Planning your engagement session and wondering what to wear? You’re not alone. As a Minnesota engagement photographer, one of the most common questions I get from couples is: What should we wear for our engagement photos?

The right outfits can elevate your photos, highlight your personalities, and make you feel confident in front of the camera. This guide covers everything you need to know—from colors and styles to little details that make a big difference.

Stick to Neutrals and Soft Colors

When in doubt, go with neutrals and soft tones. Shades like white, cream, beige, soft pink, dusty blue, and sage green photograph beautifully in every season. These colors create a timeless and romantic feel while keeping the focus on your connection, not your outfits.

Pro tip: If you love bold colors or patterns, make it the statement piece and have your partner wear something more muted for balance.

Skip Logos and Loud Prints

While fun for everyday wear, big logos or busy patterns can distract from the natural beauty of your photos. Instead, opt for classic pieces with subtle textures—lace, linen, knits, or delicate florals look incredible on camera and add visual interest without overwhelming your photos.

Dress It Up (Just a Little)

Your engagement photos are a once-in-a-lifetime memory, so don’t be afraid to elevate your style. Flowing maxi dresses or skirts look especially beautiful in photos—they add movement, romance, and a touch of elegance.

For men, think fitted pants with a button-up or sweater for a polished yet natural look.

Pro tip: Choose pieces that you can move in. Outfits that let you twirl, laugh, and snuggle comfortably always photograph best.

Bring Two Outfit Options

I always recommend couples bring two outfits: one casual and one dressy. This gives variety and tells more of your story. Some go-to combinations include:

Cozy sweaters with jeans
A formal dress with a suit or blazer
A sundress with boots paired with a casual flannel look

Changing halfway through the session also helps ease nerves and gives you more variety in your gallery.

Coordinate Without Matching

Say goodbye to the days of everyone wearing matching white shirts and jeans. Instead, focus on coordinating colors and styles that complement each other without being identical. Lay your outfits out side by side beforehand to see how they work together in photos.

Think: warm tones together (rust, beige, olive) or cool tones together (blues, grays, creams).

Don’t Forget the Little Things

Small details can make a big difference in your engagement photos. Be sure to:

Wear clean shoes that photograph well in full-body shots
Take care of your hands, since your engagement ring will be photographed often
Steam or iron clothes ahead of time to avoid wrinkles
Choose comfortable undergarments that won’t show through

Final Thoughts

Your engagement photos should feel like you. When you feel confident in what you’re wearing, it shines through in every image. As your Minnesota engagement photographer, my goal is to help you feel relaxed, beautiful, and fully present with your partner during your session.

Still unsure what to wear? I send all of my couples a detailed style guide and am happy to help with outfit planning before your shoot.

What to Wear for Engagement Photos: The Ultimate Style Guide