Capturing beautiful family moments through photography is a cherished tradition, and selecting the perfect outfits for your family session can make all the difference. Whether you’re dressing up your little ones or coordinating with teenagers and adults, this outfit guide will help you make stylish and age-appropriate choices for every season.
What to Wear for Family Photos
Before we dive in to what you should wear for your family photos, let’s start with some general advice!
Choose coordinating outfits over matching outfits
I recommend coordinating rather than completely matching with your family. For example, avoid wearing the same color or patterned shirt. Instead, use the color palettes shown for each season as an example, and incorporate complimentary colors into each member of your family’s outfits.
Keep bold patterns to a minimum
I am all for incorporating a nice floral print or a patterned shirt into your photos, but try to balance the patterns out with solid/neutral colors. Having too many bold colors and/or patterns involved can make your photos feel too busy.
Where to shop for family photo outfits
There are so many options for cute, stylish, and affordable outfits for your whole family. Here are some of my favorites!
- Old Navy: Affordable pricing and often has seasonal collections for the whole family!
- Target: Affordable, convenient, and stylish.
- Etsy: Great for finding unique pieces in a variety of styles and sizes.
- Lulu’s: Wide selection of feminine clothing for every season.
- Anthropologie: Boho-style feminine pieces.
- Nordstrom: Carries a variety of styles at different price points for every member of the family.
Spring:
Infants and Toddlers (0-3 years):
- Rompers or onesies in soft, pastel colors
- Flowy dresses for girls
- Soft, comfortable pants or leggings for both boys and girls
- Knit cardigans or lightweight sweaters for layering
- Cute hats or headbands for added charm
Preschoolers (4-6 years):
- Fun printed dresses for girls
- Button-up shirts or polo shirts for boys
- Denim or colored shorts for both boys and girls
- Skirts with playful patterns for girls
- Sneakers or cute sandals for both boys and girls
School-Age Children (7-12 years):
- Button-down shirts in soft colors for boys
- Floral or patterned tops for girls
- Khaki pants or colored jeans for both boys and girls
- Denim jackets or lightweight utility jackets for layering
- Canvas sneakers or ballet flats for both boys and girls
Women:
- Flowy maxi dresses in floral prints or pastel colors
- Blouses with subtle patterns or embroidery
- Tailored pants or cropped trousers in light colors
- Lightweight cardigans or drapey kimonos for layering
- Statement jewelry such as layered necklaces or hoop earrings
Men:
- Light-colored button-up shirts in linen or cotton
- Chinos or tailored trousers in neutral tones
- Polo shirts or henley shirts in soft colors
- V-neck sweaters or lightweight knit pullovers for layering
- Casual blazers in light fabrics like linen or cotton
Unisex Options:
- Classic denim jackets or vests
- White or striped T-shirts
- Converse-style sneakers or slip-on canvas shoes
Gender-Inclusive Styles:
- Oversized button-up shirts worn as outerwear
- Joggers or track pants in neutral colors
- Graphic tees with nature-inspired prints or geometric designs
- Hoodies or sweatshirts in muted tones
- Comfortable slip-on shoes or loafers in neutral shades
Outfit Advice for Spring Family Photos:
- Spring is all about embracing the rejuvenation of nature. Opt for fresh and vibrant colors.
- Layers work well as the weather can be unpredictable. Consider light cardigans or vests for added style and comfort.
Take a look at these few ideas for color palettes & corresponding outfit ideas. You can see how the colors in each palette complement each other, creating a cohesive yet contrasted visually appealing look, and ensuring each member of your family can find an outfit they feel good in.
Continue scrolling for outfit ideas for Summer, Fall, and Winter…
Summer:
Infants and Toddlers (0-3 years):
- Lightweight cotton rompers or onesies in cheerful colors or fun patterns
- Sleeveless sundresses or tunics for girls with breathable fabrics
- Soft cotton shorts or bloomers for both boys and girls
- Sun hats or visors to shield delicate skin from the sun
Preschoolers (4-6 years):
- Bright printed T-shirts or tank tops for boys with playful graphics
- Lightweight cotton shorts or skorts for girls in vibrant hues or floral prints
- Flowy skirts or dresses for girls with breathable fabrics
- Sporty sandals or water shoes for outdoor adventures
School-Age Children (7-12 years):
- Short-sleeve button-up shirts or polo shirts in bold colors or tropical prints for boys
- Lightweight cotton shorts or cargo shorts for boys and girls in fun patterns
- Capri pants or Bermuda shorts for girls in bright colors or geometric prints
- Lightweight hoodies or zip-up jackets for cooler evenings
Women:
- Airy sundresses or maxi dresses in tropical prints or bright solids
- Breathable cotton tops or tank tops with fun patterns or embellishments
- Cropped pants or Bermuda shorts in light and airy fabrics
- Wide-brimmed hats or stylish sunglasses for added sun protection
- Colorful statement accessories like beaded bracelets or woven belts
Men:
- Casual short-sleeve shirts in bold colors or Hawaiian prints
- Lightweight linen or cotton shorts in neutral tones or bright shades
- Canvas sneakers or sandals
- Straw hats or baseball caps for a relaxed summer vibe
- Stylish watches or leather bracelets
Unisex Options:
- Lightweight denim jackets for cooler evenings
- Breathable cotton T-shirts in summery hues or stripes
- Canvas slip-on shoes or espadrilles
Gender-Inclusive Styles:
- Oversized linen shirts for a relaxed and breathable look
- Elastic-waist shorts or skirts for comfort and versatility
- Button-ups or patterned shirts with summer-themed or retro prints
- Lightweight hoodies or zip-up jackets for chilly nights
- Canvas sneakers or slip-on shoes in versatile colors for all-day wear
Outfit Advice for Summer Family Photos:
- Summer calls for light, breathable fabrics to keep everyone cool and comfortable in the heat.
