What to wear for your Paris couples photoshoot

You’ve searched out Engagement Photographer in Paris, found your ideal photographer and booked a photoshoot.

The next question you may be asking yourself is ‘what shall we wear to the photoshoot?’. If so this blog post is for you.

Putting in a little effort and attention to detail will make you look amazing and feel confident. Feeling confident leads to better photos, it’s a win/win scenario!

SO…here are my tips regarding what to wear for a couples photoshoot in Paris!

Be yourself but glam it up a little!

This is Paris, the world's capital of fashion and glamour, there’s no such thing as being overdressed on the streets of Paris. If you’ve had the killer dress/shoe combination or super-sharp suit and have been looking for the right occasion to wear it then this is probably it!

However please note that Paris doesn’t have to mean suits and gowns necessarily. Many of my clients opt for a change of clothing mid-shoot. One outfit is smart but casual with the second outfit that’s more dressy. One thing to consider if you’re considering a change of clothes is how to transport them during the shoot and keep the change crease-free.

If you’re planning multiple outfits it’s certainly worth considering a driver for the duration of the shoot, your hotel will be only too happy to arrange a driver for you, or if you’re staying in a private apartment simply let me know and I’ll be happy to help. Another option is a rolling suitcase that we bring along with us on the photoshoot, just ensure the clothes are packed in a way to keep those creases at bay!

Wear well fitted clothes

If you’re squeezing into an outfit, or on the other end of the scale the outfit is hanging off you and you’re needing to pin and tuck things then it’s probably not a good fit for a photo shoot. Think well fitted, elegance that shows you and your body shape at its best.

Dress on the same scale and try and compliment each others’ outfits

By this I don’t mean matching his and hers outfits but if you’re going for a designer dress then having him in a t-shirt and jeans isn’t going to work. Dress in a similar style and choose complimenting colours.

Complimenting colour palette

Paris has a natural pastel palette. When choosing the colours for your shoot try and stick to 2/3 complimenting colours.

Dark colours can make you look more slender.

Flowing chiffon dresses always look great in photos. The light catches them beautifully and in the slightest of breezes they can bring a sense of movement into an image.

Light clothing can look beautiful and fresh however I don’t recommend bright whites as they can become a little overpowering on the photos.

Avoid prints, patterns, logos and crazy colours. Prints, patterns and logos can become distracting and also tend to date quickly. Crazy coloured outfits can create strange colour casts on skin tones.

Dress for the season/weather

The weather in Paris can be unpredictable. In summer it can get extremely hot and in the winter temperatures occasionally drop below freezing. Try and choose your outfit based on the season. Fall months bring with them some beautiful fall colours into parts of the city. Trying to rock that strapless, evening gown in the depth of Paris winter isn’t conducive to natural, relaxed-looking images.

Clothes Shopping:

Paris and a photoshoot - what better excuse to hit the shops and treat yourselves!

Galleries Lafayette
40, Bd Haussmann, 75009 Paris
Pretty much a one-stop shop for all things fashion, Galleries Lafayette carries a vast range of luxury designer brands.
Printemps 
64, Bd Haussmann, 75009 Paris
If by some chance you don’t find what you’re looking for in Galleries Lafayette wander next door into Printemps.

If you’re looking for a more boutique shopping experience then head to either Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré or Avenue Montaigne. These avenues are full of your favourite designers.

Clothes Rental:

You’ve perhaps booked the photoshoot last minute or you simply didn’t want to travel with a suit and gown there are some great options available for hiring here in Paris.

I can recommend:
Mabonneamie (gowns)
Une Robe Un Soir (gowns and tuxedos)
Maison Lou (gowns)

Some final tips:

If children are involved then ensure they’re happy with their outfit and don’t try to force upon them something they don’t like to wear.

Ensure the clothes are well ironed, also in summer I recommend bringing a wipe for shoes. In Paris gardens the ground can become extremely dusty.

Whilst we’re talking about shoes, no city compliments that pair of designer high-heels like Paris. However do be aware that there’s often a fair amount of walking involved on my photoshoots, even on a one-hour single location shoot. A second, comfortable pair of walking shoes can come in extremely useful - your feet will thank me later :)

Guys, smart or casual I’ve got you covered - please pay attention to the following fashion faux pas below:

Socks! A classy, well-fitted suit DOESN’T work with those white tennis socks.
Blazers top button only.
Remove all stitching on all the suit vents and on the blazer that label on the left sleeve shouldn’t be there, no matter what the brand!
Ill-fitting baggy clothing looks unkempt and is unacceptable for anyone over the age of sixteen (I’d say it's even questionable for those under sixteen).
Running shoes are called "running shoes" because they should be used for running…just saying ;)
Need further inspiration? Head over to my Pinterest style board for by clicking here.