The Luxe, Wild and Carefree Guide to Engagement Session Outfits
A Style Guide for the Luxe, Wild and Carefree
When people ask me what they should wear for their engagement session, I always smile because the truth is, the clothes you choose are part of the story we are about to create. Your outfit sets the tone. It shapes the energy. It shifts the way you move. It changes how the wind catches you or how light falls across your shoulders.
A lot of this came together after I photographed A Canon Event. Something about that day stayed with me. The way the outfits moved. The way the light clung to textured fabrics. The way each look shifted the emotion of the image. It felt like capturing little pieces of a movie in real time. I kept thinking, what if every couple got to feel this? What if engagement sessions carried this level of expression and intention? That was the spark for this guide.
My style has been leaning into something that feels luxe, wild and carefree. I am drawn to fashion that holds personality. Fashion that feels lived in, expressive, and true. Fashion that says something about who you are before I even lift the camera.
This guide gives you four different directions you can take, each with outfits I hand picked because they photograph beautifully.
Use them as inspiration, mix pieces together, or choose a lane that mirrors the version of you that you want to capture.
I want your session to feel like a scene from a film you never want to stop watching. Let your clothes be part of that.
FASHION MAXIMALISTS
For the couple who treats life like a runway moment.
If you love dramatic silhouettes, big movement, sculptural shapes, or outfits that make you feel like you could walk into a Vogue spread, this is your category. Fashion Maximalists love presence. They love texture that catches light. They love clothes that come alive when they walk or turn. These looks photograph with attitude and intention.
Shop These Looks
Ivory Cut Out Deep V-Neck Bridal Jumpsuits with Cape
https://www.leely.com/products/ivory-cut-out-deep-v-neck-bridal-jumpsuits-with-cape
This dress is pure elegance with a little bit of “extra”. The shoulders where the cape begins adds texture to it while keeping the main thing the main thing. It is delicate but still dramatic which is the perfect combination.
Audrey Embellished Halterneck Gown in Black
https://us.ohpolly.com/products/audrey-embellished-halterneck-gown-black
This one is cinematic. The halter neck frames the body beautifully and the beading adds texture that shows up even from far away. It feels elegant and powerful at the same time.
4-Ply Silk Fringe Cape in Black
https://tibi.com/products/4-ply-silk-fringe-cape-black-1
A cape will always be iconic. This one moves like water and photographs like you are stepping into a dramatic reveal. Wear anything underneath and it becomes a statement.
Designed Neckline Short Layered Bridal Dress
This feels like art. The fringe adds texture. The asymmetry and the exposed shoulders give it edge. It is modern and bold which is exactly what I love to shoot when we want images that feel different. Or pair it with laced tights and oversized pearls for the vintage feel!
VINTAGE REBELS
For the couple who loves mood, texture, and stories sewn into fabric.
Vintage Rebels appreciate pieces that have soul. Velvet. Brocade. Rich patterns. Retro cuts. Anything that makes you feel like you stepped into a slow-burn music video or a forgotten fashion editorial. These outfits create depth in portraits and give the gallery a nostalgic pulse.
Shop These Looks
Maldives Brocade Puff Sleeve Duster
https://shopakira.com/products/maldives-brocade-puff-sleeve-duster
This coat brings royalty energy. The fabric has weight which makes movement look dramatic. The sleeves add a bit of old-world storytelling without ever feeling costume-like.
Black Lace Gold Peacock Cuban Shirt
https://www.phixclothing.com/en-us/products/black-lace-gold-short-sleeve-cuban-peacock-shirt
This shirt is all attitude. The gold embroidery lights up in the sun and the lace adds softness. It is the perfect contrast which is exactly what makes it so good on camera.
Short Sleeve Sequin Chiffon Shirt
https://www.phixclothing.com/en-us/products/short-sleeve-sequin-chiffon-shirt
Think disco but romantic. The sequins give off a glow that feels playful and the chiffon softens everything. Perfect for evening sessions or indoor spaces where light can bounce.
GENDERLESS EXPRESSION
For the couple who shows up as themselves with no rules.
Style has no gender. Fashion has no boxes. Wear what reflects who you are. Genderless Expression is all about oversized lines, clean shapes, fluid silhouettes, and textures that fit any body. These looks are expressive, modern, and honest.
Shop These Looks
Velvet Elasticated Straight-Leg Trousers (Brown)
https://www.cos.com/en-us/women/womenswear/trousers/straight-fit/product/velvet-elasticated-straight-leg-trousers-brown-1304526001
Velvet is always a good idea. These trousers fall beautifully and create long clean lines in photos. They feel soft and bold at the same time.
