Lillian McCotter

Style is the ability to discover your own signature.  Knowing what looks good on you and how to dress yourself for any occasion is key.  Some say that less is more when it comes to fashion,  but I think that more is definitely more!  I love to accessorize and experiment with different colors and prints to express my style.  

When styling for an engagement session:  Yes, you want to look fabulous, but you also want to look like yourself!  The couple's pictures should show not only their love for each other, but their personal style as well.  If you're not really into fashion, don't wear outfits that look they just stepped off the runway in Paris!  You don't want to be unrecognizable in your photos, and you certainly don't want your outfit to overshadow the love being captured in the shoot.  So the main point is to wear a well put together outfit that is true to your true personal style.

-The things that make an outfit stand out in an image are color, fit, and the styling of the outfit.  A small change can upgrade an entire look.  For example, putting a colored cardigan over a blouse and then adding a small belt around the waist.  Don't wear clothes that you are swimming in.  Make sure the outfit fits you and has colors that flatter you.  Also, don't be afraid to accessorize with jewelry, headbands, belts, etc.  

-I love to layer items because I think it really adds something to an outfit.  For example, I like to start with something basic like any kind of white blouse , then I add a little sparkle with a black sequin vest.  After that put on a brightly colored or muted (depending on occasion) wrap sweater over top.  Of course this is not the only way to layer clothing, but it should give you an idea.  Also, colors do not have to match perfectly!  An olive green cardigan over a royal blue blouse may not seem to coordinate, but it does and also photographs beautifully. (Insert Meghan's picture here!)

-Skin tones:

• Lighter skin tones look best in dark colors of blue, purple and gray. Pastels and light, muted tones can create a washed out look.  The contrast of a rich, dark color against light skin is beautiful.
• Medium and olive skin tones should avoid color with golden undertones such as brown, orange and caramel. Your best choices are shades of red, blue and green and other bright colors. (You can get away with it!)
• Darker skin tones look fabulous with contrast so opt for white, plum, pale pinks, silver gray.  These colors will make you look radiant! 

-When picking out an outfit, first decide which style you are going for.  Caroline always lets couples do two outfit changes.  One usually casual, and the other more formal/sexy/sassy.  So for example, if you're choosing your casual outfit, decide if it's going to be jeans, shorts, skirt, etc.  After picking whatever bottoms you will wear, then choose the top to go with it.  From there, choose your shoes and accessories.

-Men should wear colors that flatter their skin tone and bring out their eyes.  For the casual look, a nice pair of dark wash jeans and a polo always looks nice.  For the more formal look, try something along the lines of dress pants and a button up shirt.  Of course, this all depends on the theme and location of where the shoot will be and what your lady is wearing.  The couple's outfits do not have to match in color, but the colors and styles should compliment each other.  I recommend that the woman chooses her outfit first, and the man's outfit should be chosen after, according to hers.

-The importance of a makeup artist & hair stylist:  Having your hair and makeup done will not only make you look gorgeous in your photos, it will give you a boost of confidence while shooting.  A makeup artist knows what kind of makeup will look best in photos so it's a great idea to leave it up to a professional.  Also, when your makeup is professionally done, it results in less photoshopping for the photographer!

-What not to wear:  Avoid clothing with heavy, loud prints.  For example, plaid does not photograph well.

So make sure you have some great outfits that bring out your best features and are true to who you are and your personal style.  The most important thing to remember is to just have fun with your engagement session and be yourself so that the love comes through in the pictures.  After all, love is what an engagement is all about!