What to Wear for Headshots & Branding Photos in Metro Detroit: Local Shops & Styling Tips

By Two Wild Souls Photography – Metro Detroit’s Luxury Branding Photographer
Custom Heirloom Products | Hair & Makeup | On-Location + In-Studio Portrait Sessions

You’ve invested in professional branding photography—now it’s time to make sure your wardrobe does you justice. As a Metro Detroit business owner, executive, or professional, you already know that first impressions happen in seconds, especially online. Whether someone’s discovering you on LinkedIn, visiting your company website, or considering your services, your professional image speaks before you ever say a word.

Here’s the truth: even the most talented photographer can’t fix a wardrobe that doesn’t work on camera. But the good news? You don’t need a celebrity stylist or unlimited budget to look absolutely incredible in your branding photos. What you need is a solid understanding of what works, where to shop locally, and how to prepare. Lucky for you, Metro Detroit has some of the best shopping destinations in the Midwest, from the luxury of Somerset Collection to the curated boutiques of Birmingham and expert tailoring right here in Rochester and Troy.

Let me walk you through everything you need to know about dressing for your branding session, with specific recommendations for our local area. By the end of this guide, you’ll feel confident, prepared, and ready to show up looking like the polished professional you are.

Understanding Different Types of Professional Photography

Before we dive into specific wardrobe recommendations, let’s clear up some confusion. Not all professional photography is created equal, and what you wear depends entirely on what type of session you’re booking.

Corporate Headshots vs. Personal Branding Photos

There’s a significant difference between traditional corporate headshots and personal branding photography, and understanding this distinction will completely change how you approach your wardrobe.

Corporate headshots are typically straightforward: think solid-colored background, professional attire, shoulders-up composition. They’re perfect for employee directories, conference badges, and basic website bios. For these, you’ll want to stick with classic business attire—suits, blazers, and conservative colors.

Personal branding photos, on the other hand, tell your complete professional story. These sessions include full-body shots, lifestyle images of you in your element, detail shots of your work, and multiple outfit changes that showcase different aspects of your brand. Maybe you’re photographed at your desk, presenting to a client, or in a more relaxed setting that reflects your approachable personality. For personal branding sessions, your wardrobe needs to be more diverse and authentically you.

Still unsure which style fits your needs? Check out our comprehensive guide on when to choose headshots or personal branding to help you decide.

LinkedIn Headshots: The Modern Professional Standard

Let’s be real—most of your potential clients, employers, or connections will see you on LinkedIn first. Your LinkedIn headshot needs to be approachable yet professional, current, and consistent with your industry standards. For LinkedIn specifically, you want business professional or elevated business casual. The platform’s audience expects a certain level of polish, so save the ultra-casual looks for Instagram.

Essential Wardrobe Guidelines for Professional Photos

Now let’s get into the practical stuff. These guidelines apply whether you’re shooting in our Rochester studio or on location at one of Metro Detroit’s most photogenic spots.

Colors That Command Attention

Color is incredibly powerful in photography, and choosing the right shades can make you look vibrant, confident, and polished—while the wrong colors can wash you out or create unflattering color casts on your skin.

Best colors for most people: Jewel tones are your friend. Think emerald green, sapphire blue, rich burgundy, and deep purple. These colors photograph beautifully and work across different skin tones. Navy blue is a timeless choice that conveys trust and professionalism. For a softer look, dusty rose, sage green, and warm camel tones are gorgeous options that feel modern and approachable.

Colors to approach with caution: Pure white can be tricky because it tends to blow out in photos and create harsh contrasts. If you love white, opt for cream or ivory instead. Similarly, stark black can be severe unless balanced with softer accessories or makeup. Bright neon colors rarely translate well on camera and can create color reflections on your face.

Michigan seasonal considerations: Don’t forget we live in a state with dramatic seasons. Fall and winter sessions might call for deeper, richer tones that complement the season, while spring and summer allow for lighter, brighter options. If you’re shooting outdoors, consider the natural backdrop—rich colors pop beautifully against autumn foliage, while lighter tones shine in summer greenery.

