Outfit Guide for a Fall Engagement Session

February 21, 2025

Fall is one of the most beautiful times of the year for engagement photos. With golden leaves, cozy textures, and soft autumn light setting the perfect scene, it’s no wonder so many couples choose this season. However, figuring out what to wear can be tricky—how do you stay warm without looking bulky? How can you coordinate without being too matchy? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Here’s an outfit guide for a fall engagement session.

1. Start with a Fall-Inspired Color Palette

First and foremost, the colors you wear should complement the rich, warm hues of fall. Instead of bright, summery tones, opt for shades that enhance the natural beauty of the season. Some great options include:

Earthy Tones – Rust, mustard yellow, deep greens, and burnt orange pair beautifully with autumn landscapes.
Jewel Tones – Emerald, burgundy, navy, and plum add a bold yet elegant touch.
Neutrals – Beige, cream, and soft grays keep the focus on you while blending naturally with the background.

Tip: While white is a classic choice, overly bright whites can appear harsh against warm fall tones. Instead, consider softer shades like ivory or champagne.

2. Layer for Style and Warmth

Since fall weather can be unpredictable, layering is a great way to stay comfortable while adding depth to your look. Instead of bundling up in bulky coats, consider these stylish options:

A fitted blazer, cardigan, or denim jacket for a polished touch.
Cozy scarves that add texture and color without overwhelming your outfit.
Cute ankle boots, knee-high boots, or stylish flats to keep your feet warm while looking chic.

Bonus: Layers give you flexibility! You can easily remove a jacket or scarf for a quick outfit change, creating variety in your photos.

3. Coordinate Without Matching

Now that you have an idea of what colors to wear, let’s talk about coordination. Instead of wearing identical outfits, aim for colors and styles that complement each other. Here’s how:

If one of you wears a rust-colored dress, the other could wear a navy or cream sweater with dark jeans.
A subtle pattern, such as plaid or florals, can add depth to one person’s outfit while the other sticks with solids.
Mixing different textures—like a knit sweater paired with denim—can add visual interest.

Remember: The goal is to look cohesive without looking like you’re wearing a uniform!

4. Keep It Timeless & True to You

While trendy outfits are fun, your engagement photos should reflect your personality in a way that won’t feel outdated in a few years. For this reason, I recommend sticking with classic, well-fitting pieces that you feel comfortable in.

For example, if you’re not a dress person, don’t feel like you have to wear one—opt for a cozy sweater and jeans instead. Similarly, if your style leans more formal, a long, flowy dress or tailored coat can create an effortlessly elegant look.

5. Avoid Distracting Logos & Busy Patterns

To keep the focus on you (and not your clothing), it’s best to avoid large logos, text, or overly busy patterns. Instead, stick to:

Solid colors or subtle patterns.
Small-scale prints like delicate florals.
Textured fabrics (knit, suede, corduroy) that add dimension without overwhelming the frame.

6. Add Accessories for Extra Personality

Once you’ve chosen your outfits, accessories are the finishing touch! They can add personality and make your photos even more unique. Consider incorporating:

Hats – A stylish felt hat can bring an effortless, boho vibe.
Jewelry – Keep it simple and elegant to avoid distractions.
Blankets – A plaid or neutral-colored blanket can serve as both a cozy wrap and a great prop for sitting poses.

7. Dress for the Location & Activity

Beyond color and style, it’s important to consider where your session will take place. If you’re heading to a pumpkin patch, a forest trail, or a city rooftop, your outfits should match the setting. For instance:

If your session involves a lot of walking, opt for comfortable shoes.
If you’re doing a cozy, intimate shoot in a cabin setting, sweaters and boots will fit the vibe perfectly.
If you prefer a more dressed-up look, a chic coat or long dress can add a touch of elegance.

By planning your outfits with the location in mind, your photos will feel more natural and cohesive.

8. Plan Ahead & Try Everything On!

Before your session, take the time to lay out your outfits and try them on together. This will help you see how everything coordinates and ensure that you feel confident in your choices. Plus, doing this in advance gives you time to make any last-minute adjustments!

Final Thoughts

Your engagement session is all about capturing your love and connection. While the right outfits will help you feel confident and comfortable, the most important thing is to relax and have fun! If you’re feeling overwhelmed, reference back to this outfit guide for a fall engagement session.When you’re enjoying the moment, your photos will be stunning—no matter what you wear.

With love,

Michelle