Your complete outfit guide from Mycah Bain Photography

Your engagement photos are more than just a warm-up for your wedding — they’re a celebration of your story. Minneapolis offers so many gorgeous backdrops, from the city skyline at Stone Arch Bridge to golden meadows at Boom Island Park or cozy wooded trails at Minnehaha Falls.

But before we start exploring, let’s talk outfits. Here’s your step-by-step guide on what to wear (and how to feel incredible doing it) for your engagement photos in Minneapolis.

💡 Planning your session? Don’t miss my post on the Best Engagement Photo Locations in Minneapolis →

1. Start With a Color Palette That Fits the Season

The season sets the tone for your photos — and your outfits should reflect it.

• Spring: Light neutrals, dusty pastels, and flowy fabrics. Think blush, sage, soft blue, or cream.
• Summer: Warm whites, linen textures, and airy tones that pop against green trees or city stonework.
• Fall: Cozy rust, mustard, navy, and deep forest tones — perfect for sunset sessions among colorful leaves.
• Winter: Jewel tones like emerald, wine, or charcoal with layers and texture — coats, scarves, and boots look chic, not bulky.

🪄 Pro Tip: Avoid bright neons or overly saturated colors. They can reflect color onto your skin and overpower your natural glow.

2. Coordinate, Don’t Match

Matching outfits can feel overly staged. Instead, build your looks around complementary tones.

Choose one outfit with a small pattern or texture (like plaid, stripes, or lace), then pull solid colors from that pattern for the partner’s look.

For example:

• If one wears a navy plaid shirt, the other could wear a soft cream or rust tone.
• If one wears a white dress, the other might wear tan chinos and a light blue shirt.

3. Think About Movement

Engagement sessions are full of connection — walking, twirling, laughing. Outfits that flow, drape, or stretch make movement look natural and romantic.

• For women: Midi or maxi dresses, skirts with movement, or tailored jumpsuits.
• For men: Fitted shirts, button-ups, or layered sweaters over jeans or chinos.

Avoid anything too tight, short, or stiff — it can limit posing and comfort.

4. Plan for Two Looks

Changing outfits adds variety to your gallery and helps tell the story of who you are together.

• Casual Look: Jeans, cozy knits, flannels, or sneakers. Great for a walk through your favorite park.
• Dressy Look: A flowy dress or tailored outfit for elevated, timeless photos.

Pack everything wrinkle-free and bring comfy shoes to walk between spots!

5. Add Personal Touches & Layers

The small details make your photos feel uniquely you.

• Bring a jacket, hat, or scarf that reflects your personality.
• Include sentimental accessories like heirloom jewelry or a watch.
• Pets are always welcome — they add energy and heart!

Layers also add visual depth — think denim jackets, cardigans, or a button-up worn open.

6. Dress for Your Location

Match your outfits to the vibe of your chosen Minneapolis spot:

• Stone Arch Bridge / Downtown: Dressier city chic — whites, blacks, or neutral palettes that complement the architecture.
• Minnehaha Falls or Hidden Beach: Boho and relaxed — earthy tones, flowy fabrics, and sandals.
• Boom Island or Theodore Wirth Park: Natural neutrals, denim, and cozy sweaters that pair perfectly with greenery.

7. Prep for the Camera

A few extra touches make a big difference:

• Steam or iron clothes beforehand.
• Empty pockets (phones, keys, wallets).
• Touch-up nails and moisturize hands — they’ll be in many shots!
• Schedule professional hair & makeup if you’d like an extra-polished look (perfect chance to test your wedding makeup artist).

Ready to Plan Your Own Engagement Session in Minneapolis?

Whether you’re dreaming of soft golden fields or the downtown skyline, your engagement session should feel natural, comfortable, and so you.

I’ll help guide every detail — from your outfits to your locations — so you can focus on connection and laughter while I capture your story.

💍 Ready to book your Minneapolis engagement session?

Inquire here →