The Engagement Edit: Less Performance, More Life
Finding the perfect outfits for your engagement photoshoot can feel incredibly daunting, but as a Montreal engagement photographer, I look at styling through a very specific lens. There is a massive difference between an outfit that looks good in a fitting room mirror and one that translates beautifully onto real film against the architectural backdrops of our city. Whether we are capturing your story against the historic textures of Old Montreal, the sleek, minimalist light of a downtown rooftop, or a quiet beach outside of the city, choosing your wardrobe shouldn't feel like a stressful task.
Ultimately, you want to look like an elevated, editorial version of yourselves, not like you're wearing a costume. Below, you’ll find the ultimate guide on what to wear to your Montreal engagement shoot, featuring curated lookbooks of pieces that photograph flawlessly. I've linked some of my absolute favourite specific finds directly within each section so you can browse, shop, or just use them as a starting mood board for your own look.
Casual engagement outfits, but make it effortless
If you are hoping, for a more relaxed and carefree engagement photoshoot, the goal is to look entirely effortless without blending into the background. The outfits I have selected would be perfect for a walk through the Plateau, a beach or field or even a sunset photoshoot at your cottage! I love leaning into beautiful, tactile everyday wear. Think drop-waist midi dresses, relaxed white linen skirts, corset-style lace trims, and easy-tie tops paired with denim. These pieces are all about texture- cotton, light poplin, and linen that capture the sunlight beautifully and give a soft, romantic, slightly European feel to the images. It looks completely unforced, like you just wore something beautiful to go grab an iced latte, but the silhouettes keep it looking elevated and intentional on camera. I love a top with movement and skin-peeking details. It breaks up a casual denim look and adds instant visual interest to close-up frames.
Anthropologie has some excellent summer tops that are unique and cute while giving an elevated energy.
Aritzia has some great options when it comes to summer linens- I love their flowy skirts paired with a cute top!
The Elevated Engagement Outfits
Structure, Architecture & High Fashion. If your vision leans less into casual countryside and more toward a high-end editorial look, this is where you play. For an elevated session, look for pieces with definitive structure and thoughtful, timeless design. I’m talking about sharp tailored blazer dresses, sculptural silhouettes, and modern textures like heavy satin or architectural 3D floral appliqués. These pieces hold their own shape against the camera and create lots of visual interest. When contrasted against the historic, textures of Old Montreal these outfits create a striking, high-fashion tension that looks absolutely beautiful on film.
For the Guys: Effortless, Textured & Refined.
If you're looking for inspiration besides for suits, I've got you! For a modern, editorial gallery, your partner’s outfit should complement your vibe without looking identical. I love leaning into relaxed luxury for guys- think 100% European linen shirts, casual short-sleeve collars, and structured knit polos. Pair them with a clean, fluid trouser like a linen suit pant or a relaxed-fit pant, and finish the look with a rich texture like a dark brown suede loafer. This creates a silhouette that feels incredibly stylish and sharp, yet entirely at ease moving down a city street or running around on a beach during sunset.
Bridal + Engagement Shoes
Below you will find a curated selection of bridal shoes I've put together, which I am always refreshing with new finds! Kitten heels are very comfortable and in style, as well as pearls! I also love when the "something blue" gets incorporated with bridal shoes. It is a fun and unique way to spice things up a little.
The Sam Edelman shoes are the perfect subtle 'something blue' for portraits!
Pearls catch the light beautifully during close-up detail shots and add lots of texture and dimension.