The holiday season is all about family, celebration, and making lasting memories. Among the most cherished traditions during this festive time is capturing those moments in a family holiday photo. Whether you're planning to send holiday cards, post on social media, or frame a picture for your home, a perfect family photo is a timeless keepsake. Coordinating matching outfits is a great way to make your photos stand out, but finding the right balance between cohesive and natural can be challenging. In this article, we'll provide tips and suggestions for styling family matching outfits that will look amazing in your holiday photos.
1. Choose a Color Palette
The foundation of any coordinated family outfit is a well-planned color palette. Instead of dressing everyone in the exact same color, opt for a complementary palette of 2-3 colors. This approach allows for individual expression while maintaining a cohesive look.
a. Classic Neutrals with a Pop of Color
Think about starting with a base of neutral hues like beige, black, white, or gray and then adding a splash of festive hues like gold, red, or green. This combo is classic and functional in many contexts.
b. Monochromatic with Varying Shades
Another elegant option is to dress the family in varying shades of the same color. For example, different tones of blue or green can create a visually appealing and harmonious look.
c. Seasonal Colors
Incorporate seasonal colors like deep reds, forest greens, or icy blues, which naturally evoke the holiday spirit. Pair these with metallics or whites for added contrast.
2. Mix and Match Patterns
Patterns can add depth and interest to family outfits, but it’s important to balance them carefully. Too many conflicting patterns can be distracting, while a thoughtful mix can make your photos pop.
a. Start with a Statement Pattern
Choose one person to wear a bold pattern, such as plaid, stripes, or florals. This could be the parents or the oldest child, setting the tone for the rest of the outfits.
b. Complementary Patterns and Solids
For the other family members, select smaller patterns or solid colors that complement the statement pattern. For instance, if one person is wearing a plaid shirt, others could wear solid colors that pick up on the hues in the plaid.
c. Coordinating Accessories
Incorporate the chosen patterns through accessories like scarves, ties, or headbands. This subtle touch helps tie the outfits together without overwhelming the overall look.
3. Consider the Location and Setting
The setting of your photo shoot plays a crucial role in determining the best outfits. Whether you’re indoors by the fireplace or outside in a winter wonderland, your clothing should harmonize with the environment.
a. Indoor Cozy Vibes
If you plan to take your photos indoors, think about dressing in warm, cozy colors. Imagine flannel shirts, knit sweaters, and luxurious, soft materials. In this context, color combinations with warm accents like deep reds or golds look great.
b. Outdoor Winter Wonderland
For outdoor shoots, choose outfits that not only look good but also keep you warm. Layering is key here—think puffer jackets, wool coats, and cozy accessories like beanies and scarves. Earthy tones like browns, greens, and creams often work well against a snowy backdrop.
c. Formal vs. Casual Settings
Decide on the overall vibe you want for your photos. If it’s a formal family portrait, opt for dressier attire like button-up shirts, dresses, and polished shoes. For a casual setting, relaxed fits like jeans, cozy sweaters, and casual footwear are ideal.
4. Play with Textures
Incorporating different textures into your outfits adds visual interest and can make your photos feel more dynamic.
a. Knits and Wools
Chunky knit sweaters or woolen scarves add a cozy, tactile element that’s perfect for winter photos. These textures photograph beautifully and can be layered easily.
b. Velvet and Satin
For a more luxurious feel, incorporate velvet or satin pieces. A velvet dress or a satin blouse adds a touch of elegance and catches the light beautifully in photos.
c. Denim and Leather
For a more casual, yet stylish look, consider denim jackets or leather boots. These materials add a bit of edge and are versatile enough to work with various color palettes.
5. Don’t Forget the Footwear
Footwear is often overlooked, but it plays an essential role in the overall look. Ensure that shoes are not only stylish but also appropriate for the setting.
a. Coordinated but Not Identical
Choose footwear that complements the outfits without being identical. For example, if the family is dressed in varying shades of blue, navy or brown boots would coordinate well.
b. Consider the Setting
For outdoor shoots, sturdy and stylish boots are ideal, especially if you’re in a snowy or muddy area. For indoor or more formal settings, dress shoes or elegant flats will complete the look.
6. Accessorize Thoughtfully
Accessories can be the perfect finishing touch to your family’s holiday outfits. They allow for personality to shine through and help to tie the outfits together.
a. Matching Hats and Scarves
Coordinating hats and scarves can add a festive touch to your outdoor photos while keeping everyone warm. Choose pieces that match your color palette for a cohesive look.
b. Holiday-Themed Accessories
Consider subtle holiday-themed accessories like reindeer antler headbands for kids, or a festive brooch for adults. These add a playful element to your photos without being overpowering.
c. Jewelry and Watches
For a more formal photo, coordinated jewelry or watches can add a touch of sophistication. Keep it simple to avoid detracting from the overall ensemble.
7. Let Everyone’s Personality Shine
While it’s essential to coordinate, it’s equally important to allow each family member’s personality to come through in the photos.
a. Allow for Personal Preferences
If a family member prefers a certain style or color, try to incorporate that into the overall theme. This ensures everyone feels comfortable and confident in what they’re wearing.
b. Mix Styles Tastefully
Don’t be afraid to mix different styles within the coordinated theme. For instance, a mom might wear a chic dress while dad opts for a relaxed button-up and jeans. As long as the colors and textures work together, the variety can add richness to the photo.
c. Involve the Kids
Let the kids have a say in their outfits, too. Whether they want to wear a favorite hat or choose their shoes, involving them in the process can make the photo shoot more enjoyable and authentic.
8. Plan Ahead and Practice
To ensure everything goes smoothly, plan your outfits well in advance of the photo shoot.
a. Try On the Outfits
Have everyone try on their outfits a few days before the photo shoot. This allows time for any adjustments or last-minute shopping if needed.
b. Coordinate with Your Photographer
If you’re using a professional photographer, discuss your outfit choices with them. They can offer advice on how certain colors and patterns will photograph and may suggest additional tips to enhance the final image.
c. Have Fun with It
Above all, remember that holiday photos are about capturing the joy and togetherness of the season. Relax, have fun, and let the love and connection between family members shine through.
Conclusion: Capturing the Magic of the Holidays
Capturing the warmth, love, and excitement of the season is just as important to taking the ideal holiday photo as matching outfits. You may create a look that is well-coordinated and definitely yours by making smart accessory choices, combining patterns and colors, and carefully choosing your color scheme. With the help of these suggestions, your family will look fantastic and feel confident and at ease, making for a picture you'll cherish for years to come.