Photoshoot Outfits for Women in Their 40s and 50s
- Geni Bean
- Jun 5
- 5 min read
The shared experience of aging is equal parts freeing and frustrating. On one hand, you stopped caring what people think about you a longggg time ago! But on the other hand, you’re in denial that you can’t squeeze back into your favorite pair of jeans from your 30s. If you’re planning a photoshoot or are hesitant to book because you’re worried about what to wear, keep reading. I’m sharing some of my favorite outfits for women in their 40s and 50s and tips for dressing your body type!
How To Choose Outfits For a Photoshoot
Putting together outfits for a photoshoot starts with choosing the mood, or as I like to ask, “what’s your vibe?”
How Many Outfits Do I Need For a Studio Photography Session?
No matter what, the most important thing is to have options. I recommend choosing at least three, but ideally four, photoshoot outfits to cycle through. You’d be amazed that sometimes the outfit you thought you’d love most doesn’t photograph the way you like and vice versa.
Having multiple outfit options ensures that you have countless photos to choose from when it comes to picking your favorites!
Tip 2: Choose 3–4 outfit options ranging from casual to more formal that align with the vibe of your photoshoot.
What Outfits Flatter My Body in My 40s and 50s?
As we age, our bodies change. Rude! I know. But the styles that looked good on us 20 and 30 years ago might not flatter us now. One of my favorite fashion trends for women in their 40s is just dressing in what makes you feel great!
But, if you feel like you’re starting from scratch trying to build a wardrobe that flatters your body, use these guidelines as a starting point.
The four most common body types are rectangle, inverted triangle (apple), hourglass, and pear. There are specific silhouettes that flatter each body type and it’s simply about finding the right clothing type for you!
Here are some pointers:
Curvy Build – Wrap dresses, high-waisted pants, belted coats, and fit-and-flare silhouettes look especially great on curvy bodies.
Athletic Build – Structured blazers, peplum tops, wide-leg trousers, and ruffled or detailed sleeves can add curves and dimension.
Tall/Lean Build – Column dresses, tailored matching sets, midi-length skirts, and pieces with bold patterns or color blocking really flatter a tall figure.
Short/Petite – Neutral colored heels to elongate your legs, mini or above-the-knee dresses, cropped pants, and high-waisted anything can give the illusion of height.
Pear-Shaped Body Type – Think cropped shirts/blazers, high-waisted pants, broad-shouldered tops, or empire waist dresses. Visually, this evens out the weight distribution of your look.
Apple-Shaped Body Type – Full skirts paired with a closer cropped shirt or tailored top can visually balance the upper and lower body—makes our symmetry-wired brains happy.
Hourglass Body Type – Fitted tops, wrap dresses, pencil skirts, and belted anything show off your natural curves without hiding your shape.
The bottom line? Wear what you feel comfortable in! Every body type is beautiful and deserves to be celebrated. Wearing pieces you love that speak to your personality will result in timeless photos you can cherish for decades.
Tip 3: Dress for your current body (not your past one!) and highlight the features you love most. Comfort = confidence = killer photos.
Clothing Brands for Women in Their 40s and 50s
Quality pieces for every style and budget with thousands of accessories. Great selection of clothing styles for women in their 50s!
Incredibly flexible return policy with returns accepted even if a receipt or the original packaging is missing.
High-quality, one-of-a-kind pieces with a mix of classic and bold patterns.
Complimentary returns within 21 days of delivery.
Known for its size-inclusive designs (00 to 40) and quality fabrics with timeless cuts.
Free returns and exchanges within 30 days.
Minimalist, luxe essentials at approachable prices—think cashmere, silk, and washable satins.
Free returns within 365 days, as long as items are in original condition.
Fun, flowy, bohemian options with bold patterns and prints + amazing textured pieces.
Returns accepted within 30 days of the order date, either by mail or in-store.
Elevated staples with elegant tailoring—perfect for both casual and professional looks.
Returns and exchanges accepted within 30 days. Items purchased online can be returned in-store.
Romantic, artsy pieces with rich textures, layers, and gorgeous color stories. Great for boho, editorial-inspired studio sessions.
Returns accepted within 30 days for a full refund.
Polished, classic looks with bold seasonal color palettes and great accessories.
Returns accepted within 30 days of shipment. Final sale items excluded.
They have some of the best clothes for women in their 50s! Especially if you need a one-stop shop for quality business-wear, polished dresses, and elegant blouses.
Returns accepted within 30 days by mail or in-store with original receipt.
British brand with cheerful prints and feminine silhouettes that feel playful but age-appropriate.
Returns accepted within 90 days.
Tip 4: Shop from stores with flexible return policies and clothes that feel like you. Choose pieces you’d wear again and again.
Planning Your In Studio Photoshoot With Pink Owl Photography
And there you have it! Putting together stylish and trendy outfits for your photoshoot can be surprisingly fun. And after all of that, if you’re still at a loss for what to wear—don’t stress! Our legacy sessions include wardrobe styling AND pre-session planning. You’ll get personalized styling support to help you choose pieces that photograph beautifully and feel like you!
Looking for an indoor photography studio near you or the best photo studio near Raleigh NC? Let’s make magic together. Fill out my inquiry form or book a pre-session consult to get started!
Pink Owl Photography is a luxury photo studio in Durham, NC, specializing in senior portraits, legacy sessions, and heirloom imagery for women and their loved ones.
Looking for more tips? Keep exploring the blog for expert advice on rocking your next photoshoot!
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