How to Dress as a Couple for a Photoshoot (Without Being Too Matchy)

Let’s Talk Couple Outfit Vibes

You’ve got your photoshoot booked, the location picked, and now you’re asking the big question: What do we wear?!

Dressing for a couple’s shoot doesn’t mean you need to look identical. The best photos happen when your outfits feel natural, coordinated, and reflect who you are, together. Whether you’re planning an engagement shoot, something casual, or something a little more styled, here’s how to show up looking your best without going full twin mode.

1. Coordinate, Don’t Match

Think “we go together,” not “we’re wearing the same shirt.” Pick colors that complement each other instead of matching exactly. Soft neutrals, warm earth tones, or muted pastels are great places to start.

If one of you is wearing a pattern, the other can wear a solid color that ties into it. It’s all about balance.

Quick tip: Look up a few color palettes online (Coolors is a great tool) or scroll Pinterest for inspo together.

2. Dress for the Setting

What you wear should feel right for where you’re shooting. Here’s a quick breakdown depending on the kind of vibe you're going for:

💍 Engagement Sessions

• Romantic and timeless is the goal.

• Think flowy dresses, soft layers, button-downs, cozy knits.

• Stick with classic colors like cream, sage, navy, blush, or olive.

📸 Casual Photoshoots

• Keep it relaxed—this is all about you being you.

• Jeans, sneakers, comfy tees, layered pieces.

• Just make sure you're both dressed at the same level of casual.

✨ Editorial or Styled Shoots

• Go bold, have fun, lean into fashion!

• Statement pieces, textured fabrics, and interesting shapes work great.

• This is the time to play with contrast—like edgy and soft, or vintage and modern.

3. Comfort is Everything

If you don’t feel comfortable in what you're wearing, it’ll show in the photos. Pick pieces that make you feel good, not just ones that look good in theory.

Avoid overly trendy stuff that you might not love in a year or two. And make sure you can move easily—especially if your photographer gets you walking, dancing, or sitting on the ground.

4. Accessories = Secret Style Sauce

Accessories are a subtle way to tie your looks together without overdoing it. Think hats, a cozy scarf, layered necklaces, or boots in similar tones. You don’t need to match head-to-toe, but little things like this bring everything together.

5. Bring a Backup Look (Just in Case)

If you’re unsure, bring a second outfit! One more casual, one a bit more dressed-up. It gives you options if the vibe changes mid-shoot, or if you want more variety in your gallery. Most photographers are totally cool with a quick change mid-session.

A Few Outfit “Don’ts” to Keep in Mind

• ❌ Avoid neon colors or loud logos—they’re distracting.

• ❌ Skip anything that doesn’t fit well or makes you self-conscious.

• ❌ Try not to go too matchy (like both in red plaid… unless that’s your thing!)

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, the best couple’s photos are the ones that feel like you. When your outfits reflect your personality and you’re both comfortable, the magic happens naturally.

Need a second opinion on your outfit choices? I’m always happy to help clients pick the perfect look—styling is part of the fun!