What to Wear for an NYC Professional Headshot
Stiff corporate dress codes from the past decade don't match how New Yorkers work now, and headshots show it. Updating your LinkedIn in Midtown or building a creative founder brand in Soho, what you wear says something before anyone reads your resume. Here are four wardrobe choices that work.
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Jewel Tones Over Stark Black
New Yorkers love black on black, but pure black can flatten out on camera and erase shoulder definition against darker backgrounds. Emerald green, deep sapphire or warm plum bring life to your skin tone and still look executive. These shades stand out against neutral studio backdrops and historic limestone facades alike.
Avoid super-fine pinstripes or tight houndstooth patterns. They cause a distracting wavy effect called moiré on digital screens.
Architectural Outerwear for Outdoor Shoots
Outside the studio, your coat is more than protection from the cold. It is the hero piece of your wardrobe. A tailored wool trench coat or structured camel overcoat dresses up a simple crewneck, and its structural lines frame your face against a blurry city background.
Keep your collar standing firm or structured. Floppy collars look untidy when the photo is cropped closely for a square profile picture.
The High-Texture Creative Uniform
Tech founders, media executives and creative directors often find a formal suit out of touch. Skip loud graphic prints that pull attention from your eyes and use texture instead: ribbed knits, brushed suede or matte leather. Dante's Models shoots this kind of session with lighting set to bring out those details.
Bring a clothing steamer or pay the $25 studio fee to use theirs. Micro-wrinkles are impossible to hide under high-resolution lights.
Tailored V-Necks and Open Collars
The necktie is optional for 90% of modern headshots, but an open collar needs some care so you don't look unkempt. Choose dress shirts with a firm jacket or internal collar stays that stand up without sagging under a blazer. A defined neckline lengthens your neck and keeps the focus on your eyes and smile.
Test your shirt in the mirror beforehand. If the collar flops flat under your jacket lapel, swap it for a shirt with stiffer collar stays.
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