Your corporate headshot is often the first impression people see—on LinkedIn, your company website, or industry profiles. What you wear has a major impact on how polished, confident, and professional you appear. Whether you’re a business executive, a medical professional, an entrepreneur, or an actor, choosing the right outfit is essential. What to wear for a corporate headshot
To help you feel completely prepared, we’ve created this modern, practical wardrobe guide for men and women getting corporate headshots in St. Louis.
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Why Your Outfit Matters in Professional Headshots
A great headshot does more than capture your appearance—it communicates your professionalism and personal brand. The right outfit helps you:
- Look confident and approachable
- Stand out in a competitive field
- Match your industry’s expectations
- Create consistency across company profiles
Your wardrobe works with your expression to tell your professional story.
Universal Clothing Tips for Both Men & Women
1. Choose solid, simple colors
Solid tones photograph best and keep attention on your face.
2. Avoid busy patterns or heavy textures
Stripes, plaid, and loud prints can distort on camera.
3. Fit is more important than fashion
Clothes should skim the body without being too tight or too loose.
4. Layer smartly
Blazers, jackets, or tailored sweaters add structure and depth.
5. Bring options
2–5 tops give flexibility for background, lighting, and style adjustments. What to wear for a corporate headshot
Best Colors for Corporate Headshots
Top recommended colors:
- Navy
- Charcoal
- Dark green
- Burgundy
- Plum
- Medium blue
- Black (with some contrast)
- Muted earth tones
Colors to avoid:
- Neon
- Bright red
- Large black areas on dark backgrounds
- Pure white tops without a jacket
Neutral or jewel tones are universally flattering and photograph well.
What Men Should Wear for Corporate Headshots
1. Dress shirts in solid or subtle tones
Light blue, gray, white (with a blazer), and jewel tones work best.
2. Blazers or suit jackets
A tailored jacket sharpens your silhouette and strengthens your professional presence.
3. Ties (optional)
If wearing one, keep it simple: small patterns or solids, nothing flashy.
4. Grooming
- Neatly trimmed beard or clean shave
- Tamed eyebrows
- Light moisturizer or powder to reduce shine
5. Accessories
Avoid smart watches unless they match the look. No large logos or bold jewelry.
What Women Should Wear for Corporate Headshots
1. Solid-colored blouses
Structured, matte fabrics work better than shiny or sheer materials.
2. Blazers or tailored layers
These define the shoulders and create clean lines on camera.
3. Necklines that flatter
Choose V-neck, scoop, boat neck, or crew neck. Avoid overly low cuts or bulky turtlenecks.
4. Jewelry
Stick to minimal pieces—small hoops, studs, or delicate necklaces.
5. Makeup & grooming
Natural but polished: matte foundation, defined brows, and neutral lip color.
Branding Photography vs. Corporate Headshots
Certain outfits work better depending on the type of session you book.
Corporate Headshots
- More formal
- Neutral colors
- Clean lines
- Consistent across a company team
Branding Photography
- More personality
- Layered outfits
- Pops of color
- Industry-specific styling
Entrepreneurs, creators, and medical or wellness professionals often prefer branding-style outfits.
What to Avoid in Professional Headshots
- Distracting prints
- Shiny fabrics
- Clothing with visible wrinkles
- Deep V-necks or overly tight tops
- Bulky scarves
- Large watches or statement jewelry
- Hats or sunglasses
The goal is to keep the focus on your expression—not your outfit.
How to Prepare the Day Before Your Headshot
- Steam or iron clothing
- Try on each outfit in natural light
- Hydrate and rest
- Touch up nails, beard, brows, or hair
- Pack lint roller, lip balm, and powder (if needed)
Small details make a major difference in the final image.
Final Tips for a Confident, Professional Look
- Sit up tall—good posture photographs well
- Wear what feels like “your best self”
- Choose clothing that matches your career goals
- Trust your photographer’s coaching
A great headshot is a collaboration between wardrobe, posing, lighting, and expression.
Ready for Your St. Louis Corporate Headshot?
If you’re updating your LinkedIn photo, refreshing your company profile, or preparing for a speaking engagement, we’re here to help you look your best.
Professional lighting, clean posing, and expert guidance ensure your headshot feels modern, confident, and unmistakably you.
