What to Wear for Your Engagement Photos
(And Still Love the Photos 10 Years From Now)
From “what should I wear?” to “holy sh*t, we look amazing.”
This guide is your cheat code to effortless, photo-ready style: color palettes, camera-friendly fabrics, what to wear (and what to avoid), all in one place. It’s like having a personal stylist, minus the stress (or the cost).Scroll this guide. Save it. Share it. Pour a glass and get ready…
You’re about to style looks that feel like you and age like a damn good bottle of wine.
What to Wear for Engagement Photos (Without Losing Your Mind)
Stressed about what to wear for your engagement session? You’re not alone. It shouldn’t be the hardest part, but somehow, it always is. The right outfit can make or break the photos you’ll look back on forever (and let’s be real… the kind your future grandkids hopefully repost with a “Damn, my grandparents were cool”).
I’m Melissa, an LA-based photographer specializing in wedding and couple sessions that feel real, natural, a little editorial, and full of connection. I’m known for capturing candid moments in soft, natural light… the kind that don’t just look like you, they feel like you.
If you’ve been spiraling over what to wear, this guide was made to take the stress off your plate. It’s packed with outfit tips that reflect your style, flatter your vibe, and photograph timelessly.
Let’s make getting dressed the easiest part. Start scrolling.
Why Color Choice Is Everything
You’ve probably seen my work and noticed a pattern: soft, earthy, natural tones that feel calm and cohesive. These muted, natural colors never distract, they let the moment lead and your connection shine.
They work with the light (not against it), flatter all complexions, and elevate the overall vibe without trying too hard. From a color theory standpoint, these tones don’t just look good — they feel like you. They move with you, sit quietly in the background, and let the connection take the lead — which is exactly how it should be.
Best Colors to Wear for Engagement Photos:
Cream, ivory, and soft white
Olive, sage, and forest green
Caramel, chocolate, and tan
Taupe, clay, and muted rust
Dusty peach, oat, and sand
Faded black or charcoal
Colors to Avoid:
Neons or harsh primaries
Crisp, stark white, especially in synthetic fabrics (think polyester, spandex, or anything that feels super smooth or shiny)
Bold mixed patterns
Logos or large text
Trendy, fast-fashion looks you’d never wear IRL
Want more outfit inspo? Browse examples from real sessions here.
How Texture Brings Depth Without Distraction
Texture adds softness, movement, and that lived-in feel that makes your photos come alive. It gives depth, catches light in all the right ways, and makes everything feel a little more real… almost touchable.
What to avoid? Anything shiny, stiff, or super stretchy, like slick dress shirts or spandex-y fits. They can look harsh on camera and take away from that cozy, effortless vibe we want.
Stick with natural textures like linen, denim, cotton, or knits, pieces with a little weight, flow, or structure. Your photos will instantly feel warmer, softer, and more elevated.
Natural and textured fabrics photograph much better:
Linen — light, breathable, with beautiful wrinkles and movement
Cotton — classic, soft, matte-finished, works year-round
Gauze or double gauze — airy, flowy, romantic
Chunky knits — cozy, dimensional, great for layering
Denim, suede, or leather — structure and contrast
Waffle, ribbed, or layered weaves — subtle but super effective
Layer a jacket. Soften things with a knit. Pair fitted with flowy. Let your look breathe, it’s those quiet textures that make everything feel elevated. Texture tells the story without saying a word.
What Makes a Look Feel Timeless?
When I say timeless, I don’t mean bland or basic, and I definitely don’t mean boring. I mean something that feels true to who you are now, and still makes you smile 10 years from now. Because timeless doesn’t mean stiff. It means thoughtful. Personal. Honest.
So, what actually makes a look feel timeless?
Pieces that aren’t overly trendy or tied to fast fashion
Soft, flattering colors that won’t date your photos
Fabrics that move with you and age gracefully
Confidence! Honestly, the most timeless thing you can wear
The real secret to timeless style? Letting your clothes carry all versions of you… a nod to who you’ve been, true to who you are now, and with space to grow into the next version of you… the version that’s still unfolding.
Coordinate Without Matching
Let’s not go full “family photo from 2006.” The goal isn’t to match perfectly, it’s to complement each other. Your outfits should feel aligned, not identical, like each one is elevating the other (because that’s what a good relationship does).
How to Coordinate Your Outfits:
Choose colors in the same palette — think soft neutrals, warm tones, or earthy shades
Mix textures and tones, not exact colors — keeps it cohesive without feeling too matched
Balance structure and softness — like a jacket with a flowy dress or denim with linen
Keep styling on the same level — both casual, both elevated, or both somewhere in between
Bring an extra layer or outfit — gives us options to shift the vibe mid-shoot
Common Outfit Pairing Mistakes Couples Make
Wearing the same outfit or color — looks flat and overly matched
Dressing at different levels — formal + casual feels disconnected
Both in jeans and white tees — dated and lacks personality
Clashing color palettes — pick tones that complement, not compete
Mismatched shoes or accessories — throws off visual balance
Need help pulling it all together? I offer personalized wardrobe feedback for all my booked couples, so you can feel confident, cohesive, and totally yourselves.
Let the Location Guide the Look
Knowing what to wear for engagement photos isn’t just about color or fit, it’s about choosing outfits that actually make sense in the setting. The right outfit should complement the environment, not compete with it. Outfits should belong in the scene. Linen suits the coast. Layers feel right in the woods. Boots are for trails, not running thru beach waves. When your look matches the vibe of the location, the whole story feels more honest and effortless.
