to not only have a blast, but look amazing while you’re doing it! Here are a few things to consider when you’re looking through your closet worrying that you’ll have nothing to wear.

1. Your Clothes are Just 1 Part of the Magic

 I know this sounds cheesy or whatever but it is honestly less about your clothes and more about your connection to each other. So rest easy knowing no matter what you choose, your photographer is going to be highlighting the magic between the two of you wayyy more than your fierce as hell earrings. Now that I’ve said the obvious, lets get to the clothesss.

2. Prioritize Comfort and Movement

You want to prioritize comfort and movement in whatever you’re choosing, Things that have shape, let you move, jump, and run, will help make you feel prepared for whatever wildness you get up to on your session. I do think long flowy maxi type dresses are super cute and super on trend currently, but if that’s not you, do not go out and buy one! Look at your things and what you think moves best with you and will show off your beautiful body as it billows in the wind J

3. Solids > Patterns

As far as patterns or solids go, there are benefits to both, but I do believe that keeping patterns to a minimum helps the image focus on you rather than your outfit. It allows for your images to remain timeless and not connected to trends that come and go. If you adore patterns, wear 1, and have your partner in a solid. No need for stripes and cheetah and polka dots all at once!

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When you’re choosing solids, pick colors that compliment your skin tones and that are from the same color family as each other. You can also think as far ahead as where you’re going to be and plan to make your outfits fit in with the colour schemes there. If you’re doing a Disneyland shoot, you’ll likely pick brighter colors than if you’re having a campfire on the beach. This is not essential, but it helps with the process of picking out your style and color palette to choose from.

4. Yes to Accessories

In real life, I love accessories, and do you know whats great, I love them in couples sessions too! Adding a watch you love, earrings that make a statement, jean jackets or hats, all add more personality to your outfits that’s totally unique to you. Where I caution adding in patterns, I totally feel the opposite towards accessories. Do you! Add what you like or bring a few different one to mix and match with. With a solid base, your accessories wont over power the image and you’ll be feeling fine in your favorite killer boots. Because shoes are accessories, am I right?!

5. Say No to Bulky Coats

This one is specifically important to my Alberta friends or anywhere really that gets crazy temperature fluctuations, plan for the weather!! This sounds obvious, but if not warned ahead of time, couples can have the nicest outfits and then realize they have to cover them up with their old winter coat. My strategy for winter outdoor sessions begins and ends with ALL THE LAYERING. If you can manage to layer legging under your pants (or just two pairs of leggings) and a long sleeve under your favourite knit turtle neck you will look fabulous and still hopefully be warm enough. Bring your favourite scarf and cute toque, but be prepared to layer up and take those winter coats off to show off your gorgeous selves without the bulk of a coat (however toasty it may be).

For super cold days, I’ve totally run in and out of the warm car to take breaks from the crazy cold, but I think that’s just an northern Canada/ Edmonton problem.

6. Two Outfits > One Outfit

Again this may seem obvious, but make sure to confirm with your photographer whether you should bring multiple outfits. I’m all about it and encourage my couples to bring at least 2 outfits, but just make sure your timing and location will allow for an outfit change.

That’s it my friends! I hope you feel empowered to pick out clothes that will make you shine and help get you the images you want, focusing on what’s most important, the love.  

If you have more questions about what to wear or want more helpful tips sent right to your inbox, sign up for my email list here where I sporadically send out tips, love notes, and updates