Style Mistakes That Are Ruining Your Photos (& What to Wear Instead)

Have you ever looked at a photo of yourself and thought, "Why on earth did I wear that?!" Yeah, SAME. The sad truth is, some outfits just don’t photograph well!

But don’t worry. Today we are breaking down how to avoid this issue before your next event or family photo session. Just a few tweaks can make a huge difference. Let’s talk about the common style mistakes that are ruining your photos and what you should wear instead.

Wearing the Wrong Colors

Some colors wash you out or clash with your background. Bright neons or super pale pastels can mess with lighting and make your skin look off.

Wear this instead: Stick with soft neutrals, jewel tones, or earthy colors. These always pop in photos without overpowering you.

Clothes That Don’t Fit Right

Baggy jeans or too-tight tops can throw off your whole silhouette. Photos pick up on every little wrinkle, bunch, or stretch.

Wear this instead: Pick clothes that follow your shape without clinging. Tailored pieces always look better on camera. If it gapes, tugs, or sags—skip it.

Forgetting to Iron or Steam

Wrinkles are super noticeable in photos, even if you didn’t notice them in real life.

Wear this instead: Keep a mini steamer nearby or use a wrinkle spray. Trust me, two minutes of prep makes a huge difference.

woman posing for a photo with wrinkled shorts — This photo would be great if it didn’t look like I was wearing a wrinkled diaper!

Wearing All Black (or All White)

Black can look flat. White can blow out in bright light. Both can hide the details of your outfit.

Wear this instead: Try mixing textures or adding a pop of color with your shoes, bag, or earrings. If you love black or white, layer with contrast.

Ignoring Accessories

Photos flatten your outfit. Without texture or layers, your look might come off basic or unfinished.

Wear this instead: Add earrings, a layered necklace, or a belt. Even a small bag or fun shoe can bring a look together in pics.

Bad Shoe Choices

Your shoes always show up more than you think. Clunky or worn-out shoes can mess up an otherwise cute outfit.

Wear this instead: Stick to sleek styles in good shape. A simple white sneaker or neutral sandal goes with everything and looks polished.

woman posing for a photo in the street — I’m usually all for sneakers with an outfit but the khaki pants awkward length with the no sock sneakers is giving old lady

Not Considering the Background

Wearing the same color as your background can make you blend in. Or worse, clash.

Wear this instead: Think ahead. If you know you’ll be near greenery, skip the green dress. Shooting in front of a brick wall? Avoid reds or oranges.

Overdoing Trends

Trendy pieces can look great in real life but cringey in photos later. Especially if it doesn’t suit your style.

Wear this instead: Stick to outfits that feel like you. Timeless pieces always win in photos—like a great denim jacket or a cute wrap dress.

Forgetting About Movement

Stiff fabrics or overly tight outfits can look awkward when you move. And movement brings photos to life.

Wear this instead: Try pieces with a little flow. Think breezy skirts, soft fabrics, or tops that move with you.

woman wearing a dress and ankle boots in the fall — Love a good flowy dress or skirt moment!

Not Defining Your Waist

Loose or shapeless outfits can hide your figure in photos. Without a defined waist, your shape can disappear on camera.

Wear this instead: Add a belt or tuck in your shirt to create a flattering silhouette. Even a small cinch at the waist makes your outfit look way more styled.

Clothes That Shift or Slip

Some clothes move too much when you do. That cute off-the-shoulder top? It might not stay put.

Wear this instead: Pick pieces that stay in place, especially if you're taking candid shots. Use fashion tape if needed, or test your outfit with a few moves before heading out.

Skipping the Test Shot

You never know how an outfit will read on camera until you see it. Something might look great in theory but weird in a photo.

Try this instead: Take a mirror selfie or a quick phone timer pic before you leave. You’ll catch anything that looks off and can fix it fast.

woman taking a mirror selfie — I never regret a mirror selfie fit check

Awkward Posing

Even the cutest outfit can fall flat if your pose feels stiff or uncomfortable.

Try this instead: Angle your body slightly, pop one knee, or shift your weight. Keep your arms loose. A natural pose always looks better.

Skipping the Photo-Friendly Staples

Some clothes just always photograph well. If you're not sure what to wear, these are your safe bets.

Wear this instead: Try a wrap dress, a fitted blazer, high-waisted jeans, or a structured midi dress. These flatter most body types and always look put-together in pics.

Forgetting Your Confidence

If you feel uneasy in your outfit, it will definitely show in photos. You want to choose clothing and accessories that make you feel amazing.

Try this instead: All “rules” aside, if you love your outfit and it fits your personal style and you feel GOOD in it, then you’ll look great in the photo if you own it! Forget the fact that you’re taking a photo and just exude happiness and confidence and the results will translate on camera.

Looking good in photos is totally possible if you know what to do. And what not to do!

It’s about wearing what makes you feel cute and confident. With a few little changes, your outfits will start working with the camera, not against it.

Try one of these tips next time you’re snapping pics. You’ll see the difference!

If you loved these tips and want to save them to reference later on, then be sure to pin one of these images below on Pinterest!