15 Fabulous Family Picture Outfit Ideas That’ll Make Your Photos Pop

Hey there, fellow family fashionistas! Can we talk about the stress of coordinating outfits for family photos? I swear, sometimes it feels like herding cats dressed in clashing patterns. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back. After years of trial and error (and a few photos I’d rather forget), I’ve put together 15 family picture outfit ideas that’ll make your photos look like they’re straight out of a magazine – or at least good enough for the ‘gram.

1. Classic Blue Jeans and White Tops

Let’s kick things off with a timeless combo that never fails: blue jeans and white tops. I know, I know, it sounds basic, but hear me out. This look is perfect for a casual, relaxed vibe, and it’s super easy to coordinate across different family members.

Here’s how to make it work: Everyone wears their favorite pair of blue jeans (yes, even Dad’s “comfortable” pair can make an appearance). Then, top it off with white shirts. The key here is to vary the styles of the white tops. Mom could rock a flowy blouse, Dad a crisp button-down, the kids in cute t-shirts or ruffled tops. Add some pops of color with accessories like scarves, jewelry, or even fun shoes.

Pro tip: If you’re worried about looking too matchy-matchy, throw in a denim jacket or two in different washes to break things up.

2. Earthy Tones for Outdoor Shoots

If you’re planning an outdoor photoshoot, consider coordinating in earthy tones. Think warm browns, deep greens, burnt oranges, and creamy beiges. These colors look amazing against natural backdrops and give off a cozy, harmonious vibe.

For this look, try mixing different textures to add visual interest. A chunky knit sweater for Dad, a flowy maxi dress for Mom, corduroy pants for the little ones – you get the idea. And don’t be afraid to throw in some patterns, like a plaid shirt or a floral dress, as long as they stick to the earthy color palette.

3. Festive Holiday Glam

‘Tis the season for holiday card photos! If you’re going for a festive look, why not glam it up a bit? Start with a base of black or dark colors, then add pops of holiday cheer with red, gold, or silver accents.

Ladies, this is your chance to break out that sequin top you’ve been saving. Guys can class it up with a dress shirt and maybe even a tie (I know, I’m asking a lot). For the kids, think velvet dresses, bow ties, or cute holiday sweaters that aren’t too “ugly sweater party.”

Remember, the goal is to look festive, not like you’re auditioning for a spot as Santa’s elves!

4. Coastal Cool

Heading to the beach for your family photos? Lucky you! For a breezy, coastal vibe, stick to a palette of blues, whites, and sandy neutrals. Think flowy sundresses, linen shirts, and khaki shorts.

To avoid looking too uniform, mix up the shades of blue – someone in navy, another in sky blue, maybe a turquoise accent here and there. And don’t forget to have fun with beach-appropriate accessories like straw hats, sunglasses, or even bare feet!

5. Monochrome Magic

Want to make a bold statement? Try dressing the whole family in different shades of the same color. This creates a cohesive look while still allowing for individual style.

For example, you could do a range of pinks: Mom in a blush maxi dress, Dad in a salmon polo, daughter in a hot pink skirt, and son in a light pink button-down. The key is to vary the shades and the styles to keep things interesting.

This works with any color, but some of my favorites are shades of blue, green, or even gray for a super sleek look.

6. Pattern Play

Mixing patterns can be tricky, but when done right, it can make for some seriously eye-catching family photos. The secret is to choose patterns that share a color palette.

Start with one statement pattern – let’s say a floral dress for Mom. Then, pull colors from that pattern for everyone else’s outfits. Dad could wear a solid color that matches one of the flowers, while the kids could have smaller scale patterns like pinstripes or polka dots in coordinating colors.

Remember, confidence is key when rocking mixed patterns. If you love it, it’ll show in the photos!

7. Autumn Vibes

Fall family photos are my absolute favorite. There’s something magical about those rich, warm colors against a backdrop of changing leaves. For this look, think cozy textures and autumn hues like burgundy, mustard, forest green, and deep orange.

Layer up with cute jackets, scarves, and boots. Mix in some plaid or chunky knits for that quintessential fall feel. And don’t forget to have fun with accessories – maybe a wide-brimmed hat for Mom or some cute beanies for the kids.

8. Pastel Perfect

For a soft, dreamy look, especially great for spring photos or with newborns, try coordinating in pastels. Light pinks, baby blues, mint greens, and lavenders create a gentle, harmonious palette that looks beautiful on camera.

The trick with pastels is to add some neutral elements to ground the look. Think white, beige, or light gray as base colors, with pastel accents in tops, accessories, or kids’ outfits.