Patterns, Textures, and Fabrics

Here’s a rule I wish more clients knew before their sessions: solid colors are your safest bet for professional photography. Busy patterns, thin stripes, and small checks can create a distracting moiré effect on camera—those weird wavy lines that make your eyes hurt.

That said, you don’t have to be boring. Texture is your secret weapon. A cable-knit sweater, a tweed blazer, or a silk blouse adds visual interest without the pattern problems. These textures photograph beautifully and give your images depth.

Fabric matters more than you think. Natural fabrics like cotton, wool, and silk photograph better than synthetic materials, which can look cheap or create odd sheens. Avoid anything too shiny or reflective unless that’s specifically part of your brand aesthetic.

Fit and Tailoring: The Secret to Professional Polish

I cannot stress this enough: fit is everything. You could wear a designer outfit, but if it doesn’t fit properly, it won’t photograph well. Conversely, a perfectly tailored piece from a mid-range store will look expensive and polished on camera.

If your clothing is too loose, you’ll appear larger than you are. Too tight, and you’ll be uncomfortable (which shows in photos), plus you’ll deal with pulling, bunching, and unflattering lines. The sweet spot is clothing that skims your body comfortably—fitted enough to show your shape without being restrictive.

When to invest in tailoring: If you’re investing in professional branding photography (and you should—it pays dividends), it’s worth spending $20-50 to have your key pieces tailored. A nipped waist on a blazer, properly hemmed trousers, or sleeves shortened to the right length can transform an outfit from “fine” to “phenomenal.”

Women’s Wardrobe Guide for Branding Photos

Ladies, let’s build you a camera-ready wardrobe that makes you feel powerful, polished, and authentically yourself.

Professional Looks That Photograph Beautifully

Necklines matter. V-necks and scoop necks are universally flattering and draw the eye upward toward your face. Avoid very high necklines (they can make your neck appear shorter) and extremely low-cut tops (unless that’s very much on brand for your industry—but even then, proceed with caution).

The blazer is your best friend. A well-fitted blazer instantly elevates any look. Layer it over a blouse, a simple shell, or even a stylish t-shirt for a more casual vibe. Single-button or no-button blazers tend to photograph better than multiple buttons. Colors like navy, charcoal, camel, and jewel tones all work beautifully.

Dresses for the win. A sheath dress or fit-and-flare dress in a solid color is perfect for branding sessions. They’re comfortable, look polished, and work for both studio and lifestyle shots. Sleeve length is personal preference, but 3/4 sleeves are flattering on most people and work year-round.

Business casual done right. If your industry is less formal, you might opt for tailored trousers with a silk blouse, a knit dress with a statement necklace, or dark jeans (no distressing) with a blazer. The key is intentional polish—business casual doesn’t mean sloppy casual.

Accessorizing without distraction. Keep jewelry simple and meaningful. One statement piece—either earrings, a necklace, or a bold watch—but not all three. Delicate pieces photograph beautifully. Avoid anything that jangles or catches the light too much.

Where to Shop in Metro Detroit for Women’s Professional Attire

You don’t have to drive to Chicago or shop online—Metro Detroit has incredible options right in your backyard.

Somerset Collection (Troy) is your one-stop destination for professional wardrobe building. At Somerset Collection, you’ll find everything from accessible luxury to investment pieces. Hit Nordstrom for excellent personal shopping services and a curated selection of contemporary professional wear. Their anniversary sale (typically in July) is perfect for stocking up on quality pieces. Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus offer designer options if you’re looking for statement pieces. For more budget-friendly shopping, Macy’s has a solid workwear section, and stores like Club Monaco and Banana Republic offer modern professional staples.

Birmingham’s boutique scene is perfect for finding unique, professional pieces that help you stand out. Dolce Moda on Old Woodward carries high-end contemporary designers perfect for executives who want to make an impression. The pieces here are fashion-forward but professional—think Theory, Lafayette 148, and Akris. Tender is another Birmingham gem for statement pieces that still work in professional contexts. Stop by Sundance Shoes for elevated footwear that completes your look—remember, if we’re doing full-body shots, your shoes absolutely matter.

Budget-friendly options: Don’t sleep on T.J.Maxx and Nordstrom Rack (both locations in the area). You can find designer labels at fraction of the cost if you’re willing to hunt. Just make sure whatever you buy fits well and can be tailored if needed.

