ENGAGEMENT SESSION WARDROBE

As photographers, we often see trends come and go — but certain styles endure. If you want engagement photos that still look elegant and meaningful years from now, “classic” is the safe, beautiful route. Below are ideas for outfits (for both bride and groom), outfit-coordination tips, what to avoid, seasonal considerations, and sample classic pieces to help with choosing the perfect outfits for your session.

What Makes an Outfit “Classic”

A classic outfit tends to have:
    •    Clean lines — tailored rather than overly trendy cuts
    •    Neutral or muted color palette — ivories, creams, navy, charcoal, soft pastels, earth tones
    •    Minimal or elegant detailing — lace, satin, chiffon, fine fabrics; subtle embellishments rather than sequins/glitter overload
    •    Well fitting — tailoring, proper fit makes a huge difference in photos
    •    Accessories that complement without overwhelming — simple jewelry, a classic watch, tasteful shoes

Coordination Between Bride & Groom

To look harmonious on camera without looking like you “matched” too obviously:
    •    Choose complementary color palettes rather than matching (for example, bride’s ivory + groom’s navy; bride’s blush + groom’s grey).
    •    Sharing a photo of outfits in advance with your photographer can also help!
    •    Balance formality — if the bride is wearing very formal gown, groom suit up; if she’s more flowy casual, groom tone down slightly.
    •    Carry layers and shoes for variety (one dressy look, maybe one more relaxed).

What to Avoid
    •    Loud patterns or logos that distract. Small patterns are better than big, bold ones.  
    •    Neons or overly bright colors (unless that’s part of your style) — they can cast color on skin or dominate the image.
    •    Uncomfortable clothing: tight waists, high heels that pinch, restrictive sleeves. If adjusting/clenching, it shows.
    •    Skirts/dresses that don’t allow sitting / walking.

Here are some ideas:

* I do not gain any finance incentives from any pieces linked and the photos are stock photos from the retail websites.

1. KAELI MINI DRESS
2. LAUREL DRESS
3. ENSLEE MIDI DRESS
4. ROSETTA DRESS
5. EMERSYN MIDI LACE DRESS

1. Londyn Strapless Mini Dress
2. Embellished A-line dress
3. Slash Neck Mini Dress
4. Emerson Strapless Slim Maxi Dress
5. Eliza Tweed Button Detail A-Line Dress

While a white dress is classic and timeless, you do not have to wear white! A little bit of color is also nice.

1. Sara Floral Mini Dress
2. Jessie Piping Trim Midi Dress
3. Emerson Off-The-Shoulder Maxi Dress
4. Stacie Tie Strap Mini Dress
5. Emerson Off-The-Shoulder Maxi Dress

1. SIGNATURE ITALIAN RUSTICO SUIT PANT and JOHNNY Collar Sweater Polo
2. ATHLETIC SLIM STRETCH CHINO and Herringbone Sport Coat
3. ATHLETIC ITALIAN-STRETCH CHINO and Merino Wool Half-zip Sweater
   

1. SIGNATURE ITALIAN RUSTICO SUIT PANT and Heritage Cotton Half-zip Sweater
2. ATHLETIC SLIM STRETCH CHINO and  Seed Stitch Sweater Polo
3. HERRINGBONE COTTON-LINEN SLIM SUIT PANT and Brush Mock Neck Sweatshirt
   

Seasonal & Location Considerations
    •    In summer: lighter fabrics (linen, silk) and breathable layers.
    •    In winter / cold: classic coats, wraps, layering (e.g. a wool overcoat, scarf) in complementary colors.
    •    Outdoors (parks, fields, beach): flowy skirts/dresses, suits that don’t wrinkle too much, shoes that are manageable for terrain.
    •    Urban settings: more structured looks, polished shoes, cleaner lines; architecture may complement classic suits/dresses.

Final Tips for Great Photos
    •    Bring one backup outfit — sometimes you’ll want a second look (more formal / more casual).
    •    Iron/steam everything in advance. Creases & wrinkles catch harshly in photos.
    •    Make sure you have shoes broken in, nails clean, hair/makeup trial done.
    •    Practice some poses ahead of time to feel relaxed. Confidence shows.