This week I decided to focus on an often overlooked group: the senior guys. Just because killer senior portraits aren’t always on the top of their to-do list doesn’t mean that they don’t want to look great too. I’ve pulled a few different looks together for guys of all types using many of our tried and true guidelines – textures, layers, and of course, an accessory too. 

The first look is a classic casual outfit – jeans with a plaid button up, with either a cool jacket or sweater layered over top.  I think an outfit like this would suit almost anyone and almost any location too, it’s very versatile. The second outfit is the GQ look. J  I’m still waiting for a senior to come with a GQ wardrobe (hint, hint, guys!), but for the right guy it would really make the images stand out.  I can easily see a look like this paired in a modern or more industrial urban environment. The last look is for all of the hipsters out there.  I fell in love with the varsity-style cardigan, but really liked the look of the whole outfit.  Add a fedora for an extra touch!  I think this outfit would look great in an older vintage downtown area or a great coffee shop or cozy book store.  SHOPPING TIP: If you find an article of clothing that you love online, make sure to check out the different images available – retailers often show a full ensemble using the piece (like the cardigan) and it may give you ideas on putting together the rest of your outfit. 

Shopping List

CLASSIC CASUAL

Red Plaid Shirt – Old Navy $24.50 http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=78228&vid=1&pid=897953&scid=897953062
Tan Jacket – Old Navy $65 http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=5286&vid=1&pid=897399&scid=897399012
Tan Sweater – Gap $59.99 http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=5180&vid=1&pid=869698&scid=869698022&ssiteID=ON
Jeans – Old Navy $29.50 http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=5209&vid=1&pid=574143&scid=574143022
Shoes – Piperlime $64.99 http://piperlime.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=21406&vid=1&pid=872954&scid=872954012

“GQ”
Suit – Express (although any tailored suit will do) http://www.express.com/suits-1420/control/page/2/show/3/index.ens
Striped Tie – Express $39.90 http://www.express.com/silk-tie-stripe-37742-825/control/page/20/show/3/index.pro
Solid Tie – Express $39 http://www.express.com/silk-tie-solid-36503-825/control/page/22/show/3/index.pro#jsLink

HIPSTER
Cardigan – Urban Outfitters $39 http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=22563860&color=061&itemdescription=true&navAction=jump&search=true&isProduct=true&parentid=M_APP_SWEATERS
Chambray Shirt – Old Navy $24.50 http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=6921&vid=1&pid=897375&scid=897375022
Khakis – Old Navy $27.00 http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=67525&vid=1&pid=776056&scid=776056002
Sperrys – Piperlime $85 http://piperlime.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=23881&vid=1&pid=833803&scid=833803002
Fedora – Old Navy $14.94 http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=5314&vid=1&pid=896360&scid=896360012

Loving this week’s compilation from Erica of Erica May Photography!  I must admit, I’m a bit of a neutrals girl myself.  Check it out:

I love compilations with lots of color but I know that is not always for everyone. Lately, I have been loving photoshoots with lots of texture and layers and more of a monochromatic theme. No, I don’t mean everyone wears a tan t-shirt but monochromatic can be done and done right! This week I chose brown as my starting color. Brown is probably one of the easiest colors to go monochromatic. All of the shades of brown look wonderful together and different textures are easy to find.  This toned down outfit scheme would have the viewer oohing and awwing over the “soft”, “vintage” and “muted” feel. Also, this would be a great staring point if you did want to add in a little color. A few pops of a burgundy in there would spice up the whole feel. A few accessories like these awesome hand-made leather headpieces or a vintage newsboy hat (there are a ton of these listed on Etsy) will give the kids an individualized look for their solo portraits. Enjoy!

Aren’t those leather headpieces gorgeous?? Julia over at Leather Blossoms has graciously offered a 5% discount off anything in her shop for our readers! I absolutely love her beautiful headpieces! Go check her out!