Washed Twill Vest With Zipper and Snap
https://palomawool.com/products/lis-washed-twill-vest-zipper-snap
This vest feels cool and intentional. It has structure without being stiff which makes it perfect for layering or wearing alone.
Relaxed Bootcut Jeans (Black)
https://www2.hm.com/en_us/productpage.1307319002.html
A clean bootcut silhouette with a little texture. It is modern, neutral, and works with literally anything.
Pinstripe Vest (Black)
https://www2.hm.com/en_us/productpage.1306174001.html
A pinstripe vest adds both structured shape and personality. It brings an aesthetic edge that plays well with bold environments.
PLAYFUL AESTHETES
For the couple who wants soft energy with elevated details.
Playful Aesthetes love textures you want to touch. Breezy fabrics. Soft shimmer. Pastel tones. Outfits that feel like golden light and gentle movement. These looks work beautifully in gardens, brunch settings, coastal spaces, and anywhere sunlight can catch fabric.
Shop These Looks
Faux Fur Coat With Belt
https://shop.mango.com/us/en/p/women/coats/coats/faux-fur-coat-with-belt_17048271
Cozy but make it editorial. This coat adds softness and whimsy. Perfect for winter or early morning sessions where you want a dreamy layered look.
Maria Asymmetrical Tulip Mini Dress
https://gloryconnection.com/products/maria-asymmetric-tulip-mini-dress
This set moves beautifully and feels romantic without trying. It gives off soft luxury and effortless charm.
My Kind of Party Slip Set
https://www.freepeople.com/shop/my-kind-of-party-slip-set
Shimmery, flowy, and relaxed. Its giving, “lets take shots, smoke a cigerette, and just drive – doesn’t matter where.” This slip set catches light in a gentle way which creates some of the prettiest movement shots.
Nights With You Long Sleeve Top
https://www.fashionnova.com/products/nights-with-you-long-sleeve-top-black
A little sheer. A little moody. This top adds texture without overpowering the rest of your outfit.
Final Thoughts
Your engagement session is a moment that deserves intention.
Your outfits do not need to be expensive or dramatic.
They just need to feel like you and help you step into the version of yourself you want to remember.
Wear things that move. Wear things with texture. Wear things you love.
I will take care of the rest and bring your story to life.
Catch you soon,
Ean
Frequently Asked Questions About Engagement Shoot Wardrobe Styling
How do I choose an outfit that photographs well if my style is all over the place?
Lean into the version of your style that feels the most intentional. The camera loves clarity. Pick one direction that excites you today and build around texture, shape, and color rather than trying to represent every side of your personality in one outfit.
Do my partner and I need to match our outfits?
Not at all. You do not need to match. You just need to feel aligned. Pick outfits that live in the same world through fabric, tone, or vibe. The goal is harmony without looking like duplicates.
What colors look best on camera for editorial or fashion focused shoots?
Solid tones, rich neutrals, metallics, and bold monochrome sets always work well. Anything that adds dimension through structure or shine photographs beautifully.
Can I wear something sheer or textured even if I am not used to bold pieces?
Yes, absolutely. Sheer fabric, embellishments, and unique silhouettes bring life to your photos. You can style them in a subtle or strong way. Start with one statement piece and keep the rest simple.
How many outfits should I bring to my session?
Two is perfect. One elevated look and one relaxed or experimental look. It gives you range without slowing down the flow of the shoot.
Should I prioritize comfort or aesthetics?
Both matter. If you feel uncomfortable, it will show. If you love your outfit, it will also show. Choose pieces that give you movement and confidence.
What if my partner and I have very different styles?
That is totally fine. Use contrast in a purposeful way. Think soft textures with structured pieces, light tones with dark tones, or minimal shapes next to maximalist details. Differences become a visual story when styled with intention.
Can I bring accessories to switch up the mood?
Definitely. Sunglasses, outerwear, belts, scarves, and jewelry can completely shift the tone of a look without requiring an outfit change. Accessories add versatility and depth.
Do editorial outfits work for more traditional photos too?
Yes. Editorial pieces bring personality and dimension to even the most classic poses. You can still get timeless images while wearing something expressive.
What is the main thing I look for in a styled outfit?
Personality. The outfit should feel like a natural extension of you. Good photography highlights the person first and the clothing second. When both feel aligned, the final images are always stronger.
GA/SC BASED WEDDING & ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER FOR THE WILD & CAREFREE
