What should you wear for professional headshots and company photos? Your professional photo appears on LinkedIn, company websites, business cards, and press coverage – often for years. The clothing you wear matters significantly for how credible, approachable, and professional you appear. These headshot outfit guidelines ensure you look your best on camera.
- Best colors to wear for professional headshots
- What patterns and fabrics to avoid in headshots
- Best outfit styles for professional photos (men and women)
- How formal should your headshot outfit be?
- Common headshot outfit mistakes to avoid
What Colors Work Best for Professional Headshots?
Best headshot colors: navy blue (the single best professional headshot color – projects authority and is universally flattering); jewel tones (deep burgundy, forest green, cobalt blue – rich colors that read well on camera); neutral tones that complement your skin tone (camel, stone, warm grey for warm skin tones; cool grey, navy, white for cool skin tones). Colors to avoid: pure white (overexposes against bright backgrounds, creates “floating head” effect without contrast); very bright neon colors; patterns that create visual noise on camera; and colors that are too close to your skin tone (which can make you disappear into the background).
What Patterns and Fabrics Should You Avoid for Headshots?
Pattern and fabric guidance for headshots: avoid fine pinstripes and herringbone weaves (create moiré interference patterns on camera that look distracting); avoid very busy patterns (florals with many small elements, intricate prints) that compete with your face; avoid very shiny fabrics (silk charmeuse, high-sheen synthetics) that catch light unevenly; avoid logos or graphics on clothing. Best fabrics: matte textures (fine wool, cotton, linen) that absorb light evenly and look clean on camera; solid colors in these fabrics are the universally best headshot choice.
Best Outfit Styles for Professional Headshots
Best headshot outfits for women: a structured blazer in navy or jewel tones (the most credible and professional headshot choice); a V-neck or scoop neck top in a flattering color (shows the face well); a structured blouse with simple details; quality knitwear in a solid color. Best headshot outfits for men: a well-fitted blazer or suit jacket (with or without tie depending on your industry); a quality dress shirt in a solid color; a quality turtleneck for a modern professional look. For both: clothing should fit well – fitted but not tight. Avoid collars that overwhelm your face (very wide lapels, very high collars).
How Formal Should Your Professional Headshot Be?
Match your headshot formality to your professional context: for finance, law, and senior corporate roles – business professional (blazer, formal shirt/blouse); for business casual environments – business casual (blazer optional, quality professional clothing); for tech and creative industries – smart casual that reflects your sector. The general rule: dress for the role you want, not just the role you have – a senior-looking headshot supports career progression. Update your headshot when your role or industry changes significantly; a headshot from 10 years ago rarely serves you well.
Related Articles
- What to Wear to a Job Interview: 7 Outfit Ideas That Work
- Business Formal Dress Code for Men: What to Wear and When
- Business Casual Dress Code for Women
- Job Interview Grooming Guide: How to Present Yourself at Interviews
Related OfficeL guide: Casual Friday Outfit Ideas: What to Wear on Dress-Down Day
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