A Style Guide for Men & Women
As the face of your personal brand, your professional headshot is often the first impression you make in your network. Beyond the right pose and portrait style, what you wear plays a key role in how you’re perceived. Whether you’re a business professional, entrepreneur, or creative, the clothes you choose can establish your professional identity and reflect your personality.
So, how do you dress for success in your headshot session?
At Julie King Photography, we specialise in creating professional headshots that truly reflect who you are.
Style Tips for Professional Headshots
Dress for Your Industry
What you wear should reflect the standards of your industry. A lawyer or doctor might opt for more formal attire, like suits and ties, whereas someone in a creative or tech role may feel comfortable in something more casual. If you’re unsure, look to your superiors or industry leaders for inspiration. Dressing like your boss is a good way to ensure your outfit is appropriate, confident, and professional.
Go Beyond Casual
Even if your workplace leans casual, consider dressing a bit more formally for your headshots. Research shows that wearing more formal clothing can boost confidence and improve posture, which will translate into your photos. Opt for structured clothing like blazers, formal shirts, or a smart blouse to help you feel more authoritative in front of the camera.
Plan for Multiple Outfits
If you interact with a variety of people throughout your workday, it’s worth planning for more than one outfit. Entrepreneurs, consultants, and salespeople often wear different attire depending on their audience, so having multiple headshots in different outfits ensures you’ll have the perfect look for each situation. Consider taking photos in both formal and business-casual attire to cover all bases.
Stick to Suit-Inspired Styles
Blazers, jackets, and trousers in darker shades tend to convey authority and confidence, especially if you’re in a management or leadership role. Studies show that suit-inspired outfits can enhance your appearance of influence and competence. For both men and women, these classic, tailored looks are perfect for creating a strong, professional impression in your headshot.
What to Wear: Tips for Men
- Suits and Blazers: Opt for a fitted suit or blazer in dark, solid colours like navy, grey, or black.
- Shirts: Choose a collared shirt, ideally one that contrasts with your jacket. Light blue or white work well for most people.
- Ties: A classic tie in a solid color or subtle pattern can add professionalism without overwhelming the look.
- Avoid Undershirts: Visible undershirts can be distracting. Stick to a stiff-collared shirt to avoid the “floppy collar” look.
- Footwear: While shoes won’t appear in headshots, wearing a full professional outfit can help you feel more put-together.
What to Wear: Tips for Women
- Blazers and Jackets: Structured blazers in darker shades work well for professional headshots and can be paired with a variety of tops.
- Blouses: High-necked blouses or tops are ideal for headshots to avoid any unintended exposure in closely cropped images.
- Dresses and Trousers: Dresses can work, but choose styles that look professional. Trousers paired with a blouse or blazer are always a reliable choice.
- Jewellery: Keep it simple, small studs and delicate necklaces that won’t distract from your face.
- Footwear: Again, your shoes likely won’t be visible, but wearing professional footwear can help you feel more confident during the session.
Colours Matter: Choosing the Right Palette
Your clothing colours can say a lot about you. Here’s how to make sure you send the right message:
- Dark Colors: Convey authority, confidence, and professionalism.
- Light Colors: Make you seem more approachable and friendly.
- Bold Colors: Communicate energy and creativity. Use them sparingly, as too much can be overwhelming.
- Muted Colors: Offer a more conservative, neutral vibe, ideal for those in traditional industries.
- Contrasting Colors: If you’re wearing a dark jacket, consider a light-coloured shirt to create contrast and prevent the “floating head” effect in your photos.
Fit is Key: Ensure Your Clothing Fits Well
When it comes to headshots, fit matters. Avoid overly tight or loose clothing, as both can be unflattering. A well-fitted blazer, suit, or blouse ensures a sharp, confident appearance. For women, choose tops with higher necklines, as low-cut tops can appear more revealing than intended in cropped images.
Book Your Headshot or Personal Brand Session Today!
At Julie King Photography, we know the importance of a great first impression. If you’re based in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, or the surrounding Midlands area, we’d love to help you capture the perfect professional headshot that reflects your personal brand.
Visit our Headshot Page https://juliekingphotography.co.uk/pricelist/corporate-prices/ for more details on pricing and booking. Whether you need one look or several, we’ll ensure your headshots shine!
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