What to Wear for Professional Headshots Part II
Updated DC Metro Style Guide
Knowing what to wear for professional headshots and choosing the right outfit for your headshot session can feel like a bigger decision than it should be. You want to look polished, confident, and approachable. You want to feel good in what you’re wearing. And most of all, you want your outfit to support your image instead of distracting from it.
In this updated Part 2 guide, we are focusing on the details that elevate your look even further. These are the subtle styling choices that photograph beautifully under professional lighting and help you show up as the most confident version of yourself.
Below are new, advanced tips curated for professionals in the DC Metro Area who want a modern, clean, and intentional headshot.
Choose Pieces That Support Good Posture
Your posture has more influence on your final headshot than you might realize. Clothing that collapses, stretches, or shifts can make it harder to maintain a confident stance.
Look for structure
Jackets, blazers, and tops with a bit of shape help you hold your shoulders in a natural, elevated position. The extra support keeps fabric from folding or bunching when you lean forward, which is a common posing technique for flattering angles.
Avoid overly soft or slouchy fabrics
Loose knits, relaxed sweats, or ultra thin materials tend to fall forward or wrinkle as you move. They can minimize the strong, confident presence you want in a headshot.
Pay Attention to Necklines When Considering What To Wear For Professional Headshots
Necklines are one of the most underrated styling details in photography. They frame your face, guide the viewer’s eye, and subtly shape the overall mood of your headshot.
Choose a neckline that balances your features
V-necks and modest scoop necklines lengthen the neck and create clean lines. Higher necklines such as mock necks or crew styles create a modern, minimal look that feels refined and professional.
Avoid anything that competes with your face
Very deep necklines, busy collars, or wide off-the-shoulder shapes pull attention downward instead of keeping the focus where it belongs — your eyes.
Consider How To Choose Best Colors For Headshots & The Colors That Work With Lighting
Studio and natural light respond differently to certain tones. The right color can brighten your complexion, while the wrong one can make your skin appear dull or washed out.
Choose colors with enough depth
Mid-tones and richer shades tend to photograph more evenly. They prevent highlights from blowing out and avoid harsh shadows under the chin.
Try colors that complement your personal brand
If your work leans creative, strong color choices can make your headshot feel bold and modern. If you’re in a corporate or government setting, softer, cooler tones communicate reliability and clarity.
For additional color inspiration, you may enjoy browsing the color palette library at Pantone:
Keep Texture Simple and Intentional
When considering what to wear for professional headshots, think about how texture shows up differently on camera than it does in person. It adds visual interest, but too much can compete with your expression.
Subtle texture adds refinement
A smooth wool blazer, a matte silk blouse, or a lightly ribbed top adds depth without overwhelming the frame.
Skip ultra shiny fabrics
Materials with sheen can reflect lighting unpredictably and highlight areas you do not want emphasized.
Think About How Your Outfit Works When You Move
Headshot sessions involve small movements that help you look natural and relaxed. Your outfit should support that, not fight against it.
Test your outfit before the session
Sit, stand, lean forward slightly, and turn your shoulders. Notice if the fabric shifts awkwardly or needs constant adjustment.
Choose clothing that feels secure
If you are pulling, tugging, or checking your shirt constantly, that tension tends to show in your expression.
Coordinate Layers With Intention
Layering can add dimension and style, but only when done thoughtfully.
Keep outer layers tailored
A fitted blazer creates beautiful lines and sharpens your silhouette. Layering a structured jacket over a softer top balances professionalism with comfort.
Stick to simple combinations
One foundation layer and one outer layer photograph best. More than that becomes visually busy.
Choose Accessories You Do Not Have to Think About
Accessories are completely optional, but if you choose them, they should support your look rather than dominate it.
Lightweight, minimal jewelry works best
Think timeless rather than trendy. Earrings or necklaces that do not shift or move keep the focus on your expression.
Watches can look polished and intentional
A simple, clean watch adds structure to your frame without overpowering the image.
Align Your Outfit With Your Career Goals
Your headshot represents where you are now and where you intend to go. Let your wardrobe reflect that direction.
For executives and corporate roles
Aim for refined, structured pieces with clean lines and neutral color palettes.
For creative, entrepreneurial, or personal brands
This is your chance to express personality through bolder colors or modern silhouettes while still looking professional.
When you love what you are wearing, that confidence shows in every image.
The best outfit for your headshot is one that makes you feel poised, confident, and comfortable.
If you’re unsure, you are always welcome to bring a couple of options to your session. I am happy to help you choose what will photograph best and align with your personal brand.
Your headshot is your first impression. Let your wardrobe help you show up exactly the way you want to be seen.
If you missed the first part of this guide, you can read Choosing the Perfect Outfit for Your Headshot Session Part I here.
