Last month, a model showed up to our Tribeca shoot in a sequined cocktail dress, at 9 AM, on a cobblestone street, in 40-degree weather. She looked great in person. On camera the sequins blew out every highlight, and she was shivering so hard we lost half our shooting time. So here it is written down.
Your outfit shapes every frame. The wrong one fights the location, and the right one works with it. After seven years shooting across New York City, this is what works, season by season.
General rules
- Comfort: We'll be moving. Walking, posing, maybe taking the subway. If you can't walk three blocks in those stilettos, bring flats or sneakers to change into.
- Layers: New York weather changes fast. A sunny morning can turn breezy by afternoon. Layers let you adapt, and they give us more options without a full outfit change.
- No busy patterns or logos: Unless it's a brand shoot, skip loud patterns, large logos and graphics. They pull focus from you and date a photo. Stick to classic, clean lines.
- Texture and movement: Think about how fabric moves. A flowy dress on the Brooklyn Bridge or a structured trench coat on Fifth Avenue adds depth to the photo.
- Bring options: More than you think you need. A small duffel with a few tops, a couple of bottoms and different accessories makes a big difference.
Spring
The city comes out of winter, the cherry blossoms are out in Central Park, and light, airy clothes fit.
- Fabrics: Cotton, linen blends and silk.
- Colors: Pastels, soft neutrals, denim blue, and a few bright spring colors.
- Outfit ideas:
- A trench coat over a simple dress or tailored trousers. It's classic NYC and works in changing weather.
- Flowy midi or maxi dresses that catch the breeze, good for Washington Square Park or the West Village.
- A denim jacket over a white tee and dark jeans.
- Clean white sneakers for walking around.
- Accessories: Light scarves, delicate jewelry, a classic handbag.
Summer
NYC summers are hot and humid. Dress to keep cool.
- Fabrics: Breathable cotton, linen, rayon and lightweight denim.
- Colors: Brights, whites, creams, and bold patterns if you keep them tasteful.
- Outfit ideas:
- Sundresses or jumpsuits that are comfortable and flattering.
- Tailored shorts or skirts with a blouse or a well-fitting tank top.
- Linen trousers or wide-leg pants, good for a SoHo street shoot.
- Sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat, which also help with the sun.
- Accessories: Statement earrings, straw bags, comfortable sandals or espadrilles.
Fall
The foliage in Prospect Park is at its best, and layering is the key.
- Fabrics: Wool, cashmere, leather, corduroy and thicker denim.
- Colors: Jewel tones (emerald, sapphire, ruby), deep reds, oranges, yellows, browns and classic neutrals.
- Outfit ideas:
- A well-fitting leather jacket or a structured wool coat.
- Chunky knit sweaters with dark-wash jeans or tailored skirts.
- Scarves. They add warmth, color and texture.
- Boots, whether ankle, knee-high or combat, are practical for walking the city.
- A long-sleeved midi dress with boots and a jacket works on the Upper West Side.
- Accessories: Beanies, gloves, statement belts, structured handbags.
Winter
Winter is cold, but snow makes a good backdrop. Think warmth, and let your outerwear carry the look.
- Fabrics: Heavy wool, cashmere, faux fur and down.
- Colors: Deep colors, black, grays, whites and festive metallics.
- Outfit ideas:
- A wool coat or a puffer jacket is the main piece. Make sure it's clean and fits well.
- Knitwear such as turtlenecks and cable-knit sweaters.
- Tailored trousers, dark denim, or warm leggings under a dress.
- Warm boots, whether sleek leather or sturdy snow boots.
- A formal outfit works for an evening look around Rockefeller Center or a Broadway backdrop.
- Accessories: Warm hats, gloves, thick scarves, and jewelry that shows from under layers.
The best outfit is the one you feel confident and comfortable in. Keep the location in mind, and let your personality show.
To book a session or submit your portfolio to the Dante's Models roster, go to dantet9.com.
Photo by Eyüpcan Timur on Pexels
