What to Wear for Headshots: The Complete Wardrobe Guide

Your outfit is the second thing people notice in a headshot, right after your face. The wrong choice can distract from your expression, clash with the background, or send the wrong message about your profession. This guide covers everything you need to know about dressing for a professional headshot, whether you are a corporate executive, a creative freelancer, or an actor.

General rules that work for everyone

Choose solid colors

Solid, rich colors photograph beautifully in any lighting setup. Royal blue, teal, emerald green, burgundy, charcoal, and navy are all safe bets. These “jewel tones” add depth without competing with your face for attention.

Avoid busy patterns

Thin stripes, plaids, herringbone, and small repeated patterns can create a distracting moiré effect on camera. If you want texture, opt for a subtle weave that reads as a solid from a distance.

Stick with well-fitted clothing

Tailored clothes look more polished on camera. Avoid anything too loose or too tight. A blazer that fits well at the shoulders instantly elevates any headshot.

Layer up

Bring more outfits than you think you need. Layers give you options: a button-down under a blazer, a blouse with a cardigan, a suit jacket that can come on or off. Having variety lets you get multiple looks from a single session.

Colors and materials to avoid

• Bright white. It can blow out under studio lighting and draw attention away from your face. Off-white or cream work better.
• Neon or very bright colors. They can reflect onto your skin and create an unflattering color cast.
• All black. Can look flat and blend into darker backgrounds. If you love black, layer it with a colored scarf, blouse, or pocket square.
• Shiny or reflective fabrics. Silk, satin, and sequins catch light unpredictably and can create hot spots in the photo.
• Logos and graphics. A visible brand logo or text on your shirt is distracting and can date the photo quickly.

What to wear by industry

Corporate and finance

A well-fitted suit or blazer in navy, charcoal, or dark grey. Pair with a white or light blue dress shirt. Keep accessories minimal. A simple watch and understated tie or necklace are enough. For corporate headshots, consistency across the team often matters more than individual style.

Tech and startups

Smart casual is the standard. A clean crew neck, a fitted button-down with no tie, or a quarter-zip over a collared shirt. The vibe should say “I am competent and approachable” without being overly formal.

Creative fields

Designers, writers, and artists can express more personality. Bolder colors, interesting textures, and distinctive accessories are fair game. Just make sure your face is still the star of the photo.

Real estate

Realtor headshots should balance authority with warmth. A blazer without a tie, or a polished blouse, works well. Consider your brokerage's brand colors when picking your outfit.

Legal

Traditional and conservative. Dark suit, white or light-colored shirt, simple tie for men. For women, a tailored blazer or a structured dress in a neutral tone. Lawyer headshots need to project authority and trust.

Acting

Actors typically need multiple looks: one for commercial casting (bright, friendly) and one for theatrical (more intense, earthy tones). Avoid pure white and pure black shirts. V-necks and crew necks both work well. See our actor headshot examples for specific inspiration.

Outfit tips for women

For a deeper dive, see our full headshot outfits for women guide. Here are the highlights:

• V-necks and scoop necks flatter most face shapes and elongate the neck.
• Long sleeves photograph best. They create a clean line and avoid distracting arm positioning.
• Keep jewelry simple. Small earrings and a delicate necklace are fine. Avoid anything chunky or dangling that could catch light.
• Avoid sheer fabrics. They can look washed out under studio lighting.

Outfit tips for men

• Make sure your shirt collar fits. A tight collar creates a bulge; a loose one looks sloppy on camera.
• Iron everything. Wrinkles are magnified in professional photography.
• A sport coat without a tie is the sweet spot for most industries, professional but not stuffy.
• Groom before the shoot. Get a haircut a week before (not the day of) so it looks natural.

Try multiple outfits without changing clothes

With AiProPortrait, the AI generates your headshots in a variety of professional outfits and backgrounds. Upload a few selfies and get 40+ photos with different looks, no wardrobe planning required. Starting at $19.