Shopping Guide:

Woman:

Leather Headpiece – Etsy – $48.00
http://www.etsy.com/listing/55501045/cream-flower-headband-leather-cream?ref=sr_gallery_6&sref=&ga_search_query=cream+flower+headband&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade

ELLE Embellished Halter Top – Kohls – $18.00
http://www.kohls.com/kohlsStore/womens/tops_shirts/halter_tops/PRD~948844/ELLE+Embellished+Halter+Top.jsp

Dana Buchman Open-Front Crochet Cardigan – Kohls – $44.99
http://www.kohls.com/kohlsStore/womens/sweaters/view_allsweaters/PRD~931325/Dana+Buchman+OpenFront+Crochet+Cardigan.jsp

LC Lauren Conrad Slim Bootcut Jeans – Kohls – $31.99
http://www.kohls.com/kohlsStore/womens/jeans/bootcut/PRD~902871/LC+Lauren+Conrad+Slim+Bootcut+Jeans.jsp

Jellypop Preston Flat – DSW – $39.95
http://www.dsw.com/shoe/jellypop+preston+flat?prodId=236523&category=cat20068
Man:

SONOMAlife + style® Plaid Flannel Casual Button-Front Shirt – Kohls – $22.99
http://www.kohls.com/kohlsStore/mens/shirts_polos/flannels_shirt_jackets/PRD~834105/SONOMA+life+++style+Plaid+Flannel+Casual+ButtonFront+Shirt.jsp

SONOMA life + style Bootcut Jeans – Kohls – $54.00
http://www.kohls.com/kohlsStore/mens/jeans/bootcut/PRD~334188/SONOMA+life+++style+Bootcut+Jeans.jsp

Timberland Men’s Earthkeepers Chukka Boot – DSW – $79.95
http://www.dsw.com/shoe/timberland+men%27s+earthkeepers+chukka+boot?prodId=208664&category=cat20236

Little Girl:
Robeez Kendall Mini Shoez (Infant/Toddler)    $30.99
http://www.zappos.com/robeez-kendall-mini-shoez-infant-toddler-espresso

Cecilia Crinkle Dress – Tea Collection – $24.50
http://www.teacollection.com/product/1F13204/girls-dresses-cecilia-crinkle-dress.html#mushroom

Flores Pequeñas Leggings – Tea Collection – $17.50
http://www.teacollection.com/product/1F12305/girls-leggings-flores-peque-as-leggings.html#mole

Long Sleeve Purity Tee – Tea Collection – $22.50
http://www.teacollection.com/product/1F32001/boys-and-girls-t-shirts-long-sleeve-purity-tee.html#oatmeal heather

Cream flower hair clip  – Etsy – $28.00
http://www.etsy.com/listing/55720848/cream-flower-hair-clip-fascinator

Boy:

Ernesto Stripe Tee – Tea Collection – $24.50
http://www.teacollection.com/product/1F22002/boys-t-shirts-ernesto-stripe-tee.html#moss

Daytripper Jeans – Tea Collection – $34.50
http://www.teacollection.com/product/1F23301/boys-pants-daytripper-jeans.html#bio-stone wash

Herringbone slip-ons – GapKids – $9.99

http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=74351&vid=1&pid=850384&scid=850384002

Vintage Page Boy Hat – Etsy Vintage Listings -  $20

http://www.etsy.com/listing/90301909/dorfman-pacific-tweed-paper-boy-or-page?ref=sr_gallery_1&sref=&ga_search_submit=&ga_search_query=boys+hat&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_ship_to=US&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_page=1&ga_search

This week we are proud to welcome Leslie from Seniorologie as a guest contributor to Wardrobe Wednesday. If you have not checked out Seniorologie you must run over there right now and check it out! It is an awesome resource for the Senior photographer and our senior clients. It is packed with tons of tips, ideas, and inspiration.  Check it out:

Here are a few awesome sets Leslie put together and some helpful tips from her!

“Mountain Charm – This holiday season is the perfect time to cozy up with your family near a warm fireplace.  And what better way to hang out together, than in comfy, cozy clothes.  Family photos don’t always have to be dressy for those holiday photos.  Why not get your photos made in a casual wardrobe that is perfect for this chilly weather?

Cable knit sweaters, fur vests and boots all add texture and layers to your wardrobe for photos.  I picked these outfits based on the mom’s patterned sweater and colored blue jeans.  This set the tone for the others’ ensembles.  Once I had her outfit picked, it was easy to coordinate but not match the other outfits.  The little girl’s shirt picks up the rust color from the mom’s sweater and the blue from her jeans.  The little boy’s flannel shirt is a perfect mixture of the same colors without perfectly matching them.  Then to finish, I kept the Dad’s outfit simple and casual with beiges and browns.  All together they make the perfect family wardrobe.  And I can envision the perfect family photo on the porch of a beautiful mountain retreat!”

“For the past few years, I have sent out Christmas cards that are not your typical red and green!  I love the options out there now with fun colors such as yellow and turquoise.  They just happen to be two of my favorite colors so I love to incorporate them into mine and my families wardrobes whenever possible.

