Summer Outfit Inspiration for Family Photos

My cousin, Lisa, has always had an incredible sense of style. She’s actually the first person to ever introduce me to the gem that is Anthropologie (if you’re reading, Lisa, I still have the very first pair of Anthro earrings you gave me for Christmas one year and they are still favorites of mine!).

Well, she recently launched her very own styling business (Swell Styling) and when I saw that she was offering personal styling services (for photo sessions, etc) in addition to her home styling services, I had to reach out! One of my top questions from families and couples is “what do I wear!?” So, I thought it’d be perfect to have her style a few outfits since her taste is simply inspiring!

She was so gracious to come up with a few outfit inspiration ideas for summer family sessions, but if you’re recently engaged, these outfits are amazing for engagement sessions as well!

Lisa designed a few different outfits for different styles in mind, so if you’re looking for a more southern look or a more spunky & modern look for your family, she’s designed something for you. And my goodness, I want to buy it all! Especially the cute outfits for my dear Eisley, ha!

So, if you love what you see, be sure to follow Lisa along on her website and instagram (@swellstyling) for updates and oh-so-good inspiration. (And if you have a session coming up yourself, she can design some outfits for your family virtually, so no need to be local!)

Swell Styling // Email Lisa

A few notes from Lisa:

“Consider having your family dress at a slightly elevated level of formality than you normally do.  If you go too formal, you may all feel uncomfortable and the photos won’t feel as authentic. No reason to wear your yoga leggings and have your son wear his favorite dino tee!  Think about how you might dress for a fun family Sunday brunch,  a backyard party, or just around your house if you actually had time to pull together a stylish casual Saturday look.  Be authentic rather than dressy.”

Girls’ Dress // Girls’ sandals // Bow // Necklace // Dress // Sandals

Boys’ Shirt // Boys’ Pants // Shirt

Dress // Hat // Lipstick // Shoes

For Mom: “Look for a timeless silhouette in an ultra flattering solid color.  For a more casual look, (like for an in home session with babes) pick out your most flattering denim and a simple timeless tank or tee.  You’ll be more likely to enjoy these photos and display them for years, if you never feel embarrassed by your wardrobe choice.”

Mens’ Shirt // Mens’ Jeans // Boys’ Shirt // Boys’ Pants // Girls’ Romper // Girls’ Headband // Girls’ Shoes

For Dad: “Go for a button-up that fits well in a discreet plaid or dark solid with his favorite denim or slim chino.  Another casual option for dad is a solid henley.”

For son: “Mimic dad, but don’t match!  Roll the sleeves up and try a front tuck for style.  Or maybe throw a tee under an unbuttoned shirt.”

Dress // Earrings // Sandals // Girls’ Dress // Romper // Headband // Moccasins

For the little girls: “Try to find a blend of your personal style and her favorite things.  She’s more likely to smile pretty if she’s happy about the twirl factor of her dress or wearing her favorite cowgirl boots.  Try to choose some element of her look that reminds you of that season of her life.  Maybe in the same hue of momma’s dress but a darker or lighter shade.  Or a pattern that pulls a color from mom’s look. “

Mens’ Button-up // Mens’ Shoes // Henley // Moccasins // Romper

Learn more about Swell Styling

Learn more about newborn & family photography

Amy Nicole Photography has been documenting stories of life and love for 10 years. Amy is based in Charlottesville, VA but travels all over Virginia and the U.S.  for simply elegant weddings and genuine family lifestyle sessions. She strives to create timeless, genuine and effortless photos for you and your family to enjoy for years to come.