A LinkedIn headshot serves as a digital introduction to recruiters and professional contacts, and the clothing you choose significantly influences that initial perception. A well-thought-out outfit can convey professionalism and competence before anyone reads a single line of your profile. The goal is to present the most polished version of yourself, aligning your visual representation with your career aspirations.
Choosing the Right Colors
The color of your attire is a primary consideration. Solid colors are the most effective choice for a professional headshot. Jewel tones such as sapphire blue, emerald green, and deep maroon are flattering on a wide range of skin tones and project confidence. Similarly, classic neutrals like navy blue and charcoal gray provide a timeless and professional look. These deeper shades help your face stand out as the focal point.
Conversely, certain colors can undermine your headshot. Bright, neon colors can be distracting and may appear unprofessional. Light pastels, beige, or white can wash out your complexion, especially if you have fair skin. It is also wise to avoid wearing a color that is too similar to the background of your photo, as this can cause you to blend in rather than stand out.
Selecting the Appropriate Style for Your Industry
Your clothing style should reflect the standards of your specific field and the career level you aim to reach. For those in corporate sectors like finance or law, a well-tailored suit jacket or blazer is the standard. This choice conveys authority and seriousness, projecting a polished image that aligns with a formal work environment.
For individuals in the tech or creative industries, the dress code is often more relaxed, but your headshot still requires a professional appearance. A crisp button-down shirt, a smart knit sweater, or a refined blouse can strike the right balance. If you work in the trades, a clean, collared shirt demonstrates professionalism. Regardless of the industry, the fit of your clothing is important; garments should be well-fitted, neither too tight nor baggy.
The neckline of your top is another detail that shapes the overall impression of your headshot. Classic, simple necklines are the best options. A collared shirt, a modest V-neck, or a crew neck frames the face well without being distracting. Avoid necklines that are excessively low or revealing to maintain a professional image.
The Role of Patterns and Textures
While solid colors are the safest option, subtle patterns and textures can add depth if chosen carefully to avoid distracting from your face. Small, busy patterns like tight grids, fine checks, or bold floral prints can be visually disruptive. These patterns can also create a moiré effect in digital images, an undesirable wavy pattern that occurs when a fine pattern interacts with the grid of pixels on a screen.
To incorporate more visual interest, opt for subtle textures. Fabrics like tweed, herringbone, or a simple knit can add sophistication without overwhelming the photo. These textures create a sense of dimension and quality. Layering a textured piece under a solid-colored blazer is another effective strategy to add interest while maintaining a professional appearance.
Accessorizing Your Headshot Look
When it comes to accessories, less is more. The goal is for them to complement your outfit, not become the main focus of the photograph. Simple, classic jewelry, such as small stud earrings, a delicate necklace, or a timeless watch, can add elegance without being distracting. Avoid large, shiny, or noisy pieces that might draw the eye away from your face.
For those who wear ties, a solid color or a simple, classic pattern is the best choice, and it should harmonize with the shirt and jacket. If you wear glasses every day, you should wear them in your headshot. To prevent distracting reflections, ensure the lenses are clean and have an anti-glare coating if possible. Select accessories that feel authentic to your personal style while upholding a professional standard.
What to Avoid Wearing
There are several items you should avoid for a polished headshot. Avoid clothing with prominent logos, graphics, or text, as these can be distracting and appear unprofessional. Also, make sure your clothes are clean and free of wrinkles.
Avoid sleeveless tops, tank tops, or spaghetti straps, as they can look too casual and may be cropped awkwardly in a headshot. Hoodies, casual t-shirts, and sweatshirts are too informal for a platform like LinkedIn. Finally, avoid overly trendy outfits that will quickly become dated, as the goal is a timeless image.