6 Tips to Wear for Your Western Inspired Photoshoot

If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing the rugged charm of the Wild West in your family or couples’ photos, a Western-themed photo session is the perfect way to bring that vision to life. Whether you’re planning a cowboy-inspired shoot on a ranch or a rustic, western-style family portrait, your clothing choices can make all the difference in achieving that authentic look.

1. Stick to Earthy, Neutral Tones

To achieve a true Western look is to keep the color palette in earthy, neutral tones. Such as browns, tans, creams, whites, and muted oranges or reds. These colors complement the natural landscapes often associated with Western sessions, like fields, deserts, or ranch settings.

For women, consider a flowing blouse in off-white, beige, or light denim paired with a cowboy hat and boots. Men can opt for a classic plaid shirt in warm tones like rust or brown, paired with denim jeans and boots. These colors will help you blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings while giving your photos a cohesive, rustic feel.

Pro Tip: If you want to add a pop of color, consider using accessories like scarves, bandanas, or jewelry in muted shades of red, turquoise, or burnt orange to enhance the Western aesthetic without overpowering the outfit.

2. Embrace Classic Western Pieces

There are certain wardrobe staples that scream “Western” without going overboard. Here are a few classic items you might want to incorporate into your outfits:

• Denim: Whether it's a pair of jeans or a denim jacket, denim is a must-have in any Western-style photo session. Opt for a well-fitted, high-waisted pair of jeans for women, and go for rugged (no holes), bootcut jeans for men. For added authenticity, consider a denim shirt or jacket.

• Cowboy Hats: A staple of Western wear, cowboy hats are not just for the Western-inspired look—they add flair and a sense of adventure to your photos. You can’t go wrong with a traditional felt or straw cowboy hat in neutral colors like brown, tan, or black. Women may also opt for a wide-brimmed hat, which pairs beautifully with dresses or skirts. 

(Note: In warm summer seasons after memorial day is when one wears a straw cowboy hat. Then after Labor Day in cooler fall and winter seasons is when one wears a felt hat)

• Leather Boots: Cowboy boots are a Western classic and can elevate your outfit instantly. For women, knee-high or ankle boots with intricate stitching or designs add an extra touch of elegance, while men’s boots typically have a more practical design.

3. Keep It Comfortable and Practical

Western photo sessions often take place in natural, outdoor settings, such as ranches, fields, or desert landscapes. You’ll want to choose clothing that allows you to move freely and comfortably. Keep this in mind when selecting your outfits, especially if you’ll be standing, walking, or even riding horses during your session.

For women, a flowy dress or skirt in soft, breathable fabric like cotton or linen works wonderfully. Pair it with boots to complete the look. For men, a simple shirt tucked into well-fitting jeans, topped off with a vest or jacket, can create a practical yet stylish outfit. Just be sure your clothes are comfortable enough to sit, stand, and move around in, so you can focus on enjoying your photo session.

Pro Tip: Choose outfits that reflect the weather for the day of your shoot. A lightweight shirt might work well in warmer weather, while a flannel shirt layered over a simple tee is perfect for cooler days.

4. Coordinate, Don’t Match

While it’s important to coordinate your outfits for a cohesive look, avoid looking too matchy-matchy. Rather than everyone wearing identical outfits, opt for clothing with similar tones and textures that complement each other. For instance, if one person is wearing a plaid shirt, another can wear a solid color.

If you’re working with children, it can be tempting to dress them in matching cowboy hats or shirts, but allowing them to have their own spin on the Western look will make the session feel more natural and less staged.

5. Consider the Setting

Your clothing should not only reflect the Western theme but also the specific location of your photo session. If you're planning a shoot at a barn or on a ranch, think about incorporating workwear-inspired clothing, such as overalls, plaid shirts, and sturdy boots. For a desert shoot, lighter fabrics and cowboy hats.

If you're shooting in a wildflower field, consider wearing flowy dresses in pastel colors or earthy tones, paired with cowboy boots for a more feminine touch.

Pro Tip: Think about layers when dressing for an outdoor session.

6. Accessorize with Western-Inspired Jewelry

Accessories can truly elevate your Western look. For women, consider adding some statement jewelry, like turquoise necklaces. Men can also wear western-inspired accessories like leather belts with buckles or a stylish watch.

These small details will make your photos feel more authentic and personalized. Just remember to keep the accessories subtle—too much jewelry or large statement pieces can take away from the natural, Western feel.

Ready for Your Western Photo Session?

Choosing the right wardrobe for a Western-themed photo session is all about combining style, comfort, and authenticity. From denim and cowboy boots to simple, earthy tones and classic Western accessories, these clothing tips will help you look the part while feeling at ease during your shoot.

Book me for a western inspired photo session here!

Meta Description: Wondering what to wear for a Western photo session? Check out these 6 outfit tips to help you achieve an authentic, stylish Western look for your next photoshoot.