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What should I wear to my senior photos?

5/13/2025

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Clothing can be used as a form of self expression, an aid to self confidence, and an enhancement to bring out your unique features. But, let’s be honest — figuring out what to wear for your senior portraits can feel overwhelming. Luckily, Sarah Lindsay and her team know how big of a deal this experience is; to help, you’ll get a wardrobe consultation where you will gain a professional perspective to answer questions and receive advice. Think of it as your mini styling session!
Brunette captured in a field wearing a red dress for senior pictures
Long sleeve dress
Since your senior portraits will last forever, looking for outfits that are classy and timeless will ensure satisfaction for decades beyond graduation. Solid colors, floral designs and simple patterns are great styles to look for.

Don't Shy Away From Variety

Sarah typically recommends clients to have anywhere from 4-6 outfits for their session. While there is no limit on how many outfits you can bring, just keep in mind that the more you have, the less time you will have to be photographed in each one. We suggest having a range of styles, from casual ripped jeans, to a more timeless option like a classic sundress.
Brunette wearing a cropped sweater for senior pictures
Cropped neutral sweater

Get Inspired

An example of an outfit lineup could be: a sundress and wedges, a skirt paired with a bodysuit and sneakers, a romper with heels, and ending with a white shirt, ripped jeans and your personalized letterman jacket.

Clothing companies such as Showpo, Aritzia and Hello Molly are great places to browse when looking for the perfect dress, matching set or classy top to feature in portraits. They offer a variety of timeless styles that would photograph beautifully in portraits!

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For a more masculine look, you can’t go wrong with layers and clean lines. Outfits can include items such as polos, button downs, sports jackets, khakis, jerseys and loafers. Some places to shop for these items are Banana Republic, J. Crew and Vineyard Vines.
Female walking in woods wearing jeans for senior pictures
Tank top and jeans

The Selection Process

A few questions to ask yourself are: Do these outfits align with my school dress-code? Are the colors/patterns distracting or complimentary? Do I feel confident in these clothes? Will my outfits compliment the background of my portraits?

A good rule of thumb to follow when selecting outfits is to choose pieces that make you feel like the best version of yourself. No one else’s opinions should overpower how proud you feel of yourself for your accomplishments; therefore it’s crucial to follow your gut and wear what makes you feel confident. While photos can be posed, you can’t fake a genuine smile, so it's important to remember that however you are feeling on the inside is what you will portray on the outside! 
Brunette wearing overalls for senior pictures
Nothin says sweet like overalls
With that being said, it is also recommended that you bring one “grandma-friendly” outfit option. These portraits may be showcased in the yearbook, sent to friends and family, and displayed as artwork around the house, so having variety in your outfits allows for a wider range of portrait results!

Accessorizing is Key

While the outfits themselves are important, accessorizing is arguably just as important! Accessories are a great way to showcase your personality and add dimension to each outfit. Think jewelry, belts, hair clips, hats, even fun socks or scrunchies! ​Kendra Scott and Madewell are great places to look for jewelry, however, if you are hoping to find something more unique and personal, Etsy offers a wide variety of customizable pieces.
Blonde wearing coral dress with matching jewelry for senior pictures
Coordinating jewelry with the outfit
Additionally, shoes can be a great way to elevate an outfit. They can be used to throw in a pop of color or showcase your personality. Maybe you have southern roots and want to wear cowboy boots to resemble that part of you!

Think Smart

While you can have fun with your accessories, make sure they are practical for your portrait environment. Consider the area you are being photographed in; if you will be walking through a rocky trail in the woods, you may not want to wear your tallest pair of heels, or you can plan accordingly by bringing a pair of walking shoes to change into between photos.
Female wearing jeans and sneakers for senior pictures
Casual ripped jeans

Enhance Your Features

The other top priority considerations for senior portraits are hair and makeup. Choosing looks that you feel confident in is crucial for being pleased with your final results. Whether you decide to utilize Sarah Lindsay’s professional hair and makeup option or you are doing it yourself, practicing beforehand and finding inspiration for your desired look will help you feel prepared going into the big day.
Closeup of blonde in pink dress with complete makeup for senior pictures
Pink dress shoot

Finishing Touches

Lastly, don’t forget about your nails! Selecting a neutral color or french tip design are great options for being photographed. They aren’t distracting, and they match with everything.
Brunette with nose piercing close up for senior pictures
Simple details for unique portraits

Biggest Takeaway

The most important consideration for selecting senior portrait outfits is finding the options that make you feel the most confident. This experience is all about the seniors and their accomplishments, so seeing personality shine through is a recipe for success. Ultimately, we want you to feel comfortable and confident in what you're wearing because it will show up on your face in your photos. So if you hate what you're wearing, chances are, it will show. Senior portraits are all about YOU; create your own story through your portraits and show off your beauty from the inside, out! Click here to book your portraits!
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