5 Wardrobe Mistakes That Kill Your Professional Headshot (And How to Avoid Them)

By Published On: July 21st, 2025

Your professional headshot is often the first impression potential clients, employers, or business partners have of you. In just seconds, people form judgments about your competence, trustworthiness, and professionalism based on what they see. While a skilled photographer can work magic with lighting and angles, the foundation of a great headshot starts with what you wear.

After photographing hundreds of professionals over the past decade, I’ve seen these wardrobe mistakes repeatedly sabotage otherwise excellent headshots. The good news? They’re all completely avoidable with the right guidance.

Mistake #1: Wearing Busy Patterns or Bold Graphics

The Problem: Loud patterns, busy prints, or clothing with logos and graphics pull attention away from your face – exactly where viewers should be focusing. These distracting elements compete with your eyes and smile, which are the most important elements of your headshot.

The Fix: Stick to solid colors or very subtle textures. If you want to add visual interest, opt for layering with a blazer or cardigan over a solid shirt. Neutral colors like navy, charcoal, deep green, and burgundy photograph beautifully and won’t date your headshot.

Pro Tip: Even small patterns can be problematic. On camera, they often create a distracting wavy effect called moiré, especially on screens where most headshots are viewed. For a polished, professional look that keeps the focus on you, solid colors or soft textures are your best bet.

Mistake #2: Choosing the Wrong Fit

The Problem: Clothing that’s too loose looks sloppy and unprofessional, while clothing that’s too tight can be unflattering and distracting. Ill-fitting clothes send the message that you don’t pay attention to details.

The Fix: Invest in well-tailored clothing that fits your body properly. Your clothes should skim your body without being too tight or too baggy. For blazers, make sure the shoulders fit correctly – this is the hardest thing to alter.

What to Look For:

  • Sleeves that hit at the right length
  • No pulling or bunching across the chest or back
  • Pants or skirts that sit properly at your waist
  • Blazers that button comfortably without strain

Mistake #3: Ignoring Color Theory

The Problem: Wearing colors that clash with your skin tone can make you look washed out, tired, or even ill. Colors that are too similar to your skin tone can make you blend into the background.

The Fix: Choose colors that complement your skin tone and create good contrast. Generally, you want medium to darker colors that provide contrast against typical headshot backgrounds.

Safe Color Choices:

  • For everyone: Navy blue, charcoal gray, deep green, burgundy
  • Warm skin tones: Rich browns, warm grays, deep oranges, golden yellows
  • Cool skin tones: True blues, emerald green, deep purples, crisp whites

Colors to Avoid: Neon colors, very pale colors that wash you out, and colors that exactly match your skin tone.

Mistake #4: Forgetting About Wrinkles and Grooming Details

The Problem: Wrinkled clothing, lint, pet hair, or other grooming oversights are magnified in professional photography. These details might seem minor in person, but they become glaringly obvious in a high-quality headshot.

The Fix: Plan ahead and pay attention to the details.

Pre-Shoot Checklist:

  • Steam or iron all clothing the night before
  • Use a lint roller to remove any pet hair or lint
  • Check for loose threads or missing buttons
  • Ensure jewelry is clean and polished
  • Bring backup options in case of last-minute issues

Day-of Tips: Hang your clothes properly, avoid sitting in your outfit before the shoot, and do a final mirror check before stepping in front of the camera.

Mistake #5: Dressing for the Wrong Audience or Industry

The Problem: Your headshot wardrobe should align with your industry and target audience. A creative professional might get away with more casual or artistic choices, while a financial advisor needs to project traditional professionalism.

The Fix: Consider your industry standards and dress slightly more formal than your daily work attire.

Industry Guidelines:

  • Corporate/Finance: Traditional business attire – suits, blazers, conservative colors
  • Creative Fields: Smart casual with personality – blazers with interesting textures, slightly more color
  • Healthcare: Clean, professional, trustworthy – avoid anything too trendy
  • Tech/Startups: Business casual – blazers optional, but still polished
  • Real Estate: Approachable professional – not too formal, but clearly successful

The Bottom Line

Your professional headshot is an investment in your career and business. By avoiding these common wardrobe mistakes, you’ll ensure that your personality and professionalism shine through without any distractions.

Remember, the goal is to look like the best, most polished version of yourself – not like someone else entirely. When in doubt, choose classic, well-fitted pieces in flattering colors that make you feel confident and comfortable.

Ready for Your Professional Headshot?

At JGardiner Photography, we provide detailed wardrobe guidance before every headshot session to ensure you look and feel your absolute best. Our consultation process helps you choose the perfect outfits that align with your brand and industry while flattering your unique features.

Ready to create headshots that make the right first impression? Contact us today to schedule your consultation and headshot session. Let’s create images that truly represent the professional, confident person you are.