A fool-proof guide to choosing the perfect fall outfits
Fall sessions are a favourite of many — the cozy light, the warm tones, and that golden-hour glow make every photo feel a little bit magical. When it comes to choosing what to wear, it can feel overwhelming to pull everything together.
The secret? Keep it simple, avoid logos, focus on neutrals, and layer in texture.
Let’s break it down.
First & foremost- my most important tip is to do a DRESS REHEARSAL with your outfits at least a week before. What do I mean?
Put them on, take a couple quick photos on your phone (not in a mirror, set a timer or get someone to take them!). This will help you pick out anything that looks out of place and you may need to find an alternative for.
I always take at least 3 photos when planning my outfits for photos:
- Standing facing the camera
- Standing side profile
- Sitting with legs off to one side
This helps me to see if there is anything I can adjust, or fix, or if I don't like how something is laying on my body and I need to swap it out. Trust me this helps
Start with a Neutral Base
Neutrals photograph beautifully in any setting and never go out of style. Think cream, beige, camel, warm brown, soft grey, or olive greens. These tones let your connection shine while blending naturally with the fall landscape.
Hot Tip: Choose one or two main colors (like cream and tan) and build from there so everyone looks coordinated, not matching.
While black is a neutral base, sometimes the details can be lost in the shadows if there is too much black in the photo. When possible, balance black with lighter cream/tan colours and patterns.
Check out this great article that can help you with this if you need some additional information:
Add Texture for Depth
Fall is the season for cozy layers and rich textures — and they look so good on camera.
Mix fabrics like knit sweaters, linen shirts, denim jackets, corduroy, suede, or flannel. The mix of materials adds warmth and dimension that photographs beautifully.
Choose extras that feel right to you, not everyone has or wants a suede bomber jacket, and you don't have to buy something just for the photos. Focus on pieces that you already have, or have been wanting to add to your wardrobe anyway. Pieces that will show off your true to you style.
Hot Tip: Chunky knits, soft cotton, and a touch of leather or wool can transform simple outfits into something extra special. Old Navy, Gap, Zara and H&M have very affordable options if you're looking!
Coordinate
Instead of everyone wearing the exact same color, aim for a cohesive palette where each outfit complements the others. If one person will be wearing a pattern, use the colours in that pattern to help choose colors & outfits for the others!
Lay everyone’s outfits out on a bed before your session — if one piece stands out too much, swap it for something softer or more neutral.
Choose 1-2 neutral colours, and 1-2 additional colors depending on the amount of individuals in your session. See Examples below.
Hot Tip: if one person wears a rust dress, others could wear cream, olive, and or soft brown tones to tie it together.
Add a Pop of Seasonal Color
Once your neutrals are in place, you can sprinkle in a little color for personality — think deep mustard, terracotta, plum, maroon or forest green.
These tones feel natural for fall and add just the right amount of richness to your photos.
Hot Tip: A patterned scarf, rust cardigan, or subtle plaid can bring a pop of warmth without overpowering the look.
Choose Pieces that fit well and have Movement
Outfits that flow and move add life to your images. Look for draped sweaters, flowy dresses, or wide-leg pants.
Comfort is key — when you feel relaxed in what you’re wearing, it always shows in the photos. If your outfit does not properly fit, it will impact your overall satisfaction with your final product.
Hot Tip: If you wouldn’t normally wear something, or something makes you feel self conscious in any way, it might not feel right during your session either — stay true to your style.
Pay Attention to the Details
Accessories can elevate a simple outfit and make it feel finished. Think felt hats, scarves, jewelry, or boots in warm, neutral tones. Just keep things minimal — small details go a long way.
You will notice your footwear, be mindful of having clean footwear that goes with the outfit!
Hot Tip: Sometimes all you need is a cozy knit and your favorite pair of boots to complete the look.
Sample Fall Color Palettes
- Warm Neutrals: Cream, camel, rust, and brown
- Earthy Greens: Olive, taupe, tan, and cream
- Soft Autumn: Dusty rose, oat, and warm grey
- Muted Jewel: Plum, mustard, deep green, and ivory
Hot Tip: Play around with colors that feel right for your family, and that you will wear again!
*Session location - Cole Harbour Heritage Park, Cole Harbour, NS
Final notes..
At the end of the day, the most beautiful photos come from outfits that feel like you.
Choose pieces that make you feel confident, comfortable, and cozy — and let the fall colors do the rest.
Simple, textured, and neutral never goes out of style.
With love,
Melissa
