30 Winter Engagement Photo Outfit Ideas to Shop Now

Once you get engaged, there's a good chance your camera roll will be filled with proposal pictures, ring selfies, and priceless couple shots. But even if you have photos from the actual bended-knee moment, nothing quite compares to having a professional engagement photoshoot. It's no secret that investing in wedding photography is a great use of your budget. After all, your photographer is the one who will preserve the memories of your big day, which will be cherished for years to come. But beyond that, we also recommend investing in an engagement session. Your time as fiancés won't last forever, and you'll be so grateful to look back on this milestone through gorgeous photos. "Engagement sessions are extremely helpful for marking this time in your life, because the engagement period is so special," says photographer Lucy Cuneo.

Cuneo also notes that an engagement photo session can essentially act as a test run for your wedding day. Having an engagement shoot is a convenient way to test potential hair and makeup styles, along with the wedding photo poses you want to recreate on the big day. Plus, if you don't often pose for professional photos, taking engagement pictures may help you feel more comfortable in front of the camera. "An engagement session can be helpful if you're very camera shy and want to literally check your poses before the wedding day," she adds. And if you've already hired your wedding photographer, a prewedding shoot will help you get to know each other (and your pro's shooting style) to make wedding day pictures a breeze.

Once you've decided to have an engagement photo session, you'll need to pick an outfit, because, let's be real: Choosing what to wear is one of the most important factors of any wedding photoshoot. If your session will take place during the winter, the ideal outfit revolves around what the climate is like for your area. And if you need inspiration for winter engagement photo outfits, we're here to help.

Below, fashion experts break down exactly what to wear for your winter engagement session, including the best colors, fabrics, and silhouettes for the season. And if you're ready to start shopping now, we've rounded up 30 winter engagement photo outfits you can add to your cart on the spot.

In this article:

• What to Wear for Winter Engagement Photos
• Winter Engagement Photo Outfits for Women
• Winter Engagement Photo Outfits for Men

What to Wear for Winter Engagement Photos

Let us make the case that winter is a great time of year to take your engagement photos. Sure, there are benefits to a fall or summer engagement photo session—but there's a certain kind of whimsy and magic in the air during the wintertime. After all, some of the most romantic holidays fall during this time frame. And, if you're lucky enough, you might even get a picturesque snowstorm during your photoshoot.

But since winter weather can be a bit unpredictable, picking your outfit comes down to a science. "It's definitely possible to find winter engagement photo outfits that are stylish and appropriate for the season," says Ranu Coleman, CMO of wedding fashion brand Azazie. "For women, my favorite casual outfit idea is a cozy sweater, jeans and your favorite heels. Men can opt for a button-down shirt, sweater and jeans or a nice sport coat."

If you'll be taking photos in cooler temperatures, experts suggest layering up. In fact, your engagement photo session is a great chance to break out your favorite winter accessories like a cozy wrap or shawl, a faux fur coat, a wool blazer, or a warm scarf. Not only is this a simple way to winterize your look, it'll help you move through the photoshoot quickly. "I always advise clients to layer winter outfits," says Logan Stocker, style advisor for SuitSupply. "Wear a nice overcoat or a scarf that compliments your outfit, because this will allow you to shoot multiple looks and combinations."

To sum it up, here are some of our favorite winter engagement photo outfit ideas:

• A simple silk dress with a faux fur coat or shawl
• A wool or plaid suit with a crisp button-up and formal shoes
• A belted chunky sweater dress with tall boots or tights and booties
• A sweater, cardigan or quarter-zip paired with chinos or slacks
• A chunky wool sweater, dark jeans, and your favorite heels or booties
• A solid color Oxford shirt, dark jeans, and loafers

Ultimately, what matters most is that your winter engagement photo attire makes you feel like your very best self. "Pick an outfit that makes you say 'wow' when you look at yourself in the mirror," Coleman advises. "If you don't feel confident in your outfit, it will show through your pictures. That's why I suggest buying a new outfit that's special for this day. Pick something that flatters your skin tone and body, and look for something that adds a glam pop, whether through the texture, the color or a bold accessory."

Winter Engagement Photo Outfits for Women

If you don't want to do the shopping yourself, you're in luck. Below, we've rounded up our favorite winter engagement photo outfits for women. Browse a variety of formal dresses, skirts and statement tops for all styles and price ranges. And if you find something you have to have, grab it before it sells out.

Lulus Long Sleeve Wrap Dress

You can never go wrong with a flattering wrap dress for any of your prewedding events, but we particularly love this rich emerald hue for engagement photos. If you're not sure what color you should wear, don't feel confined to just white. "Jewel tones are so richly saturated and perfect for photos," Coleman explains. "Emerald green, sapphire blue and a ruby red look wonderful particularly in a snowy winter setting."

