Corporate Headshot Attire for Men: What to Wear for a Professional Look

A corporate headshot is more than just a photo—it’s your personal brand, your first impression, and a key tool for professional credibility. Whether you're updating your LinkedIn profile, company website, or preparing for a leadership portrait, choosing the right attire is essential for a polished, confident look.

At Glynns Thomas Portraits, we specialize in corporate and executive headshots that capture your professionalism while making you feel at ease. This guide will walk you through the best corporate headshot attire for men, ensuring you look sharp and well-prepared for your session.

Why Your Attire Matters in a Headshot

Your clothing plays a crucial role in how others perceive you. The right outfit can:

✔ Enhance your professionalism and credibility.

✔ Help you stand out while maintaining a polished, timeless look.

✔ Ensure your face—not your outfit—remains the focal point.

✔ Reflect your industry and align with your company's brand.

Best Corporate Headshot Attire for Men

1. The Classic Suit & Tie (A Timeless Business Look)

✔ Dark suits (navy, charcoal, deep gray) work best—they project confidence and authority

.✔ A well-fitted blazer or suit jacket adds structure and polish.

✔ Stick to solid colors or subtle textures—avoid busy patterns that distract from your face.

✔ A crisp dress shirt in white, light blue, or soft gray works well under a jacket

.✔ Ties (optional): If your industry leans formal (finance, law, executive roles), opt for a solid or subtly patterned tie in navy, deep red, or burgundy.

🔹 Best for: Executives, attorneys, finance professionals, corporate leaders.

2. Business Casual (A Modern Yet Professional Look)

If your industry allows a relaxed but polished look, go for business casual attire:

✔ Dress shirts in solid, neutral, or jewel tones (e.g., navy, deep green, light blue).

✔ Blazers without ties offer a refined but approachable style.

✔ Knit sweaters or quarter-zips over a collared shirt for a contemporary, approachable look.

✔ Dark, fitted dress pants or chinos pair well with this style.

🔹 Best for: Entrepreneurs, consultants, tech professionals, creatives, and start-up executives.

3. Smart Casual (For a More Relaxed Professional Image)

For industries that lean more casual, such as marketing, creative fields, and start-ups, you can keep it professional while infusing personality into your look:

✔ Button-down shirts in soft blues, grays, or deep tones work well.

✔ Sweaters, cardigans, or sport coats can add depth and interest.

✔ Polo shirts (for warmer climates) can work if they are well-fitted and in solid colors. Polo shirts are known to have issues with collars after multiple washings. Check to ensure yours still has a clean stiff collar that isn't wavy or floppy

✔ Stick with neutral or jewel tones to maintain a sharp, professional appearance.

🔹 Best for: Creative professionals, marketing leaders, entrepreneurs.

Colors That Work Best for Men’s Corporate Headshots

The colors you choose can enhance your look and complement your features. Here are the best shades for men’s headshots:

✔ Navy, charcoal, and deep gray – Timeless and professional.

✔ Soft blue, light gray, and crisp white – Fresh and classic.

✔ Burgundy, forest green, or aubergine (dark purple) – Adds personality while staying refined.

✔ Avoid neon colors, loud patterns, and overly bright whites (unless layered under a jacket).

What to Avoid in a Corporate Headshot

🚫 Loud patterns & logos – Keep the focus on your face, not your shirt.

🚫 Overly casual t-shirts & hoodies – Even in creative industries, aim for polished professionalism.

🚫 Shiny or reflective fabrics – These can cause glare under studio lighting.

🚫 Wrinkled or ill-fitting clothing – Always ensure a tailored, neat appearance.

🚫 All black with no layering – It can look too flat and lacks contrast.

Grooming & Final Touches for a Flawless Headshot

✔ Shave or trim facial hair – A clean, groomed look is essential.

✔ Get a fresh haircut – Ideally, 3-5 days before your session for a natural look.

✔ Moisturize and avoid excessive shine – This helps skin look fresh and even.

✔ Wear glasses? – Clean them thoroughly and use anti-reflective lenses if possible.

Final Tips: How to Look Your Best for a Corporate Headshot

📌 Dress for the job you want – Your outfit should reflect your role and aspirations.

📌 Stay timeless – Choose styles and colors that won’t look outdated in a year.

📌 Comfort matters – Wear something that makes you feel confident and at ease.

📌 Bring options – If unsure, bring an extra jacket or shirt to the session.

Book Your Professional Corporate Headshot Today!

At Glynns Thomas Portraits, we make the headshot experience effortless, guiding you on wardrobe, posing, and lighting to ensure you look your absolute best.

📸 Schedule your corporate headshot session today!👉 https://www.glynnsthomas.com/contact-sacramento-photographer