What to Wear for Your Engagement Photos (Without Regretting It Later)
So, you’ve booked your engagement session (yay!), and now you’re staring into the abyss of your closet, wondering what on earth to wear. Don’t worry—I got you! As a photographer, I’ve seen it all: outfits that pop, outfits that flop, and yes, even a few cases of "Why did I wear that?!" regret. Let’s make sure you and your fiancé look like the glowing, madly-in-love couple you are—without looking back at your photos in ten years and cringing.
1. Dress Like You (But on Your Best Day)
If you’re the type to live in jeans and a t-shirt, suddenly showing up in a ball gown might feel… well, weird. The goal is to feel like yourself—just a slightly fancier, more put-together version. Think elevated casual, romantic chic, or whatever vibe screams “us” but still looks timeless on camera.
2. Coordinate, Don’t Match
I get it, the idea of matching outfits seems cute in theory, but do you really want to look like twins? Instead, choose complementary colors. If your fiancé is rocking a navy suit, go for soft tones like blush, cream, or sage. If you’re feeling bold in a deep red dress, let your partner balance things out with neutral or earthy tones.
3. Patterns: Friend or Foe?
A little pattern? Cute. A full-blown explosion of plaid, polka dots, and stripes? Maybe not. Stick to one person wearing a pattern while the other wears solids or subtle textures. This way, you won’t end up looking like a walking optical illusion.
4. Think About the Location
Engagement sessions aren’t a one-size-fits-all situation. If we’re shooting in a dreamy, golden field, flowy dresses and soft colors will look magical. City skyline? Think sleek, modern, and a little bit edgy. Planning a cozy in-home session? Sweaters, jeans, and bare feet are totally the vibe. Let the location help guide your outfit choices.
5. Consider the Twirl Factor
If your dress or skirt flows beautifully when you twirl, congratulations—you’ve just unlocked peak engagement photo magic. Movement adds an extra layer of romance to your photos, and I love capturing that effortless, wind-swept look. (Just maybe test it at home first so you don’t accidentally flash your fiancé mid-spin.)
6. Shoes Matter (Even If You Hate Them)
I get it—heels are basically medieval torture devices. If they make you feel amazing, go for it! If not, stick with cute flats, ankle boots, or stylish sneakers. Whatever you choose, make sure you can comfortably walk, stand, and frolic in them without questioning your life choices.
7. Don’t Forget the Little Things
Accessories can totally level up your outfit, but don’t overdo it. A statement necklace? Sure! A hat that keeps blowing off every five minutes? Maybe not. Also, be mindful of things like hair ties on wrists, phones in pockets, and watches that might scream 2020 trends when you look back on these photos years from now.
8. Be Comfortable, Be Confident, Be in Love
At the end of the day, the best thing you can wear is confidence (cheesy but true). If you feel good in what you’re wearing, it will show in the photos. My job? To capture the laughter, the stolen glances, and the way your fiancé looks at you like you’re their whole world.
Ready to Book Your Engagement Session?
If you’re dreaming of a fun, relaxed, and totally you engagement session, I’d love to be your photographer! Let’s capture this exciting chapter in your love story—awkward giggles, twirl-worthy outfits, and all.