What to Wear for a Professional Headshot

Your outfit sets the tone of your headshot. The right clothing makes you look polished and credible; the wrong choice can distract from your face. Here's a simple guide to dressing for a great professional photo — whether you book a photographer or use an AI headshot generator.

General rules that always work

• Solid colors over busy patterns. Patterns and logos pull attention away from your face. Solids keep the focus on you.
• Fit matters more than brand. Well-fitted clothing looks expensive and professional, even if it isn't.
• Dress one notch above your everyday work attire. It reads as polished without looking costume-like.
• Mind your neckline. Clean collars and necklines frame your face nicely.

Best colors

Navy, charcoal, deep green, burgundy, and classic white or cream are flattering on almost everyone and read as professional. Avoid neon shades and anything that blends into your background.

By industry

Finance, law, and corporate

A tailored suit or blazer with a crisp shirt. Conservative and sharp.

Tech and startups

Smart business-casual — a quality blazer over a clean top, or a well-fitted shirt.

Creative fields

You have more freedom — a stylish, well-made outfit that shows personality while staying polished.

What to avoid

• Loud patterns, slogans, and large logos.
• Ill-fitting or wrinkled clothing.
• Distracting jewelry that competes with your face.
• Colors that match your background and make you blend in.

A note on AI headshots

With Enslytic, you can pick a professional style and the AI dresses you in a polished, high-end outfit to match — so even casual selfies become sharp, professional headshots. For tips on the selfies themselves, see how to take the perfect selfie.