Beach / Coastal
Flowy pieces, linen, barefoot or simple sandals
Creams, olives, soft peach, warm neutrals
✖ Skip: heels, anything stiff, or heavy structured pieces
Fields or Open Nature
Textured layers, boots or barefoot depending on terrain
Rust, sage, oatmeal, dusty rose tones
✖ Avoid: bright white or loud, high-contrast patterns
City / Urban
Sleek layers, structured silhouettes, tailored neutrals
Charcoal, camel, ivory, soft olive
✖ Leave out: flip flops, beachy or overly casual pieces
Forest or Mountain
Cozy knits, worn-in denim, layered looks with boots
Deep greens, taupe, tan, mossy earth tones
✖ Avoid: anything too crisp, synthetic, or out of place with the natural setting
What to Ask Yourself Before Finalizing Your Engagement Outfit
Your outfit should feel like you, just the elevated, photo-ready version. The goal isn’t to look overly fancy. It’s to feel authentic, comfortable, and confident. If it feels like a costume, it’ll look like one too.
Ask yourself:
Would I wear this if no one else was watching?
It should reflect your real style, not just what you think you're “supposed” to wear.
Does this match the vibe I want for these photos?
Romantic, relaxed, bold, playful, your outfit should support the mood you're capturing.
Can I move, laugh, and breathe in this?
You’ll be walking, sitting, spinning, cuddling. Comfort shows up on camera.
When your outfit feels true to you, your photos will too.
Where to Shop for Engagement Session Outfits
Need outfits that photograph like a dream and feel modern, effortless, and elevated? These are my go-to brands, loved by couples, trusted by photographers, and always delivering those camera-ready vibes. Think flattering fits, beautiful fabrics, and pieces that move with you.
For Women
→ Best for chic, romantic outfits, modern fits, and elevated basics.
Reformation – chic, sustainable, and made for movement
Aritzia – clean lines, luxe textures, and tonal pieces
Abercrombie – fitted styles and elevated basics
Free People – flowy, boho vibes with visual texture
Lulu’s – budget-friendly options for dresses and jumpsuits
VICI – trendy but versatile styles that still feel elevated
Princess Polly – fun and flirty, great for coastal or casual vibes
Petal & Pup – romantic, easy pieces with soft color palettes
ASOS – wide variety of silhouettes and budget levels
For Men
→ Best for clean, tailored fits, elevated casual wear, and pieces that layer well.
Buck Mason – timeless cuts, quality fabrics, and easy layering
Everlane – elevated basics in great tones for neutral palettes
Abercrombie – unexpectedly great fits and photo-friendly textures
Zara – modern and sleek with easy styling options
H&M – affordable staples (especially linen or cotton shirts)
ASOS – tons of variety, especially if you need something last-minute
What to Bring to Your Engagement Session
(So It Feels Effortless + Looks Amazing)
Wondering what to bring to your engagement photo shoot? Here’s your answer because showing up prepared means less stress, more fun, and better photos. It’s not about overthinking every detail, it’s about feeling good, staying present, and treating your session like a really good date night.
Here’s what I always recommend my couples pack:
Your main outfit(s) – Bring 1 to 2 options you feel amazing in
Neutral or nude undergarments – Seamless is your best friend
Shoes that make sense – No stilettos in the sand please
Beauty touch-ups – Lip balm, hair tie, compact mirror or blotting powder
A few easy accessories – A hat, jacket, or jewelry to swap the vibe
Fresh mani + cleaned engagement ring – It makes a difference in close-ups
Backup shoes + water – Especially if we’re walking between spots
A bottle of champagne – Just saying.
Pro tip: Toss everything into one roomy tote or weekender bag so it’s easy to carry and keep out of the way.
And the most important thing to bring? The mindset that this is about you two. Just show up, be yourselves, and have fun with the person you love. I’ll take care of the rest.
Getty Center Engagement Style Breakdown
Location: Getty Center, Los Angeles
Outfit vibe: Modern, neutral, structured
Dress code: Cocktail chic with a twist
Why it works: The Getty’s sleek backdrops and golden hour light made this the perfect setting for an elevated, editorial feel, without being too formal.
When you feel confident and connected to what you’re wearing, it shows. Your energy changes. Your comfort unlocks real connection. That’s what makes the photos glow. Your outfit should help shape the emotion of your shoot, not compete with it. And if you're unsure? That’s why I’m here.
Want your engagement shoot to look like this? Reach out here.
Most-Asked Questions About What to Wear for Engagement Photos
Q: What are the best colors to wear for a couples shoot?
Earth tones like cream, tan, rust, olive, and sage photograph beautifully and feel timeless in any setting. They flatter all skin tones and reflect natural light softly.
Q: Should we match each other?
Nope! Just coordinate. Stick to a shared palette, but mix tones, textures, and layers so it feels cohesive without being identical.
Q: Can I wear white?
Yes, but avoid bright white in synthetic fabrics. Off-white, ivory, or textured fabrics look much softer and more natural in photos.
Q: What shoes should I wear?
Go with something that fits the location and lets you move comfortably. Think boots for nature, sandals for beach, flats or block heels for city. Avoid anything you can’t walk in.
Q: Can you help us choose outfits?
Yes! I offer outfit guidance to all booked couples. Once you're on my calendar, feel free to send me options and I’ll help you decide.
Q: What should we not wear for engagement photos?
Avoid neons, logos, bold patterns, stiff or shiny fabrics, and anything that needs constant adjusting. Choose pieces that feel like you and won’t distract from your connection.
Q: Should I buy something new or wear what I already have?
You don’t have to buy anything new. Elevated basics from your closet can look amazing :) Just go with what fits well and makes you feel confident.
Q: How do we prepare the week of our shoot?
Pick your outfits, steam or iron them, clean your ring, and prep anything you want to bring. Toss it all in one tote so you're not scrambling. If you have questions, just text or email me — you’re not doing this alone.
