Getting ready for a headshot can feel a bit overwhelming. Can’t figure out what to wear for a headshot session? What looks best on camera? How do you strike the right balance between professional and approachable? At Kelly Weaver Photography, we’ve guided thousands of Denver clients through this process—and we’re here to make it simple and stress-free.
Whether your session is at our Littleton studio or on location around the Denver metro area, this wardrobe guide will help you look your best while feeling completely like yourself. Let’s dive in.
What to Wear for a Headshot: Start With Your Brand or Personality
Match Your Look to Your Business or Industry
Think about how you want to present yourself in your headshot. If you’re in a more traditional field—like real estate, finance, or law—a polished, businesslike outfit is often the best fit. A tailored blazer or a crisp button-down shirt communicates confidence and professionalism.
For creative professionals, entrepreneurs, or those in more casual industries, a personal branding session may be a better fit. These provide a more casual, lifestyle look with more color and personality. Your outfit should reflect your work—but also your vibe. Are you warm and friendly? Bold and energetic? Use your wardrobe to express that visually.
Bring Clothes That Feel Like “You”
One of the most important headshot wardrobe tips we can offer is simple: wear something that feels like you. If you’re not the blazer-and-heels type, don’t force it. If you love wearing jewel tones or always reach for a cozy cardigan, bring that energy to your photo session.
When you feel comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing, it absolutely shows on camera.
Best Colors to Wear for Professional Headshots
What Works Well in Photos—and What Doesn’t
In general, when deciding what to wear for a headshot, remember that solid colors photograph better than patterns! Mid-tones such as navy, forest green, burgundy, and soft purples tend to look fantastic in professional headshots. These colors are rich but not overpowering—and they complement most skin tones beautifully.
Avoid overly bright colors (like neon) or very pale shades (like beige), as they can either blow out under studio lighting or wash out your skin tone. Black can work, but keep in mind it may photograph flat or lose detail, depending on the lighting.
Tips for Coordinating Colors With Background Settings
If you’re visiting our Littleton studio, we’ll help you choose a backdrop that complements your outfit. Neutral backgrounds pair well with deeper tones and soft textures. If your session is outdoors in Denver, earthy colors—like olive, denim blue, rust, and mustard—tend to pop beautifully against Colorado’s natural tones.
Planning your outfit with your background in mind helps your image feel cohesive and professional.
Top Do’s and Don’ts for Clothing Choices
Necklines, Sleeves, and Fit: What to Consider
Choose a neckline that flatters your shape and frames your face. V-necks, scoop necks, or classic collared shirts are great go-to options. Avoid anything too low-cut or bulky around the neck, which can distract from your facial features.
Sleeves are often a better choice than sleeveless looks, especially in more traditional or business headshots. They add structure to your posture and help the final image feel complete.
Above all, make sure your clothes fit well. Too-tight clothing can bunch or pull, while oversized pieces can look sloppy. Tailored is best when choosing what to wear for a headshot.
Why Busy Patterns and Logos Usually Don’t Work
Clothing with loud prints, stripes, or logos tends to compete with your face for attention. Even if the pattern is trendy or fun in everyday life, it might be distracting in a headshot.
Opt for classic, timeless textures instead. A ribbed sweater, a subtle plaid, or a soft knit can add visual interest without overpowering the image.
Tips for Layering and Accessories
When a Jacket or Blazer Can Elevate Your Look
Adding a jacket or blazer can instantly take your headshot to the next level—especially if you’re aiming for a polished, professional image. A blazer over a blouse or dress shirt adds structure, dimension, and color contrast. They also provide a flatter V-shape
Layering also gives you more variety. You can remove the jacket for a more relaxed look halfway through your session.
Using Jewelry or Accessories to Add Personality
A delicate necklace, classic watch, or small set of earrings can add just the right amount of personality to your outfit. Stick with accessories that enhance—rather than compete with—your face.
Avoid pieces that are overly reflective. Big or chunky jewelery is fine as long as it’s part of your style that you wear on a regular basis. You want subtle accents that show style without becoming the focus of the image.
What About Hair, Makeup, and Grooming?
For Women: When to Go Pro vs. DIY
We recommend professional hair and makeup for women, especially if you’re looking for a polished result. A skilled makeup artist knows how to highlight your features and reduce shine under studio lights, all while keeping you looking natural and camera-ready. The majority of our personal branding sessions have PRO makeup included!
Not interested in going pro? That’s okay too. If you’re doing your own makeup, aim for slightly more coverage than your everyday look. Avoid glitter, shimmer, and SPF-based products, which can reflect light and create an unwanted cast on your skin.
For Men: Quick Fixes That Make a Big Difference
Simple grooming goes a long way. Make sure your hair is clean and styled, your beard or facial hair is neat, and your skin is moisturized. If you tend to get shiny on your forehead or nose, a quick blot with oil-absorbing sheets or translucent powder can help.
Trim nose and eyebrow hairs, check for lint on darker clothing, and you’re good to go.
Kelly’s Expert Tip: Bring Options!
Why We Recommend 2–3 Outfits (Even for Quick Sessions)
Even if your headshot session is short, we always suggest bringing two to three outfits. That way, you can switch things up if your first outfit doesn’t photograph the way you expected—or if you simply want variety.
A blazer for one look, a casual sweater for another, and a bold top as a third option gives you a range of choices and end results. It also helps you tailor the images to different platforms or uses.
What Happens if You’re Not Sure? We’ll Help You Choose
Not sure what to wear for your headshot? Bring your favorite options and we’ll help you make the final call. At Kelly Weaver Photography, we’ll walk you through what works best on camera—and make sure your wardrobe fits the background and lighting perfectly.
We’re here to guide you through the process with no stress and no guesswork.
Let’s Get You Camera-Ready
A headshot isn’t just a photo—it’s your digital handshake. It’s how you present yourself to the world, whether through LinkedIn, your website, or professional directories. Let’s make it count.
At our Littleton studio, we’ve created a relaxed, welcoming space designed to help you feel at ease. Prefer an outdoor session around Denver? We’ve got beautiful, light-filled locations that add warmth and authenticity to your image.
Book Your Headshot Session at Our Littleton Studio or On-Site in Denver
Ready to take the next step? Schedule your headshot session with Kelly Weaver Photography and let’s create a headshot that reflects the real, confident, amazing you.
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