Creating a professional corporate headshot requires careful consideration. After all, your headshot wardrobe visually communicates about you -- your character and values. In business headshots and corporate portraits in Dallas, TX, you need to convey competence, approachability, and alignment with the company’s brand and culture.
The best clothing choices for men and women depend on factors such as industry, company culture, personal style, and the intended use of the headshot. Below is a comprehensive guide on what corporate men and women should currently wear for business headshots -- covering general principles, specific recommendations, and tips for various industries.
General Principles for Corporate Headshot Attire
Before diving into specific recommendations, it’s important to understand the overarching principles that guide clothing choices for corporate headshots:
- Professionalism: The attire should reflect a polished, professional image that aligns with the individual’s role and the company’s values. Avoid overly casual or distracting clothing.
- Fit: Well-fitted clothing enhances appearance and conveys attention to detail. Ill-fitting garments, whether too tight or too loose, can distract from the subject’s face.
- Neutrality and Timelessness: Opt for classic styles and colors that won’t date the photo. Trends like bold patterns or flashy accessories may look outdated in a few years.
- Color Palette: Neutral, solid colors or subtle patterns work best, as they keep the focus on the face. Avoid bright, neon colors or busy patterns that can overwhelm the image.
- Industry Alignment: The attire should reflect the norms of the industry. For example, a tech startup may favor business casual, while a law firm may require formal business attire.
- Grooming and Accessories: Clean, well-groomed hair, minimal makeup (for women), and understated accessories ensure the focus remains on the individual’s face and expression.
- Comfort and Confidence: Wearing something comfortable and confidence-boosting helps the subject appear relaxed and authentic in the photo.
What Men Should Wear for Corporate Headshots
1. Suits and Jackets
For most corporate headshots, especially in traditional industries like finance, law, or consulting, a suit is the gold standard for men. Here’s how to choose the right one:
- Color: Navy, charcoal, or dark gray suits are universally professional and versatile. Black suits can be too stark for headshots, as they may absorb light and create harsh contrasts. For less formal industries, medium gray or lighter shades like blue can work.
- Fit: A tailored suit is essential. Ensure the jacket fits snugly through the shoulders and chest without pulling or bunching. The collar should sit flat against the neck. But note: only the suit jacket will show and pants will not show in a headshot.
- Fabric: Wool or wool-blend suits with a smooth finish photograph well. Avoid shiny fabrics or heavy textures like tweed, which can distract in close-up shots.
- Single vs. Double-Breasted: Single-breasted suits are more versatile and modern. Double-breasted suits usually end up appearing overly formal and not contemporary.
Example: A navy single-breasted suit with a subtle pinstripe can convey authority and approachability for a corporate executive in a financial firm.
2. Dress Shirts
The dress shirt is a critical component, as it’s highly visible in a headshot.
- Color: White or light blue dress shirts are clearly the best choices here. White provides a crisp, clean look, while light blue adds warmth and approachability. Pastels like pale pink or cream can work in creative industries but should be used cautiously.
- Fit: Choose a fitted or tailored dress shirt to avoid excess fabric around the neck or shoulders. A properly fitted collar is crucial, as it frames the face.
- Collar Style: A spread or point collar works well for most headshots. As for button-down collars, some say they are too casual for this purpose, but I tend to disagree. My experience says that part does not really matter.
- Cuffs: French cuffs with subtle cufflinks can add sophistication, but barrel cuffs are simpler and more versatile. However, cuffs rarely show in a headshot. Thus, the cuff matters only when wearing the shirt in the office or at meetings, and not in the headshot itself.
Tip: Ensure the shirt is freshly pressed with no visible wrinkles, as these can be magnified in high-resolution headshots. Also my usual Dallas photoshoot location for business headshots provides separate men and women's changing rooms, and I recommend bringing your shirt / jacket in on a hanger, and then changing right before your photos to keep your clothes crisp.
3. Ties
A tie is often expected in formal corporate settings but may be optional in creative or tech industries.
- Color and Pattern: Solid or subtly patterned ties in colors like navy, burgundy, or gray are ideal. Avoid loud colors, novelty ties, or overly intricate patterns that draw attention away from the face.
- Width: Medium-width ties (2.5–3 inches) are timeless. Skinny ties may look trendy but can date the photo, while overly wide ties can appear outdated.
- Knot: A classic Windsor or half-Windsor knot looks polished and proportionate. Either knkow style works just fine! Ensure the knot is neat and the tie length reaches the belt buckle (though this may not be visible in a headshot).
Example: A navy suit, white dress shirt, and burgundy tie with a subtle geometric pattern create a balanced, professional look for a lawyer or consultant.
