What to Wear for Business Headshots
When it comes to corporate headshots, first impressions are everything. A professional headshot can be the key to building trust and showcasing your expertise. But when it comes to what to wear for corporate headshots, many people find themselves wondering about the best approach. After all, you want to look professional and approachable, while also aligning with the culture and expectations of your industry.
So, how do you strike that perfect balance?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about what to wear for your corporate headshot session. Whether you're a corporate executive, a small business owner, or part of a growing team, the right clothing choices can make all the difference.
How to Dress for Corporate Headshots
Look Professional & Confident
Your clothing plays a huge role in how you’re perceived, especially in professional settings. For your corporate headshot, you want your outfit to convey confidence, professionalism, and approachability. The goal is for your attire to complement the photo, not distract from it. When selecting what to wear, consider how your clothing aligns with the expectations of your industry and brand. For example, tech professionals may have more flexibility in terms of casual attire, while those in law, finance, or other formal industries may need to stick to more traditional outfits.
The key is to look polished, but still like yourself. You want your headshot to be a reflection of your professionalism and your personality.
The Best Outfits for Professional Headshots
No matter your profession, there are some general outfit guidelines that will work for most corporate headshot sessions. Here's a breakdown to help you pick the perfect look.
Choose Colors That Flatter You & Your Brand
Color plays a big role in how you're perceived. For corporate headshots, it’s best to stick with colors that are flattering to your complexion and align with your brand.
Neutral tones
(like navy, gray, or charcoal) are always safe choices because they convey professionalism and are easy on the eyes.
Bold
yet subdued colors (like deep reds or royal blues) can make you appear confident and vibrant without being overwhelming.
Earth tones
(like olive green or taupe) are a great choice for those who want to appear grounded and approachable.
While it’s tempting to go for bright, attention-grabbing colors, keep in mind that you want the focus to remain on your face. Choose colors that complement your skin tone and let your features stand out.
Solids vs. Patterns – What Works Best?
When it comes to clothing patterns, less is more. Solid colors tend to work better than patterns for a corporate headshot, as patterns can sometimes be distracting. If you love patterns, go for subtle options like thin stripes or small checks, but avoid anything too bold or busy.
The goal is for your attire to enhance the overall look without drawing too much attention away from your face.
Sleeve Length & Necklines
Your sleeve length and neckline can also make a big impact on your corporate headshot. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Long sleeves tend to look more polished and professional, but short sleeves or cap sleeves can work for a more relaxed vibe, especially in business casual industries.
Necklines are important as well. A classic collared shirt or blouse with a slight V-neck works great for most headshots. Just make sure your neckline isn't too low or revealing. Keep it simple and clean.
The Perfect Fit – Avoiding Baggy or Tight Clothing
Fit is one of the most important factors when it comes to choosing the right outfit for a corporate headshot. Clothes that are too loose can appear unkempt or sloppy, while outfits that are too tight can be uncomfortable and unflattering.
The key is finding something that fits well and makes you feel confident. A good tailor can make all the difference if you need slight adjustments for the perfect fit.
Corporate Headshots
What to Wear for Men
When it comes to corporate headshots, the right outfit for men can vary based on the industry and desired vibe. Here's a guide to help you look your best.
Business Casual vs. Formal
Depending on your industry, you may need to choose between business casual and formal attire. For more formal industries (like law, finance, or banking), a suit and tie are often expected. However, in industries like tech, advertising, or creative fields, business casual attire may be more appropriate.
Business Casual: A collared shirt or dress shirt. You can skip the tie, but a blazer can add a polished touch.
Formal: For more traditional industries, a full suit and tie are recommended. Stick to classic, neutral colors like navy, black, or charcoal, and make sure your suit is tailored for a sharp look.
The Best Suit & Shirt Combinations for Professional Headshots
When choosing a suit for your headshot, stick with dark, classic colors. Navy, gray, or charcoal are always safe choices. Pair it with a white or light blue dress shirt for a timeless, professional look.
If you prefer to add some color, a subtle pattern like a pinstripe shirt can add interest without overwhelming the shot.
Should You Wear a Tie? When It Works & When It Doesn’t
Ties are a great way to add a formal touch to your corporate headshot, but they’re not always necessary. If you're in a formal industry, definitely go for a tie. In more casual settings, you can skip it, especially if you're wearing a blazer or suit jacket.
The key is to keep it simple. A classic, solid tie in a neutral color works best. Avoid anything too flashy or distracting.