I know the holidays are upon us and most of you have already gotten your cards out.  But if there are a few still looking for inspiration (maybe even for a photo for a Happy New Year card), think about pairing non-traditional colors to make a fun wardrobe for your entire family.

For this grouping, I started with the little girl’s dress.  I loved that it was so bright and fun.  I used the colors in the dress to coordinate with the mom’s turquoise dress.  After that, I thought about the men and decided to go a little more muted on their color scheme.  The gray worked as a perfect accent to the bold colors from the girls outfits.  After this was all put together, I did a little card shopping and found these awesome cards that just so happen to go with this color scheme.  The best thing about them, is that they really could be sent out any time of the year!”

“Every New Year’s I have high hopes of going to a fancy, dressy New Year’s Eve party and I fantasize about the beautiful clothes I am going to wear to ring in the New Year.  However, I always end up in my jammies and asleep before the ball drops!  What a party pooper!

But don’t let my normal attire of jammies deter you from dressing up and going out on the town!  With the beautiful outfits I picked below, I almost want to throw my own party just to wear this sequin romper!!

The trick with dressing for New Year’s is to be festive but also comfortable.  Let’s face it…it is a long night!  So when I stumbled upon this sequin romper from French Connection, I knew it was the perfect thing!  I chose the black one but it also comes in a bronze color.  Both are fabulous.  Pair it with tights, booties and some fun earrings and you are set!

For your date, it is best that he coordinate but not match.  So I picked a purple check shirt to add some color to this duo and paired it with some charcoal pants and tie!  If it is cold, you can always add a blazer and scarf!

Happy New Year!”

Thank you so much Leslie! We were honored to have you! Make sure to run over and check out the Seniorologie page and like them on Facebook too!

Wardrobe is such an important aspect of your overall portrait experience, but putting together the type of wardrobe you want can often become expensive quickly!  This is especially the case for seniors who might be more fashion-conscious than the average consumer.  Well, don’t fear, you can put together several great and stylish outfits without breaking the bank!  I’ve compiled three looks from head to toe, accessories and all, for less than $175.  Better yet, substitute some of your own existing items (like boots or jeans) and save even more. 

For the classic casual look, I’ve paired a great pair of boots with a beautiful sweater and belt combo.  Add in the scarf and knit hat or wear it on its own.  If it’s too cold to stick with short sleeves, you could easily throw on a long-sleeve shirt underneath for a nice layered look.  One thing I always recommend to my cool-weather seniors is to use a great jacket to expand your wardrobe.  Throwing on a jacket can give the appearance of a completely different outfit, especially when paired with some other cold weather accessories like a colorful scarf and hat.  For the dressier look, I went with a pretty seasonal sweater dress glammed up with some fun accessories like the feather headband and necklace.  Add the jacket on top for a few shots to change it up once again!

There are great deals to be found, especially this time of year!  You can get a steal at stores like Forever 21 and Wet Seal, especially on shoes and accessories, while you can grab your staples at a great price at stores like Target and Old Navy.  Happy shopping!SHOPPING LIST

Casual Look
Jeans – Wet Seal $18.55
Sweater – Target $22.99
Boots – Target $29.99

Outerwear & Accessories
Jacket – Old Navy $25.99
Scarf – Forever21 $9.80
Hat – Forever21 $5.50

Dressy Look
Dress – Target $20.99
Tights – Target $5.60
Boots – Wet Seal $23.99
Headband – Forever21 $5.80
Necklace – Forever21 $4.80

Jennifer of Minor Impressions Photography keeps it simple with online shopping from Hanna Andersson and Target! Love this look…it’s perfect for Fall!!

Loving these outfits put together by Erica of Erica May Photography – right up my alley!   Here’s what she has to say:

This week I chose to do a rustic/wilderness family session theme. Nothing says “home” to me like some warm, cozy flannel! Not only will you be stylish, but your family will also be nice and warm in these layers and fabrics.

For the dad’s outfit, I went with several layers starting with a warm cable-knit sweater which you can top off with a flannel lined jacket. Pair these with some dark jeans and some rugged boots and dad is set and comfortable. For mom’s outfit, I wanted flannel but feminine, so I paired a fitted flannel shirt with a textured cardigan and a studded belt for a feminine touch. Add skinny jeans and these fabulous new CHEAP boots from Old Navy and mom will definitely get the attention she deserves. Not the skinny jean type? Don’t worry,  boot-cut jeans and some ankle boots would also look great!

