What to Wear for a Headshot: 10 Expert Tips to Look Your Best

Your headshot is your digital first impression—it’s what potential clients, employers, and colleagues see before they meet you. Wearing the right outfit can make all the difference in how confident, approachable, and professional you look. But with so many choices, it’s easy to feel unsure about what works best.

At JT Luxury Headshots, we specialize in high-end, polished headshots that make you look your absolute best. Follow these 10 expert wardrobe tips to ensure you look confident, stylish, and professional in your photos.

1. Stick to Classic, Timeless Styles

Trends come and go, but your headshot will last for years. Choose simple, well-fitted clothing in classic styles that won’t look outdated next season. Blazers, tailored tops, and structured dresses are always a good choice.

🔹 Best for men: A fitted dress shirt with or without a blazer.
🔹 Best for women: A sleek blouse, tailored blazer, or structured dress.

2. Choose Solid Colors Over Patterns

Busy patterns, loud prints, and stripes can be distracting and unflattering in photos. Stick to solid colors that complement your skin tone.

✅ Best colors: Navy, deep greens, grays, blues, and earth tones.
❌ Avoid: Neon colors, stark white (unless under a blazer), and busy patterns.

3. Wear Colors That Complement Your Skin Tone

Certain colors naturally enhance your complexion, while others can wash you out.

🎨 Fair skin tones: Jewel tones like royal blue, emerald green, and burgundy.
🎨 Medium/olive skin tones: Earthy tones like mustard, olive green, or warm browns.
🎨 Dark skin tones: Bold colors like deep reds, purples, and rich blues.

4. Fit is Everything—Tailoring Matters

Loose, baggy clothing can look sloppy, while tight-fitting outfits can be unflattering. Your clothing should be tailored to fit you well, especially around the shoulders and waist.

Pro tip: If you’re in between sizes, opt for the slightly larger one—a well-fitted jacket or top can be adjusted in post-editing if needed.

5. Pay Attention to Necklines

Your neckline frames your face, so choose wisely.

✔️ Flattering choices: V-necks, scoop necks, or structured collars.
❌ Avoid: Turtlenecks (can make your neck disappear), deep plunges, or overly busy ruffles.

For men, buttoning the top button of a dress shirt (or leaving it open for a casual look) works well.

6. Layer Smartly—Blazers & Jackets Work Wonders

A blazer or structured jacket instantly elevates your look and adds depth to your photo.

✔️ A well-fitted blazer adds polish.
✔️ A lightweight cardigan offers a softer, approachable look.
✔️ A leather or denim jacket can work for a more modern, casual style.

7. Keep Accessories Minimal

Your headshot should focus on you, not your jewelry.

✅ Simple stud earrings, delicate necklaces, or a classic watch work well.
❌ Avoid chunky statement jewelry, large hoop earrings, and anything too flashy.

For men, pocket squares and ties are fine, but keep them subtle—nothing too bold or distracting.

8. Avoid Clothing That Wrinkles or Clings

Some fabrics can look great in person but appear wrinkled or clingy in photos.

❌ Silk and linen wrinkle easily.
❌ Shiny fabrics like satin can reflect too much light.
✅ Structured cotton, wool blends, and matte fabrics work best.

9. If You Wear Glasses, Be Mindful of Glare

Glasses can cause reflections in studio lighting. If you wear them daily, you have a few options:

✔️ Bring an anti-glare coated pair (if possible).
✔️ Tilt your chin slightly down to reduce reflections.
✔️ Consider taking some photos with and without glasses for variety.

10. Bring a Backup Outfit

Having a second outfit gives you more variety and ensures you have options if something doesn’t look right on camera.

✔️ Bring a formal option and a business-casual choice for versatility.
✔️ If unsure, ask your photographer which colors work best with the backdrop.

Final Thoughts: Look and Feel Confident in Your Headshot

The best outfit is the one that makes you feel confident, professional, and like the best version of yourself. A little preparation goes a long way in making sure you love your final headshot.

🔹 Ready to elevate your professional image? Book a luxury headshot session with us today at JT Luxury Headshots.

📸 Let’s create a headshot that makes an unforgettable first impression!