ย I’ve been ordering and trying on a variety of dress styles that give an effortless bridal vibe for engagement photos and I’ll share what I’m loving, where I’m shopping and some tips to keep in mind as you shop. I haven’t had my photos done yet, but I have photographed engagements and weddings for 10 years.
Boho + Romantic White Dresses
I’ve determined that a more bohemian style or romantic style dress for engagement photos (and probably any other bridal event including the wedding) is what works for me. Anything super polished or traditional isn’t for me and I also like silhouettes that make me feel and look my best so I love a sleeve or an off the shoulder moment, ruffles and something that feels slightly sexy, but still covered up.
Here’s the ruffled maxi dress that’s under $70 that I’m wearing. I’m ultimately passing on this because my arms don’t fit comfortable in the pleated sleeves (they loosely hang on the model and I was hoping for that look, but too uncomfortable on my arms.)
This Free People off the shoulder maxi dress is still a contender. It’s comfortable and flowy! I took some test photos to see how I liked it on me and I do like this vibe a lot.
The ivory eyelet dress with the long sleeves is the top contender. I’m wearing a medium, but it’s a little too big in the shoulders for me so I’m exchanging for a small and hoping it fits better in shoulders, and not too short. It’s fully lined too which I appreciate.
I have a similar white mini dress like this that works for so many occasions! Another super sweet mini dress option and this one I may order too.
And here are more maxi dresses I love: this one, this one with the dramatic sleeve (would be so pretty in pics) and this $79 crocheted maxi.
For dresses, I’m shopping Free People, Revolve and Lulus mostly (they have bridal/white dress sections!) Red Dress also has a ton of cute affordable options.
Engagement Photo Tips
First, you have to determine your style. Are you super casual and laidback, more playful and romantic, or something more upscale and classy? Answering this question first helped me determine outfit choices and what we feel most comfortable in. We’re not super casual, but more of a casual romantic feel. Well, that’s what I’m aiming for.
Brides, choose a look that you feel most comfortable in. I personally feel most comfortable moving around and being photographed in something that doesn’t cling to my body and I’m not constantly adjusting so when trying on things, I want it to not be too short, expose too much of my chest and I want loose sleeves. If you don’t feel amazing in it and you feel a little insecure, that might not be the best fit for you and that will show in the photos. I can’t tell you how many people I’ve photographed who are uncomfortable in the outfits they chose and it comes across in the photos.
Avoid a matchy-matchy look with your significant other. Go for something more cohesive than matching. For example, I got Rob new light khaki colored chinos, a medium blue button top, a jacket and brown belt and I’ll be wearing hopefully the ivory dress. I like layers on a guy in photos so he may wear a white henley under the button up and jacket–but I bought some options to mix and match with.
I also avoid super bold colors–they take away from the focal point of the photos– you! I prefer earthy color tones or muted shades.
