Once a client books their senior portrait session, the first question that comes up is inevitably – what should I wear for my senior portraits??  This is one of the details that can really make a client’s senior portraits shine.  This is also one of the things that stresses seniors out the most!  I am starting a four part series to help answer the question of what to wear.  And first up is how to wear patterns and look good!

There is a common misconception out there that patterns are a no no for senior portraits.  I have had numerous clients ask if they are allowed to wear patterns. And I am here to tell you that yes, patterns can be awesome!  Follow these three guidelines when planning an outfit with pattern.

Select a Color Palette that works with your skin tone

Selecting a color palette that works with your skin tone is imperative whether wearing a pattern or a solid.  My clients receive a guide that helps them to select color tones that work well with their skin, eye and hair color.   Below is beautiful McKenna, she has pale skin, blue eyes and dark hair, so the color blue looks fabulous on her.  Her eyes really pop and the color tones compliment her skin.  Her make-up also works well with this pattern – she has soft pink lips and eye neutral eye make-up.  All of these details coordinate to create stunning portraits.  If she had bold lip color with a patterned outfit, the final result would be overwhelming.  So, when selecting a patterned outfit, it’s a good idea to make sure that the pattern is the one bold thing in the overall look.

Autumn, pictured below, choose a fantastic pattern in deep red.  Autumn has fair skin, light eyes, and light hair, so red tones look fabulous on her.  Also notice that her make-up compliments wearing a pattern – she has soft pink lips and neutral eyes – and, oh yes – lashes for days!

Pair a stong pattern with a solid

A strong pattern can really make a portrait pop and draw you in. Strong patterns are interesting, bold, and show your unique style. Bold patterns can be overwhelming if someone is dressed from head to toe in a small repeating pattern. But when a pattern is paired with a solid, the overall appearance is balanced.  Below, on the left, Julia has a striped blue and white shirt paired with white shorts. The pattern is interesting and gives more interest than if she was wearing a solid shirt.  Nicole, on the right, paired a floral print with white shorts.  The end result is a fresh, colorful, cheerful image with lot’s of interest!

Below is Julia’s blue and white striped shirt up close. The added dimension of the pattern really adds a completeness to her look.  I think she looks like she could be in a Ralph Lauren ad – classic, American, and gorgeous!

Coordinate your outfit with the location

For my clients, we get a chance to talk about coordinating wardrobe with the chosen location at the wardrobe consultation.  This allows me the opportunity to make sure that we have the ideal location for each client’s outfits.  In all of the images where my clients are wearing pattern, the backgrounds are all neutral.  With a neutral background, the background appears soft and allows the pattern to standout.  Below is Emma, who wore a stunning pattern in these grassy fields and golden light.

Final Thoughts

No matter what you decide to wear, you need to feel confident and beautiful!  Wearing patterns creates interest and compliments client personalities.  The key to pulling off patterns successfully is balance – balancing a bold pattern with soft make-up so that only one element is bold; balancing the pattern with a soft background so that nothing appears to busy or overwhelming.  One thing you want to avoid with patterns is horizontal stripes – they make a person appear wider, which for most of us, is not flattering!  Want help coordinating the perfect outfit? Contact me today!  Wardrobe consultations are included with any booked session.  Next is What to Wear for Senior Portraits: Part 2 Solids.

Colleen Sanders Photography is a boutique photography studio in the Folsom and El Dorado Hills area of Northern California.  Colleen Sanders specializes in natural light photography including seniors, families, and children.  Colleen Sanders’ goal is to customize your photo session to your unique needs.  To schedule an appointment with Colleen Sanders click here, call (916)365-5081 or email info@colleensandersphotography.com.