Choose Colors That Elevate Your Look:

Rich, timeless hues like deep green, classic maroon, cream, black, and muted metallics create a sophisticated, heirloom feel perfect for this year’s elegant setting. These shades pair beautifully with the minimal white backdrop, adding warmth and depth without overpowering your photos.

Avoid overly bright or neon colors, as they can clash with the understated elegance of the scene. Instead, opt for classic tones that let your family’s connection and the timeless holiday atmosphere shine.

Be Thoughtful with Patterns:

Subtle patterns and rich textures—like delicate plaids, soft herringbone, or classic cable knits—can add depth and timeless charm to your portraits. Avoid busy or overly small patterns, such as tiny stripes or micro-checks, as they can create distracting effects on camera. When in doubt, I’m always here to help you choose patterns that will photograph beautifully and complement the elegant, minimal backdrop.

Dress to Impress:

This year’s timeless, refined setting is the perfect opportunity to elevate your look! Choose dressier outfits in classic styles and high-quality fabrics—think velvet, wool, knits, or crisp cottons—which translate beautifully on camera and add to the heirloom feel of your portraits.

Skip casual t-shirts or athletic wear, and instead opt for structured pieces like dresses, skirts, blazers, or tailored pants. While dressing up is encouraged, make sure you still feel comfortable and authentic—when you feel confident, it shows in every joyful, carefree moment we capture!

Try your clothes on in advance. Make sure they fit – and cover you in all the right places at all times. You may be standing, sitting, walking…or wrangling a toddler. Make sure your outfit allows for those activities.

Accessorize with Intention:

Thoughtful accessories can elevate your portraits and add a personal touch to your timeless holiday photos. Consider classic pieces like velvet hair bows, simple pearl or gold jewelry, dressy shoes, or tailored belts to complement your elegant outfits. Don’t hesitate to bring along a special family heirloom—like a cherished locket, watch, or ring—to make your session even more meaningful. Layers, such as a structured coat or a refined shawl, can also add beautiful depth and texture, perfect for this year’s sophisticated, heirloom-inspired setting.

Avoid Logos and Slogans:

When choosing your outfits, steer clear of any obvious branding logos or large graphics on clothing, as they can detract from the timelessness of your photos. The same goes for Christmas-themed slogans, Santa images, or other large holiday designs. While these are undoubtedly cute, they don’t photograph as well and can take away from the elegant, classic look we’re aiming for.

Still Unsure About What to Wear?

If you’re feeling stuck or unsure about outfit choices, don’t worry—you can always reach out! I’m happy to help you plan your family’s outfits or give feedback on what you’ve already picked out. Together, we can make sure everyone looks and feels great for your session!

Here are some suggestions for places to buy outfits:

Amazon – always a favorite to find great clothes that arrive quickly!

SHEIN - so many affordable options for the whole family! Be sure to plan early to allow for shipping

Temu - similar to SHEIN, lots of options (I've placed many orders, it's legit)

Baltic Born – beautiful dresses

Lulus – this site is also great for women’s dresses

Petal & Pup – women’s clothing

Janie and Jack – children’s clothing

Etsy – what can’t you find on Etsy??

Old Navy – great for the whole family

J.Crew – great for the whole family