Hello Molly Vision of You Midi Dress

You'll be trendy and warm in this flattering off-the-shoulder sweater dress. A belted waist allows you to accentuate your curves, while the nude shade will pop against a white winter wonderland background.

ASTR The Label Halter Neck Long Sleeve Midi Dress

A bold neckline will pop beautifully on camera, making this wine-colored frock a great contender for your outfit. We love the cutout halter top, which is contrasted with cinched puff sleeves.

ELOQUII Organza Mini Dress

If you don't mind baring your legs to the elements for a few shots, consider this statement-making organza stunner. With sheer puff sleeves and a full mini skirt, you'll look like a true trendsetter in this unforgettable outfit. And, if you're worried about getting cold, bring another look for a quick outfit change after this one.

Reformation Midleton Dress

We're all about florals for winter. This long sleeve maxi has a moody color palette that's perfect for the winter season. (It also comes in a rich emerald color if that's more your style.) Colors aside, the true standout detail of this design is the open back for a daringly dramatic look.

Mare Mare Tiered Faux Leather Mini Skirt

Looking for something edgy? We recommend this of-the-moment tiered ruffle skirt, which is available in a muted green hue or classic black. Pair it with a statement sweater, as pictured here, along with tights and heels or booties for a cute winter look.

H&M Appliquéd Slip Dress

The LBD, but better. This size-inclusive black slip dress has pretty pearl and beaded embellishments, which will sparkle from every angle. Pair this dress with a sleek black blazer and tights for the ultimate cool-girl winter engagement photo outfit.

Banana Republic Cable-Knit Turtleneck Sweater

There's no need to opt for a formal outfit if you feel more comfortable in a sweater and jeans. After all, wearing what makes you feel like you is the best way to feel confident in front of the camera. We love this chunky, oversized sweater for winter engagement photos. Just add your favorite pair of denim jeans, or pair them with white slacks for a bridal touch.

Lulus Long Sleeve Sequin Fringe Dress

If your winter engagement shoot will happen around New Years, why not go all out with sequins and sparkles? This long sleeve mini certainly fits the bill—the glittering fringe accents will seriously pop on camera.

Zara Satin-Effect Asymmetrical Top

Brown is back in style, and this one-sleeve top is a perfect choice if you're going for a fashion-forward look. It looks effortlessly chic thanks to the satin fabric and regal high-neck—just pair it with your favorite dark wash jeans (or the matching midi skirt) to complete the look.

Marchesa Notte Sequin Cocktail Dress

You certainly don't have to purchase a brand new winter engagement photo outfit if you have a tight budget. Instead, consider renting your look as a wallet-friendly alternative. This gold sequin cocktail dress is a stunning choice, especially if it's not something you'd typically add to your closet.

BHLDN Leti Dress

Not sure what fabrics work best for winter engagement photos? You may want to toss lighter materials like cotton, linen and chambray in favor or richer, warmer textures. "Silks, satin and cashmere are all great textures for a winter photoshoot," Coleman says. "They're luxe and cozy and compliment a winter setting well." With this in mind, you can't go wrong with a silky dress like this. To make it winter-appropriate, complete the outfit with a faux-fur wrap or a cozy cashmere shawl.

Petal & Pup Florez Dress

Whether you're taking winter engagement photos in a warmer climate or you're willing to brave the elements for a few shots, consider an elegant off-the-shoulder midi. This particular style has a pretty ruffled neckline, making it a great precursor to your wedding dress.

ASOS Design One-Shoulder Satin Midaxi Dress

Equal parts sultry and sophisticated, this one-shoulder cross between a midi and a maxi deserves a spot in your closet. We love the dark navy hue, which would make a bold contrast to a white snow background.

Lulus Two-Piece Sweater Dress

Matching sets are all the rage in loungewear right now—but how about for your formalwear too? This sweater set comes in three neutral shades that are perfect for winter. And, after wearing it for your engagement photo session, you can definitely repurpose this look for brunch, work or holiday parties too.

J.Crew Pleated Ruffle Top

Preppy hearts will love wearing this crinkle chiffon top, which has a pleated ruffle neckline and a thin black tie. Pair this with slim-fit black pants or a black skirt and tights with your favorite black stilettos for a timeless engagement photo look.

Missguided Ribbed Maxi Dress

If you want your winter engagement photo outfit to feel effortlessly bridal, opt for a white maxi dress like this one. Add a faux fur wrap and a glam clutch for the ultimate winter ensemble.

MEROKEETY Lace Cocktail Dress

Procrastinators, don't sweat. If you waited until the last minute to gather winter engagement photo outfit ideas, this Amazon find will arrive in no time. With thousands of rave reviews, this lace midi won't disappoint.

