Headshot Outfits for Women: What to Wear for a Stunning Photo

The right outfit can elevate a headshot from good to exceptional. For women, the choices are broader than for men, which means more opportunities to express your personal brand but also more room for mistakes. This guide covers necklines, colors, fabrics, jewelry, and makeup so you walk into your professional headshot session fully prepared. For general advice that applies to everyone, see our complete what to wear guide.

Best necklines for headshots

The neckline of your top is one of the most important choices because headshots are cropped close to the face, making the neckline highly visible.

• V-neck. Universally flattering. It elongates the neck and creates a slimming frame for your face. Works for almost every face shape.
• Scoop neck. Soft and feminine. Opens up the collarbone area and works well with delicate necklaces.
• Boat neck. Elegant and polished. Great for corporate and executive headshots. Widens the shoulder line for a balanced look.
• Collared blouse or blazer. Structured and authoritative. Ideal for corporate and legal headshots.

Avoid: Turtlenecks (can make the neck look shorter), strapless tops (can look bare in a tight crop), and very low-cut tops (distracting in a professional context).

Colors that photograph beautifully

Solid, rich colors always outperform patterns on camera. The best colors for women's headshots:

• Jewel tones: Royal blue, emerald green, ruby red, sapphire, and deep teal. These add warmth to the skin and create visual depth.
• Navy and charcoal: Classic and versatile. They work with any background and skin tone.
• Burgundy and wine: Sophisticated and warm. A great alternative to black.
• Soft pastels: Blush, soft blue, and lavender can work for a lighter, more approachable vibe, especially on light backgrounds.

Avoid: Neon colors (reflect onto skin), bright white (blows out under studio lights), and all-black (can look flat and merge with dark backgrounds).

Best fabrics and materials

• Matte cotton and cotton blends. Photograph cleanly without catching light unpredictably.
• Structured knits. A fitted knit top or cardigan looks polished and comfortable.
• Tailored wool or wool blends. Blazers and structured jackets always look sharp.

Avoid: Shiny fabrics (silk, satin, sequins) that create hot spots under studio lighting. Sheer fabrics that can look washed out on camera.

Jewelry and accessories

Less is more in headshot photography. Your face should be the focal point, and jewelry should enhance, not compete.

• Small studs or modest drop earrings. They frame the face without distracting.
• A delicate necklace. A thin chain with a small pendant works with V-necks and scoop necks.
• Skip chunky pieces. Oversized statement necklaces, large hoops, or stacked bracelets pull focus from your face.
• Glasses are fine. If you wear them daily, wear them in your headshot. Just make sure the lenses are clean and ask the photographer to angle the light to minimize glare.

Makeup tips for headshots

Professional headshot makeup should enhance your natural features without being obvious:

• Matte foundation and powder. Shiny skin gets amplified by studio lighting. Use a mattifying primer or blotting paper.
• Define your eyes. Mascara and subtle eyeliner make your eyes pop in photos. Avoid heavy smoky eyes.
• Natural lip color. A shade close to your natural lip color, or one shade deeper. Bold red can work for creative fields but might distract in corporate settings.
• Blush. A natural flush on the cheeks prevents you from looking washed out under bright lights.
• Skip shimmer and glitter. They catch light in unpredictable ways and can create distracting sparkles.

Outfit ideas by industry

Corporate and finance

A tailored blazer in navy or charcoal over a silk-finish blouse. Simple jewelry. Natural makeup. The look should say “boardroom ready.”

Tech and startups

A clean crewneck or fitted button-down. Smart casual without being overdressed. Think polished but approachable.

Real estate

Professional but warm. Realtor headshots benefit from a blazer with a pop of color, reflecting your brokerage's brand when possible.

Creative fields

Express your personal style. Bolder colors, interesting textures, and a distinctive accessory can all work. Just make sure your face remains the focal point.

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