What to Wear for Your LinkedIn Headshot (Corporate Edition)
TL;DR: Your LinkedIn photo is your professional first impression. What you wear should reflect your industry, your role, and the tone you want to project. Aim for clean, fitted, and neutral styles that keep the focus on your face and your confidence.
Dressing for the job you have—or the one you want
Your LinkedIn profile isn’t just a resume anymore—it’s your digital business card, your pitch deck, and your intro all in one. That means your photo needs to match the professionalism of your experience. LinkedIn headshots should communicate that you’re serious about your work, aware of your industry norms, and ready for whatever opportunities may come your way. One of the biggest factors in doing that right? What you wear.
Start by considering your industry. Someone in finance or law might opt for more traditional business attire: tailored blazer, button-down shirt, or blouse in a neutral color. Someone in tech, marketing, or creative industries might lean more casual but still clean—think a solid-color sweater, smart jacket, or dark tee with clean lines. Avoid dressing up too far beyond what you’d normally wear for a client meeting or presentation. The key is to look confident and comfortable, not like you’re in costume.
Keep colors clean, solid, and flattering
Solid colors always photograph better than patterns. They draw attention to your face and eyes and help you look more composed on camera. Go for rich neutrals like navy, charcoal, olive, or soft blues. Light grey, soft white, and beige tones also work well, especially in studios with neutral backdrops. Try to avoid bright red, neon colors, or very light pastels, as these can either reflect light poorly or clash with your skin tone.
When in doubt, bring two options. Something classic and something slightly more modern. A photographer who specializes in business headshot tips can help you choose what works best based on your skin tone, the lighting, and the overall feel of the image.
What to avoid (no matter what industry you’re in)
Steer clear of loud patterns, heavy stripes, busy prints, and logos. Even subtle stripes or checkered patterns can create strange effects under certain lighting or in compressed images (like your LinkedIn thumbnail). Also avoid clothing that’s too baggy, too tight, or needs constant adjusting. If you’re tugging on your shirt every five minutes during your shoot, it’s going to show in your posture and energy.
When it comes to accessories, less is more. If you typically wear a watch, necklace, or small earrings, great—bring them. But leave behind anything too flashy, oversized, or trendy. The same rule applies to makeup and grooming: clean, professional, and true to how you show up at work.
Layering adds polish without being too formal
One of the easiest ways to elevate your look without going full suit-and-tie is by layering. A blazer over a simple blouse or a sweater over a collared shirt adds structure and sharpness to your image without making you look too stiff. Layers also help if you want a couple of different looks from the same session—remove the jacket and you instantly get a second variation.
Layering also works particularly well in a studio setting, where the lighting and backdrop are controlled. You don’t have to worry about outdoor elements clashing with your textures or creating unwanted shadows. In a studio, every layer you add is intentional and controlled.
Match your wardrobe to your message
Think about the tone you want your headshot to send. Looking for a leadership role? Go for structure, clean lines, and confident posture. In a creative field? Lean into a slightly relaxed, modern look—clean but not stuffy. If you’re pivoting careers, choose something timeless that shows you’re ready for your next move.
The goal is not to impress people with your fashion. The goal is to align your look with your message so there’s no disconnect between how you appear and what you say you do.
Summary
When it comes to LinkedIn Corporate headshots Toronto, what you wear speaks before you do. Choose outfits that are clean, classic, and aligned with your industry. Keep things simple, avoid distractions, and don’t be afraid to bring options. The right outfit won’t steal the spotlight—it’ll help you own it.
