What to Wear (and Avoid) for Professional Headshots
A Photographer’s Expert Guide for Corporate Professionals & Entrepreneurs
When clients ask what to wear for professional headshots, they’re often hoping for a quick checklist. And while there are some clear do’s and don’ts, the truth is this: what you wear directly impacts how confident you feel in front of the camera - and how successful your session will be.
After photographing hundreds of corporate professionals, entrepreneurs, and executives, we’ve seen firsthand how the right wardrobe choices elevate a session, and how the wrong ones can quietly hold it back. This guide breaks down exactly what works, what doesn’t, and why thoughtful preparation makes all the difference.
Why What You Wear Matters More Than You Think
A professional headshot isn’t about fashion - it’s about polish, confidence, and longevity.
When clients arrive in clean, well-fitting, thoughtfully chosen clothing, the session flows effortlessly. They’re more confident, less distracted, and able to focus on expression and posing. When wardrobe hasn’t been considered carefully, we often spend valuable time pinning oversized blazers, removing pet hair, hiding stains, or adjusting clothing that doesn’t sit quite right.
Your headshot session should be about you - not fixing avoidable wardrobe issues.
What to Wear for Professional Headshots (What Actually Works)
Over the years, the most successful headshots consistently share the same wardrobe characteristics:
Clean, pressed clothing
Wrinkles and stains are far more noticeable on camera than you might expect.
Well-fitting pieces
Tailoring matters. Clothing that’s too loose or oversized often needs pinning and adjusting, which can affect comfort and confidence.
Neutral colours
Think black, navy, grey, beige, soft whites, and muted tones. These photograph beautifully and won’t distract from your face.
Subtle texture
Blazers, knits, layered fabrics, and structured pieces add visual interest without overwhelming the image.
Grooming details matter
Styled hair, clean nails, and appropriate grooming (fresh cut, shave if needed) complete the look and elevate the final image.
These six looks are proof that thoughtful wardrobe choices elevate your headshot - clean lines, intentional layers, and timeless tones that photograph beautifully.
Dressing for Your Brand Personality
Not all professionals need the same look. Your wardrobe should align with how you want to be perceived.
Approachable / Casual Professional
Denim paired with a structured blazer
Softer fabrics and relaxed silhouettes
Still polished, still intentional
Corporate / Executive
Suits or tailored separates
Structured silhouettes and refined textures
Minimal accessories that don’t draw focus
Your clothing should support your brand - not compete with it.
What to Avoid for Professional Headshots
Based on years of experience, these are the most common wardrobe mistakes:
Overly trendy pieces
Trends date headshots quickly. What feels current now may look outdated in a year or two.
Low-cut tops
These can be distracting and often don’t photograph as professionally as expected.
Creased, stained, or lint-covered clothing
Even small imperfections become noticeable on camera.
Flashy or statement jewelry
Jewelry should complement, not overpower. If it’s the first thing you notice, it’s likely too much.
A Behind-the-Scenes Truth Most Clients Don’t See
When clients are dressed well, they’re more comfortable and confident. There’s less adjusting, less pulling at fabric, and more ease in front of the camera. Styled hair, clean nails, and well-chosen outfits allow us to focus on expression, posture, and creating strong images.
When wardrobe hasn’t been prepared, sessions often involve pinning blazers, hiding stains, or removing pet hair - taking time and attention away from what truly matters.
Preparation shows in the final images every time.
Choosing the Right Colours
Neutral tones are always a safe and professional choice. If you have brand guide colours, those can absolutely be incorporated thoughtfully - especially for entrepreneurs and business owners.
The key is balance. Colours should complement your skin tone, hair, and brand without overpowering the image.
What About Trends?
Trendy pieces can work beautifully in beauty, fashion, or style-focused professions, where a current look supports the brand.
For most corporate professionals and executives, however, trends are best avoided. They can shorten the lifespan of your headshots and make them feel dated much sooner than expected.
The Biggest Mistake Clients Make Before Their Session
Many clients arrive with too many outfit options, feeling unsure of what works best.
Instead:
Try your outfits on ahead of time
Choose what you feel most confident in
Narrow it down to a few strong options
If you’re unsure, we’re always happy to help. Clients are welcome to send photos before their session so we can make confident choices together.
Studio vs. Environmental Headshots: Why It Matters
Where your headshots are taken should influence what you wear.
Studio headshots offer more flexibility with colour and styling.
Environmental portraits are best paired with neutral shades that complement the surroundings rather than compete with them.
Your wardrobe should always work with the setting, not against it.
This can also be helpful when planning your content session.
One Rule That Never Fails
If there’s one guideline that consistently delivers timeless, professional headshots, it’s this:
A clean, polished appearance will always outperform trendy styling.
Fresh hair, appropriate grooming, clean nails, and understated accessories ensure your headshot looks relevant, professional, and confident - now and years from now.
If you’re preparing for professional headshots and have questions about wardrobe or styling, don’t hesitate to reach out. Thoughtful preparation makes all the difference - and it shows in every final image. Planning a group photo or composite? This can be helpful for your team to dress in complimentary colours and styles.
