What to Wear for Senior Pictures: A Style Guide for Girls
Senior year is your time to shine—and your senior pictures should feel just as unforgettable as the year itself. Whether your vibe is soft and romantic or edgy and modern, your outfit choices set the tone for your session and help tell your story.
As a senior photography studio in Kansas City, we help every one of our clients plan the perfect looks to reflect their personality and style. This guide is all about what to wear for senior pictures — complete with tips on styling, layering, accessories, and how to feel confident in front of the camera.
Start with Your Personal Style
Before you start filling up your online shopping cart, think about how you want to feel in your senior pictures. These portraits are about you—your personality, your energy, and all the different sides of who you are. You don’t have to choose just one look or vibe—like sweet and summery—and stick to it for the whole session. Your style can shift from bold to relaxed, classic to playful, depending on your outfits, interests, and mood. Check out these style categories for ideas of what to add to your outfit selection. We love mixing it up!
Classic
A tailored blouse, jeans, a simple dress, and dainty jewelry. Clean, timeless, and always chic.Romantic
Ruffles, florals, soft pinks, and corset tops. Feminine and sweet with a dreamy vibe.Boho
Laid-back and free-spirited. Go for embroidered jeans, flowy maxi dresses, fringe jackets, or oversized sweaters. Add floppy hats or funky patterns for extra flair.Street
High-top sneakers, oversized tees, leather pants, and cool sunglasses. This look is great for urban or downtown KC locations.Girl Boss
Structured jackets, 2-piece sets, or jumpsuits. Perfect if you want a polished, future-CEO feel.t with a dreamy vibe.Glam
Think sequins, feathers, bold jewelry, and maybe even your favorite prom dress. This is your red carpet moment—don’t hold back.
Plan for Variety (and Comfort!)
Depending on which session you choose, you’ll have time for 3–8 outfits during your session, so bring a mix of looks:
Something casual (jeans and a tee)
Something dressy (a fun statement outfit)
Something personal (your favorite trend or a look that screams you)
Optional: a seasonal outfit (cozy sweater, sundress, etc.)
Don’t Forget the Details
Your accessories and styling can elevate your portraits in a big way. Here’s a quick checklist:
Accessories
Statement earrings or a favorite necklace
Layered rings or bracelets
Hats, scarves, or sunglasses
Fun sneakers or fancy heels that make the outfit pop
Props that show off your personality: flowers, instruments, books, or your pet
School mementos: letter jacket, class ring, trophies, or a special uniform
Hair & Makeup
Professional hair and makeup can be included in our senior sessions, and it makes a huge difference. We go for a fresh, camera-ready look that still feels like you. If you’re doing your own, we have suggestions in our what to wear guide of what to do and what to avoid.
Nails
Hands will show in many poses. Go for a clean polish, neutral tones, or something fun and bold that matches your look.
Worried About Matching Your Outfit to the Location or Background?
We’ll help you choose the best background or set for each outfit. Whether we’re photographing you in our studio or heading to a favorite KC spot, we’ll pair your looks with the perfect backdrop—think sunlit fields, grungy alleys, soft floral sets, or bright modern vibes.
Not sure what looks best together? Text us mirror selfies or flat lays, and we’ll help you build a cohesive, beautiful wardrobe plan.
Final Thoughts: Make It Yours
Your senior photos should feel like you—not like someone else's Pinterest board. So bring your sparkle, your sass, your fun sneakers, and your style. Our job is to make you feel beautiful, confident, and totally at ease in front of the camera.
🎉 Ready to plan your dream senior session?
Schedule a consultation with Bondurant Studios today.