The Best Colors to Wear for Headshots (and What to Avoid!)

Feb 193 min read

Spoiler alert: What you wear in your headshot actually matters—A LOT.

A wide, landscape-oriented flat lay of professional clothing options for a business-themed editorial. The selection includes tailored blazers, structured dresses, sleek blouses, and accessories in a range of neutral, bold, and classic colors, ideal for professional headshots.

If you've ever stood in front of your closet before a photoshoot wondering “What on earth do I wear?”—you’re not alone.

Here’s the thing: Your headshot is often the first impression people have of you. And while lighting, posing, and expression all play a role, the color of your outfit can seriously impact how you’re perceived.

So, let’s break down the best colors to wear for headshots (and which ones to avoid) so you can walk into your session looking and feeling confident!

1. The Psychology of Color in Headshots

A flat lay of professional clothing options ideal for personal branding and entrepreneurs. The selection features tailored blazers, structured dresses, fitted blouses, pencil skirts, and classic accessories in neutral and soft tones, creating a polished and sophisticated look for business professionals.

Color isn’t just about fashion—it’s about perception. People make snap judgments in seconds, and what you wear plays into that.

📸 Blue: Trustworthy, reliable, professional (which is why it’s a top choice for corporate headshots).
📸 Black: Classic, timeless, and gives off an air of sophistication and authority.
📸 Neutrals (gray, beige, taupe): Clean, modern, and perfect for a subtle, understated look.
📸 Jewel tones (emerald green, deep blue, burgundy, plum): Flattering on nearly everyone, these colors add depth and richness without being overwhelming.
📸 Soft pastels (blush, lavender, sky blue): Great for a fresh and approachable feel, especially for personal branding.

2. Best Colors to Wear Based on the Purpose of Your Headshots

A flat lay of stylish, professional clothing for corporate and business headshots. The selection includes a structured navy blue blazer, a crisp white button-up shirt, a classic black suit jacket, a tailored olive green dress, a taupe collared shirt, and sophisticated accessories such as a leather briefcase, black heels, a wristwatch, cufflinks, and elegant notebooks for a polished and refined look.

💼 For Corporate & Business Headshots

Stick with navy, charcoal, deep greens, or crisp white under a blazer.
Avoid overly bright colors that feel casual or distracting.
A polished, professional look is the goal!

👩‍🎨 For Personal Branding & Entrepreneurs

Colors should align with your brand!
Example: A life coach might want soft, welcoming tones (blush, warm neutrals), while a CEO might go for bold blues or black.
Avoid neons and colors that don’t match your brand’s aesthetic.

A stylish flat lay of creative yet professional clothing for headshots. The ensemble includes a structured emerald green blouse with a cinched waist belt, a burnt orange cropped blazer, a sophisticated navy wrap top, and a chic camel-toned blouse with a matching silk scarf. Accessories include black pointed-toe heels, gold statement jewelry, black-framed glasses, and a navy pleated skirt, creating a bold yet polished aesthetic ideal for personal branding and business photography.

🎭 For Creative Headshots (Actors, Artists, Dancers, etc.)

Don’t be afraid to show personality with bold or unique colors that fit your style.
Deep reds, purples, or even an edgy black look amazing on camera.

3. What to Avoid in Headshots

🚫 Neon Colors & Super Bright Shades – They reflect light and can make your skin look unnatural.
🚫 Busy Patterns, Stripes & Logos – They distract from your face (which should be the focus!).
🚫 Colors Too Close to Your Skin Tone – If your outfit blends into your skin, it can make you look washed out on camera.

4. How to Choose the Best Color for YOU

A flat lay of professional clothing options ideal for headshots, featuring structured and form-fitting pieces in navy, charcoal, deep green, and crisp white. The selection includes tailored blazers, pleated and ribbed tops, classic button-down shirts, and a fitted cardigan, paired with sleek black heels—offering a polished, sophisticated look perfect for corporate and business photography.

One color doesn’t fit all. Your skin tone, hair color, and background choice all matter when picking your best headshot look.

👩🏽‍🦰 Warm Skin Tones (golden, olive, deep tans) – Look amazing in earthy tones like rust, mustard, warm greens, and deep reds.
👩🏼 Cool Skin Tones (fair, pink undertones) – Shine in jewel tones like sapphire, emerald, and deep purples.
👩🏿 Neutral Skin Tones – Can rock almost anything but look especially stunning in rich tones like deep blues and teals.

5. Want Help? Let’s Plan Your Perfect Headshot Look Together!

Still not sure what to wear? That’s what I’m here for.

During my headshot sessions, I help clients choose the best colors and outfits for their specific look and brand. No guesswork—just confidence.

✨ Bonus: I even offer wardrobe consultations, so you walk in knowing you’ll look amazing!

📅 Ready to book your headshot session? Click here to schedule your consultation today!

Three stylish women pose confidently in a modern urban setting, dressed in chic, monochromatic outfits with structured silhouettes. Their bold stance, statement boots, and layered ensembles exude power and sophistication, embodying contemporary fashion with a strong, editorial edge.

Final Thoughts: Wear What Makes You Feel Confident!

While color psychology is great, confidence is key. If you feel amazing in what you’re wearing, it’ll show on camera.

Now, tell me in the comments—what’s your go-to color when you want to feel powerful and put-together?

💬 Let’s chat! Contact Me!