So you’ve got your family photo session scheduled. You’ve chosen the date and the ideal time of day, working around meals, naps, traffic, and work schedules. Now comes the big question. What on earth are you going to wear?
Choosing outfits for a family can seem a little daunting, but don’t let it stress you out! I’ve compiled a list of tips to help you choose that stellar combination that will rock your photo frames and create a killer holiday card. I’ve also consulted with The Patchery, a design-your-own clothing company offering truly one-of-a-kind clothing and expert service.
- Choose your color scheme. The idea is to coordinate, not get too matchy-match. Pick 2-3 colors and try to work them into each outfit in varying degrees. When choosing your colors, think about what colors generally look good on everyone and what colors would work well with your current home decor for framing and displaying your images after the session. (The Patchery Tip: Our fabric collections are designed to work together, so you can feel confident about coordinating if you stay within a collection.)
- Pick your feature outfits. Choose one or two outfits that are more bold in color or pattern and keep the rest simple. Often it is the mom or child’s outfit that is a bit more bold and the rest of the family wears colors that compliment the “feature” outfit. This way, the outfits coordinate without being too “busy” and still allow for each person to have their own unique look. (The Patchery Tip: Mom’s outfit or girls’ dresses are often chosen/created as the centerpiece outfit, but boys tees can make amazing stand-out pieces as well.)

- Layer. Autumn is fast-approaching and layering your clothing is a must to keep warm. Layering different colors and textures also creates depth and interest in photos. Fuzzy furs, flowing fabrics, cozy scarves, and starchy denims look great in photos. Layering is also a fantastic way to get year-round use out of your favorite shirts or dresses. (The Patchery Tip: The Kangaroo Dress and the Kimono dress are great fall/winter options, but you can also layer under the Swing Dress or over the Tank Dress to wear them all year round. And, don’t forget the leggings!)
- Keep it low-maintenance. Remember that you are dressing for a photo session, not an interview. You want to feel gorgeous, but be relaxed and comfortable in what you are wearing. You should be dressed appropriately for the weather and able to move easily and confidently. Keep clothing and hair accessories as low maintenance as possible. The last thing anyone wants during a session is to have a wardrobe malfunction! (The Patchery Tip: The Organic collections are a bit heavier weight than non-organic, so they make great fall tees, dresses, and leggings. And of course, all Patchery fabrics are soft and comfortable.)
- Don’t break the bank. Don’t feel like you have to buy brand new outfits for the whole family. Its very likely that you already have some great items. Scour your closets for items you can use, such as denim pants or solid tees. Once you’ve assessed what you have, you will have a better idea of what you might need to tie the pieces together. If you do need to purchase items, try to go for things that you will get a lot of future use. (The Patchery Promise: First-time orders receive 20% off with email sign-up, free shipping, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee.)
Be sure to check out The Patchery for fabric collections and inspiration. Designing your own pieces can be easier and a heck of a lot more fun than scouring stores for just the right items. And no matter what “look” you choose or where you find your clothes, come to your photo session ready to let your personalities shine, because the most important part of the photograph is YOU!

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