I bet I know what you're gonna ask: What should I wear for my headshot?!

If you've ever stared at your closet before a photoshoot and felt immediate decision paralysis... you're not alone. One of the most common questions I get before a headshot session is: “What should I wear?”


Whether you’re getting updated headshots for your LinkedIn profile, speaking gig, website bio, or company directory—your outfit plays a major role in how you feel during the shoot and how others perceive you from the photo. The good news? You don’t need a new wardrobe. You just need a plan.


Here’s everything you need to know:

Professional portrait of someone in a light pink blazer and rose colored top standing against a white background.

Dress for the Next Step Up

A solid rule of thumb when it comes to headshots: dress for the next level in your career.

  • If you usually wear a T-shirt and jeans to work, try a blouse or collared shirt.
  • If you're used to business casual, take the next step up and add a tie or blazer.


The goal here is not to play dress-up, but to show up as the confident, polished version of yourself you want others to see.


Know Your Vibe

Your outfit should reflect your personality and profession, but it should also feel like you. Ask yourself:

  • Do I want to look approachable or authoritative?
  • Do I want to be seen as classic, creative, or cutting-edge?


Clothing communicates. A crisp white shirt and jacket might say polished and classic. A jewel-toned top with fun accessories might feel creative and modern. A bold blazer might scream "confidence." There’s no wrong answer here—it’s about intentionality.

Professional portrait of someone wearing a black top and olive skirt against a light blue background, with statement jewelry.

Color: It’s Kind of a Big Deal

Here’s the truth: Color matters. It affects both how you look in your photos and how your audience feels when they sees your image. A few quick tips:

  • YES - Neutrals (like cream, taupe, gray, navy, brown, black) photograph well and keep the focus on you. Neutrals are a safe bet for headshots because your headshot will likely be utilized in a variety of places and in different marketing materials so you want to ensure it coordinates broadly with wherever you need to use it!
  • MAYBE - Bold colors (like emerald, cobalt, or deep red) can make a strong impression, especially on lighter backgrounds. You want to make sure they coordinate well with your brand colors.
  • AVOID - Super bright or neon colors can dominate a photo or cast color on your skin. If they're not part of your brand, skip them.


If you’ve had your “colors done,” use this insight as a guide. If not, try this DIY trick: stand in front of a mirror in natural light and hold up different items from your closet. Watch how each color affects your skin tone and eyes. If a color makes you glow—wear it. If it makes you look washed out, leave it at home.

Professional in a black blazer and top poses confidently against white background while smiling warmly.

Keep It Simple & Timeless

Unless you’re known for your signature pattern (leopard print CEO? I see you), solid colors are your safest bet for headshots.


Avoid prints, logos, or trendy statement pieces that might date your photo in six months. Headshots should feel fresh and relevant for at least a year or two. Solids will always look more classic than patterns.


Unless bold statement pieces are a part of your personal brand, keep jewelry minimal. Small earrings or a classic necklace are perfect.

Professional studio portrait of a smiling professional in a black blazer against a dark gray background.

Haircuts, Makeup, and Prep Tips

Hair: If you’re getting a haircut, try to schedule it about a week before your shoot. (Trust me on this one! Don't get it done the night before or day of!)


Makeup: Treat makeup like your wardrobe and take it "one notch up" for your headshots. Even if you don’t wear makeup daily, consider a tinted moisturizer, mascara, blush, and a little pop of lip color to keep your features from getting washed out by the camera. If you ordinarily wear makeup, take that next step up by adding lashes and lipstick.


Glasses: If you wear glasses daily, wear them in the photo. Please clean them beforehand. We’ll watch for glare. If you’re getting new frames soon that will be dramatically different than the ones you currently wear, try to schedule your session after they arrive.


Bonus Confidence Boosters: Want to whiten your teeth? Get a facial? Plan ahead so you're feeling fresh and confident on shoot day. Not required, but a nice mood boost!

Professional headshot of a person wearing glasses and a black sleeveless top against a beige background, smiling warmly.

Emphasize What You Love

I will spend the rest of my life telling my clients they are beautiful in every way, but let’s be honest: we all have things about ourselves we want to emphasize, and others we want to minimize. If you have body parts that you’re particularly self conscious about, keep that in mind when you’re selecting your clothes. If having bare upper arms makes you feel uncomfortable, stay away from sleeveless dresses or tops. Want to appear taller or more structured? Choose a jacket with a defined shoulder or a blazer with vertical seams.

Professional headshot photo on black background showing person in pinstripe suit and light blue dress shirt.

Bonus Tips for Men

  • A solid button-down shirt in a rich or neutral color is always a win.
  • Add a tie if it suits your desired look but make sure the pattern is not too small or this can cause a digital distortion called moire.
  • Avoid undershirts peeking out. V-necks are best for staying hidden.
  • Trim facial hair neatly ("five o'clock shadow Photoshop" is not included).
  • Clothes should be fitted but not tight. Tuck your shirt in, wear a belt, and skip the super relaxed weekend look—unless that’s part of your personal brand.
Two people examine black and white garments on hangers against a white studio backdrop.

Final Word: When in Doubt, Please Ask Me!

Still not sure? Lay out your options and email me a photo! I'm here to help. And if you’re still feeling stuck, many local boutiques offer personal styling services—totally worth it for peace of mind.


Your headshot should look like you on your best day, with your best smile, and your best foot forward.


You’ve got this. And I'm gonna make you look great!