Men’s Wardrobe Guide for Professional Headshots

Gentlemen, your wardrobe is just as important, even if you have fewer options. Let’s make sure you look sharp, modern, and professional.

Suits, Sport Coats, and Business Casual

The classic suit never goes out of style for professional photography. Navy and charcoal gray are your most versatile options. A well-fitted two- or three-piece suit conveys authority and polish. Make sure your jacket fits perfectly in the shoulders—this is the one thing a tailor can’t easily fix.

Sport coats and blazers offer more flexibility. You can pair a sport coat with chinos or dress trousers for a business casual look that’s polished but approachable. Texture works beautifully here—think tweed, herringbone, or a subtle windowpane pattern (larger patterns work better than tiny ones).

The tie debate: To tie or not to tie? It depends on your industry and brand. Financial advisors, attorneys, and corporate executives might default to ties for a more traditional look. Creative professionals, tech entrepreneurs, and consultants often skip the tie for a more modern, approachable vibe. If you’re doing multiple outfit changes, bring both options—tie for some shots, open collar for others.

Business casual for men typically means a button-down shirt (Oxford cloth, poplin, or chambray) with chinos or dress trousers. You can add a sweater—v-neck or crew neck—over the shirt for dimension. Make sure your shirts fit well in the neck and shoulders. If there’s pulling across the chest or gaping at the buttons, size up or get it tailored.

Modern vs. traditional: Today’s professional looks are more streamlined and fitted than they were a decade ago. Slim-fit (not skinny) suits and shirts look contemporary. Avoid anything baggy or oversized—it dates your photos immediately.

Men’s Shopping Resources in Troy and Rochester

Manno Clothing & Tailoring in Rochester Hills has been serving Metro Detroit men for over 43 years. They offer custom suits starting around $525, with fabrics sourced from Italy and England. What I love about Manno is their commitment to proper fit—they’ll work with you until it’s perfect. Custom suits typically take 6-8 weeks, so plan ahead for your session.

Crown Custom Clothing in Troy specializes in bespoke suiting. If you’re an executive investing in your professional image, this is where you want to go. They’ll create pieces tailored exactly to your measurements and style preferences. Expect to invest $800+ for a custom suit, but it’ll fit like a dream and last for years.

Off-the-rack options: Jos. A. Bank and Men’s Wearhouse both have locations in the area and offer solid ready-to-wear options with in-house tailoring. The Somerset Collection has Brooks Brothers for classic American professional wear, and Nordstrom’s men’s department offers everything from affordable basics to designer pieces.

Tailoring services: Even if you buy off-the-rack, budget for tailoring. Tailor Unique in Rochester Hills and Express Alterations in Royal Oak both do excellent work. A properly tailored suit makes all the difference in how you photograph.

Industry-Specific Wardrobe Recommendations

Your industry and target audience should influence your wardrobe choices. Here’s what works for different professional sectors.

Corporate Executives and Financial Professionals

You need to convey authority, trustworthiness, and competence. Stick with traditional business formal—suits in navy, charcoal, or subtle pinstripes. Crisp white or light blue dress shirts. Conservative ties (if wearing one). Polished leather shoes. Your look should be timeless rather than trendy. Women should opt for tailored suits, sheath dresses, or coordinated separates in professional colors.

Creative Professionals and Entrepreneurs

You have more freedom to show personality while maintaining professionalism. Think business casual with style. Men might wear well-fitted dark jeans with a blazer and Oxford shirt. Women could choose stylish separates, a modern dress, or elevated casual pieces. You can incorporate more color and contemporary styles. The key is intentional—your look should feel curated, not thrown together.

Real Estate Agents and Sales Professionals

You need to be approachable yet professional. Business casual is your sweet spot. You want potential clients to see you as trustworthy and successful, but not intimidating. Blazers with dress pants or dark jeans work well. Incorporate your brand colors if possible. Women might add a statement necklace or scarf. Men should be well-groomed with polished shoes.

