Stylish Family Photo Outfit Tips

Virginia
Feb 4
4 min read

Getting ready for a family photo session can be both exciting and a little stressful. One of the biggest questions I always get is, "What should we wear?" or "Can I wear this?" Choosing the right outfits can make a huge difference in how your photos turn out. I want to share some stylish family photo outfit tips that will help you look coordinated, feel comfortable, and look your best self.

Stylish Family Photo Outfit Tips for a Cohesive Look That Feels Like You

When it comes to dressing the whole family, the key is to find a balance between coordination and individuality. You don’t want everyone wearing the exact same thing, but you also want the outfits to complement each other. Here are some tips I swear by:

Pick a color palette: Choose 2-4 colors that work well together. Think soft neutrals like beige, cream, or go for richer tones like dark green, burgundy, and mustard.
Mix textures and patterns: Add interest by combining solids with subtle patterns like stripes, florals, or checkered pattern. Avoid logos, writing, or characters.
Coordinate, don’t match: Instead of everyone wearing the same shirt, try different styles in the same color family. For example, mom in a blush dress, dad in a cream shirt, and kids in complementary shades.
Consider the location: If your photos are outdoors in a park, earthy tones work beautifully. For urban settings, you might want to add a pop of color or go for sleek, modern looks. If you are in-home, maybe don't wear that ballgown.
Comfort is key: Make sure everyone feels good in what they’re wearing. If someone is uncomfortable, it will show in the photos.

PRO TIP: Moms figure out what you want to wear first, and style everyone else around that. I highly recommend learning your colors by Created Colorful.

These simple steps can make your family look effortlessly stylish and connected without feeling forced.

What is the best color to wear for family photos?

Choosing the right colors can really set your photos apart. I often recommend sticking to colors that flatter your skin tones and work well with the location. Here’s what I’ve learned:

Soft neutrals: Cream, beige, soft gray, and white create a timeless, elegant look. They work well in almost any setting and keep the focus on your family’s faces.
Earth tones: Olive green, rust, mustard, and navy are perfect for outdoor shoots, especially in the fall. These colors add warmth and depth.
Pastels: Light blues, blush pinks, and lavender are great for spring or summer photos. They give a fresh, airy feel.
Avoid bright reds and neon colors: These can be distracting and sometimes cause color reflections on skin.
Coordinate but don’t overdo it: If one person wears a bold color, balance it with softer tones on others.

By choosing colors thoughtfully, your photos will look cohesive without clashing.

How to Style Different Family Members for Photos

Each family member has their own style and comfort level, so it’s important to tailor outfits accordingly. Here’s how I suggest styling everyone:

For kids: Keep it simple and playful. Soft cotton fabrics, cute patterns like small florals or stripes, and comfortable shoes are ideal. Avoid anything too formal or stiff.
For moms: Dresses or skirts in flowing fabrics look beautiful on camera. If you prefer pants, go for tailored trousers with a nice blouse. Add simple accessories like a delicate necklace or scarf.
For dads: Wear something flowy, not too stiff. A button down with layers or a bolo tie is my personal fav!
For babies and toddlers: Soft onesies or little outfits that match the family’s color scheme are perfect. Bring a favorite blanket or toy for comfort and natural smiles.

Remember, the goal is to look like a cohesive unit while letting each person’s personality shine through.

Tips for Seasonal Family Photo Outfits

The season you choose for your family photos can influence your outfit choices a lot. Here’s how to dress stylishly for each season:

Spring: Light layers, pastels, and floral prints work beautifully. Think airy dresses, light cardigans, and soft scarves.
Summer: Keep it cool and casual with breathable fabrics like linen and cotton. Whites and light colors help reflect the sun and keep everyone comfortable.
Fall: This is my favorite season for photos! Rich colors like burgundy, mustard, and forest green paired with cozy sweaters and boots create warm, inviting images.
Winter: Layer up with stylish coats, scarves, and hats. Darker colors like navy, charcoal, and deep reds look great against snowy or festive backdrops.

No matter the season, layering is your friend. It adds texture and gives you options to adjust if the weather changes.

Making Your Family Photo Outfits Feel Personal and Fun

The best photos come from genuine moments, and your outfits should help, not hinder, that. Here are some ways to keep things personal and playful:

Add meaningful accessories: A favorite hat, a family heirloom necklace, or matching socks can add a special touch.
Incorporate hobbies or interests: If your family loves music, maybe a guitar or a favorite book can be part of the shoot. I want you to be true to what your family style is.
Let kids be kids: Bring props like bubbles, balloons, or a picnic blanket to encourage natural smiles and laughter.
Plan a wardrobe change: Kids can be messy, the location may be muddy, bring extra outfits and lots of options in the trunk.