Dressing for Your Shape: A Woman’s Guide to Professional Headshots
When it comes to professional headshots, you might think it’s all about the face. And while that’s certainly the star of the show, there’s more to consider than just your winning smile. Traditionally, headshots focus on the head and shoulders, but sometimes you need more lifestyle and branding shots or business portraits that show a little more of you (we call these 1/2 body, 3/4 body or full body shots in photography land). These versatile images can be used for various purposes, from your social media accounts to your marketing pieces to your website. Of course, we’ll work our magic and coach you on posing to highlight your best features and create a balanced look. But dressing for your body shape can give you an extra boost of confidence and ensure you look fabulous from head to toe. Let’s dive into to this segment of “What to Wear for Women’s Professional Headshots” for some tips for flattering different body types, so you can strut into your photoshoot feeling like a million bucks!
Understanding the Power of Lines, Shapes, and Patterns
Before diving into specific body types, it’s important to understand how different elements in your clothing can affect your overall appearance:
Lines
- Vertical lines (like pinstripes) or the line of a jacket can elongate your figure and convey authority
- Horizontal lines add width and can create a sense of stability
- Diagonal lines add energy and can be slimming when used strategically
Shapes
- Neckline shapes frame your face and can dramatically alter how you look
- Jacket shapes can create structure or emphasize certain body parts. While shoulder pads can help balance the look of slimmer shoulders, if you’re trying to look smaller on top, leave the shoulder pads in the 80’s.
- Sleeves of blouses or tops you might wear without a jacket
- Puffy or ruffled sleeves add weight at the shoulder (which will definitely show in your headshots or branding photos)
- Short sleeves can create a horizontal line, effectively widening your upper arms if the sleeve isn’t the right length.
- While we generally recommend against going sleeveless, if you’re not in a very formal industry, and you like your upper arms, here in Arizona a sleeveless top can create a nice vertical line (and be a bit cooler), but if you don’t love your upper arms, you may prefer to wear sleeves.
Patterns
- Subtle patterns can add depth without overwhelming the image
- Larger patterns can add weight to your image, which may or may not be to your advantage
- Solid colors with textured fabrics offer visual interest without distraction
- Be cautious with bold or busy patterns as they can be distracting in photos
Dressing for Your Body Type
Now, let’s talk about dressing for your specific body type. Every woman’s figure is unique, but most of us fall into one of five general categories: hourglass, pear, apple, rectangle, and inverted triangle. Understanding your body shape can be a game-changer when it comes to choosing outfits that make you look and feel your best, especially for professional headshots. Remember, these are just guidelines – the most important thing is that you feel confident and comfortable in what you’re wearing. Let’s break down each body type and explore some tailored tips to help you shine in your photos. Whether you’re curvy, straight, or somewhere in between, we’ve got you covered!
Hourglass Figure
Ladies with hourglass figures, you’ve got that classic silhouette that many envy! Your proportionate bust and hips with a defined waist create a naturally balanced look. When it comes to professional headshots, you’ll want to choose outfits that highlight your curves in a tasteful way while still maintaining a polished, business-appropriate appearance. The key is to accentuate your waist without going overboard on the va-va-voom factor. Let’s look at some specific tips to help you shine in your headshots:
- Emphasize your waist with fitted blazers or wrap-style tops
- V-neck or scoop necklines flatter your curves
- Avoid oversized or boxy clothing that hides your shape
Rectangle Shape
Ladies with a rectangle shape, you’ve got a straight-up-and-down silhouette that’s versatile and chic! Your balanced proportions mean you can rock a variety of styles. When it comes to professional headshots, the key is to create some subtle curves and definition while maintaining a polished look. We want to add a bit of softness to your naturally athletic frame without going overboard. The goal is to look confident and put-together while highlighting your best features. Let’s dive into some specific tips to help you shine in your headshots:
- V-neck or wrap-style tops can elongate the torso and create visual interest
- Scoop or sweetheart necklines can add softness
- Look for tops with subtle waist definition or ruching to create curves
- Create curves with peplum tops or belted jackets
Apple Shape
Ladies with an apple shape, you’ve got a unique and beautiful silhouette! Your fuller bust and midsection paired with slender arms and legs create an eye-catching figure. When it comes to professional headshots, the key is to draw attention to your best features while creating a balanced, polished look. We want to elongate your torso and create definition at your waist without sacrificing comfort or professionalism. The goal is to highlight your assets in a way that makes you feel confident and powerful. Let’s dive into some specific tips to help you shine in your headshots:
- V-neck tops elongate your torso
- Empire waist styles can be flattering
- Choose structured jackets with a single button closure at the narrowest part of your waist
Pear Shape
Ladies with a pear shape, you’ve got curves in all the right places! Your narrower shoulders and bust paired with wider hips and thighs create a beautiful, feminine silhouette. When it comes to professional headshots, the key is to draw attention upward and create balance in your upper body. We want to highlight your delicate shoulders and neckline while downplaying the lower half that may not be as visible in the photo. The goal is to create a polished, confident look that makes you feel amazing and showcases your best features. Let’s dive into some specific tips to help you shine in your headshots:
- Draw attention upward with boat neck or wide V-neck tops
- Choose structured jackets that end at the hip
- Opt for darker colors on the bottom if including full-body shots
Inverted Triangle Shape
Ladies with an inverted triangle shape, you’ve got those enviable broad shoulders and a narrower lower body! This creates a strong, athletic look, that we can accentuate when it comes to professional headshots. The key is to create balance by drawing attention downward and softening your upper body. We want to showcase your powerful shoulders without overwhelming your overall silhouette. Remember, the goal is to look polished and confident while maintaining a professional appearance. Let’s dive into some specific tips to help you make the most of your inverted triangle shape in your headshots:
- Balance your shoulders with A-line silhouettes
- Choose V-neck or scoop necklines to soften broad shoulders
- Avoid boat necks or off-the-shoulder styles
- Choose shirts and blouses that don’t have puffy or ruffled sleeves and/or jackets without shoulder pads so you don’t look like a linebacker (coming from experience as someone who has linebacker shoulders:-)
Necklines That Flatter
Choosing the Right Neckline for Your Headshot
When it comes to professional headshots, the neckline of your top can make a significant difference in how you appear in the final image. The right neckline can enhance your features, balance your proportions, and contribute to a polished, professional look. Let’s explore some popular neckline options and their effects:
- V-neck: Universally flattering, it elongates the neck and slims the upper body
- Scoop neck: Adds softness and volume, great for narrow shoulders or smaller busts
- Boat neck: Widens the appearance of the shoulders, balancing pear shapes
- Turtleneck: Can be sophisticated but use caution if you have a short neck or round face
- Square neck: Offers structure and professionalism, flattering for round face shapes
Pro Tip when choosing a blouse: Try it on, and make sure the neckline appropriate for your industry. A NSFW (not suitable for work) neckline will not produce a very useable headshot. In more creative, less formal industries you have a little more leeway with a plunging neckline, but you still don’t want to distract people from looking at your face. Also make sure whatever neckline you choose works with any accessories you plan to bring, as well as your undergarments. And ensure that your blouse fits, and doesn’t pull open if it’s a button-up.