Healthcare and Wellness Professionals

It depends on your specific field. Physicians and dentists typically lean more traditional—business professional conveys competence. Therapists, coaches, and wellness practitioners often opt for business casual with softer colors that feel warm and approachable. If you wear scrubs or a white coat in your practice, bring those for some shots along with professional attire for others.

Seasonal Considerations for Michigan Branding Photos

Living in Michigan means planning for four distinct seasons, and your wardrobe choices should reflect our climate—especially if you’re shooting outdoors.

Winter Wardrobe Strategies

Winter sessions call for rich, deep colors that complement the season. Think burgundy, forest green, deep purple, and charcoal. Layering is your friend—blazers over sweaters, scarves for outdoor shots (solid colors or subtle patterns). If we’re shooting outdoors, make sure you have a polished coat or jacket. A wool peacoat, tailored trench, or sophisticated parka can all work depending on your brand. For more inspiration on winter sessions, explore our Michigan winter photoshoot ideas.

Summer Studio Sessions

Summer is perfect for lighter colors and fabrics. Pastels, bright jewel tones, and crisp whites (or ivory) all photograph beautifully in our naturally lit studio. Lighter fabrics like cotton and linen keep you comfortable. Short sleeves are absolutely fine for summer sessions—just make sure they hit at a flattering point on your arm. Women can wear dresses without jackets. Men might skip the jacket for some shots and wear just a shirt and tie or open collar.

Fall Color Palettes

Fall in Michigan is stunning, and if you’re shooting outdoors, you’ll want colors that complement rather than compete with the foliage. Warm tones like rust, mustard, olive, and cognac are gorgeous. Deep reds and oranges work beautifully. Navy and camel are classic fall neutrals. Texture really shines in fall—think cable knits, tweed, and corduroy.

Spring Refresh Ideas

Spring calls for fresh, optimistic colors. Soft pinks, sage green, light blue, and lavender all feel seasonally appropriate. This is a great time for business casual looks that feel lighter and more approachable. If shooting outdoors in spring, coordinate with the environment—blooming trees and fresh greenery look beautiful with softer, lighter wardrobe choices.

Accessorizing Your Professional Look

The details matter, and accessories can make or break your professional photos.

Jewelry and Watches

Keep it simple and intentional. For women, one statement piece is plenty—either bold earrings or a necklace, not both. Small hoop or stud earrings are classic and don’t distract. Avoid anything that dangles too much or catches light excessively. For men, a quality watch is a great accessory that conveys success and attention to detail. Wedding rings are obviously fine. Skip the other rings unless they’re truly part of your personal brand.

Glasses and Eyewear

If you wear glasses regularly, absolutely wear them in your photos—they’re part of your professional identity. Just make sure they’re clean and glare-free (we’ll adjust lighting to minimize glare). If you have multiple pairs, bring them. Sometimes a different frame style works better for certain outfits or looks. Avoid transitional lenses that darken in light—they can create odd effects in photos.

Shoes That Complete the Look

If we’re doing full-body or three-quarter length shots, your shoes matter. For women, classic pumps, elegant flats, or heeled booties all work. Avoid super high stilettos unless you’re completely comfortable walking and standing in them—your comfort shows in photos. For men, polished leather dress shoes are standard. Make sure they’re clean and in good repair. Oxfords, loafers, or Chelsea boots all work depending on your outfit and industry.

Pre-Session Wardrobe Preparation Checklist

Let’s make sure you’re completely prepared for your stress-free branding photography experience.

How many outfits to bring: For a full branding session, plan for 3-4 complete outfit changes. This gives us variety and ensures you have images for different contexts and uses. Include one more formal/traditional look, one or two business casual options, and potentially one creative or lifestyle-oriented outfit that shows another side of your personality.

Steaming and pressing requirements: Wrinkles show up in photos, period. Make sure everything is pressed or steamed before your session. Hang your clothes on the way to the studio rather than folding them in a bag. I always have a steamer in the studio for touch-ups, but starting with pressed clothes is essential.

What to avoid day-of: Don’t wear anything brand new that you haven’t tried on before—you need to feel comfortable and confident. Avoid clothes that are too tight or restrictive. Skip super heavy meals right before your session (they can make you feel and look bloated). Don’t get a drastic haircut the day before—give yourself at least a week to adjust to any major changes.

