How to Dress for a Headshot That Makes a Great Impression

Your headshot is often the first impression people have of you—on LinkedIn, your website, social media, or marketing materials. One of the biggest factors in a successful headshot is what you wear. The right outfit can enhance your confidence, highlight your personality, and make your headshot stand out. Here’s a guide to dressing for a headshot that looks professional, polished, and timeless.

1. Keep It Simple and Classic

Avoid busy patterns, logos, or flashy designs that can distract from your face. Solid colors generally photograph best and create a clean, professional look. Classic choices like navy, black, gray, or jewel tones are always a safe bet.

2. Choose Colors That Complement You

Select colors that complement your skin tone, hair, and eyes. For example:

• Cool tones like blues, greens, and purples often work well for fair skin or lighter hair.

• Warm tones like burgundy, mustard, or olive green can complement darker hair or warmer skin tones.

Avoid colors that blend into your background or make your face appear washed out.

3. Dress for Your Brand

Your outfit should reflect your professional role and personal brand:

• Corporate professionals: Blazers, collared shirts, or tailored tops.

• Entrepreneurs and creatives: Smart casual or stylish attire that showcases personality.

• Actors or personal brands: Outfits that reflect your niche or industry.

The goal is to look like your best self in a way that’s authentic to your career and personality.

4. Mind the Details

• Make sure clothes are clean and wrinkle-free.

• Avoid excessive jewelry that can distract from your face.

• Choose collars and necklines that frame your face well.

5. Bring Options

If possible, bring two or three outfits to your headshot session. This allows you and your photographer to experiment with colors, styles, and looks that photograph best.

6. Work With Your Photographer

A professional headshot photographer can provide guidance on colors, textures, and styles that work well on camera. At Jill Matthews Photography, I specialize in headshots in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, and I guide clients on outfit choices, poses, and expressions to ensure their headshots look polished and professional.

Final Thoughts

Dressing for your headshot isn’t just about looking good—it’s about communicating confidence and professionalism. With the right outfit, color choices, and attention to detail, your headshot can truly capture your personality and make a lasting impression.

Ready for a headshot that elevates your personal brand? Book your session with Jill Matthews Photography today and let’s create images that showcase your best self.