What to Wear for Business Women's Headshot Photographs

 

Knowing what to wear for headshots entails understanding the image you want to project and being mindful of the elements your photographer will include. Professional business headshot photos may require a suit or blazer for some women, while more casual attire may be appropriate for others. It is determined by the nature of your business, the attitude you wish to convey, and the background of your photograph.

A Power Suit Works

A traditional navy or gray power suit is a great choice for headshot photos in many businesses. This type of neutral jacket complements almost any background, including those with bright colors. If you want a simple, professional look, pair it with a simple blouse.

Keep It Light and Bright

Wear a white or pastel jacket instead for a bright, high-key photo with lots of light. This gives a feminine appearance without sacrificing professionalism. It works well with a light background, so discuss your desired look with your photographer. Because white can be difficult to work with in photographs, some photographers prefer a very light gray or pastel shade to bright white.

Try a Suit With Feminine Touches

You can add a few feminine touches to a conservative suit to show off your personality. Consider a gathered sleeve, a small piece of delicate jewelry, or some lace. These touches will work with any background if you keep them neutral.

Use a Pop of Color

When it comes to headshot attire, you don't have to limit yourself to neutrals. A splash of color, such as a bright shell or chunky jewelry, can work well in many different types of businesses, especially if you want to give the impression that you're a creative thinker. Discuss background options with your photographer. If you're using a colored background, make sure your clothing color doesn't clash or distract.

Subtle Color Can Be Professional

If you have silver or blond hair and a similar background color, try a suit with a pop of color. Blue is a sophisticated color, especially if the fabric has a subtle sheen to it. However, avoid anything with sparkle because it does not always work well in photos and does not have a professional appearance.

Play With Texture

Another way to add personality to your business headshots is to use texture. You can pair a neutral-toned jacket with a lace shell in the same or very similar color. This adds feminine power while remaining professional. Keeping it neutral allows your photographer to experiment with various background options, giving you more options for the headshots you receive.

A Suit Isn't the Only Option

You may not need to wear a suit for your headshot depending on your industry. A simple but stylish turtleneck or a basic shell can help you look professional. Consider a color that flatters you but won't blend in with the background of your photo.

Keep Shapes Simple if You Use Color

If you choose to wear a colored shell, keep your top shape and style simple. For a headshot with a very plain background, a bright, cheerful color works well. The color keeps the image from looking monotonous, but the simple style is very professional.

Embrace Your Softer Side

If you work in a field where your headshot can be more casual, show off your softer side with a blush sweater and blouse. A ruffled color and textured knit add feminine personality, but the overall look remains professional. These tones are effective because they are neutral and will provide your photographer with a plethora of background options.

Match Your Outfit to Your Business

It is entirely up to you what you wear for your headshots if you own your own small business. It all depends on the type of business you run. If you work in a fashion or home store, for example, you might want to add a fun pop of color to your outfit to showcase the style of your store. Request that your photographer include your front door or a portion of your store in the photos as well.

Wear a Dressed-Up Version of Your Daily Look

Wear a slightly dressed-up version of your daily look if you own a cafe, restaurant, or other similar small business and are having your headshot taken at work. Put on a nice blouse and a clean apron and ask your photographer to photograph you in front of your counter or another important and visually appealing location.

Different Looks for Business Women in the Arts

If you work in the arts, your professional headshot should be interesting and approachable. Request that your photographer include some of your company's tools, and dress in a way that complements your surroundings. If you go with a neutral color, make sure it has a nice texture or that you're wearing interesting jewelry.

Consider Breaking the Rules for a Casual Business

Some businesses are entirely casual. You can break the rules with your headshot outfit if you own a business like this. For example, if you own a small business that sells cowboy boots and Western wear, wear a plaid shirt in your business headshot. Follow your instincts and your customers' expectations, even if it means defying conventional wisdom. To make this work, request that your photographer include important elements of your business in the background.

Follow Your Instincts for Business Headshots

Knowing what to wear from headshot photographs ultimately boils down to knowing your business and your personal style. Follow your instincts and collaborate with your photographer on background and concept ideas. If you ask, many professional photographers will offer advice on headshot attire.