V-Neck: The Versatile Classic
The V-neck is a popular choice for good reason. It suits almost every body type and face shape, creating a lengthening effect that can make you appear taller and slimmer in your headshot. This neckline is particularly flattering for women with:
- Broad shoulders
- Short necks
- Fuller busts
- Round faces
The V-shape draws the eye downward, elongating the neck and creating a slimming effect on the upper body. It’s an excellent choice for a professional yet approachable look.
Scoop Neck: Adding Softness and Volume
A scoop neckline, with its gentle curve, can add a touch of femininity to your headshot while maintaining a professional appearance. This style is particularly beneficial for:
- Women with narrow shoulders
- Those with a smaller bust
- Individuals with long necks
The rounded shape of a scoop neck can add perceived volume to the upper body, balancing out narrow shoulders or a smaller chest. It also softens angular features, making it a great choice for those with sharp jawlines or prominent cheekbones.
Boat Neck (Bateau): Widening and Balancing
The boat neck, also known as a bateau neckline, runs horizontally across the collarbone, often extending to the shoulders. This style is excellent for:
- Pear-shaped figures
- Those looking to balance out wider hips
- Women wanting to create the illusion of broader shoulders
By drawing attention horizontally across the upper body, a boat neck can visually widen the shoulders, creating a more balanced silhouette. It’s a sophisticated choice that works well in corporate environments.
Turtleneck: Chic and Sophisticated for Longer Necks
While not suitable for everyone, a turtleneck can be a powerful choice in the right circumstances. This high neckline works well for:
- Women with long necks
- Those with oval or long face shapes
- Individuals wanting to convey a sense of sophistication
A turtleneck can make a bold statement in a headshot, conveying confidence and elegance. However, be cautious if you have a short neck or round face, as it may accentuate these features. And it can be a little warm for turtle necks in Arizona in the warmer months.
Square Neck: Structured and Professional
A square neckline offers a structured look that can be both feminine and professional. It’s particularly flattering for:
- Women with round face shapes
- Those with a larger bust
- Individuals wanting to highlight their collarbones
The angular lines of a square neck can provide a nice contrast to softer facial features, creating a balanced and polished appearance.
Remember, the key to a great headshot is feeling confident and comfortable in what you’re wearing. While these guidelines can help, don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles to find what works best for you. Consider bringing a few different neckline options to your photoshoot, allowing you and your photographer to choose the most flattering look for your professional image.
Final Tips
- Solid colors generally photograph better than patterns. If you choose patterns, generally opt for small, subtle designs.
- Keep in mind how lines (either printed in the fabric or created with layers or details) can create balance or add to imbalance in your shape.
- Be aware that some small patterns can cause a moiré effect in digital photos, appearing distorted or wavy.
- Choose fabrics that don’t wrinkle easily to maintain a polished look throughout your session.
- When in doubt, bring multiple options to your photoshoot. Your photographer can help you select the most flattering choices.
Whether you’re planning on just head-and-shoulders headshots, or more lifestyle and branding portraits, how you dress can significantly impact the final image. The right outfit not only enhances your appearance but also boosts your confidence. Now you know how to choose the perfect attire that flatters your unique shape and creates a polished, professional look for your upcoming headshot or branding session.
Remember, the goal of your professional headshot is to present your best, most confident self. By choosing clothing that flatters your shape and aligns with your professional image, you’ll create a headshot that truly represents you at your best.
*Note: Images that show necklines © Amazon.com and include affiliate links. Team Headshot image & body type graphic © HeadshotProsAZ.com
Cari Hall is a professional headshot photographer based in Phoenix, Arizona. Since 2014, she has specialized in corporate headshots, LinkedIn headshots, and personal branding photos that help professionals and companies stand out with confidence. Drawing on more than a decade of experience — and a background in advertising and marketing — Cari brings both technical expertise and brand strategy insight to every session. She is known for creating a stress-free experience, helping even the most camera-shy clients feel comfortable, confident, and authentically themselves.
