The Best Colors to Wear for a Professional Headshot

Mar 203 min read

Your professional headshot is a powerful tool—it’s your digital handshake, your personal brand, and a reflection of your expertise. Whether you're preparing for a corporate headshot, LinkedIn profile photo, or executive portrait, what you wear plays a crucial role in how you’re perceived.

One of the most common questions we hear at Glynns Thomas Portraits is: “What color should I wear for my headshot?” The right color can enhance your features, create a polished look, and ensure you stand out professionally. Let’s dive into the best colors to wear for a professional headshot and how to choose the perfect shade for your industry and personal brand.

Why Color Matters in a Headshot

The colors you wear in your headshot affect how others perceive you and your professionalism. The right shade can:

✔ Complement your skin tone for a fresh, natural look.

✔ Create contrast to help your face stand out.

✔ Reflect your personal brand and industry standards.

✔ Avoid distractions, keeping the focus on you—not your clothing.

Best Colors to Wear for a Professional Headshot

1. Solid, Neutral, and Classic Colors (Best for Any Industry)

For a timeless and universally flattering look, opt for:

✔ Navy Blue – A strong, professional color that exudes confidence and stability.

✔ Charcoal Gray – A sophisticated, neutral tone that works well in any industry.

✔ Soft Blue – A calming, approachable shade that looks great on most skin tones.

✔ Deep Green – A rich, earthy tone that suggests reliability and trust.

✔ Crisp White (With a Jacket) – A classic choice that pairs well with darker suit tones.

🔹 Best for: Corporate executives, business professionals, legal and finance industries, and leadership roles.

2. Jewel Tones (Great for Adding Personality Without Being Overpowering)

Jewel tones are rich, deep colors that add vibrancy without being distracting. They work well for headshots because they:

✔ Enhance most skin tones.

✔ Make your eyes pop.

✔ Add personality while still looking polished.

Some great options:

💎 Deep Burgundy – A strong but warm color that exudes confidence.

💎 Emerald Green – A refined, elegant shade that suggests trustworthiness.

💎 Royal Blue – A vibrant yet professional color that enhances fair and deep skin tones.

💎 Aubergine (Dark Purple) – A sophisticated choice that conveys creativity and authority.

🔹 Best for: Business owners, creative professionals, consultants, and executives looking for a standout yet polished look.

Colors to Avoid for Professional Headshots

🚫 Bright Neon Colors – Overpowering and distracting, they don’t photograph well.

🚫 Super Pale Pastels (Light Yellow, Baby Pink, Light Green) – These can wash you out under bright studio lighting.

🚫 Bright White Without a Jacket – Can be too stark and may cause glare under lighting.

🚫 Very Busy Patterns & Logos – Draw attention away from your face.

🚫 Black on Black (Without Texture or Layering) – Can look flat or lose detail in photos.

Matching Your Outfit to Your Industry & Personal Brand

Corporate & Executive Headshots

✔ Go for navy, gray, or deep jewel tones.

✔ Pair a neutral blazer with a solid-colored shirt for a classic, powerful look.

Creative Industries (Marketing, Design, Consulting, Startups)

✔ Jewel tones or softer earth tones work well.

✔ Textured fabrics like knits, tweeds, or subtle patterns can add personality.

Entrepreneurs & Personal Brands

✔ Choose colors that reflect your brand identity (e.g., blue for trust, green for growth).

✔ Go for authentic, confident tones that match your audience’s expectations.

Final Tips for Choosing the Best Color for Your Headshot

✔ Test Your Colors – Try on different shades and take selfies in natural light.

✔ Stick to Solids – They photograph better than patterns.

✔ Layer It Up – A jacket or blazer adds structure and professionalism.

✔ Consider Your Background – Choose a color that contrasts well with your backdrop.

Ready for a Professional Headshot That Stands Out?

At Glynns Thomas Portraits, we specialize in stress-free, high-quality corporate and leadership headshots designed to help you look polished, confident, and approachable. Whether you need an executive portrait, team headshots, or a LinkedIn refresh, we guide you through every step—including helping you choose the perfect outfit!