What to Wear: Your Engagement & Proposal Style Guide in Bath

Expert Advice from Beata Cosgrove Photography

You’ve picked the perfect location in Bath; now let’s make sure you feel confident and look incredible. These tips are designed to help your photos look timeless, artistic, and true to you.

1. Celebrate with Color

Bath’s honey-colored stone is a neutral masterpiece, which means you have the freedom to play with color!

Happy & Vibrant: Don't be afraid of "happy" colors like Blue, Red, Green, Yellow, or Pink. They bring energy and joy to the frame.
Cultural Traditions: I celebrate your heritage! Whether you choose a classic White or colors specific to your culture and traditions, I will ensure they look stunning against the city backdrop.
Sophisticated Black: If you are going for a high-fashion or very stylish look, Black can be incredibly striking and elegant in a city like Bath.
Earth Tones: Browns and tans look warm and organic, especially in the parks or near the river.

2. Hair & Grooming

Your hair is the frame for your face, so it deserves a little extra attention:

The "Wind" Factor: Bath can be breezy, especially near the Abbey or the River Avon. If you have long hair, consider a style that stays in place but still feels natural.
Freshness: If you’re planning a haircut, try to do it 5–7 days before the session so it has time to "settle" and look its best.
Movement: I love capturing motion! If you enjoy wearing your hair down, it can add a beautiful, romantic feel to the photos as you move.

3. Coordinate, Don’t Match

Avoid wearing identical colors. Instead, look for a palette that complements each other.

The Rule of Three: Pick three colors that go well together and distribute them between both of your outfits.
Vary the Tones: If one person wears a solid dark color, the other could wear a lighter shade or a subtle pattern.

4. Comfort is Key

The most beautiful photos happen when you feel like yourself.

Moveability: Since we might be walking between the Bath Abbey colonnades and the Parade Gardens, choose shoes you can walk in comfortably.
Confidence: Pick an outfit you’ve worn before and love. If you feel good, it shows!

5. Mind the Patterns & Logos

Keep it Simple: Small prints (like tiny florals) work well. Large, busy patterns can be distracting.
No Logos: Large brand names can date your photos. We want the focus on your connection, not a clothing label.

6. Dress for the Season

Spring/Summer: Flowing dresses and linen shirts are perfect for golden hour.
Autumn/Winter: Layers are your best friend! A great tailored coat, a stylish scarf, or elegant knitwear can be the "star" of a winter shoot.

7. The "Proposal Pocket" Check (For Surprises)

Bulky Items: Check your pockets for phones or large sets of keys. Try to leave these in a bag so they don't show up in the photos.
The Ring Box: If the box is large, consider a slim-profile box or placing the ring securely in a buttoned pocket.

8. Final Touches

Nails: There will be plenty of close-up shots of the ring, so make sure your hands and nails are looking tidy.
Ironing: A quick steam or iron of your clothes makes a world of difference in the final high-resolution images.

Top Tip: "Your clothes should be a reflection of your joy. Whether that’s a vibrant red dress or a stylish black suit, choose what makes you feel like the best version of yourself!" — Beata :-)