30 Festive Winter Engagement Photo Outfit Ideas for Couples
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 a convenient way to test potential hair and makeup styles, along with the wedding photo poses you want to recreate on the big day. "An engagement session can be helpful if you're very camera shy and want to literally check your poses before the wedding day," says photographer Lucy Cuneo.
Once you've decided to have a professional session, you'll need to figure out what to wear to an engagement photoshoot. 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, we've rounded up the top photo outfit ideas for couples and the best places to find standout styles.
In this article:
- What to Wear for Winter Engagement Photos
- Winter Engagement Photo Outfits for Women
- Winter Engagement Photo Outfits for Men
- Where to Buy Winter Engagement Photo Outfits
What to Wear for Winter Engagement Photos
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, Vice President, Brand Marketing at 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."
Here are some more winter engagement photo outfit ideas for couples:
- 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
If you're 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, key opinion leader for SuitSupply. "Wear a nice overcoat or a scarf that compliments your outfit, because this will allow you to shoot multiple looks and combinations."
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 complements 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, browse a variety of formal dresses, skirts and statement tops for all styles and price ranges. And if you find something that you have to have for your upcoming shoot, grab it before it sells out!
Emerald 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 winter engagement photos, especially in a snowy setting. It also comes in five other beautiful shades, including Navy, Plum and Cream.
Ivory Lace Mini Dress
If you don't mind baring your legs to the elements for a few shots, consider this elegant lace stunner. With sheer long sleeves, a boat neckline and a scalloped hem, it's a refined-yet-trendy pick for an unforgettable winter engagement photo outfit.
Green Ruffled Tulle Midi Skirt
Looking for something fun and whimsical? We recommend this tiered ruffle tulle skirt, which comes in plus, petite and standard sizes. Pair it with a statement sweater, black tights and heels or booties for a cute winter look.
White Faux Fur Jacket
Invest in this super-cute faux fur jacket and you'll be thanking us later. Style it with a dress or blouse to take your winter engagement photo outfit up a notch. Choose your favorite from two bridal-worthy colorways: White and Grey.
Wine Long-Sleeve Sweater Dress
You'll be trendy and warm in this sleek long-sleeve sweater dress for your winter engagement photo outfit. The long sleeves and tie waist are effortlessly chic, while the Wine shade will stand out against a white winter wonderland background.
Ivory Cashmere Ribbed Sweater
There's no need to opt for a formal outfit if you feel more comfortable in a sweater and jeans. We love this chunky ribbed cashmere sweater for a casual winter engagement photo outfit idea. Simply add your favorite pair of denim jeans or a patterned midi or maxi skirt.
Black Floral Embroidered Maxi Dress
The LBD, but better. This plus-size winter engagement photo dress is covered in delicate pink and green floral embroidery, which will stun from every angle. Pair this dress with gold accessories for an on-trend winter engagement photo outfit.
Black Sequined Maxi Dress
If your winter engagement shoot will happen around New Years, why not go all out with sequins and sparkles? This long sleeve maxi dress certainly fits the bill—the stark contrast of glittering black sequins against a white snowy background will look seriously incredible.
Ivory Puff-Sleeve Top
ICYMI, puffed sleeves are so in style—and this textured ivory top, available in standard, petite and plus sizes, is a great choice if you're going for a fashion-forward look. It looks effortlessly cute thanks to the semi-sheer long sleeves. Just pair it with your favorite dark wash denim or black jeans to complete the look.
Floral Velvet Midi 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 floral velvet midi dress is a stunning choice for your winter engagement shoot outfit (plus, you can score this style starting at just $30 to rent).
Navy Satin Charmeuse Midi Dress
For winter engagement photo outfit attire, you may want to toss lighter materials like cotton, linen and chambray in favor of richer, warmer textures. You can't go wrong with a silky dress, like this satin charmeuse midi. To make it winter-appropriate, style your outfit with a faux-fur wrap or a cozy cashmere shawl.
Beige Midi Sweater Dress
Equal parts sultry and sophisticated, this versatile sweater midi dress deserves a spot in your closet. We love the off-white Beige hue, which will perfectly complement a white snowy background. Best of all, you can rewear this style for other wintry occasions, from fancy dinner parties to nights out on the town.
Olive Tall Kitten-Heeled Boots
Attention, fashionistas. These tall boots with kitten heels will make a statement in your winter engagement photos, especially when paired with a flowy skirt, sweater dress or even jeans. We're obsessed with the Olive hue, but you can opt for more neutral shades, including Taupe, Brown and Black.
Burgundy Two-Piece Sweater Dress
Matching sets are all the rage these days, like this two-piece sweater set, which comes in a beautiful Burgundy hue that's stunning for the season. And, after wearing it for your engagement photo session, you can definitely repurpose this stylish look for brunch, work or holiday parties, too.
White Ruffled Cardigan
Add this ruffled cardigan to your winter engagement picture outfit, then get ready for all of the compliments to roll in. It'll look amazing paired with just about any dress, or you can wear it with the matching sweater tank and cable-knit midi skirt. How cute is that?