4. Business Casual Options
For industries like tech, marketing, or startups, business casual attire it better. And this does NOT mean no jacket as I strongly advise to wear a suit jacket or a sport coat, but no tie. You see
- Blazers: A well-fitted blazer in navy, gray, or a subtle pattern (e.g., houndstooth) paired with dress trousers or chinos works well. Avoid overly casual fabrics like linen.
- Shirts: A collared dress shirt or a high-quality polo in a solid color can work. Avoid T-shirts or casual button-downs with loud patterns!
- No Tie: Skipping the tie can soften the look, but ensure the shirt’s collar is crisp and well-fitted to maintain professionalism.
Example: A navy blazer, light blue dress shirt, and khaki chinos suit a tech startup founder aiming for a polished yet approachable vibe.
5. Accessories and Grooming
- Cufflinks: If wearing French cuffs, choose simple, understated cufflinks in silver or gold tones.
- Watches: A classic watch can be worn but should be discreet, as it may not be fully visible in a headshot.
- Glasses: Clean, non-reflective glasses are fine. Avoid tinted lenses or frames that dominate the face.
- Grooming: A fresh haircut, clean shave or neatly trimmed facial hair, and minimal cologne are essential. Avoid shiny skin by using matte powder if needed.
6. Industry-Specific Considerations
- Finance, Law, Consulting: Stick to formal suits, white or light blue shirts, and conservative ties. Darker colors convey authority. I recommend either navy blue or medium-to-dark grey. A solid black jacket can be too much in 2025.
- Tech, Startups: A blazer / sport coat with a dress shirt as simple is best here. Avoid overly casual items like hoodies unless the brand explicitly embraces this aesthetic. Some suggest the sweater-over-collared shirt, but no, this is Texas where it is hot and sweaters look like you're trying too hard!
- Creative Industries (Advertising, Design): Incorporate subtle personality with a colored shirt or textured blazer, but maintain a polished look. Basically for these you can be more bold / expressive with your color choices.
- Healthcare: A suit or blazer is appropriate for administrative roles, while doctors may opt for a white coat over business attire for a professional yet industry-specific look.
What Women Should Wear for Corporate Headshots
1. Suits and Blazers
Women have more flexibility in corporate attire, but a suit or blazer remains a strong choice for formal industries.
- Color: Navy, charcoal, black, or gray suits are professional and versatile. For a softer look, consider muted tones like taupe or blush in less conservative industries.
- Fit: A tailored suit with a fitted blazer and trousers or a pencil skirt is ideal. Ensure the blazer cinches at the waist for a flattering silhouette.
- Style: Single-breasted blazers are universally flattering. Pant suits are modern and versatile, while skirt suits work well for traditional settings.
- Fabric: Smooth, high-quality fabrics like wool or wool blends photograph well. Avoid shiny or overly textured materials.
Example: A navy pant suit with a tailored blazer and matching trousers conveys confidence for a corporate executive.
2. Blouses and Tops
The blouse or top is a focal point in a headshot, so it should be polished and complementary.
- Color: Solid colors like white, ivory, light blue, or soft pastels work well. Jewel tones (e.g., emerald, sapphire) can add personality in creative industries.
- Neckline: A modest neckline, such as a crew neck, V-neck, or boat neck, is ideal. Avoid low-cut tops or overly high necklines that can appear dated.
- Fit: Choose a fitted or semi-fitted blouse to avoid excess fabric. Tuck the blouse in for a cleaner look if wearing a skirt or trousers.
- Material: Silk, cotton, or high-quality synthetics with a smooth finish photograph well. Avoid sheer or shiny fabrics that can reflect light.
Example: A white silk blouse with a subtle V-neck paired with a navy blazer is timeless and professional.
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| Variations on this kind of outfit are the most popular choice, for a very good reason. |
3. Dresses
A dress can be an excellent alternative to a suit or separates, especially for women in less formal industries.
- Style: A sheath dress or A-line dress in a solid color or subtle pattern is professional and flattering. Ensure the dress has a defined waist and a modest hemline (at or below the knee).
- Color: Neutral tones like navy, black, or gray are safe, while muted colors like burgundy or olive can work in creative fields.
- Layering: Pairing a dress with a blazer adds structure and professionalism, especially for formal industries.
Example: A navy sheath dress with a tailored blazer suits a marketing director aiming for a polished yet approachable look.
4. Business Casual Options
For industries with relaxed dress codes, business casual attire can strike the right balance.
- Blazers and Cardigans: A fitted blazer or structured cardigan over a blouse or dress adds polish without being overly formal.
- Tops: A high-quality knit top or collared blouse in a solid or subtle pattern works well. Avoid casual T-shirts or overly flowy tops.
- Pants or Skirts: Tailored trousers, chinos, or a pencil skirt in neutral tones are professional yet relaxed.