I recently discovered H&M since they opened one in Dallas, and I am in LOVE with their kids’ line! You can’t order online yet but if you are lucky enough to have store near you, get in there and check it out! The kids’ outfits both have multiple layers to keep them warm but are youthful and fun. Add some accessories like scarves and hats and you will have something fun to personalize their individual shots with and add some variety.

Want to add a little staging? Have your photo shoot done at a Christmas tree farm or maybe around a campfire while you make s’mores and drink hot chocolate! =)

Shopping Guide:

Woman:

Cardigan:     Shine Cable Ruched Cardigan     $59.95      Eddie Bauer

Shirt:    Cozy Flannel Shirt      $59.95     Eddie Bauer

Jeans:    Essential Slim Jeans   $19.99    Eddie Bauer

Belt:      Skinny Studded Belt    $39.95   Eddie Bauer

Boots:   Women’s Faux-Leather Riding Boots     $35     Old Navy

Man:

Outer Shirt: Cabela’s Flannel-Lined Stonewash Canvas Shirt     $44.99     Cabelas

Sweater: Cabela’s Outfitter Series Kingston 1/4-Zip Sweater      $39.99     Cabelas

Jeans: Relaxed Fit Flannel-Lined Jeans      $59.99       Eddie Bauer

Boots:    Cabela’s GORE-TEX® Tempest™ Chukka     $69.99    Cabelas

Boy:

Pants:     $19.95     H&M

Sweater:  Cable-knit Sweater    $24.95     H&M

Shirt:  Flannel Shirt     $24.99    H&M

Boots:   H&M

Hat:  $7.99  Target

Girl:

Sweater:     $29.95      H&M

Jeans: Girls Dark-Wash Super Skinny Jeans    $19.50    Old Navy

Boots: Girls Faux-Fur Wedge Boots     $27      Old Navy

Thanks to Shannon of Shannon J. Dodge Photography for this awesome family ensemble!  Here’s what she has to say:

If you haven’t seen what the always wonderful Tea Collection has put out this past year, you have truly been missing out.  Their latest destinations – Catalonia and Modern Mexico – have been stunningly beautiful, especially down here in Texas where we appreciate things with a Spanish/Mexican flair. I was lucky enough to team up with Tea again and showcase some gorgeous pieces from their holiday collection modeled by my own two beauties.  They are always my first stop when I’m looking for quality children’s clothing, especially for portraits.  As I’ve mentioned before, it’s so hard to find nice clothes for girls in that deep rich color palette that I want to see hanging in my home.  No matter the destination, I know that I can depend on Tea to have some wonderful options available.  I love the coordination in this first set of outfits – the colors are spot on.  The berry color on Finley and throughout Emory’s outfit adds a perfect holiday touch (hint, hint, you may be seeing a preview of our holiday card). 

Okay, I know I’m a little biased, but aren’t these girls so stinkin’ cute?!?

As always, I love their girl’s dresses – I’m a huge fan of dresses with leggings for both play and nicer occasions.  Speaking of leggings, I continually buy them and have to throw them out, even during the same season, because Emory is so rough on them – holes in the knees, busted seams, etc.  However, she has worn her Tea leggings from last fall through the spring and is still able to wear them this fall.  They honestly look as good as the first time she wore them, a true testament to the quality of the products they offer.

I was excited that this time around that I got to try out their baby girl’s clothes too.  They are so soft and comfortable while still utilizing beautiful patterns and fun details like the frill on the sleeves.  These outfits are currently my favorite thing to put on my sweet girl, and without being too gross, her spit-up tendencies have really tested this fabric in the wash – it has passed with flying colors.  There’s nothing more disappointing then having spit-up stains that I can’t get out of a cute outfit. 

The girls were starting to wind down when we got to outfit #2, but they held out for long enough to get a few sweet shots!  I love how these two outfits use the same pattern but still differ in style and coordinating features.  Perfect for sisters!  This particular pattern has great potential for coordination to other siblings and mom and dad too – just look at all of the options available for you to tie in! 

P.S. It’s been awhile since I’ve photographed one, but it is HARD to work with a baby who isn’t sitting up yet.  Phew!   

Here’s where you can get these gorgeous outfits:

Talavera Layered Dress

Skinny Stretch Leggings

Pava Real Romper

Wildflower Wrap Dress

Wildflower Layered Romper