Headshot Dress Code: Choosing What to Wear for Your Professional Headshot

A professional headshot is an essential component of building a strong personal brand and making a great first impression in the business world. It can be used for business cards, LinkedIn profiles, or other marketing materials. When it comes to what to wear for a professional headshot, there are several key factors to consider to ensure that you look polished, professional, and approachable.

1. Dress For Your Industry

The first thing to consider when choosing what to wear for your professional headshot is the industry you work in. Different industries have different dress codes, and your outfit should reflect the expectations of your profession. For example, if you work in a corporate setting, a business suit or blazer and dress pants may be appropriate, while those working in creative fields may opt for something more casual or trendy.

2. Choose a Neutral Color Palette

When it comes to colors, it's best to choose a neutral palette for a professional headshot. This includes colors like black, white, gray, navy, and beige. These colors are timeless and classic, and they won't detract from your face or distract from your message. If you do choose to wear a bold color, make sure it doesn't overwhelm your face or clash with your background.

3. Avoid Busy Patterns

Patterns can be distracting in a professional headshot, so it's best to avoid busy prints, stripes, or plaids. Instead, opt for solid colors or subtle textures that add interest without overwhelming the photo. If you do choose to wear a pattern, make sure it's subtle and not too distracting.

4. Pay Attention to Fit

One of the most important things to consider when choosing what to wear for a professional headshot is fit. Your clothing should fit you well and flatter your body shape. Make sure your outfit isn't too tight or too loose, and avoid anything that wrinkles easily or doesn't hold its shape. A well-fitting outfit will make you look polished and put-together.

5. Keep Jewelry and Accessories Simple

When it comes to jewelry and accessories, less is more. Keep your jewelry simple and understated, and avoid anything too flashy or distracting. A small pair of earrings or a simple necklace can add a touch of interest without overwhelming the photo. Avoid wearing hats or other accessories that cover your face or distract from your message.

6. Make Sure Your Outfit Is Clean and Pressed

Finally, make sure your outfit is clean and pressed before your professional headshot. Wrinkled or dirty clothing can detract from the photo and make you look unprofessional. Take the time to iron your outfit and ensure that it's clean and fresh before your photoshoot.

7. Most Importantly, Wear Something That Makes You Feel Good

While it's important to consider industry expectations and traditional guidelines when choosing what to wear for a professional headshot, it's also important to wear something that makes you feel confident and comfortable. When you feel good in your outfit, it will show in your photos.

Choosing what to wear for a professional headshot requires careful consideration of your industry, color palette, patterns, fit, jewelry and accessories, and cleanliness. By following these tips, you'll be able to choose an outfit that reflects your personal brand and makes a great first impression in the business world.

Choose Your Outfit and Book Your Headshot Session Now!

Whether it's a power suit or a comfortable dress, choose an outfit that you feel good wearing and that reflects your personal style. When you feel confident and comfortable, it will come through in your posture and facial expressions, resulting in a more approachable and authentic headshot. Remember, the goal of a professional headshot is to showcase your best self, so wear something that makes you feel like your best self.

Whether you're an individual aiming to stand out or a company looking to present your team at its best, contact us to schedule your headshot session today.