Grooming Tips for a Clean & Sharp Look
Grooming is just as important as the clothes you wear. Before your session, make sure you're well-groomed to look your best.
Hair: Make sure your hair is neatly styled and trimmed. If you have facial hair, make sure it's well-groomed.
Shaving: Whether you prefer a clean-shaven look or a bit of stubble, make sure it’s neatly trimmed for a sharp appearance.
Corporate Headshots
What to Wear for Women
For women, corporate headshot attire can vary depending on the industry and the look you're going for. Here are some helpful tips to ensure you look polished and professional.
The Best Necklines & Silhouettes for Headshots
When selecting tops, blouses, or dresses for your corporate headshot, necklines and silhouettes play an important role. A classic button-down shirt or blouse with a slight V-neck is always a safe choice. It’s flattering and professional without being too revealing.
As for silhouettes, choose something that fits your body well but isn’t too tight or too loose. Opt for a tailored fit that accentuates your figure without being overly constricting.
Choosing the Right Blazers, Blouses, and Dresses
Blazers and blouses are staples of professional attire, and they work well for most corporate headshots. A tailored blazer in a neutral color paired with a blouse in a complementary color is a timeless combination.
For dresses, opt for a knee-length dress with a modest neckline. Avoid dresses that are too low-cut or too short.
Jewelry & Accessories
Keep It Simple & Professional.
Less is more when it comes to jewelry and accessories for corporate headshots. Simple, understated pieces like stud earrings or a classic watch are perfect for adding a little polish without distracting from your face.
Avoid large, flashy jewelry or accessories that may take attention away from you.
Hair & Makeup Tips for a Natural Look
When it comes to hair and makeup, aim for a polished yet natural look. Your headshot should represent you at your best, so you want to keep things simple and fresh.When it comes to hair and makeup, aim for a polished yet natural look. Your headshot should represent you at your best, so you want to keep things simple and fresh.
Hair
If you wear your hair long, make sure it’s styled neatly. A smooth blowout or gentle waves work well. If you have shorter hair, a quick trim before your session will help keep it looking sharp.
Makeup
Go for a natural makeup look that enhances your features. A bit of foundation, subtle eye makeup, and a neutral lip color should do the trick. Avoid heavy makeup, as it can appear too harsh in photos.
We always recommend hiring a makeup artist (MUA) who specializes in a natural look for headshots. A professional MUA will know how to enhance your natural features without overdoing it, ensuring that your skin looks even and your eyes are well-defined without appearing too dramatic under professional lighting. Having a makeup artist who understands the subtlety required for headshots can make a significant difference in how polished and natural your final image looks.
What Colors Work Best for Business Headshots?
Colors play a huge role in how you’re perceived in your business headshot. As a general rule, choose colors that flatter your skin tone and align with your professional brand.
Navy and charcoal are professional and versatile, making them great choices for most industries.
Blue symbolizes trust and reliability, making it a great choice for industries like finance or healthcare.
Earth tones like olive green or brown can be great for a more approachable, grounded look.
What is Not Recommended to Wear for Professional Headshots
Certain clothing choices can detract from the professionalism of your headshot.
Here are a few things to avoid:
Common Outfit Mistakes That Ruin Business Headshots
Bright colors or overly bold patterns can draw attention away from your face.
Poorly tailored clothing can make you appear unprofessional or uncomfortable.
Excessive accessories can distract from your features.
Clothing Items That Cause Distractions
Avoid anything too flashy, including heavy jewelry, overly busy patterns, and logos not associated with your company brand.
How to Avoid Wrinkles, Stains, and Fitting Issues
Make sure to iron your clothes before the session, and check for any stains or wrinkles. Have a backup outfit just in case something goes wrong.
How Many Outfits Should You Bring for Your Corporate Headshot Session?
Bringing a few outfit options allows you to experiment and choose the best look for your headshot. Aim for three or four outfits in different colors or styles to give you variety. That way, you can get a range of shots that suit different professional needs.
Additional Tips for a Successful Business Headshot Session
Get plenty of rest the night before your headshot session to look refreshed and confident.
Hydrate and avoid anything too heavy or salty before your shoot to avoid puffiness.
Trust the Process. Professional headshot sessions are designed to guide you through the process, helping you adjust your face, smile, and posture to avoid issues like a double chin while maintaining a relaxed and confident expression. A natural look is key to a strong headshot. Plus, subtle retouching can enhance features like the smile, teeth, and eyes to ensure the final image looks polished while still feeling authentic
