Winter Season Style Guide for Family Portraits
When many people think of family portraits, they think of the outdoors and fall colors. But what if that’s not your family’s cup of tea (or in this case hot chocolate)? Winter is a magical time for family portraits, especially those taken in a studio away from the Seattle weather.
The soft light, crisp air, and natural beauty of the season evoke a sense of magic in our lives as we say goodbye to the previous year and welcome the new year with open arms. But Winter is also a time of elegance and beauty. It’s the season to dress up and attend parties and dinners with your loved ones. It makes Winter one of the best times to get portraits of yourself or your family to reflect on your journey.
To ensure your family looks stunning and cohesive in your portraits, we’ve compiled this winter seasonal style guide. With these tips, you’ll be camera-ready and confident for your session.
Embrace a Winter Color Palette
Winter is the perfect season to lean into rich, luxurious colors and soft, neutral tones. Avoid overly bright or neon colors, as they can clash with winter’s subdued natural tones. Instead, choose hues that complement the season’s muted beauty.
Consider incorporating:
- Deep Jewel Tones: Emerald green, sapphire blue, burgundy, and plum add vibrancy and sophistication.
- Cool Neutrals: Soft greys, ivory, cream, and taupe create a dreamy, wintery feel.
- Metallic Accents: Touches of gold, silver, or bronze can add subtle elegance without overpowering the look.
Layer for Style and Warmth
Winter portraits, even those shot in a studio, often invoke the feeling of the outdoors for this time of year in Seattle, so layering is both practical and stylish. The key is to choose layers that add texture and depth without looking bulky:
- Base Layers: Start with fitted pieces like turtlenecks or thermal tops of neutral colors. Think of this almost like a blank canvas to decorate with additional layers and accessories.
- Sweaters and Cardigans: Knitwear adds texture and warmth, perfect for a cozy yet polished look.
- Outerwear: If you want to go more formal, opt for tailored coats in classic cuts and complementary colors that accentuate your body shape.
Textures and Patterns that Photograph Well
Texture adds visual interest, especially in winter when layers are key. Some great options include:
- Cable-knit sweaters
- Velvet dresses or blazers
- Corduroy pants
- Tweed jackets
When it comes to patterns, keep it subtle to avoid overwhelming the image. Classic options include:
- Plaid or tartan (especially in winter-appropriate colors)
- Soft florals in muted tones
- Small geometric prints
To ensure a cohesive look, balance patterns with solid colors. For example, if one family member wears plaid, keep the rest of the group in complementary solids.
Coordinate, Don’t Match
The days of matching outfits are long gone. Instead, aim for coordination by choosing a cohesive color palette and mixing textures and patterns. For example:
- Start with one statement piece (a plaid scarf, a velvet dress, etc.) and build the rest of the outfits around it.
- Ensure each family member’s look complements the others without feeling overly uniform.
And don’t forget about hair and makeup. Winter weather can be tough on hair and skin, so a little extra preparation goes a long way so your skin and hair stay hydrated and healthy. We have professional stylists available at the studio help you get ready and bring everything together for your best look on the day of your session. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask during our consultation or at any point before your photoshoot. We’re happy to help you pick your wardrobe and provide guidance on what will look best based on the style of photograph you’re looking for.
Ready to book your winter session? Contact us today to secure your spot in our brand new studio before the season’s schedule fills up!