Winter Engagement Photo Outfits for Men
Searching for men's winter engagement photo outfit inspiration? We've got you covered with casual and formal styles for everyone. Check out our favorite shoppable selections to finalize your standout photo outfit before your winter shoot.
Black Commuter Pants
Dress pants that feel like loungewear may sound too good to be true, but Rhone is the real deal. Their Commuter pants are 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.
Navy Suede Loafers
Whether you choose to sport chinos or dress pants, these luxury suede loafers will work with basically any outfit. It has a soft upper with delicate stitching, a contrasting leather sole and comes in a Navy blue shade that's guaranteed to pop against any wintry backdrop.
Beige Cotton Sweater
Take a cue from Chris Evans' infamous Knives Out outfit by wearing a cable-knit sweater for your cold-weather winter engagement photo outfit. (Trust us, there's a reason the photo goes viral every year.) Exceptionally perfect for a casual winter 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.
Navy Cashmere Crewneck
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. Start with a high-end cashmere crewneck, like this navy style, which you can simply pair with chinos or slacks.
Cashmere Quarter Zip Sweater
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, like this style available in big and tall sizes. Finish your winter engagement photo outfit with dark wash jeans or dress pants.
Gray Stretch Chinos
Need a new pair of dress pants in your formalwear repertoire? Consider investing in a simple pair now that can be used for your winter engagement photo outfit, as well as other prewedding events, like the engagement party or rehearsal dinner. Consider styling them with a classic white button-down or a plain turtleneck for a trendy ensemble.
Wool Slim-Fit Blazer
Add personality to your winter engagement shoot 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.
Blue Diamond Dress Shirt
Now's your chance to upgrade the collection of dress shirts that have been in your closet for years. This relaxed design features a barely-there diamond pattern, making it easy to style with pieces you already own. (Think: chinos, a simple tie and your go-to blazer or suit jacket.)
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 shine on camera. The brand's stretch-knit fabric is extra comfortable too, so you won't mind posing until you get *the* shot.
Multicolored Wool Scarf
Tis' the season for cozy scarves! This multicolored scarf, crafted from soft English merino wool, will make a festive addition to your men's winter engagement photo outfit, especially if you'll be outdoors in the chilly winter weather. You're welcome.
Navy Knit Blazer
You don't need a degree in fashion to put together a fantastic outfit. Enter: this tailored blazer. With a dapper blue hue, just add a solid or patterned undershirt and dark dress pants for winter engagement photo attire. (Yes, it's really that simple.)
Black Wool Suit Jacket
When you're not sure what to wear for your winter engagement photos, you can't go wrong with a classic black suit jacket. It's a closet essential—so if you 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 design will look extra-sharp on camera.
Cream Shawl-Collar Cardigan
A high-end cardigan, like this buttery soft shawl-collar piece, can instantly elevate winter engagement photos. Crafted from organic cotton, it's knit with ribbed stitches and has a classic button front that'll look so dapper in pics. Choose from three winter-approved shades: Transition Cream, Crescent Navy and Camo Green.
Black Straight-Leg Chino Pants
You'll be glad to have these straight-leg chino pants in your closet once your engagement photo shoot concludes. The fabric is made with quick-drying and moisture-wicking properties and contains built-in flex stretch for free movement. Oh, and did mention that this versatile design is packed with pockets for all your essentials?
Dark Green Long-Sleeve Polo
For a casual winter engagement photo outfit idea for men, consider this long-sleeve shirt with a polo collar and partial button placket. The dark green hue is fitting for the winter season, while the versatile design means you can rewear this style often, whether it's to work or for a nice dinner.
Where to Buy Winter Engagement Photo Outfits
If you still haven't found what you're looking for, don't fret. These retailers are some of the best places to buy winter engagement photo outfits that you can wear again. Look through their selection of trendy and size-inclusive styles for every winter photoshoot vibe.
- Anthropologie: From long-sleeve dresses to cozy separates, Anthropologie has a wide selection of picture-ready outfits for women. And don't forget to check out their accessories tab, which includes festive scarves, tights, hats and so much more.
- Bonobos: Whether you're searching for a formal or casual outfit, Bonobos won't let you down. Look through their expansive collection of dressy and casual shirts, suits, sweaters, accessories and more (plus, they also offer extended sizes).
- ELOQUII: This plus-size women's retailer seriously has it all, from beautiful wintry dresses to stylish separates, including shirts, blouses, pants and skirts. They're also a great place to buy chic jackets and coats to layer over your outfit for extra warmth if your shoot is outdoors.
- ASOS: We love ASOS because of their inclusive size range, which offers plus, petite, tall and standard sizes for men and women. It's also our go-to for affordable and fashionable winter engagement photo outfits if you're shopping on a budget.
- Banana Republic: Want to go for a casual winter engagement photo shoot vibe? Banana Republic is the place with the coziest sweaters, cardigans, half-zips, sweater dresses and more. Seriously, you won't regret visiting their cashmere shop for all of your winter outfit needs.
Monica Mercuri contributed to the reporting of this article.