Follow on Linkedin
HOME
What to Wear
(and What Not to Wear)
for a Professional Headshot
Your professional headshot is often the first impression potential clients, employers, and colleagues see. The right clothing choices can significantly impact how you're perceived and help convey the image you want to project in your industry.
Why Clothing Matters in Your Headshot
Your headshot clothing isn't just about looking smart—it's about strategic personal branding. Research shows that viewers form impressions in just 100 milliseconds, with clothing being a primary visual cue that communicates your professionalism, attention to detail, and understanding of your industry.
The right outfit enhances your features and helps your face stand out, whilst the wrong choices can distract from your expression and undermine your professional image. Remember, a headshot typically shows you from the shoulders up, so what matters most is how your neckline, collar, and shoulders frame your face.
Fit & Tailoring: The Foundation of Looking Professional
Perfect Shoulder Fit
Jacket shoulders should align perfectly with your natural shoulder line—not extending beyond or pulling tight. A properly fitted shoulder creates a clean silhouette that photographs well and frames your face naturally.
Collar Comfort
Shirts and blouses should have a collar that sits flat against your neck without gapping or pinching. You should be able to comfortably insert two fingers between the collar and your neck for the ideal fit.
Room to Move
Even in a stationary headshot, clothing that's too tight will create visible tension lines. Your outfit should allow you to sit straight, turn slightly, and adjust your posture without restriction.
For the best results, consider having key pieces tailored specifically for your body shape. A few minor adjustments can transform an ordinary outfit into one that looks custom-made.
Clean, Pressed & Lint-Free
Details matter tremendously in close-up photography. Even minor imperfections that might go unnoticed in daily life become glaringly obvious in a professional headshot.
1
Dry Clean or Wash
Have your outfit professionally cleaned at least two days before your session to remove any embedded odours or stains that might affect your comfort and confidence.
2
Thorough Ironing
Press your clothing the night before, paying special attention to collars, cuffs, and front plackets which will be prominently visible in your headshot.
3
Lint Removal
Keep a lint roller handy both before and during your session. Dark fabrics especially tend to collect dust and lint that will show up clearly in high-resolution images.
Colours & Patterns: What Looks Best on Camera
Recommended Colours
  • Navy blue: Conveys authority and trustworthiness
  • Charcoal grey: Sophisticated and timeless
  • Deep burgundy: Distinctive without being flashy
  • Forest green: Approachable yet professional
  • Soft white or cream: Clean and fresh, but not stark
Mid-tone colours typically photograph best, creating a balanced contrast with most skin tones and background options. When in doubt, solid jewel tones are a reliable choice for most professionals.
Pattern Guidelines
If you opt for patterns, choose subtle ones that won't compete with your face for attention:
  • Fine pinstripes (not bold or high-contrast)
  • Small, subtle checks or herringbone
  • Textured solids that add dimension without pattern
What to Avoid: Elements That Detract from Your Image
Busy Patterns
Avoid large checks, bold stripes, or complex geometric designs that create moiré effects (strange visual distortions) on camera and pull focus from your face.
Visible Logos
Clothing with prominent brand logos or emblems creates unnecessary visual distractions and can date your headshot quickly as brands fall in and out of favour.
Trendy Pieces
Ultra-contemporary styles may look dated within months. For longevity, choose classic styles that won't immediately reveal when your headshot was taken.
Bright White
Pure white shirts or blouses can cause exposure challenges by reflecting too much light and washing out your skin tone. Opt for off-white, cream, or light blue instead.

Remember: Your headshot may be used for years across multiple platforms. Choose clothing that won't quickly look outdated or inappropriate across different contexts.
Layering & Jackets: Creating Depth and Structure
Strategic layering adds dimension to your headshot and creates a more polished, complete look. Jackets and structured layers frame your face and shoulders, creating a flattering silhouette.
Jacket Structure
A well-fitted blazer or jacket adds authority and definition to your shoulders. For women, consider a blazer with a subtle lapel that creates a flattering neckline without overwhelming your frame.
Smart Layering
Layer a crisp shirt or blouse under a jacket, cardigan, or waistcoat. The visible collar and cuff details add visual interest and a sense of completeness to your look.
Contrast Matters
Create subtle contrast between layers—such as a light blue shirt under a navy jacket—to add dimension without creating jarring visual breaks that distract from your face.
Dress for Your Role: Industry-Appropriate Attire
Legal & Finance
Opt for traditional suiting in navy, charcoal, or deep grey. Conservative necklines and classic styling reflect the trust and stability these industries represent. For solicitors, barristers, and financial advisors, traditional is almost always better.
Creative & Tech
You have more flexibility with colour and styling. Consider smart-casual options like textured blazers over solid tops. Necklines can be more relaxed, but maintain a polished finish that shows professionalism alongside creativity.
Executive & Leadership
Quality speaks volumes. Invest in higher-end pieces with exceptional fit and subtle detailing. Darker colours convey authority, while thoughtful colour accents can demonstrate confidence and vision.
The key is authenticity—dress as the best version of your professional self, not as someone you're not. Your headshot should be recognisably you when clients or colleagues meet you in person.
Necklines & Sleeves: Framing Your Face Effectively
Neckline Options
The neckline is perhaps the most visible element of your outfit in a headshot, creating a frame for your face:
  • V-necks: Elongate the neck and suit most body types
  • Collared shirts: Classic and universally professional
  • Crew necks: Clean and simple, best when not too high or tight
  • Boat necks: Elegant and flattering for women, creating a balanced frame
Avoid extremely low necklines, turtlenecks that visually shorten the neck, and collarless styles that can look unfinished in formal headshots.
Sleeve Considerations
While headshots typically crop above the elbow, sleeve choice still matters:
  • Long sleeves create a more formal, polished appearance
  • If visible, sleeve cuffs should be pressed and properly fitted
  • For women, three-quarter sleeves can be flattering if visible in wider shots
Final Preparation: Ensuring Picture-Perfect Results
1
Bring Backup Options
Pack 2-3 top options with different necklines and colours. This gives your photographer flexibility to select what works best with the lighting and background. Include at least one safe option and one slightly bolder choice.
2
Try Everything On Before
Don't discover fit issues on session day. Do a complete dress rehearsal, checking your outfit from all angles in good lighting. Sit down and move naturally to ensure comfort and proper fit.
3
Transport Carefully
Use proper garment bags and hangers to transport your outfit wrinkle-free. Arrive early enough to steam or press if needed—many photographers keep a steamer on hand for touch-ups.
The most important element of your headshot isn't actually what you wear—it's the confidence and approachability you project. Choose clothing that makes you feel your professional best, because that confidence will shine through in your expression.