What to Wear (and what not to!)
The holidays are a magical time of year, and what better way to capture the festive spirit than with a visit to Santa Claus? Whether it’s your little one’s first visit or a long-standing family tradition, getting the perfect Santa photo is a must. And, while the holiday season is full of fun fashion choices, choosing the right outfit for Santa photos can make a big difference. To help ensure your photos turn out just the way you envision, we’ve compiled a guide on what to wear—and what to avoid—when it’s time to for those special Santa moments.
Read the information below and/or take a peek at our Pinterest board.
What TO Wear
Festive but Comfortable Clothing
**Classic Holiday Colors:**
Red, green, blue, gold, and white are always a great go-to for holiday photos.
Think cozy sweaters, festive dresses, or even pajamas.
The most important thing to do is to make sure they fit well and aren’t too baggy or too tight.
** Coordinated, But Not Too Matchy-Matchy**
If you’re taking family photos with Santa, it’s a good idea to coordinate your outfits. This doesn’t mean everyone has to wear identical clothes, but colors and styles should complement each other.
Think coordinated color schemes like burgundy and gold, blue and white, or red and green with neutrals. This gives the photos a cohesive look without looking overly staged.
**Classic & Timeless Pieces**
– Avoid overly trendy clothes that may look outdated in a few years. Opt for simple, timeless pieces that won’t distract from the main subject.
**Formal Attire**
Go for it, fancy outfits can be beautiful, or you may opt for casual elegance instead.
What NOT to Wear
### What Not to Wear for Santa Photos:
**Avoid Overly Busy Patterns**
While some patterns (like stripes, checks, or polka dots) can be fun, too many bold or clashing prints can distract from the moment and make the photo look chaotic. Stick with simple designs or solid colors for a cleaner, more balanced look.
**No Logos or Large Text**
Outfits with large logos or prominent text can take attention away from the experience of meeting Santa. Plus, you don’t want your holiday photos to feel like an advertisement for a brand! Stick with subtle, festive patterns or prints.
**Steer Clear of Neon or Bright, Overpowering Colors**
Bright neon hues can clash with the warmth of the holiday season and take attention away from the smiles and magic of the photo. Instead, choose softer, more muted colors that complement the festive setting. For example, soft reds, deep greens, and wintery whites are perfect choices for a balanced and cheerful holiday look.
**No Hats or Accessories That Obscure Faces**
While Santa hats are a great addition to your outfit, make sure they’re positioned in a way that doesn’t cover anyone’s face. Likewise, big bows or oversized accessories might overshadow your child’s face, so be mindful of how these items sit.
**Avoid Distracting Outfits**
Some holiday outfits can be a little too over-the-top. Keep in mind that the main focus should be your child(ren)’s smiles and the joyful interaction with Santa—not distracting outfits or gimmicks.