Your headshot is the first impression you make in the professional world. It appears on LinkedIn, your company website, conference bios, press features, and increasingly on the AI-powered search results that people use to find professionals like you. But here’s what most people don’t realize: what you wear in your headshot matters almost as much as the lighting, the photographer, and the expression on your face.
After 13 years of shooting headshots in Asbury Park, NJ and Austin, TX, we’ve seen every wardrobe choice imaginable. Here’s what actually works.
The Golden Rule: Solid Colors Win
Solid colors are the foundation of a great headshot wardrobe. They keep the focus where it belongs — on your face. Patterns, logos, and busy prints distract the eye and compete with your expression for attention.
The best solid colors for headshots:
- Navy blue — Universally flattering, conveys trust and authority
- Charcoal or dark gray — Sophisticated without being as stark as black
- Deep jewel tones — Emerald, burgundy, and sapphire add richness
- White or cream — Clean and fresh, especially for lighter backgrounds
- Black — Classic, but be careful with dark backgrounds (you’ll disappear)
Colors to Avoid
Neon colors, bright reds, and hot pinks can cast unflattering color onto your skin. Avoid anything that pulls more attention than your face. If someone would notice your shirt before your eyes, it’s the wrong choice.
Fit Matters More Than Fashion
A well-fitted garment reads as polished and intentional. An ill-fitting one reads as sloppy, even if it’s expensive. Your headshot is cropped tight — usually from the chest up — so the neckline and shoulder fit are what matter most.
- Tailored blazers — Instantly elevate any headshot. They add structure to your shoulders and frame your face
- Collared shirts — Button-downs and blouses give a professional anchor point
- V-necks and scoop necks — Elongate the neck and draw the eye upward
- Avoid turtlenecks — They can visually shorten the neck and add bulk
The Layering Trick
Bring options. We always tell our clients to bring 2–3 outfit changes. Layering pieces like blazers, cardigans, or scarves give us flexibility during the session. You might love the headshot in the blazer but prefer your expression in the simple shirt. Options mean you never have to compromise.
Accessories: Less Is More
Jewelry should be minimal. Small earrings, a simple necklace, or a classic watch are fine. Anything that catches light or draws attention away from your face should stay in the bag.
Glasses are a common concern. If you wear glasses daily, wear them in your headshot — you should look like yourself. We’ll manage the reflections. If you only wear them sometimes, try shots both ways.
Industry-Specific Guidance
Corporate & Finance
Suit jacket, button-down, conservative colors. Your headshot should match the formality of your industry. Navy, charcoal, and white are your best friends.
Creative & Tech
You have more latitude. A well-fitted solid tee, a leather jacket, or a casual button-down all work. The key is intentionality — casual doesn’t mean careless.
Actors & Talent
Your headshot needs to match the roles you’re going for. Bring multiple looks. A corporate blazer for commercial work. A casual layered look for film. Simple, solid colors in both cases.
Entrepreneurs & Personal Brands
Wear what you’d wear to meet your ideal client. If your brand is approachable, dress approachable. If your brand is luxury, dress luxury. Authenticity is the goal.
The Day-Of Checklist
- Iron or steam everything the night before
- Bring 2–3 outfit options in a garment bag
- Avoid brand-new clothes you haven’t tested for comfort
- Check your neckline in the mirror from the chest up — that’s what the camera sees
- Grooming: get a haircut 5–7 days before (not the day of), keep nails clean, and go easy on heavy makeup
- Bring a lint roller
The best wardrobe for a headshot is one that makes you feel confident without stealing the show. Your face is the story. Your clothes are the frame. At Headshot Honchos, we’ll guide you through all of this during your free consultation — before you ever step in front of the lens.