What to Wear for Headshots: Wardrobe Tips for Men and Women

Wardrobe can make or break a headshot—not because anyone cares about designer labels, but because what you wear controls:

• how your face stands out

• how polished you look

• whether the image feels current

• whether the vibe matches your industry

The goal is simple: you should look like yourself—just more intentional.

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This post is part of our Headshot Resource Center. Start here The Ultimate Guide to Professional Headshots - Atlanta Edition

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UNIVERSAL WARDROBE RULES (WORKS FOR EVERYONE)

1. Fit matters most

   If it pulls, gaps, bunches, or wrinkles heavily, the camera will notice. Fit beats fashion every time.

2. Solid colors usually win Busy patterns compete with your face. Tiny stripes can create distracting visual effects. When in doubt, go solid.

Great colors for many people:

• navy

• charcoal

• mid-gray

• deep green

• burgundy

• soft blues

• cream/ivory (when you have enough contrast)

• Layers add polish Blazers, structured jackets, and clean collars frame your face and elevate the look instantly.

• Avoid distractions Skip loud logos, neon colors, super shiny fabrics, and accessories that pull attention away from your eyes.

• Dress for your audience Ask: “If my ideal client (or casting director) sees this, do they trust me?”

CORPORATE HEADSHOTS: NO-FAIL OUTFIT FORMULAS

Men (corporate)

Formula 1: Suit + shirt (tie optional) Best for executives, finance, legal, leadership, and roles where formality signals authority.

Formula 2: Blazer + solid button-down The most versatile look for many professionals.

Formula 3: Quarter-zip/sweater over collared shirt Great for modern business casual and tech-adjacent industries.

Color tips:

• navy and charcoal are safe, flattering, and timeless

• bright white shirts can look harsh without a jacket (still doable, just be intentional)

• avoid overly loud patterns

Accessories:

• keep watches and belts simple

• avoid novelty ties or loud prints

Women (corporate)

Formula 1: Blazer + solid top

Timeless, leadership-ready, looks great in a tight crop.

Formula 2: Structured dress Clean lines, good fit, simple neckline.

Formula 3: Blouse + jacket Professional but allows personality.

Necklines that often photograph well:

• V-neck, scoop neck, modest wrap styles Avoid very thin straps for business headshots unless it’s a deliberate personal-brand look.

Jewelry:

• studs or small hoops

• one necklace max (usually)

• if it jingles, catches light, or feels fussy, it becomes a distraction

ACTOR HEADSHOTS: WARDROBE THAT SUPPORTS TYPE (WITHOUT BECOMING A COSTUME)

Actor headshots should feel like you right now. Wardrobe helps casting quickly understand where you fit.

General rules:

• keep it simple

• avoid branding

• choose wardrobe that supports your casting “lane”

• focus on fit and clean lines

Commercial actor wardrobe

• brighter, friendlier colors can work

• approachable styling

• think: “someone I’d trust in a scene”

Theatrical actor wardrobe

• slightly darker or more grounded tones often work

• serious, calm vibe

• still authentic—avoid costume-y pieces

Pro tip: bring 2–3 tops that hint at different lanes (friendly, grounded, professional, edgy) without turning into characters.

If you’re unsure what kind of headshot session you need, start Corporate vs Actor vs Modeling Headshots: What’s the Difference?

MODELING / DIGITALS: SIMPLE ON PURPOSE

For modeling headshots and digitals-style images, wardrobe is usually minimal because agencies want to see you clearly.

Guidelines:

• fitted basics work well

• avoid big prints and loud accessories

• keep hair and makeup clean and accurate

• bring clean shoes if full-body is included

Common choices:

• fitted tee or tank in a neutral color

• slim jeans

• simple button-down

• minimal jewelry

If an agency has specific submission requirements, follow those first.

COLORS: HOW TO PICK WHAT PHOTOGRAPHS BEST

A simple method:

1. pick a neutral base (navy, charcoal, cream)

2. add one “you” color that complements eyes/skin tone

3. avoid colors that overpower your face

If you’re unsure, bring options. It’s easier to test in camera than to guess at home.

FABRICS AND PATTERNS: WHAT TO AVOID

Avoid:

• tiny stripes

• loud plaids

• super shiny fabrics

• wrinkly material that doesn’t hold shape

Great textures:

• matte wool

• cotton

• structured knits

• clean blouses without heavy shine

DETAILS THAT MATTER: GLASSES, LINT, NECKLINES, NAILS

Glasses If you wear them daily, include photos with glasses. Clean lenses. We can usually reduce reflections with positioning and light.

Lint and pet hair Bring a lint roller. This is not optional if you own a black blazer or a golden retriever.

Undergarments Make sure straps/lines don’t show unless intentional.

Hands and nails If hands are included, clean and neutral nails photograph best. No need for fancy, just tidy.

THE 3-LOOK STRATEGY (EASY AND EFFECTIVE)

If you want variety without overcomplicating it:

Look 1: The safe look Works everywhere (LinkedIn, website, bio).

Look 2: The approachable look Softer color, slightly relaxed.

Look 3: The brand look A color or style aligned with your industry and personality.

NEXT STEPS

Prep timeline: How to Prepare for a Professional Headshot Session

Ready to book:

Corporate Headshots

Actor/Model Headshots