The Complete Guide on What to Wear for Headshots

What to Wear for Headshots

Table of Contents

1. Why What You Wear for Headshots Matters

2. Colors That Work Best in Headshots

3. How Clothes Should Fit for Headshots

4. Industry-Specific Outfit Ideas

   • Corporate & Legal Professionals

   • Creative Artists & Entrepreneurs

   • Healthcare & Education Professionals

   • Personal Brands & Influencers

5. Avoiding Background Conflicts

6. Accessories, Hair, and Makeup

7. Prepping Your Outfit Before the Session

8. Final Tips on What to Wear for Headshots

Why What You Wear for Headshots Matters

As a Portland branding photographer, I know that your headshot is often the first impression someone has of you—on LinkedIn, your website, or even in a company directory. Choosing what to wear for headshots isn’t just about looking good; it’s about aligning your appearance with your personal brand and profession. The right outfit can make you look approachable, confident, and polished, while the wrong one can distract from your face or send the wrong message.

Colors That Work Best in Headshots

When deciding what to wear for headshots, color plays a huge role.

• Solid colors work best. Busy patterns, stripes, and logos can be distracting and pull focus away from your face.

• Go with colors that flatter your skin tone. Jewel or muted tones tend to look great on most people.

• Neutrals are safe. White, beige, navy, and gray photograph beautifully and feel timeless.

• Avoid neon or overly bright tones. These can cast unflattering color reflections on your skin.

• Think about your background. If you’re wearing all black on a black backdrop, your headshot may look like a floating head. Aim for contrast so you don’t blend into the background.

A note on bright colors: It’s absolutely fine to wear bold or bright shades—sometimes they bring out your personality and make a statement. The key is making sure it feels on brand. For example, a personal branding session allows more room for color play, since the images are designed to reflect your full brand personality. But if you’re strictly doing a professional headshot session, muted or classic tones tend to photograph best and ensure the focus stays on you rather than your outfit.

Related: Follow me on Pinterest for more inspiration.

How Clothes Should Fit for Headshots

No matter what you wear for headshots, fit is everything.

• Tailored beats baggy. Oversized jackets, loose shirts, or slouchy sweaters can look messy on camera. There is a time for these items but for a headshot session, I would avoid them. For a branding session, this may be an appropriate time to work them in if its on brand for your business.

• Avoid overly tight clothing. If it’s pulling or bunching, it will be noticeable.

• Choose structured pieces. A blazer, collared shirt, or crisp blouse always looks professional and polished.

• Think layers. A simple top with a blazer or cardigan adds depth without being distracting.

What to Wear for Headshots:

Industry-Specific Outfit Ideas

Different professions call for different approaches when deciding what to wear for headshots.

Here are tailored suggestions:

Corporate & Legal Professionals

For lawyers, executives, or anyone in a corporate role:

• A tailored suit or blazer with a crisp shirt.

• Neutral or darker tones for authority and professionalism.

• Simple ties for men—avoid flashy prints.

• Subtle jewelry for women—stud earrings or a small necklace.

Creative Artists & Entrepreneurs

For designers, musicians, or business owners:

• Show personality with pops of color.

• Textures (like denim, leather, or linen) can add character.

• Keep it polished but authentic—think stylish, not stuffy.

Healthcare & Education Professionals

For teachers, nurses, or coaches:

• Softer tones like blues and pastels to convey warmth.

• Simple, approachable clothing that feels professional but not overly formal.

• Avoid overly busy prints that distract from your face.

Personal Brands & Influencers

If you’re creating headshots for your brand or social media:

• Align your outfit with your brand colors.

• Trend-forward pieces can work, but avoid anything too distracting.

• Keep it polished but approachable—think elevated everyday style.

Avoiding Background Conflicts

What you wear for headshots should complement—not compete with—your background.

• High contrast is key. Dark clothes against a light background or light clothes against a darker background ensure you stand out.

• Avoid exact matches. A navy shirt against a navy backdrop will make you blend in.

• Think about location. If your headshots are outdoors, keep in mind the colors of nature (greens, browns, blues).

Accessories, Hair, and Makeup

• Keep accessories minimal. Earrings, watches, or necklaces should complement—not dominate—your look.

• Glasses should be clean. Anti-glare lenses are helpful for avoiding reflections.

• Hair should be neat. Style it how you normally wear it; you want to look like yourself.

• Makeup should enhance, not mask. Aim for natural tones that bring out your features without looking heavy.

What to Wear for Headshots:

Prepping Your Outfit Before the Session

The best outfit in the world can look sloppy if it’s wrinkled or dirty. When choosing what to wear for headshots, preparation is just as important as selection.

• Lay out your outfit the day before.

• Ensure clothes are pressed, neat, and lint-free.

• Bring backups. A second top or blazer can give you variety.

• Avoid last-minute shopping—stick with something you feel comfortable and confident in.

Something you might love: The Ulimate Brand Photography Guide

Final Tips on What to Wear for Headshots

When it comes to what to wear for headshots, the goal is simple: look like the best version of yourself. Stick with clothes that fit well, colors that flatter you, and styles that reflect your profession and personality. Remember: the focus should always be on your face and expression, not your outfit.

With the right preparation, your headshot will not only look polished and professional, but it will also represent the real you.

More Resources:

• 15 Creative Ways to Use Your Brand Photos
• Life Coach Photoshoot Ideas