What to Wear for Your Fall Portrait Mini Session
Fall is here, and you’ve booked a mini-session! Cue the excitement (and maybe a little panic) as you start asking the big question: What on earth should we wear?! Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. Dressing for a fall photoshoot doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning, you can look amazing, feel comfortable, and create photos you’ll love for years.
Grab a pumpkin spice latte, settle in, and let’s dive into the ultimate guide to fall portrait fashion.
1. Think in Fall Colors
Step one: channel your inner autumn leaf. The magic of fall is in its warm, cozy hues, so pick colors that mirror the season:
- Earthy tones: Rust, mustard yellow, olive green, and warm browns.
- Soft neutrals: Cream, beige, or gray. They pair beautifully with stronger shades.
- Rich jewel tones: Think deep burgundy, navy blue, or emerald green for an elegant pop.
- Canadian Plaid: Nothing screams fall like buffalo plaid! Those iconic red-and-black checks are bold, cozy, and perfect for adding a rustic charm to your photos.
Pro tip: Avoid neon colors or super-bright shades. The goal is to blend beautifully with the natural setting, not clash with it.
2. Coordination Over Matching
Matching outfits scream "family reunion circa 1995" (hello, denim-on-denim!). Instead, aim for coordinated looks.
- Pick a palette of 3–4 colors and mix them across your group’s outfits.
- Use patterns sparingly. A plaid shirt or floral dress works great—just balance it with solids so no one is fighting for the spotlight.
Canadian Plaid in Action: One family member can wear a buffalo plaid flannel shirt, while the others wear complementary solids in black, cream, or muted reds. It’s a perfect way to make the plaid pop without overpowering the photo.
Imagine this: Mom in a rust maxi dress, Dad in a navy sweater, and the kids in plaid shirts and cozy cardigans. Perfectly put-together, without looking like a family uniform.
Canadian Plaid: A Fall Favorite
Nothing says cozy fall vibes quite like Canadian plaid! Those classic red-and-black checks are the ultimate nod to autumn and add a touch of bold, rustic charm to your photos. Whether you’re aiming for a woodsy, outdoorsy vibe or simply love the timeless look, buffalo plaid is a perfect choice.
Here’s how to incorporate it into your outfits:
- Subtle Touches: Use a buffalo plaid scarf, blanket, or vest to add a pop of texture and color without overpowering the look.
- For the Kids: Little ones look absolutely adorable in plaid button-ups or dresses. Pair with neutral pants or tights to keep the outfit balanced.
- Family Coordination: If one family member wears a plaid flannel shirt, tie the look together with complementary solid colors like black, cream, or muted red for everyone else.
Canadian plaid works especially well in outdoor settings with natural wood tones, pine trees, or even a cozy campfire vibe. It’s a classic for a reason, and it photographs beautifully every time!
3. Layers Are Your Best Friend
Fall is all about layers: they’re functional, stylish, and photograph beautifully. Some ideas:
- Throw on a chunky cardigan or a shawl.
- Add a jacket—think leather, denim, or a tailored coat.
- Scarves! These aren’t just for warmth—they add color, texture, and movement to your photos.
Bonus Tip: Layers are great for unpredictable weather. Chilly? Keep the coat on. Warming up? Toss it off for a new look in your shots. A buffalo plaid scarf or blanket can add just the right touch of cozy charm to your outfit.
4. Shoes Matter (Really!)
You’ll probably be walking through grass, dirt paths, or even crunchy leaves, so skip the stilettos. Opt for shoes that are both stylish and practical:
- Boots (ankle or knee-high—both scream "fall").
- Loafers or dressy flats.
- For the kids, keep it cute with little boots or neutral sneakers.
Whatever you do, avoid neon running shoes unless your look is “track meet chic.”
5. Accessories: Less is More
The right accessories can elevate your look. Some ideas:
- A felt hat for a touch of boho.
- A scarf that adds a cozy vibe—buffalo plaid scarves are an autumn favorite!
- Minimal jewelry like a statement necklace or subtle earrings.
But beware the accessory overload! You don’t want your photos to look like a boutique exploded. Keep it simple and intentional.
6. Be Comfortable, Be You
Here’s the thing: you should like what you’re wearing. If you’re tugging at a too-tight dress or wishing you’d skipped the itchy sweater, it’ll show. Choose clothes that reflect your style, fit well, and allow you to move easily (hello, family piggyback rides!).
Also, remember to dress for the weather. Fall mornings can be frosty, so pack an extra layer just in case.
7. What NOT to Wear
A few quick don’ts:
- Say no to big logos or graphics (unless you want to commemorate your love for brand names).
- Skip neon or clashing colors. Your outfits should complement the beautiful fall setting, not compete with it.
- Avoid baggy or ill-fitting clothes—structured pieces tend to photograph better.
8. Inspiration: Easy Outfit Combos
Need ideas? Here are a few tried-and-true looks:
- Family Look: Mom in a flowy olive dress, Dad in a gray sweater and khakis, kids in plaid or striped tops with boots.
- Couple Vibes: A cozy sweater dress for her, a leather jacket and dark jeans for him.
- Solo Style: Skinny jeans, a knit sweater, ankle boots, and a buffalo plaid scarf. Classic fall perfection.
9. Props Are Welcome (Optional, But Fun!)
If you want to take it up a notch, consider bringing a few props:
- A plaid blanket to sit on or wrap around the family.
- A basket of apples or mini pumpkins for a festive touch.
- A thermos or mug for a cute “cozy moment” shot.
Final Thoughts
Your fall mini-session should be fun, not stressful! Take a deep breath, pick out your outfits in advance (lay them out together to make sure they look cohesive), and trust the process. And hey—if you’re still feeling stuck, shoot me a message. I’m here to help!
Remember, the most important thing you can wear is a big, genuine smile. The leaves may fall, but these memories will last forever.