9. Retro Throwback

Why not have some fun and transport your family back in time with a retro-inspired look? Pick a decade and run with it!

For a 1950s vibe, think swing dresses for the girls, high-waisted trousers and white t-shirts for the boys. Or go 1970s with bell-bottoms, flowy tops, and funky patterns. You could even do a 1990s throwback with mom jeans, oversized flannels, and scrunchies.

Just maybe don’t go full costume – you want to look like your family, not like you’re headed to a theme party!

10. Winter Wonderland

If you’re braving the cold for some snowy shots, lean into the cozy winter vibes. Layer up with sweaters, scarves, and cute jackets. Stick to a wintery color palette of whites, creams, grays, and deep reds or greens.

Don’t forget the accessories – mittens, ear muffs, and fuzzy boots not only look cute but will keep everyone warm between shots. And hey, if all else fails, everyone looks adorable with rosy cheeks and snowflakes in their hair!

11. Boho Chic

For a free-spirited, bohemian look, think flowy fabrics, earthy tones, and eclectic accessories. Maxi dresses, wide-leg pants, and loose-fitting tops are all great options. Mix in some rich textures like suede, lace, or fringe.

The key to nailing the boho look is in the details. Layer on some dangly jewelry, add a wide-brimmed hat or two, maybe even a flower crown for the little ones. And don’t be afraid to mix patterns – paisley, florals, and geometric prints can all work together in a boho palette.

12. Preppy Perfection

Channel your inner Kennedys with a preppy family look. This style is all about clean lines, classic patterns, and a crisp, put-together vibe.

Think polo shirts, khakis, and boat shoes for the guys. For the ladies, wrap dresses, A-line skirts, or tailored shorts paired with button-down shirts or sweater sets. Don’t forget the preppy patterns – stripes, gingham, and madras plaid are all fair game.

Accessories can really make this look pop – think pearl necklaces, headbands, or even some tennis rackets as props if you’re feeling extra!

13. Jewel Tones

Want to add some rich, regal vibes to your family photos? Jewel tones are the way to go. Deep purples, emerald greens, sapphire blues, and ruby reds create a luxurious color palette that looks amazing on everyone.

The key to making jewel tones work is to mix and match – you don’t want everyone in the same shade. Maybe Mom’s in a deep purple dress, Dad’s rocking a forest green shirt, and the kids are in shades of blue or red.

These colors work especially well for fall or winter photos, or if you’re shooting in an elegant indoor setting.

14. Americana Cool

Nothing says “all-American family” quite like a red, white, and blue color scheme. But before you go full Stars and Stripes, let’s talk about how to do this tastefully.

Instead of literal flag prints, think more subtle nods to the color scheme. Navy blue jeans, white t-shirts, and red accessories can create the look without screaming “Fourth of July.” Mix in some denim, maybe a subtle star print here and there, and you’ve got a classic, all-American vibe.

This look works great for outdoor summer photos, especially if you’re going for that “summer barbecue” feel.

15. Black and White Elegance

Last but certainly not least, let’s talk about the ultimate in chic coordination: a black and white color scheme. This classic combo never goes out of style and can create some seriously stunning family photos.

The key to keeping this from looking like a formal wedding is to mix up the ratios of black to white and play with different textures and styles. Maybe Mom’s in a flowy white maxi dress with black accessories, Dad’s in black jeans and a white button-down, and the kids are in a mix of black and white casual pieces.

Don’t be afraid to throw in some patterns here too – black and white stripes, polka dots, or even a subtle floral can add interest without disrupting the color scheme.

Wrapping It Up

Phew! We’ve covered a lot of ground, haven’t we? From casual jeans and white tees to elegant black and white ensembles, there’s a family photo outfit idea here for every style and occasion.

Remember, the most important thing is that everyone feels comfortable and looks like themselves. These are your family memories we’re capturing, after all. You want to look back on these photos and see your family, not a group of strangers in uncomfortable fancy clothes.

My final piece of advice? Have fun with it! Coordinate, but don’t stress about being perfectly matched. Let everyone’s personality shine through. And hey, if all else fails, just make sure everyone’s smiling – that’s what people will notice first anyway!

So, which of these ideas are you dying to try for your next family photo session? Got any tried-and-true tips of your own? I’d love to hear about them! Drop a comment and let’s chat – I’m always looking for new ideas to add to my family photo outfit arsenal.

Until next time, happy coordinating, and may your family photos always be frame-worthy!