What To Wear For Your Portrait Session

Your portrait will live on your walls for years, so what you wear matters.
Think timeless, elegant, and beautifully coordinated, not everyday casual.

This dress guide from Haus of Portraiture provides clear styling recommendations for families, couples, children and pets preparing for a fine-art studio portrait session. It explains what colors photograph best, what styles to choose, what to avoid, and how to coordinate outfits for artwork intended for wall display. All guidance is designed for sessions held at our Santa Monica portrait studio.

  • Choose outfits that are:

    • Classic, sharp, and polished

    • Dressy rather than casual

    • Something you would still love twenty years from now

    Avoid clothing that looks trendy, too casual, or like everyday errands.

  • For the most flattering and cohesive portraits, we recommend:

    • Neutral and soft tones

    • Ivory, cream, camel, taupe, grey, navy, charcoal, black

    • Coordinated colors rather than everyone matching exactly

    • Two to three main colors across the whole family

    Think of your outfits as one collection that belongs together on the wall.

  • To keep the focus on faces and connection, please avoid:

    • Prints, logos, bold patterns, graphic tees, or sequins

    • Jeans, shorts, khakis, athletic wear, or very casual fabrics

    • Very bright or neon colors

    • Clothing that is overly tight, very revealing, or uncomfortable

    • Distracting accessories that pull attention away from your expression

    Layers and textures photograph beautifully, as long as they are simple and refined.

  • Before you arrive for your portrait session, we recommend you have your:

    • Clothing is steamed or ironed

    • Lint and pet hair are removed

    • Everyone has appropriate shoes and undergarments

    • Backup outfit pieces are packed if needed

    If you are unsure about an outfit, feel free to bring a few options. We are happy to help you choose what will photograph best for your family and your home.

Outfit Guides

The final touches matter. These simple steps will help ensure each family member looks refined, comfortable and ready for a beautiful and unforgettable portrait experience.

  • Great options:

    • Classic dresses that skim the body

    • Elegant blouses with tailored pants or a skirt

    • Long sleeves or three quarter sleeves for a refined look

    • Soft fabrics that drape nicely, such as silk, chiffon, or fine knits

    Consider:

    • Necklines that flatter your face and shoulders

    • Undergarments that do not show through

    • Shoes that match the formality of your outfit

  • Great options:

    • Tailored trousers with a button up shirt

    • Dark, well-fitted slacks with a blazer or sport coat

    • Solid or very subtle pattern shirts

    Avoid:

    • Polo shirts, T-shirts, hoodies, sneakers, or sandals

    • Baggy or oversized clothing

    A simple, polished look always photographs best.

  • Keep kids:

    • Dressed similarly in formality to the adults

    • In classic styles such as simple dresses, knit sweaters, or button up shirts

    Avoid:

    • Cartoon characters, logos, and busy patterns

    • Bright neon colors and athletic wear

    Comfort is key. If they feel good, they will look good.

  • If your pet is joining you:

    • A simple, clean collar or harness looks best

    • Avoid bright, patterned outfits or costumes

    • Make sure fur is brushed and eyes are clean

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Frequently Asked Questions About What to Wear

  • Neutral, soft, and timeless tones such as cream, ivory, beige, navy, grey, taupe, camel, and black photograph best in fine-art studio lighting.

  • Coordinate instead of matching. Choose two to three main colors that complement each other so your portraits look cohesive and elegant on your walls.

  • Avoid logos, prints, graphics, bright colors, neon shades, athletic wear, jeans, shorts, and anything overly trendy or casual.

  • Simple, classic outfits like knit sweaters, dresses, button-ups and neutral tones. Avoid characters, logos and busy patterns.

    Studio Tip: Bring their outfit with you so they don’t get them dirty or creased.

  • A clean, simple collar or harness looks best. Make sure fur is brushed and eyes are clean. Take them for a little toilet break when you arrive before your session starts.

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