One of the hardest parts of an engagement session is not the session itself, but trying to decide what outfits to wear, am I right? There are so many options. So many people will see your engagement photos and they’re kind of a big deal. I get it! That’s why I LOVE helping my couples shop for and plan their outfits for their engagement session! What you wear to your session makes such a huge impact on the outcome of your images. That is why it is so important that you take the time to plan, and even purchase items if needed! Most engagement sessions include two outfits. I typically encourage one dressy outfit, and the other semi casual.

TIPS FOR HIM:

• Dark jeans and dress pants, button downs and suit jackets – always! This isn’t the time to break out the shorts and short sleeve shirts, even if it’s the middle of Summer! Your session will only be a couple hours and he can endure for that little amount of time! Just promise him an ice cream date after 🙂
• Closed-toe shoes are important. Sandals tend to distract the eye while close-toe dress shoes or dress boots streamline and give a more polished look.
• A matching belt, especially if his shirt is tucked in (which it will be at some point during the session).
• Leave the logos and brand names at home! Again, we don’t want anything distracting the eye from what important – you’re beautiful faces!
• Don’t forget to groom! A fresh cut and nice shave will go far!

Now, the camera loves layers, textured fabrics, dainty details, and natural movement which is why you will notice that almost every item in this resource has at least one or two of those qualities. I’ve broken all the items into four different categories: Flowy, Midi, Short, and Casual. Of course these are just options that I have chosen as examples that I love and think would photograph beautifully. So you do your own shopping and find what you truly love! I’ve linked everything here, as well as listed all the stores I online shopped for these items at down at the bottom on the post.

We’ll start with my favorite category…

Flowy Romantics

So many women are afraid to wear flowy dresses because they feel it will make them appear larger than they really are. However, the natural movement of a long flowy dress is one of the most romantic, feminine, and beautiful looks that the camera LOVES! If you’re nervous about it looking too oversized, find one with a great waistline. But also keep in mind that you will be posing with your man the entire session and he will help cinch you in making you look the most stunning!

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Modest Midis

If you’re going for a more classic look, a midi dress is just that! Modest, classy, but still fun! Whether you’re thinking fitted or flowy, find something with a good shape and make sure to style it with a pair of heels! Heels will help elongate your legs, making you look taller and thinner in your images. Who doesn’t want that, right!? As always, something with movement and texture will photograph best!

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Short and Sassy

I don’t often encourage shorter dresses for sessions, simply because they can be risky! However, if there is any good time to break out a sassy short dress, it is definitely your engagement session! There is something about them paired with a strappy heel that is so flirty and fun! Just remember to wear some kind of fitted short underneath – you know, just in case wind happens. Ha!

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Keep it Casual

Usually an engagement session consists of two outfits: one dressier, and one more casual. For your casual outfit, find a great jumpsuit or romper, or a nice sweater or blouse to pair with a great fitting pair of dark denim and a simple pair of heels! You’ll notice that so many of these options have texture or great detail on them. That is because the camera LOVES texture and detail! Instead of finding just a solid color top, find something with texture or detail that will take your top from looking flat to adding so much more visual interest and detail! The camera will love you for it 😉

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Needing some new stores recommendations to shop?

Here are some of my favorite stores to shop for photography sessions

*in no particular order*

One Loved Babe | Morning Lavender | Wren and Ivory | Bohme | Vici | Pink Blush | Red Dress | Lulu’s | Altar’d State | Nordstrom | Show Me Your Mumu | Asos | Target | Amazon has great option too!

If you have a favorite store thats not listed here, leave it in the comments for other brides to be to have the opportunity to shop!