When I get the call from a new client about scheduling a headshot session with me in my Vienna, VA studio, the most common question I get after how much it costs and where are you located is, "What should I wear?"

Now default advice that I have given in the past has been things like make sure things fit well, are ironed, avoid busy patterns, etc. . .  And while that kind of advice is great and important, it definitely is not enough.

Modern professionals need more than a headshot that makes them look friendly, confident, and competent.  The professional image you put out into the world also needs to capture your personality and make the person looking at it feel like they are already getting to know and like you.  It doesn't matter if you are climbing the corporate ladder, building a brand, or making a professional pivot, your wardrobe choice can either help or hurt that first impression.

As someone who feels like they are a bit style challenged, these are three "rules" that I have been trying to adopt in my professional images.  Maybe these will help you too.  

1. Choose Colors That Reflect Your Energy (Not Just What’s "Safe")

Navy is nice. Gray is fine. But if those colors don’t feel like you, they’re not doing you any favors. 

If you go back in time on my social media, you will see that I always used to be photographed on a dark gray background in some sort of dark or navy top.  I wanted to blend in and not call too much attention to myself.  I was trying to hide in plain sight.  I didn't like the way I looked so that is what felt most comfortable for me. 

But the fact is that almost everyone who saw these images told me, "Dorie, that isn't who you are.  You are bright, bold, and full of energy."  The colors I chose for myself visually didn't match who I was as a person.  

Now I can easily say that I was hiding because I didn't like the way I looked on the outside, and I needed to take several years to work on that and get myself to a place where I didn't feel I needed to hide.  But in the process of working on my own issues, I discovered that no one else cared about what I weighed or what I looked like.   However, they could feel a disconnect in the images on my sites and what I was like in real life.

Instead of trying to hide or trying to camouflage who you are or what you look like, consider what kind of energy you bring into the room.  Let your color choices echo that.

Soft neutrals (like taupe, olive, or blush) convey approachability.

Jewel tones (like emerald, sapphire, or burgundy) radiate confidence and creativity.

Want to come across as bold and driven? A saturated red blouse or a cobalt blue blazer might be your secret weapon.

Pro Tip: What are the colors that, when you wear them, you always get compliments?  For me, it is shades of green and blue.  What colors make your eyes pop and sparkle?  Choose those shades. 

2. Layer with Intention: Your Jacket, Accessories, or Sweaters can Speak Volumes

Your outermost layer says a lot about your vibe. A structured blazer? Classic, powerful, no-nonsense. A leather moto jacket? Edgy, confident, maybe a little rebellious. A cozy cardigan or soft wrap? Warm, grounded, and friendly.

Think about what your top layer communicates and whether it supports the story you want your headshot to tell. You don’t need to dress like someone you’re not, but you do want your clothes to reinforce your credibility and give a glimpse into who you are beyond the LinkedIn profile.

 Pro Tip: Avoid over-layering. Keep the lines clean and flattering, and make sure your outfit works well when seated or standing—headshot sessions often involve both.

 3. Use Texture and Accessories to Add Interest Without Overpowering

Headshots are about the face first, but that doesn’t mean the rest has to be boring.

If your style leans minimalist, consider adding depth through subtle texture.  Try adding tweed, silk, linen, or ribbed knits. If you’re a maximalist at heart, accessories like a bold necklace, colorful glasses, or a patterned scarf can elevate your look without stealing focus.

The goal is to give your outfit just enough personality so people remember you, not the loud floral shirt or jangly earrings that take over the frame.

Pro Tip: Keep accessories proportional.  Anything too big can become a distraction. If you're unsure, bring a few options to your session. We can try different things so you have lots of options to choose from. 

Final Thoughts

Your professional headshot is your digital handshake. It is WAY more than just a profile picture.  In a world where people often meet you online before they meet you in person, the impression you make through that photo matters.

So ditch the cookie-cutter wardrobe tips and use your outfit to highlight what makes you uniquely you. Because when your headshot reflects both your professionalism and your personality? That’s when it really starts working for you.

Need a new headshot or just want to discuss working with me?  I would love to hear from you.  Hit that button and let's get started toward a great new professional image.