Example: A cream blouse with a gray cardigan and navy trousers suits a tech professional in a startup environment.
5. Accessories and Grooming
- Jewelry: Keep jewelry minimal and classic. Stud earrings, a delicate necklace, or a simple bracelet are sufficient. Avoid large, dangling pieces that distract from the face.
- Scarves: A silk scarf in a subtle pattern can add sophistication but should be neatly tied and not overpower the outfit.
- Makeup: Use natural, matte makeup to enhance features without looking overly dramatic. A neutral lip color, subtle foundation, and light eye makeup work best.
- Hair: Hair should be clean, styled, and professional. Avoid overly elaborate updos or loose styles that may obscure the face.
- Glasses: As with men, ensure glasses are clean and non-reflective. Choose frames that complement the face without dominating it.
6. Industry-Specific Considerations
- Finance, Law, Consulting: Opt for tailored suits or blazers with blouses in neutral colors. Avoid overly feminine details like ruffles or bright colors.
- Tech, Startups: A blazer over a blouse or a structured dress in a muted color works well. Incorporate subtle personality with accessories or colors.
- Creative Industries: Dresses or tops with subtle patterns or jewel tones can reflect creativity while maintaining professionalism.
- Healthcare: Administrative professionals can wear suits or blazers, while clinicians may opt for a white coat over business attire for a headshot that reflects their role.
Additional Tips for Both Men and Women
1. Preparing for the Shoot
- Iron and Steam Clothing: Wrinkles are highly visible in headshots, so ensure all garments are pressed and clean.
- Bring Options: Bring two or three outfit options to the shoot to allow the photographer to choose what works best with lighting and background.
- Check the Background: Coordinate clothing with the headshot background. For example, avoid wearing white against a white background, as it can wash out the subject.
- Test the Look: Try on the full outfit in advance and take a test photo to ensure it photographs well and aligns with the desired image.
2. Working with the Photographer
- Discuss the Purpose: Share the intended use of the headshot (e.g., LinkedIn, company website, marketing materials) so the photographer can tailor the lighting and framing.
- Pose and Expression: A slight smile and relaxed posture convey approachability. The photographer can guide you on angles that flatter your face and outfit.
- Lighting: Ensure the photographer uses soft, even lighting to avoid harsh shadows that can distort clothing colors or textures.
3. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overly Casual Attire: Even in relaxed industries, avoid jeans, T-shirts, or sneakers unless they align with the company’s brand.
- Busy Patterns: Stripes, checks, or loud prints can distract from the face and clash with backgrounds.
- Logos or Branding: Avoid clothing with visible logos, as they can appear unprofessional or promotional.
- Over-Accessorizing: Too many accessories or bold makeup can draw attention away from the face.
- Poor Fit: Ill-fitting clothing, whether too tight or too loose, can undermine a professional image.
4. Adapting to Company Culture
- Research the Company: Look at the company’s website, LinkedIn profiles, or existing headshots to gauge the dress code and tone.
- Ask for Guidance: If unsure, ask the company or photographer for specific recommendations to ensure alignment with expectations.
- Reflect Personal Brand: Choose attire that reflects your role and personality while adhering to industry norms.
Industry-Specific Outfit Examples
To illustrate how attire varies by industry, here are specific outfit examples for men and women in different sectors:
- Finance (Investment Banking)
- Men: Charcoal suit, white dress shirt, navy tie with a subtle pattern.
- Women: Black pant suit, ivory blouse, pearl stud earrings.
- Tech (Startup Founder)
- Men: Navy blazer, light blue dress shirt, no tie, khaki chinos.
- Women: Gray sheath dress, navy cardigan, simple necklace.
- Creative (Advertising Creative Director)
- Men: Gray blazer, pale pink dress shirt, no tie, textured trousers.
- Women: Emerald green blouse, black blazer, statement earrings (subtle).
- Healthcare (Hospital Administrator)
- Men: Navy suit, white shirt, burgundy tie.
- Women: Taupe skirt suit, cream blouse, simple bracelet.
What To Wear Conclusion
The best attire for corporate headshots depends on the individual’s industry, role, and company culture, but the goal is always to project professionalism, confidence, and approachability. For men, a well-fitted suit or blazer with a dress shirt and optional tie is a safe choice, while women can opt for suits, blouses, or dresses that balance polish with personal style. Neutral colors, tailored fits, and minimal accessories ensure the focus remains on the face, creating a timeless and effective headshot.
By preparing carefully, coordinating with the right photographer, and aligning with industry norms, both men and women can achieve a headshot that enhances their professional image. Enjoy the power and benefits of Dallas business headshots, done RIGHT at www.DallasBusinessHeadshots.com and call 877-858-0071 to book local photoshoots for individuals and offices alike.
