Because looking cohesive doesn’t mean looking identical.


Planning outfits for a regular family session can feel overwhelming—so it’s no surprise that figuring out what everyone should wear for an extended family photo session can cause a few group texts to spiral out of control.


But don’t worry. Coordinating across grandparents, siblings, in-laws, and a whole crew of cousins can be easy—and even fun! As a family photographer based in Grapevine and serving the DFW area, I help families navigate this all the time.


Here’s how to choose outfits that photograph beautifully and feel like you.

1. Start with a Soft, Neutral Base


Neutrals are always timeless in photos. Think cream, beige, soft gray, muted olive, dusty blue, and tan. These tones are flattering on every skin tone and photograph beautifully in both outdoor and indoor lighting.


Once you’ve chosen a base color or two, you can layer in accent colors to give each individual or family group a little personality.

A group of happy people in casual attire gather together outdoors for a cheerful photo with green foliage in the background.

2. Pick a Coordinating Palette—Not Matching Outfits


Please don’t show up in identical jeans and white tees from 1998. Today’s goal is coordinating, not matching


Choose a palette with 3–4 complementary colors. For example:

  • Earth tones: olive, cream, rust, denim
  • Cool tones: navy, white, soft gray, dusty blue
  • Warm tones: camel, burgundy, blush, ivory


Each family unit can use different combinations from the same palette. This keeps your group visually cohesive while allowing individual style to shine through.

A collection of coordinated color palettes arranged in rows featuring muted earth tones and soft pastels.

3. Mix Textures and Layers


Texture adds interest without needing bold prints or loud colors. Think:

  • Chunky knits
  • Linen shirts
  • Denim jackets
  • Corduroy pants
  • Cotton dresses
  • Layered cardigans or scarves


Layers also help with temperature swings (especially here in Texas!) and give people something to hold or move with for natural-looking photos.

4. Give Each Sub-Family Some Guidance


If Grandma and Grandpa are organizing the session, they can send out a short “what to wear” message with:


  • The palette (with a visual or link)
  • Do’s and don’ts (no logos, neon, or short shorts)
  • Suggestions per family (e.g., “Your family could lean into the navy + gray combo.”)
  • You can include some of my what to wear guides as well.


This keeps everyone on the same page without micromanaging.

A group poses outdoors for a casual family portrait with their goldendoodle dog on a sunny summer day.

5. Things to Avoid


✅ Avoid:

  • Busy patterns that compete with each other
  • Bold logos or brand names
  • Super bright or neon colors
  • Everyone in solid black or solid white
  • Short skirts, low-cut tops, or anything uncomfortable


We want to keep the attention on the people in the photo, not the clothes.

6. Try the “Lay It Out” Test


Have each family lay out their outfits side by side—either on the floor or a bed—and snap a photo. Then text it to the group! Seeing everything together before the session helps catch any clashing colors or last-minute changes. Feel free to send me the photos too if you need an interested but no baggage opinion, as well!

Large family group wearing coordinated blue and white outfits poses together for professional photos.

Outfit Planning Doesn’t Have to Be Stressful


When you book with Angela Wengrenovich Photography, I’m here to help with everything—including outfit guidance. Extended family sessions are about telling your family’s story, and that starts with feeling confident and comfortable.


👉 Let’s start planning your extended family photo session in Grapevine or anywhere in the DFW area. [Contact me here!]