I believe holiday family photos are so important! Whether you’re planning to use them for cards, gifts, or just to update your gallery wall, what you wear can make a big difference in how timeless and beautiful your photos turn out. Here’s a simple guide to help you dress your crew in a way that feels elevated, coordinated, and festive, without looking overly matchy-matchy.
Stick to a Cozy, Classic Color Palette
Choose rich tones or neutrals that feel seasonal but won’t go out of style by next year. Here are some go-to palettes I recommend:
- Soft neutrals: Ivory, oatmeal, taupe, warm gray, soft blush
- Jewel tones: Deep burgundy, forest green, navy, mustard gold
- Holiday-inspired: Cranberry, pine, charcoal, cream — timeless & cozy
Avoid: bright reds, neon greens, or bold holiday prints (unless you’re intentionally going for a playful, loud look).
Outfit Tips by Family Member
For Moms & Girls:
- Think flowy sweaters, knit dresses, or soft florals layered with cardigans or boots.
- A velvet or cozy textured dress in a neutral or jewel tone photographs beautifully.
- Add a plaid scarf or hair bow for a subtle holiday touch.
For Dads & Boys:
- Stick with cable knit sweaters, henleys, or classic button-downs.
- Layer with a vest, shawl collar sweater, or flannel shirt in muted plaid tones.
- Corduroys or dark jeans complete the look.
Don’t Forget the Details
- Shoes: Neutral boots, loafers, or dressy sneakers keep things clean and polished.
- Accessories: Think scarves, hats, or even a cozy throw blanket for an outdoor session.
- Layers: The more texture, the better — knits, flannel, velvet, and soft wool all add warmth and interest in photos.
Quick Do’s and Don’ts
Do:
- Lay everyone’s outfits out ahead of time
- Keep your background in mind (tree farm? studio? your home?)
- Choose outfits that are comfortable but elevated
Don’t:
- Overdo patterns or match everyone in red & green
- Wear athletic shoes, flashy graphics, or novelty holiday prints
- Wait until the night before to plan, and trust, I’ve done this!
Need more personalized help choosing outfits? When you book a session with me, I’m happy to help you style your session and I’ll even send links!
