Fashion Faux Pas and Fabulous Finds: High School Senior Photo Style Guide
What to Wear:
For the Girls:
Classic Chic: You can never go wrong with timeless staples. A crisp white blouse paired with high-waisted jeans, a structured blazer, or a sleek midi skirt = instant classic. Keep it clean, elevated, and polished.
Statement Style: Love a bold print or vintage find? Go for it! Senior photos are your chance to show off you. Whether it’s boho, edgy, glam, or girly — lean in. Style is personal, and your outfit should scream your name.
Layer It Up: Light jackets, blazers, oversized sweaters, cardigans, or dusters — layers add movement, texture, and a little drama to the frame. Bonus: they give you variety without needing a full outfit change.
Accessorize Smart: A wide-brim hat, dainty necklaces, stacked rings, cool earrings, a silk scarf — small touches can transform your whole look. Use them to elevate and define your vibe.
For the Guys:
The GQ Move: Suits. Always a win. Whether it’s full formal or a little laid-back with the jacket unbuttoned and no tie — think GQ magazine. A well-fitted blazer, nice slacks, and even a turtleneck or crew neck under a jacket? Fire.
Laid-Back Cool: Want a more chill look? Go for a clean, fitted tee or henley under a flannel or denim jacket, paired with dark jeans or chinos. Layers = texture, and texture = cinematic.
Street Style Vibes: Love sneakers and oversized fits? Keep it sharp. Think curated, not sloppy. A bomber jacket, joggers with clean lines, high-top kicks — styled right, this can be a killer look.
Details Matter: Watches, chains, rings, bracelets — don’t sleep on the little things. A small detail can elevate your outfit and give your photos that editorial edge.
What NOT to Wear:
Overly Trendy Pieces: Fashion fads fade fast. Go for timeless with a twist instead of something you’ll cringe at in five years.
Loud Logos: Keep the focus on you, not the brand across your chest. Subtle is always more stylish.
Too Matchy-Matchy: If you're shooting with friends or your partner, avoid full-blown matching. Coordinated color palettes? Yes. Identical outfits? Hard pass.
All Black or All White: Unless it’s styled intentionally with layers and texture, monochrome black or white can look flat and wash you out on camera. Balance is key.
Final Tips:
These photos are more than just snapshots — they’re a celebration of who you are right now. Choose outfits that feel like you, that boost your confidence, and that let your personality shine. Whether you're going GQ sharp or playful and bold, make it intentional and make it fun.
This is your moment. Dress like it.
Now get out there, strike a pose, and own it.
Stay iconic,
—Eric
