You have the appointment on your calendar. You’ve found the photographer. But now, you’re standing in front of your open closet, staring at a sea of clothes, thinking, “I have absolutely nothing to wear.”
I see it all the time. For men, the choice is often simple: a suit and tie. But for women, the options are endless—and overwhelming. Should you wear a blazer? Is a dress okay? What about jewelry? The pressure to look stylish yet professional, authoritative yet approachable, is real.
As a professional headshot photographer in Los Angeles, I’m here to simplify this for you. Your wardrobe shouldn’t be a source of stress; it should be a tool that helps you project confidence. Let’s break down exactly what works on camera and what doesn’t.
What Is the Golden Rule for Women’s Headshots?
Before we talk about colors or styles, we need to talk about the most critical factor: Fit.
It doesn’t matter how expensive the jacket is; if it bunches at the shoulders or gaps at the bust, it will look sloppy on camera. The camera magnifies ill-fitting clothing. A jacket that is too big can make you look boxy and larger than you are. A top that is too tight can create unflattering pulls and wrinkles.
The goal of a professional headshot photo is to highlight *you*, not your clothes. You want tailored, structured pieces that skim your body without constricting it. If you don’t feel comfortable in it, you won’t look comfortable in the photo. And as we know, comfort and confidence are key to what makes a great corporate headshot.
Which Necklines Work Best for the Camera?
The neckline is the frame for your face. It directs the viewer’s eye. Choosing the wrong one can visually cut off your neck or distract from your expression.
Why are V-Necks usually the top choice?
A modest V-neck is almost universally flattering. It elongates the neck and draws the eye upward toward your face. It creates a sense of openness and height.
What about high necklines and turtlenecks?
Be careful here. While stylish in person, turtlenecks can sometimes make you look like a “floating head” in a photo, especially if the lighting isn’t perfect. If you have a shorter neck, a high collar can make you look hunched. However, for a very specific, modern creative look, a sleek black turtleneck can work—just know it’s a bold choice.
Should I avoid sleeveless tops?
Generally, yes. In a standard corporate headshot, bare arms can be distracting. They draw the eye away from the face. Furthermore, sleeveless tops can sometimes press against the skin in a way that is unflattering when your arms are by your side. If you love a sleeveless shell, just pair it with a blazer.
Should I Wear a Blazer for Corporate Headshots?
If you are in a conservative industry—law, finance, or corporate business—the answer is almost always yes. A blazer adds instant authority. It creates a “V” shape that structures the image and commands respect.
However, corporate headshots don’t always have to mean a stiff black suit. You can play with textures (like a high-quality knit blazer) or colors. But the structure of a jacket is a cheat code for looking put-together. Even for more creative industries, a blazer over a simple tee can strike the perfect balance between “boss” and “approachable.” If you are unsure if the investment in a high-end look is necessary, read up on are professional business headshots worth it to understand the ROI of looking the part.
Patterns vs. Solids: What Does the Camera Prefer?
I will keep this brief because it is the most important rule of all: Wear solid colors.
Prints, plaids, and polka dots are busy. They fight for attention. You want the viewer to look at your eyes, not count the flowers on your blouse. Tight patterns can also cause “moiré,” a visual vibration on digital screens that ruins the image.
Solid colors are timeless. They anchor the image. If you are wondering which specific hues work best for your skin tone and industry, I have a deep dive on what is the best color to wear for professional headshots that can guide you.
How Should I Handle Jewelry and Accessories?
Less is more. Your jewelry should be an accent, not the main event.
- Necklaces: A simple pendant or a string of pearls is classic. Avoid large, chunky statement necklaces that dominate the neckline.
- Earrings: Studs or small hoops are perfect. Large, dangling earrings can get lost in your hair or catch the light in distracting ways.
The test is simple: If someone looks at your photo and says, “Nice necklace,” we failed. If they say, “You look great,” we succeeded.
What About Hair and Makeup?
This is arguably as important as the clothes. For women headshots, professional hair and makeup are highly recommended. Studio lighting washes out features; professional makeup restores that definition.
However, this is not the time to experiment with a new look. You want to look like the best version of your daily self. Wear your hair how you normally wear it for a big meeting. If you usually wear glasses, wear them! Authenticity builds trust. Don’t try to be someone else; just be the polished version of you. And remember, how you carry yourself matters just as much as the makeup—brush up on 4 tips on how to pose for a corporate headshot to make sure your body language matches your look.
Is There Anything I Should Strictly Avoid?
Yes. Beyond busy patterns, avoid:
- Neon colors: They cast weird colored light onto your skin.
- See-through fabrics: Flash photography can reveal more than you intend.
- Wrinkled clothes: Photoshop can fix a lot, but it can’t iron a shirt that looks like it came from the bottom of a hamper.
If you are tempted to save money and just take a quick picture with your phone in a nice outfit, please reconsider. No outfit can fix bad lighting and lens distortion. A selfie cannot be used as a professional headshot if you want to be taken seriously.
Ready to Book Your Session?
Your headshot is your personal logo. It’s worth the time to plan your wardrobe and get it right. When you feel good in what you’re wearing, it shows in your eyes. That confidence is what gets you hired.
If you’re wondering about the investment required to get high-quality results in Los Angeles, check out my breakdown of how much professional headshots cost. When you’re ready to elevate your brand, take a look at my corporate headshots portfolio and let’s create something powerful.
Frequently Asked Questions About Women’s Headshot Attire
Can I wear a sleeveless top for my headshot?
It is generally best to avoid sleeveless tops for professional corporate headshots. Bare arms can be distracting and draw the eye away from your face. If you wear a sleeveless top, consider layering a blazer or cardigan over it.
How should I wear my hair?
Wear your hair in the style you feel most comfortable and confident in. If you normally wear it down, wear it down. If you always pull it back for work, wear it up. The goal is for you to be recognizable to clients who meet you in person.
What jewelry looks best in headshots?
Keep jewelry simple and non-distracting. Small studs, small hoops, or a delicate pendant necklace work best. Avoid large statement pieces or jewelry that is highly reflective, as it can catch the studio lights.
Should I wear a dress or a suit?
Both can work depending on your industry. A structured dress in a solid color is a great choice for a polished, feminine look. A suit or blazer conveys more traditional authority. Choose the option that best aligns with your brand archetype.
Do I need professional makeup?
Yes, professional makeup is highly recommended. Studio lighting is intense and can wash out your features. A professional artist knows how to define your eyes and lips while keeping your skin looking natural and matte.
Can I wear white?
You can, but it must be styled correctly. White can sometimes wash out skin tones or blend into a white background. It is usually best worn as a layer under a jacket rather than as a standalone top.
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