What You Should Know

If you’re planning an engagement session, you might be asking, “But Areeg, what the heck do I wear? A cocktail dress? Something comfy and casual? Something with a little sex appeal?”

The engagement session is absolutely one of my favorite parts of our time together. It’s just as if you got all dress up to go out on a hot date with your babe and just happened to have your own personal photographer to capture all those sweet and lovey moments. The best part is that I’ll be there to guide you and tell you exactly what do with your hands! Who needs a selfie stick when you have THAT?

Here’s a few tips to help prepare for yours.

Style Tips: For Her

Ever feel like you’ve been *dying* to buy/wear that one dress but haven’t found the occasion for it? Well, this is it. For your engagement session, theres no such thing as “too dressed up.” I’m obsessed with long and flowy dresses because they look amazing on camera by bringing some extra movement to the photos. Though, cute, shorter-length dresses are just as gorgeous. If you’re not ready to add a new piece to your collection, Rent the Runway is a great option to feel and look like a million bucks without spending it. Confidence is truly your best accessory. When you look good, you feel good – and that shows in your photos!

Accessorize with necklaces, bracelets and earrings. Heels are always a great option because they elongate your legs and make them look toned and fabulous. Whether you’re hella boujee (own it, girl) and choose to wear some Loub’s, or you’re hella basic (that’s me) and prefer the chic and comfy heels you bought from Target last month, comfort is key. You’ll look the best when you feel at ease.

Quick Tip: Bring sandals or comfy shoes to move from one spot to the next!

One or Two? Its Up to You!

Most couples choose two outfits split between two locations. The first location is normally chosen for the casual outfit with a cute cocktail or sundress while reserving the second location for the dressy outfit just in time for that dreamy sunset glow. If you want something more intimate, ask your photographer if they shoot boudoir sessions!

Style Tips: For Him

A well tailored suit is to women what lingerie is to men. Am I right, ladies? From James Bond to Clark Kent, nothing looks better than custom fitted suit. Not looking to invest in a suit quite yet? That’s okay! Many grooms like to wear a sports coat or blazer paired with a different pant color. Still a very handsome and fresh take on a timeless classic.

Blazers, vests and coats add a lot of visual interest to your photos. Consider a V-neck sweat and long sleeve collared shirt for that sophisticated look. Great shops for something like this can be found at J.Crew along with several other options.

Quick tip: Ties, bowties, pocket squares, watched, colored socks, belts, tie clips and suspenders add a sharp detail to every look. Brown leather shoes can pair with almost any look.

Color Palettes

Couples tend to choose muted, neutral or pastel colors, and this is a great choice, but don’t be afraid to wear bold or jewel tones! Bright, bold colors give a liveliness and cheer to photos, whereas lighter, airy colors can lend a soft, romantic feel. Just don’t choose something too loud or patterns that clash, including between yourself and your partner. If he’s wearing a purple Hawaiian shirt, don’t wear a neon-green leopard-print dress—actually, don’t wear either of those. Please.

That doesn’t mean that you should match 100%. A very monotone color palette looks boring. I simply advise couples to choose ensembles that complement each other, and “classic, timeless” pieces over “trendy” ones.

Add a little pop of color! If you’re planning on wearing a neutral or muted shade, consider wearing a color in your shoe or accessories. And don’t be afraid to accessorize!

For men, try color-blocking. For example: a lighter pant with a blue jacket in the summertime.

Location, Location, Location

Keep the location of your shoot in mind! If you’re shooting at the beach, wear something loose and flowy. Although, that said, the contrast of wearing a fitted gown in an industrial area sounds very Vogue Editorial.

Some parting notes…

If you’re really stressed on what to wear, check out some rental services or wardrobe stylists, like Rent the Runway.

Don’t skip out on an engagement session! It gives you and your partner a chance to familiarize yourselves with your photographer, and a chance for you and your partner to practice in front of the camera. Follow my Pinterest board for more Engagement Session Style Ideas. If you’re one of my couples – text me anytime for advice on what to wear!