Last Week on the blog we started talking about what to wear to your engagement session for her; and today we are following it up by talking about what to wear to the engagement session for him!
Engagement Session Outfits: The Basics
Firstly , let’s talk about the basics. When deciding what to wear to your engagement session, you can never go wrong with a pair of long, fitted pants and closed-toed shoes. It is the are the most sophisticated look for him. For your session it’s best to leave the shorts, sandals, ripped jeans at home.
Fitted dress pants or fitted colored pants work best on camera. You cannot go wrong with shades of gray or navy as a strong complement to most women’s outfits. Be careful with Gingham or checkered prints. They may look good to the naked eye- but can create an optical illusion when photographed.
I also recommend staying away from shirts with graphic, logos, or polos. You really can’t go wrong with a nice button up shirt and a set of fitted dress pants.
Above all, the single most important thing when choosing an outfit is that you choose something that you feel comfortable and confident in!
Next, let’s take a moment to talk about stripes. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE stripes- I pretty sure they are my pattern soul mate. However, on camera they can create an optical illusion. If you know that you are going to be on camera it is best to avoid tiny patterns with thin stripes placed closely together. Viewed from afar or through a camera, the pattern can warp to create an optical illusion. Not only can this be unflattering, but it draws the attention away from your faces in photographs!
In Conclusion: a great rule of thumb when it comes patterns, is to stick too patterns that are larger than a quarter.
Lets Talk Layers for Your Engagement Session
Next time you walk through the mall, you may notice the mannequins and models are probably wearing several layers at once. No matter what the season is outside, layers are always a flattering look. Even if it might seem a little too hot or a little too cold outside for the outfit you had intended, trust me when I say that it’s worth an hour or two of discomfort for photos that will last you both a lifetime.
When it comes to what to wear to your engagement session, adding another layer will bring extra dimension and visual interest to your photos. Blazers, vests, and coats up the level of any look. If temperature permits, consider for example adding a v-neck sweater and a pop of color with a long-sleeved collared shirt and tie underneath. Don’t be afraid to get a little creative with layers. Most guys love to mix a suit coat, blazer or sports coat with a different pant color. It adds some extra visual interest and breaks up the color tones. Plus who isn’t a big fan of this fresh take on a timeless classic?
Wether you are wearing a blazer and colored pants, khakis and a button up shirt, or Brown or black leather dress shoes complement almost every look. Ties, bowties, pocket squares, colored socks, belts, tie clips, suspenders, vests, and watches are sharp complements to any outfit. If you are planning two outfits to the session, you can start with a traditional necktie and belt, then switch to suspenders and a bow tie for your second look.
Want to know what one of the best part about opting for layers? It can make easy to switch between outfits! Consider wearing a blazer or sweater for your formal outfit, then switching to the long sleeve buttoned up shirt underneath for your date night look.
Prepping For Your Session
Most men aren’t overly excited to take photos for two hours. Which is completely understandable. The most common thing I hear from guys during the consult is this: they don’t like taking photos. They feel self conscious in front of the camera or don’t think they’ll be good at it.
By the time we’re done, though, they can’t believe how fast it went and just how much fun they had! All I ask is that you come in with an open mind, and ready to have some fun. I will teach you all the tips and tricks to taking wonderful, romantic, and joyful images- cheering you on the whole time!
Take some time together to browse through two or three past engagement sessions here on the blog, to get an idea of what to expect.
Want more? Check out the rest of the wedding planning series
The Three Bridal Suite Essentials
