Best senior photographer in Ann Arbor

Senior girl what to wear do’s and don’ts

For some seniors, choosing what to wear is the most stressful part of their senior photos! I want to help minimize that stress as much as possible. Check out the following do’s and don’ts before you start shopping for your senior picture outfits.

Best michigan senior photographer

Do – Have variety within your outfits

You want to have variety in your outfit choices to get the most out of your session. If the categories of fashion goes from very casual to very fancy, don’t have all of your outfits fall into one category. Similaurly, don’t where all the same type of pieces (all dresses for example) or all the same color across all your outfits. In short, go for variety.

Don’t – Shop without a plan

Going to the mall, store or shopping online without a plan of what you want or need can lead to a lot of stress and frustration. I always recommend seeing what you own first. It doesn’t sound like as much fun as shopping, however, it can help. You may find you already own options to consider, including items you’d like to wear but need other pieces to make it senior picture worthy. You can also look through my welcome magazine, Instagram and Pinterest to see what type of fashion you’re drawn to and what you don’t like.

Plymouth Michigan senior photographer

Do – Consider your undergarments

Your bra and underwear aren’t a last-minute add. Try on all of your outfits WITH the bra and underwear you’re going to wear the day of the shoot. Get in front of a full-length mirror and have someone check you from all angles! Pink underwear under a white dress or bra straps showing is a don’t!

Don’t – Wear skirts and dresses that are too short

This one doesn’t need an explanation. When skirts and dresses are too short it limits the poses we can do. It can also make you uncomfortable and self-conscious during the shoot and I’m all about relaxed fun vibes!

Novi Michigan senior photographer

Do – Plan ahead

You don’t have to pull your outfits together six months before, but you don’t want to wait until the last minute either! Start considering what you’re going to wear about a month before your shoot. That gives you plenty of time to get inspired and shop. If you’re ordering online, make sure to give yourself enough time for the items to come and for you to be able to shop for something else if they don’t work for whatever reason.

Don’t – Forget accessories

Shoes, bracelets, earrings, necklaces, hats, belts, etc. make a difference in an outfit. The smaller details can take an outfit to the next level. Whether you wear statement earrings, a simple necklace or cowboy boots have fun and choose accessories you

Senior girl what to wear tips

Do – Consider your location

Different outfits fit in different locations. Consider if your outfits work in the location you choose. It’s usually best to choose your location(s) or clothing first and then choose the opposite with the first in mind.

Don’t – Have wrinked clothes

Wrinkles aren’t a good look. Make sure to have your clothes ironed and hanging on hooks. Don’t shove them into a bag where everything will be a wrinked mess before we even start your shoot.

Senior portraits what to wear tips

Do – Ask for help if you need it

My senior girls get a welcome magazine in the real life mail, full of inspiration but I always want to help take as much of the stress out of what to wear, as I can! If you’re struggling or stressed reach out!

Don’t – Be afraid to show your personality

These are your senior portraits! Don’t be afraid to show your personality with your style. If you’re sporty, wear an outfit that reflects that. Are you uncomfortable in dresses, there is no rule that you have to wear a dress. The goal is always for you to have fun and be comfortable and that goes for your style too!

To get my inquiry guide click here!

Senior portraits what to wear series

Jun 13, 2025

SHARE ON:

give me a shout

northville studio and on-location in ann arbor, detroit and beyond
kelli@purpletreephotography.com

what session type are you interested in?

if you do not hear from me within 24 hours please check your
spam folder and give me a shout back if you don't see anything.

thank you