- Incorporate pops of bright colors and playful patterns.
- Don’t forget sun protection! Encourage wearing hats and sunscreen to stay safe.
- Consider versatile pieces that can transition from daytime heat to evening breeze with ease.
Autumn
Infants and Toddlers (0-3 years):
- Cozy knit rompers or overalls in warm earth tones or autumnal hues
- Long-sleeve bodysuits or tunics in soft, organic cotton for layering
- Corduroy pants or leggings in rich colors like rust or olive green
- Knit beanies or bonnets to keep little heads warm on crisp days
Preschoolers (4-6 years):
- Chunky knit sweaters or cardigans in fall colors like mustard or burgundy for boys and girls
- Denim jeans or corduroy pants in classic hues for easy mix-and-match outfits
- Printed long-sleeve shirts or blouses in seasonal patterns like plaid or leaf motifs
- Sturdy boots or ankle booties
School-Age Children (7-12 years):
- Flannel shirts or button-up shirts in autumnal plaids or checks for boys
- Knit sweaters or pullovers in cozy textures like cable-knit or chenille for girls
- Dark-wash jeans or twill pants for versatile bottoms that pair well with any top
- Quilted vests or lightweight jackets for added warmth without bulk
Women:
- Chunky knit cardigans or duster sweaters in neutral tones or warm shade
- Medium-length or long dresses with sleeves
- Plaid or flannel button-up shirts
- Skinny jeans or corduroy pants in deep, rich colors
- Ankle boots or knee-high boots in leather or suede
- Accessorize with scarves in rich colors or fall-inspired prints like paisley or floral
Men:
- Classic crew-neck sweaters or v-neck pullovers in fall colors
- Button-up shirts in plaid or check patterns
- Slim-fit jeans or chinos in versatile earth tones
- Leather loafers or suede desert boots
- Finish off with a stylish watch or leather belt
Unisex Options:
- Cozy knit cardigans or hoodies for layering
- Basic long-sleeve T-shirts in autumnal colors like burnt orange or mustard yellow
- Lace-up boots or sneakers in neutral tones
Gender-Inclusive Styles:
- Oversized flannel shirts or shackets
- Cargo pants or utility trousers in durable fabrics
- Graphic sweatshirts with nature-inspired designs or vintage logos
- Beanies or knit caps in neutral colors or fun patterns
Advice:
- Autumn is all about embracing the warmth and richness of the season’s colors.
- Layering is key for staying comfortable as temperatures fluctuate. Mix and match different textures and weights for added depth and interest to your family’s outfits.
- Incorporate cozy fabrics like knitwear, corduroy, and flannel for a cozy and stylish look.
- Don’t forget to accessorize with scarves, hats, and boots to add personality and flair to your outfits.
Winter:
Infants and Toddlers (0-3 years):
- Fleece-lined onesies or snowsuits in soft pastels or classic neutrals
- Chunky knit sweaters or hoodies for cozy layering
- Fleece-lined leggings or thermal pants for added warmth
- Fuzzy ear muffs or knit hats with pom-poms
Preschoolers (4-6 years):
- Puffer jackets or parkas in bold colors for boys and girls
- Fleece-lined leggings or thermal pants for girls in festive patterns or colors
- Knit sweaters or thermal shirts for boys
- Insulated snow pants or overalls for snowy days
School-Age Children (7-12 years):
- Quilted jackets or down coats in stylish designs for boys
- Knit sweaters or pullovers in seasonal patterns
- Fleece-lined jeans or insulated pants for both boys and girls
- Waterproof boots or snow boots for the snow
Women:
- Wool pea coats or tailored wool-blend coats
- Cashmere sweaters or turtlenecks
- Fleece-lined leggings or thermal tights for layering under skirts or dresses
- Stylish knit beanies or faux fur-trimmed hats
- Accessorize with statement scarves or faux fur stoles
Men:
- Durable down jackets or parkas in sleek designs
- Chunky knit sweaters or cable-knit pullovers
- Insulated trousers or wool-blend pants
- Leather gloves
- Complete the ensemble with a cozy knit scarf or plaid flannel scarf
Unisex Options:
- Classic wool pea coats or toggle coats for outerwear
- Basic thermal tops or fleece-lined hoodies
- Insulated snow pants or bib overalls
Gender-Inclusive Styles:
- Oversized puffer jackets or parkas
- Knit beanies or slouchy hats in neutral colors or bold stripes
- Graphic sweatshirts with winter-themed designs or retro logos
- Faux fur-lined boots or waterproof boots
Advice:
- Winter calls for practicality without sacrificing style. Choose warm, insulated outerwear and layer up with cozy knits and thermals.
- Accessorize with hats, scarves, and gloves to keep everyone warm and stylish.
- Opt for waterproof or water-resistant footwear to keep feet dry and warm in snowy or slushy conditions.
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