Wardrobe is one of the most important puzzle pieces when it comes to organising a branding shoot or even a headshot and it’s the piece that can make or break your photograph. I have asked Kaiza, a Sustainable Stylist and Closet Coach from Simplify Your Closet  to give us a professional advice on What to wear to the branding shoot and she agreed! Below is a great amount of useful info, but if you would like a virtual personalised session with Kaiza you can reach out to her. She truly knows what she talks about and is just a very lovely person to talk to.

Anyway, here is what Kaiza says:

MATCHING YOUR LOOK WITH YOUR BRAND

Is your brand corporate, feminine, trendy, for children etc.? Think about how to convey your services or products with your clothes. A soft floral dress will give a conflicting image if you are speaking to corporate clients. In the same way a conservative outfit might be too strict if you are in a creative industry. Think about how you can ‘Dress your Message’!

AVOID THE TRENDY

Try to go with classic, timeless styles rather than what is trending right now. If it is on trend it will very likely look dated in six months. How long do you want your photos to be relevant?

WHAT COLOURS TO WEAR

Colours that lifts you, that works with your skin tone, will always be flattering. The deeper the shade, the better. Neutrals are always a good option as well and you can choose to add pops of colour with accessories or makeup. Also keep your brand colours in mind, are they soft, light, bright or darker, richer and heavier. You can reflect this without exact colour matching.

PATTERNS OR NOT

Patterns can sometimes be a tricky option. Small stripes for example is hard for the camera to pick up. Patterns can also distract away from your face. Unless patterns is something that ties in well with your brand it is best to opt for a solid colour instead.

ABOUT THE BACKGROUND

Think about what kind of background you will be taking your photos in. Is there going to be a dominant colour there? If so, pick a colour that will be a contrast to this. Also, think about the setting, is it rustic, nature, industrial? How will what you wear work with this?

ALL ABOUT SHAPE

When it comes to the shape of the clothes it is much more flattering to go with something fitted and tailored, rather than loose and bulky. It might look great when you are walking in a flowy dress but in a still picture this might look shapeless and big. A very clingy material might also be hard to work with.

NAILS

You might be placing your hands on your hips or holding a cup etc, think about keeping your nails clean. You can always go with a neutral colour or french style manicure especially if you are going to change outfits.

SHOES

Do a quick polish to give them a lift and don’t forget to look underneath them too just in case there are any labels or stickers left.

ACCESSORIES

Bring accessories that can change an outfit easily like earrings, bags, scarves or headbands. Adding accessories will also make you look more polished and put together.

HAIR & MAKEUP

If you are using makeup, don’t be afraid of adding a little bit more than normal, this will look great in photos. Avoid shiny or glittery makeup as this can look oily in photos. Bring a brush or comb for the last minute final touch, especially good to do if you have a fringe.

Check out Kaiza’s website HERE

and her fun Instagram channel HERE