“What do we even wear?!”
If you’ve ever planned family photos, you’ve probably asked yourself this at least a dozen times.
And you’re not alone! This is the #1 thing people stress about before their session. How do we know? We’ve been there too!
Stick around ‘til the end for a peek at how we styled our own families for beach sessions.
But first – let’s make choosing outfits feel a whole lot easier.
Start with Mom!
Pick something that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Then, use it as the anchor for everyone else.
A flowy dress in a neutral or coastal tone is always a winner—it catches the breeze beautifully and keeps the beachy feel. Once you’ve got your look, build the rest of the family’s outfits around that same color palette.
Think Color Palette, Not Matching Outfits
Instead of dressing everyone in the same color, pick 3-4 colors that work well together and spread them among family members.
Soft neutrals, creams, muted blues, sandy tones, or even a pale blush all photograph beautifully against the beach backdrop without competing with it.
A good balance of solids and subtle patterns is key. If Dad wears a plaid shirt, let Mom go for a solid dress, and have the kids in a mix of soft textures and layers to add depth.
Barefoot + Breezy
You don’t need to over-accessorize. The beach is the accessory! Bare feet are perfect, and layers like a linen button-down or lightweight sweater can add a little texture – and come in handy if that ocean breeze picks up.
Skip the Logos + Bold Colors
Bright colors and busy graphics can distract from the sweet, natural connection we’re trying to capture. Stick to solids or gentle patterns, and avoid anything with text or branding.
Comfort is Key
Your family beach sessions are about movement, playfulness and real moments. That means your outfits should move with you.
Kids should be able to run, twirl, splash, and snuggle. Think soft fabrics and breathable outfits. Nothing too tight, stiff, or itchy. Dresses with a little flow photograph beautifully .
Need some outfit ideas?
Here are some great shops to find stylish, photo-friendly pieces:
- Wildflower Kids – Local children’s boutique located in Downtown Westerly, RI. Online shopping also available
- Woodees A Boutique – Local boutique carrying both men’s and women’s clothing. Online shopping also available.
- H&M – Affordable, neutral basics for kids and adults that mix and match easily.
- Abercrombie & Fitch – Elevated casual wear with great layering pieces for dads.
We hope you found this helpful. As promised, here is a peek at how we styled our own families for beach sessions. How’d we do?
