What do I wear for a perfect passport photo? Tips for the ideal outfit
The question “What should I wear so that my passport photo looks good?” is one that I’m sure many people have asked themselves before making their appointment. Of course you want to look well-groomed and natural in the photo – but at the same time you also have to meet the official requirements. To make sure everything fits, we have a few simple tips for you on how you can not only comply with the regulations by choosing the right clothes, but also ensure that you cut a really good figure in your passport photo.
Your outfit plays a major role in the overall impression of your passport photo. It should not only comply with the regulations, but also make you feel comfortable. Here are a few things you should bear in mind:
1. avoid conspicuous patterns
Bright patterns, large logos or bright colors can easily distract from your face in a passport photo – and that’s exactly what you don’t want to happen. Instead, opt for a simple top in a plain, neutral color. This will keep the focus on your face. If you’d like more tips on how to avoid common mistakes with passport photos, take a look at our article on this – it’s sure to help!
2. choose a suitable color
Dark, muted colors such as grey, dark blue or black make you appear professional and clear in the photo. Light colors can sometimes be less effective against a light background – they often appear “flat”.
3. pay attention to an appropriate neckline
A neckline that is too low will quickly look unflattering in passport photos, as only the upper part of your body will be visible in the picture. A round neck or V-neck is a good choice here, as it puts the face in the foreground. You can find out more about what is important in a biometric passport photo on our page about passport photo requirements.
4. no large accessories
Avoid large earrings, eye-catching necklaces or other accessories that could cover your face or distract from the essentials. In our make-up tips for passport photos, we show you how you can also make your make-up look suitable for passport photos.
5. care counts
Make sure your clothes are clean and ironed. Creases can spoil the overall impression.
6. the right hairstyle
Make sure that your hair does not cover your face, especially your eyes. If necessary, tie back long hair or put it behind your shoulders. A neat hairstyle makes for a tidy overall look.
7. use glasses correctly
If you are wearing glasses, make sure that they do not cause any reflections and that your eyes remain fully visible. If this is not possible, you should remove your glasses for the photo.
Style advice for women: How to shine in your passport photo
Even though passport photos should be neutral and simple, that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style and elegance. With the right clothing and a harmonious overall impression, you can look professional and stylish at the same time in your passport photo. Here are some exclusive tips for women:
1. set accents with colors that suit you
Even if neutral colors are ideal, you can choose shades that accentuate your eye or hair color. For example, a subtle blue looks particularly fresh and highlights blue or gray eyes. Earth tones such as beige or olive green are ideal for warm skin tones. A soft color accent can express your personality without making the biometric photo look unprofessional.
2. the right collar makes all the difference
Flattering collar shapes can frame your face particularly well. A blouse collar or a simple round neckline create a clear line and draw attention to your face. You should avoid turtlenecks or wide-cut tops as they could detract from the impression of the photo.
3. small details, big effect
While flashy jewelry is taboo, fine details can add a stylish touch to your clothing. A subtle texture in the blouse, such as delicate stripes or a fine weave, looks classy and adds depth to the image. Make sure that such details are not too dominant so that the focus remains on your face.
4. the balance between modern and timeless
As passport photos are often used for many years, it is important that your look remains timeless. Avoid fashion trends that could quickly look outdated, such as extremely eye-catching cuts or designs. Instead, opt for classic, elegant clothing that will still look current in a few years’ time.
5. naturalness takes center stage
A biometric passport photo lives from a natural, unadulterated look. Choose clothes that emphasize your personality and in which you feel comfortable. This feel-good factor will also be visible in the photo and ensure that you are satisfied with the result.
Style advice for men: your perfect look for the passport photo
A passport photo is more than just a picture – it represents you in important documents for years to come. Even as a man, you can make a serious and well-groomed impression with thoughtful style choices in your passport photo. Here are our professional tips especially for men:
1. the classic: shirt or polo shirt
A shirt with a classic collar is a safe choice for a stylish passport photo. Choose a shirt without eye-catching patterns or logos – simple and timeless is the aim here. Alternatively, a high-quality polo shirt also looks smart and modern. Avoid T-shirts with large prints or lettering as they distract from the face.
2. the right color for your type
Go for colors that complement your skin tone and hair color. Dark colors such as navy blue or anthracite look elegant and professional, while pastel shades such as light blue or beige lend a fresh, friendly appearance. It is important that the color of the clothing contrasts with your skin tone to create a clear contrast.
3. accentuation through details
A simple look can be enhanced with subtle details: a discreet button collar, a high-quality fabric texture or a small accent, such as a narrow stripe, can make the outfit more interesting without appearing too overloaded. Make sure that such details do not take the focus away from the face.
4. well-groomed beard or clean shave
A well-groomed beard is perfectly acceptable as long as it does not obscure the contours of the face. For men who opt for a clean shave, it is advisable to groom the face well before the photo to avoid skin irritation. For three-day beards, you should make sure that the beard is neatly trimmed.
5. suitable haircut
A fresh, clean haircut makes for a neat overall impression. Make sure that your face remains free and that your hair does not fall into your forehead or eyes. The same applies to full hair: less volume often looks better on a biometric passport photo.
6. the tie tip
Would you like to add an elegant, formal touch to your passport photo? Then you can wear a plain tie or an elegant pocket square. Make sure that the tie is not too flashy – subtle patterns or plain colors look stylish and don’t distract the focus from your face.
Why is the choice of clothing important?
Your biometric passport photo often accompanies you for many years – in your passport, driving license or ID card. It is therefore worth making sure you look well-groomed. With the right clothing, you can ensure that your face is shown to its best advantage and that all official requirements are met at the same time. If you are unsure which look is right for you, you can find photographers in your area who will be happy to help you and give you professional advice.
FAQs on the topic of clothing for passport photos
Which colors are best for passport photos?
Dark, neutral colors such as dark blue, anthracite, black or bordeaux are best suited for your passport photo. These shades not only look timeless and professional, but also create a nice contrast to the light background. They also draw attention to your face and create a harmonious overall look. Avoid bright colors such as white or pastel shades, however, as these can blur with the background. You should also avoid neon colors or bright patterns, as they create a jarring effect. With these tips, you are guaranteed to find the right look that suits you and meets all requirements.
Can I wear jewelry?
Yes, but please be discreet. Avoid large earrings or eye-catching necklaces that could cover the face – the face should be the focus.
What should I avoid?
Don’t wear clothes with bright colors, eye-catching patterns or very low necklines. Clothing that is too light in color can also look unflattering against a light background. If you would like to find out more about how to prepare your digital passport photos in the best possible way, take a look at our guide – it will help you avoid common pitfalls.
