What to wear for a professional headshot

Updated October 22, 2026 · 4 min read

What you wear changes how people read your photo before they read your name. These guidelines work for both photographers and AI headshots.

Choose solid, mid-tone colors

Navy, charcoal, deep green, burgundy and soft blue flatter most skin tones and don't distract. Avoid busy patterns, small stripes and large logos, which can look messy in small profile photos.

Mind the neckline

Head-and-shoulders photos are mostly about your neckline. Collared shirts, crew necks and V-necks all frame the face well. Very low or very high necklines can look awkward when cropped.

Dress for your industry

  • Corporate, law and finance: suit or blazer, solid shirt
  • Tech and startups: quarter-zip, knit or smart casual shirt
  • Creative fields: a simple tee with a jacket, or a textured knit
  • Healthcare: white coat over business attire, or scrubs if that's your setting
  • Real estate and sales: blazer or smart casual, friendly colors

With AI headshots, the outfit is chosen for you

With Fylvy you don't need to own a suit. Each of the 10 looks dresses you in a matching outfit, from an executive suit to smart casual. What you wear in your selfies matters less. Just vary it so the AI doesn't mistake one shirt for part of you.

Dark executive look with black suitWarm library look with knit sweaterCreative casual look with jacket

Keep accessories simple

Small earrings, a watch or simple glasses are fine. Large jewelry and hats pull attention away from your face.

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