What to Wear for Your Christmas Family Portraits
Christmas portraits are more than just photos — they become your holiday cards, thoughtful gifts, and memories your family will hold close for years. Choosing the right outfits can make all the difference: not only in how the portraits look, but in how confident and comfortable you feel in them.
Here are my favorite tips to help you prepare for your Holiday Mini Session in Zurich..
1. Coordinate, Don’t Match
Instead of everyone wearing the exact same outfit, choose a color palette of 2–3 tones that harmonize beautifully. This creates a cohesive, timeless look while still letting each family member’s personality shine.
Example: parents in soft neutrals, children in an accent color like burgundy, navy, or forest green.
2. Choose Seasonal Colors That Flatter the Set
This year’s warm beige backdrop is versatile and elegant, making it the perfect foundation for seasonal tones. For 2025, these palettes are especially flattering:
mustard, navy, and burgundy
champagne, mocha, and cream
forest green with frosted blue accents
These combinations reflect the holiday season beautifully and ensure your portraits feel both modern and timeless. Try to avoid neon shades or overly busy patterns, which can distract from the focus — your connection as a family.
3. Add Subtle Holiday Touches
You don’t need to go for full-on Christmas sweaters (unless that’s your style). Instead, think of textures and details that feel festive yet elegant:
cozy soft knits
a velvet dress or silk skirt
headbands, scarves, or cardigans
a touch of sparkle — sequins, glittering details, or shimmering fabrics
Trend 2025 highlight: Sequins all day/night. Pair a shimmer top with cashmere or tailoring, or go head-to-toe sparkle for New Year’s Eve.
For inspiration, imagine what you might wear…
on Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve → festive outfits, gowns, or statement pieces
for a family holiday lunch → cozy knits, soft dresses, or tailored trousers
on a stroll in the winter forest → flannel shirts, corduroy pants, hats, and scarves
These subtle touches create seasonal atmosphere without feeling kitschy.
4. Layer for Style
Even in the studio, layers can add beautiful depth and texture to your look. Cardigans, vests, or shawls are simple ways to elevate an outfit. Accessories like velvet bows for little girls, jewelry, and styled hair also bring refinement.
Trend 2025 highlight: Romance with an edge. Lace trims, slip-inspired dresses, and romantic bows paired with cashmere or tailoring can feel both soft and sophisticated.
Choose pieces that fit well and flatter your shape — avoid anything too loose or shapeless, as it can look less polished in photos.
5. Keep Patterns Simple
Small checks, stripes, or delicate florals can work beautifully, but avoid large logos, cartoon prints, or clashing designs. Subtle patterns add personality without overpowering your portraits.
6. Comfort Meets Confidence
The most important thing: wear something that feels like you. When you feel confident and comfortable, it shows in your portraits. Outfits should highlight your family’s natural beauty and allow your love and connection to take center stage.
Your outfits are just one part of the story — the real magic happens when your family slows down, connects, and enjoys the moment together.