What to Wear for Your Engagement Photos

March 19, 2025

What to Wear for Your Engagement Photos (Without Feeling Overdressed or Stiff!)

Your engagement session should feel fun, natural, and completely you. But when it comes to picking the perfect outfit for your engagement photos, it’s easy to overthink it. You want to look amazing in your engagement photos, but you also don’t want to feel stiff, uncomfortable, or like you’re wearing someone else’s clothes. Here’s how to strike the perfect balance between stylish and effortless when choosing what to wear for your engagement photos.

1. What to Wear for Your Engagement Photos: Choose Something You Feel Confident In

If you feel good in what you’re wearing, it will show in your engagement photos. Choose outfits that make you feel like the best version of yourself. If you’re constantly adjusting or second-guessing your look, it might not be the right choice. The goal is to feel comfortable and confident while still looking put together.

2. Dress for the Location & Season

Your outfit should complement your surroundings rather than clash with them. A flowy dress or linen shirt works beautifully for a beach session, while cozy layers and earthy tones fit perfectly for a mountain or forest setting. If your engagement photos are in an urban setting, sleek neutrals or structured outfits can add a modern touch. And, of course, always consider the weather—no one wants to freeze in a sleeveless dress in the middle of winter! Need help picking a location? Check out my guide to the best Seattle engagement locations.

couple bicycling on a track somewhere between the forest, men kissing her fiance

3. Stick to Neutral & Earthy Tones

Bright neons and super bold patterns can be distracting in photos, while soft neutrals, earth tones, or muted jewel tones tend to be more flattering on all skin tones. Think deep greens, burnt orange, soft blues, warm beige, or classic white. These colors allow your connection to take center stage rather than your outfit. If you’re looking for inspiration, Pantone’s color trends can help you find stylish tones that photograph well.

4. Coordinate, Don’t Match

Gone are the days of matching white shirts and jeans! Instead of wearing identical outfits, try coordinating colors and textures. For example, if your partner is wearing a navy suit, a dress in a warm neutral or soft floral print can create balance without looking overly planned.

5. Add Layers & Textures for Depth

Layering is a great way to add visual interest to your engagement photos. A structured blazer, cozy sweater, or lightweight jacket can make your outfit feel more dynamic. Mixing textures—like knit, linen, denim, or lace—also adds richness to your photos without feeling forced.

Couple seated in a field at Discovery Park, with the woman smiling and leaning into her partner's embrace.

Playful couple on the beach at Discovery Park, with the man lifting the woman as they laugh together.

Couple holding each other closely in an open grassy field, surrounded by towering trees, enjoying the peacefulness of nature.

6. Avoid Big Logos & Distracting Prints

Logos and busy patterns can take away from the focus of your engagement photos—you and your partner! Opt for solid colors or subtle prints that enhance the overall aesthetic rather than dominate it.

7. Comfort Is Key—But Don’t Be Too Casual

While you don’t want to feel overdressed, showing up in your everyday leggings and a hoodie might not give you the elevated look you’re hoping for. Aim for an outfit that feels slightly more polished than your everyday wear—think date-night attire rather than work-from-home loungewear. Need help styling your look? Stitch Fix’s guide to dressing for your body shape can help you find the best fit.

Two men partake in a playful moment while spreading a vibrant, patterned blanket beside a serene creek with a backdrop of lush coniferous trees and distant mountains under an overcast sky.

"Two men sharing a joyful moment, opening a bottle of wine on a patterned blanket in a forest clearing, with a tranquil river and mountains in the backdrop."

8. Bring an Outfit Change (If You Want Variety in Your Engagement Photos!)

If you’re torn between two looks, bring both! Many couples opt for one dressier outfit and one more casual look to add variety to their engagement session. This also helps if you’re having your photos taken in multiple locations where different styles might fit better.

9. Pay Attention to Shoes & Accessories

Your shoes will be in the engagement photos, so make sure they work with your outfit and the location! If you’re planning to walk through sand, grass, or uneven terrain, choose comfortable shoes you can move in. Rothy’s and Madewell offer stylish yet comfortable footwear options. Accessories like a hat, scarf, or delicate jewelry can also add a subtle touch of personality. Looking for minimal, stylish jewelry? Mejuri and Kendra Scott have great options.

Couple sharing a kiss on a grassy hill at Discovery Park with a scenic water view behind them.

Couple walking hand-in-hand through a wide open field at Discovery Park with Puget Sound in the background.

10. Most Importantly: Be Yourself!

The best engagement photos are the ones where you feel you. Whether that means a chic dress and heels or jeans and a cozy sweater, the key is wearing something that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and in your element.

Final Tip: Lay your outfit choices out together and snap a quick mirror photo. This helps you see how the colors and styles work together before the big day!

Need engagement session inspiration? Let’s chat about locations and styling to make your session uniquely yours!

Reach out!