Social Media Session Styling Guide

Apr 1

What To Wear To Your Social Media Session

These lifestyle sessions are all about capturing you in a way that feels natural, confident, and scroll-stopping. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, content creator, or just someone who wants fresh photos for online, your outfit should look great on camera and feel like you.

One Outfit, Endless Looks

Wear one main outfit that fits well, feels comfortable, and represents your style. You can add quick changes with accessories or layers like a jacket, scarf, hat, or cardigan. These simple additions let us create a variety of looks without needing a full outfit change.

Outfit Styles

Polished Casual
Think: jeans with a great top, a simple dress, or layered basics. Add a jacket, hat, or scarf for personality. Comfortable, easy, and put-together.

Lifestyle Chic
Outfits you’d wear to brunch with friends, running errands in style, or hanging out in a cute café. Flowy skirts, stylish sneakers, ankle boots, or jumpsuits photograph beautifully.

On-Brand Extras
If you’re using your images for business, choose pieces that match your brand vibe. This could be a bold color, a signature accessory, or a more professional option you’d wear for client calls.

Clothing Colors That Photograph Well

Outdoor settings are colorful and dynamic, so your outfit should complement your environment while keeping the focus on you.

Neutrals: Beige, cream, white, taupe, soft gray, and light browns. Timeless, effortless, and elegant.
Dark & Classic: Black, navy, or charcoal. Flattering on all body types and perfect for a polished look.
Soft & Pastel Colors: Light pinks, blush, lavender, soft blue, mint. Fresh, airy, and feminine.
Bold & Colorful: Jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, ruby, mustard, or burnt orange. Adds personality without overwhelming the shot. Avoid neon or overly bright colors.

Patterns & Textures:

I always recommend choosing solid colors. They are safest to keep the focus on your face.
If you love patterns though, pick one subtle print. Avoid tight grids or small herringbone patterns—they can create strange visual effects on camera.
Textures like denim, leather, lace, knits, or ruffles add interest and variety without needing a full outfit change.

Style Tips That Work Every Time

Fit is key: Fitted clothing (not tight) looks best on camera. Avoid baggy or overly loose pieces.
Necklines: V-necks or open collars elongate the neck and flatter most body types. Avoid high, bulky, or ruffled necklines.
Sleeves: ¾ length sleeves or a fitted jacket are usually most flattering. If you’re self-conscious about your arms, skip sleeveless tops.
Layers & Accessories: Jackets, cardigans, hats, scarves, or statement jewelry create quick outfit variations without a full swap.
Undergarments matter: Make sure bras, slips, or tanks fit well and won’t show through your clothing.
Comfort is key: You’ll be walking, sitting, and maybe even laughing on the ground—your outfit should allow for movement.

Pro Tip: Try everything on the day before to ensure it fits, feels good, and looks how you want. Wrinkle-free, lint-free clothing makes a huge difference in your final images.

For more outfit inspiration, check out my Pinterest page with ideas for casual, chic, and on-brand looks that photograph beautifully outdoors.

Personal Grooming

Makeup
I encourage wearing makeup for your session, as it really helps your features pop on camera. If you don’t normally wear makeup, at a minimum:

Apply foundation to even out skin tone, cover blemishes, and reduce the appearance of dark circles.
Use lip balm to keep your lips soft and hydrated.

If you’d like professional makeup for your session, you can contact me to arrange it.

Hair
Wear your hair in a style that feels natural to you. If your session is outdoors, Calgary’s wind can affect your hair, so bring a comb, brush, or hairspray for quick touch-ups.