Outfits
What to Wear for a Seoul Photoshoot in Every Season
Simple outfit choices that photograph beautifully in Seoul's streets and palaces.
You don't need a new wardrobe for a photoshoot. A few simple choices about color, fit and shoes make the biggest difference.
The short answer
- Soft, solid colors photograph best: cream, beige, light blue, sage, dusty pink, navy.
- Avoid big logos, neon colors and very busy patterns.
- Coordinate, don't match for couples and families.
- Wear shoes you can walk in. Most routes include slopes, stone paths or steps.
Colors that suit each route
| Route | Backdrop | Colors that work well |
|---|---|---|
| Bukchon & Samcheong-dong | Hanok walls, wood, grey tiles | Cream, white, soft pastels, navy |
| Deoksugung & Jeong-dong | Stone wall, trees | Earth tones, beige, light blue, burgundy in autumn |
| Gyeongbokgung & Gwanghwamun | Palace gates, painted eaves | Neutrals, or a hanbok |
| Suwon Hwaseong Haenggung | Palace and fortress, café streets | Warm neutrals, denim, soft green |
Spring (March–May)
Light layers: a trench coat, a light knit or cardigan over a dress or shirt. Mornings can be cool, so bring a layer you're happy to be photographed in. Pastels sit nicely with blossoms. Spring photoshoot ideas
Summer (June–August)
Breathable linen and cotton in light colors. It's often hot and humid, so plan for a morning slot, avoid fabrics that show sweat easily, and bring water.
Autumn (September–November)
The easiest season for outfits. Warm tones such as camel, rust, burgundy and olive match the leaves. A light coat or knit adds texture. Autumn photoshoot guide
Winter (December–February)
A good coat is your main outfit, so choose one you love. Long wool coats in camel, cream, grey or navy look elegant. Add a scarf or knit hat for color. Winter photoshoot tips
Couples and families: how to coordinate
Choose a palette of two or three colors, then let each person wear them in their own way. For example, one person in cream and denim, the other in navy and beige. Identical outfits tend to look staged; coordinated outfits look like you.
Wearing a hanbok?
Hanbok rental is arranged separately and isn't included in the package. Allow time to change before your session, and choose a set you can walk in comfortably. Read hanbok photoshoot in Seoul for what tourists should know.
Small things worth bringing
- A hair tie, comb or small mirror.
- Lip balm or a lipstick for touch-ups.
- A tote bag to keep extra layers out of the photos.
Frequently asked questions
What colors look best in Seoul photos?
Soft, solid colors like cream, beige, light blue, sage, dusty pink and navy work well with hanok walls, stone and palace architecture. Avoid neon colors and large logos.
Should couples wear matching outfits?
Coordinating works better than matching. Pick two or three colors that go together and let each person wear them differently.
What shoes should I wear for a Seoul photoshoot?
Comfortable shoes you can walk in. Most routes include slopes, stone paths or steps, and walking is part of the session.