This what to wear guide will help you as you navigate planning for a family (or maternity) session. Most of my work is characterized by soft, muted colors, and in my opinion, there is nothing more classic or timeless. This guide will act as a tool to direct you to options that photograph well with my work aesthetic.
Using these tips, putting together that perfect outfit will be a little bit easier!
w h a t t o w e a r
A S T Y L E G U I D E |
b y j a m i e s a p p
Start with one outfit you like, and build everyone else around it
Steer clear of fluorescents
Purchase clothes to fit (and fit well)
Dress for the weather + be flexible
Dress for the location
Less is more for studio or indoor sessions
TOP TIPS
COORDNIATING
Keep in mind, we’re photographing you as a unit. Coordinating color is what really brings wardrobe together. I would recommend choosing two main colors of wardrobe, and maybe one accent pop of color. You can incorporate this in a pattern on your dress or in a top.
dress for the location
START WITH ONE OUTFIT + BUILD FROM THERE
dress for the weather
CHOOSE CLOTHES THAT FIT + FIT WELL
soft, muted colors
Just as dressing for weather is important, dressing for the location is just as important. A fancy black dress and a dress shirt and tie wouldn’t be the most appropriate wardrobe for a forest or grassy setting. More formal wear would be more appropriate for an urban or “big city” feel. Same goes for the beach or studio - something light and flowy would compliment your surroundings and create a 'feel' for the image.
LOCATION
The weather is unpredictable - especially in the South! It can be 50 and cloudy in the morning & 85 and sunny a few hours later. Be prepared to be flexible with wardrobe in case you have to switch it up last minute. Dress appropriately for the weather that day, even if it doesn’t go with your original plan. If your family is sweating profusely in a sweater during the shoot, no one is happy. On the same token, if we are chilly and cold because the weather has dipped, we will be uncomfortable, and it’ll reflect in the final images.
WEATHER
We want to be intentional in styling. In most cases, outfits are purchased specifically for photos, so choose something that fits well. The aim is to create a tailored look.
Maxi dresses are flattering on every body type and are a great option for women in all stages of life.
FIT
Timeless always has a place; simple + chic. A plain white lace dress with a simple bow. A simple diaper cover. Jeans and a henley. These pieces will always stand the test of time, and will never go out of style.
SIBLINGS
Shoes are a very important part of wardrobe. If you have the cutest little trousers and button down for your son to wear for pictures, but put his favorite pair of Disney tennis shoes on him, we lose cohesiveness within the look. Keep this in mind when planning. And always, barefoot is an adorable option for younger ones, especially with babies in studio.
THINGS
A FEW MORE
bRANDS
FAVORITE
ANTHROPOLOGIE
TUCKERNUCK
ZARA
H & M
FREE PEOPLE
J. CREW
MADEWELL
JOYFOLIE
GAP & OLD NAVY
INDIE BLUE
TARGET
AMAZON
AT THE END OF THE DAY, THESE ARE YOUR IMAGES; ONES YOU WILL HAVE FOREVER! WARDROBE IS IMPORTANT AND WILL DETERMINE THE LOOK OF YOUR SESSION, BUT IN ALL OF IT, STAY TRUE TO YOURSELF AND MAKE SURE YOUR AND YOUR FAMILY ARE COMFORTABLE. wE WANT TO REMEMBER YOU AS YOU ARE.