ELOQUII Bustier Velvet Dress

With a sexy bustier bodice and a luxe velvet fabric, this long sleeve mini is going to be your new favorite. The black design offers an edgier look, like the pink hue has a softer, more romantic vibe.

Blush Mark Velvet Maxi Dress

When it comes down to it, you simply can't go wrong with a velvet wrap dress as your winter engagement photo outfit. We're obsessed with this deep blue hue, but it also comes in four other wintry shades too.

Winter Engagement Photo Outfits for Men

Looking for even more outfit inspiration? We've got you covered. You can certainly wear something semi-formal for your winter engagement photo session if that's your preferred aesthetic. "Nothing contributes more to confidence than a precisely tailored suit," says Stocker. "Being in front of the camera for hours can be tiring, so feeling good in your outfit will help you stay loose and natural."

Of course, a suit isn't your only option—especially if you tend to dress casually on a daily basis, or if your shoot will be more laid-back. A polished quarter-zip, cozy sweater cardigan, or crisp button-up shirt will also translate into great photos. "When picking an outfit, I always like to get clients to the edge of their comfort zone while still maintaining some sense of familiarity with the pieces," Stocker adds. "Ultimately, this is a special moment so have fun with your outfit."

Below, browse a few of our favorite shoppable selections to finalize your winter engagement photo outfit.

Rhone Commuter Pant

Dress pants that feel like loungewear may sound too good to be true, but Rhone is the real deal. Their Commuter pant is made from flex-knit fabric that's both breathable and wrinkle-resistant. In other words, you won't feel super uncomfortable while posing for pictures. Pair these bottoms with Rhone's Commuter Shirt (made of the same fabric!) for a look that's insanely comfortable and formal.

L.L. Bean Cotton Fisherman Sweater

Take a cue from Chris Evans' infamous Knives Out outfit by wearing a cable-knit sweater for your winter engagement shoot. (Trust us, there's a reason the photo goes viral every year.) Exceptionally perfect for a casual winter engagement shoot, this top will keep you super warm without looking too simple. Pair it with dark jeans and add a camel coat to look effortlessly cool.

SuitSupply Navy Cardigan

Given the unpredictable weather patterns that accompany the winter season, we recommend choosing a fabric that's both durable and warm to make your outfit stylish and functional. "Flannel wool, cashmere and silk blends will come across beautifully on camera," Stocker explains. "You can count on these rich, lustrous textures (rather than a bright color or pattern) to carry the look. They'll also elevate your outfit and make for a much more refined look than the classic worsted wool you may wear to the office." We recommend starting with a high-end cardigan, like this navy style—simply pair it with a pair of chinos or slacks.

ASOS DESIGN Super Skinny Cropped Pants

Need a new pair of dress pants in your formalwear repertoire? Consider investing in a simple pair now that can be repurposed for all of your prewedding events, like an engagement party, a wedding shower, or even the rehearsal dinner. For your winter engagement shoot, consider pairing them with a classic Oxford button-up or a white turtleneck for a trendy ensemble.

Nordstrom Cashmere Quarter-Zip Pullover

Don't sweat it if suits aren't your thing. If you don't often dress formally, there's no need to fake your style just for engagement photos. Perhaps you'll feel more like yourself in an elevated cashmere quarter zip, which can be paired with dark wash jeans or dress pants.

J.Crew Boiled Merino Wool Blazer

Add a pop of color to your outfit with a colorful plaid wool blazer. Particularly fitting for a holiday-themed engagement photoshoot, this outerwear selection will keep you warm and show off your impeccable sense of style.

Brooks Brothers Relaxed-Fit Dress Shirt

Now's your chance to upgrade the collection of dress shirts that have been in your closet for years. This relaxed design comes in four hues with a barely-there check pattern, making it easy to style with pieces you already own. (Think: chinos, a simple tie, and your go-to blazer or suit jacket.)

SuitShop Dark Green Suit

We can't get enough of the green suit trend, and this outfit is proof. Shake up the traditional black ensemble with a two-piece outfit in an earthy color to really pop on camera. The brand's stretch-knit fabric is extra comfortable too, so you won't mind posing until you get *the* shot.

Express Plaid Wool Suit Jacket

You don't need a degree in fashion to put together a fantastic outfit. Enter, this wool jacket. With a subtle plaid print, all you need is a solid undershirt and dark dress pants to look like you're always one step ahead of the trends. (But if you really want to go all out, pair it with the matching plaid pants for a wow-worthy outfit.)

ASOS DESIGN Skinny Suit Jacket

When you're not sure what to wear for your winter engagement photos, you can't go wrong with a classic. A black suit jacket is a closet essential—so if don't already own one, add it to your wardrobe now. You can pair this black jacket with just about anything, making it a versatile must-have. Plus, this size-inclusive slim-fit design will look extra-sharp on camera.