Emergency wardrobe kit: Bring safety pins, fashion tape (for women to secure necklines), a lint roller, and a small sewing kit. These little tools can save the day. Also bring any undergarments you might need for different outfits—the right bra or undershirt makes all the difference.

Your Complete Metro Detroit Shopping Guide

Let’s break down exactly where to shop for your branding session wardrobe, organized by area and budget.

Luxury Shopping at Somerset Collection

Somerset Collection in Troy is Michigan’s premier shopping destination, and it’s perfect for building a professional wardrobe. The collection spans two buildings connected by a walkway, offering over 180 stores.

For women’s professional attire: Start at Nordstrom for one-stop shopping with personal styling services available (free of charge). Their contemporary department has brands like Theory, Eileen Fisher, and Vince—perfect for modern professional looks. Saks Fifth Avenue offers designer options including St. John, Max Mara, and Armani. For more accessible price points, try Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, and J.Crew—all have professional workwear that photographs beautifully.

For men’s professional attire: Nordstrom’s men’s store is excellent, offering everything from Hugo Boss suits to casual Friday options. Brooks Brothers is the go-to for classic American professional wear. For contemporary styles, check out Club Monaco and Ted Baker.

Budget planning tips: Somerset has options across price ranges. You can mix investment pieces (a great blazer from Nordstrom) with more affordable basics (shirts from J.Crew). Time your shopping around major sales—Nordstrom Anniversary Sale (July), holiday sales (November/December), and end-of-season clearances offer significant savings.

Birmingham’s Boutique District

Downtown Birmingham offers a curated shopping experience with boutiques you won’t find in every mall.

Dolce Moda (220 S. Old Woodward Ave) is the place for sophisticated, fashion-forward professional wear. They carry contemporary designers and offer personal styling. Expect to invest here, but the pieces are unique and high-quality.

Sundance Shoes (200 S. Old Woodward Ave) has been a Birmingham staple for premium footwear and accessories. They carry high-end brands and can help you find the perfect shoes to complete your professional look.

Claymore Shop (144 W. Maple Rd) is Birmingham’s premier destination for men’s custom clothing and tailoring. They offer bespoke suits, made-to-measure options, and have an excellent selection of accessories.

Other Birmingham boutiques worth exploring: Tender for unique pieces, LolaB Couture for women’s designer apparel, and the various accessories boutiques along Old Woodward Avenue.

Troy and Rochester Tailoring Services

Even the best off-the-rack clothing needs tailoring to look truly polished in professional photos.

Manno Clothing & Tailoring (801 N. Main St, Rochester Hills) has been in business since 1980. Tony Manno and his team offer custom suits from $525, with fabric selections from Italy and England. They also provide tailoring services for clothing purchased elsewhere. The personalized service and attention to fit is exceptional.

Crown Custom Clothing (1455 E. Big Beaver Rd, Troy) specializes in bespoke menswear. If you’re investing in professional photography, this is where to invest in a suit that fits perfectly. Custom shirts start around $150, with suits starting around $800+.

Local alteration specialists: For tailoring existing pieces, Tailor Unique in Rochester Hills offers excellent alterations. They can take in jackets, hem pants, adjust shirt sleeves—all the finishing touches that make your wardrobe camera-ready.

How Two Wild Souls Photography Helps You Look Your Best

As your Metro Detroit branding photographer, I don’t just show up and start clicking. The wardrobe conversation starts during our initial consultation, weeks before your session.

Complimentary wardrobe consultations: When you book a branding session with Two Wild Souls Photography, we schedule a planning call where we discuss your wardrobe in detail. I’ll ask about your industry, target audience, and brand personality. We’ll talk about colors, styles, and the specific looks you want to achieve. You can text me photos of outfit options, and I’ll give you honest feedback about what will work best on camera.

Pre-session planning support: I send all my branding clients a detailed preparation guide that covers wardrobe, grooming, and what to expect on shoot day. This guide includes tips specific to your session type and location. If we’re shooting outdoors, I’ll advise on weather-appropriate options. If we’re in the studio, I’ll explain how different colors photograph against our backdrop options.

Professional styling guidance: On shoot day, I help you adjust your outfit for the camera—smoothing a collar, adjusting how a blazer drapes, suggesting when to button or unbutton a jacket. These small tweaks make a huge difference. And if something isn’t working, we’ll change it. Your comfort and confidence matter more than sticking to a predetermined plan.

Real client success stories: Recently, I worked with a Rochester Hills business coach who was nervous about her wardrobe choices. She brought five outfit options to her planning session, and together we selected three that perfectly represented her approachable-yet-professional brand. The resulting images elevated her entire online presence, and she told me the wardrobe guidance was one of the most valuable parts of the experience. You can see similar transformations in our Rochester branding photography case study.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wardrobe for Branding Photos

What if I don’t have professional clothing? That’s completely okay, and more common than you think. Start with one really good piece—a blazer, a classic dress, or a well-fitted suit—and build from there. You can rent clothing for your session from services like Rent the Runway, or borrow from friends if you’re similar sizes. Focus on investing in pieces you’ll wear again in your business.

Should I buy new clothes for my session? Only if you need them for your business anyway. Professional photography is an investment, but you don’t need to completely replace your wardrobe. Shop your own closet first—you probably have more appropriate options than you realize. If you do buy new pieces, choose items you’ll wear regularly after the session. Your branding photos should represent your everyday professional image, not a costume.

How far in advance should I plan my wardrobe? Ideally, start thinking about your wardrobe 3-4 weeks before your session. This gives you time to shop if needed, get items tailored, and really think through your options. It also reduces last-minute stress. During our pre-session consultation (usually 1-2 weeks before shooting), we’ll finalize your wardrobe choices together.

Can you help me choose between outfit options? Absolutely! I encourage all my branding clients to text me photos of outfit options before the session. I can tell you what will photograph best and how different pieces coordinate. On the day of your session, bring extra options if you’re torn—we can make final decisions together when we see how things look on camera.

What’s the dress code for different industries? It varies significantly. Corporate and financial sectors typically require traditional business formal. Creative industries and tech allow more flexibility with business casual. Healthcare depends on your specific role. When in doubt, dress one level more formal than your typical work attire. It’s easier to dress down (remove a jacket, untuck a shirt) than to dress up during a session. If you’re curious about what works for your specific field, our article on professional headshots transforming Metro Detroit careers covers industry-specific considerations.

Can I change outfits during my session? Yes! In fact, I encourage multiple outfit changes for branding sessions. This gives you variety in your image gallery and different looks for different uses. Professional headshots for LinkedIn might call for a suit, while your Instagram content could feature a more relaxed business casual look. We’ll discuss how many changes make sense during your planning consultation. Our studio in downtown Rochester has a private changing area for your comfort.

Ready to Book Your Professional Branding Session?

Now that you know exactly what to wear, where to shop, and how to prepare, it’s time to take the next step in elevating your professional image. At Two Wild Souls Photography, I create a stress-free, all-inclusive branding experience right here in downtown Rochester, Michigan, serving professionals throughout Metro Detroit, Birmingham, Troy, Bloomfield Hills, Royal Oak, Ann Arbor, and beyond.

Every branding session includes:

• Complimentary wardrobe consultation and planning so you show up confident and prepared

• Professional hair and makeup services to ensure you look polished and camera-ready

• No time limits—we take as long as needed to capture your perfect images

• Multiple locations and outfit changes to build a comprehensive image library

• Expert guidance and posing direction so you look natural and confident

• Fast turnaround time (7-10 business days) so you can start using your images right away

Your professional image is one of the most important investments you’ll make in your business or career. The right branding photos open doors, attract ideal clients, and position you as the expert you are.

Ready to show up as the polished, professional, confident person you are? Let’s create branding photos that truly represent your excellence.

Schedule your complimentary consultation today and let’s start planning your wardrobe and session details. Located in downtown Rochester, Michigan, I’m here to serve Metro Detroit professionals who refuse to settle for mediocre photos.

Have questions about wardrobe, pricing, or what to expect? Visit our photography FAQ for Oakland County or call our studio at (248) 274-6361.

Your best professional image is waiting. Let’s create it together.