Elevado Photography | Luxury Branding Photography for Women Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Milwaukee Branding Photographer | Elevate Your Visual Presence

Your personal brand isn’t just about what you do—it’s about how you show up. Whether you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or corporate powerhouse, your wardrobe plays a huge role in how people perceive you. A polished, high-power look not only boosts confidence but also reinforces your brand’s authority and credibility.

As a Milwaukee branding photographer working with women who want to elevate their image, I know how important it is to have a wardrobe that works for you, not against you. In this blog post, I've come up with five wardrobe staples for all body types that are going to help you create a powerful, professional look that translates so beautifully both on camera AND in real life.

Where to buy? I list my top stores for shopping (size inclusive AND budget-friendly) at the bottom of this post!

1. A Tailored Blazer That Means Business

"A blazer, Jess? Seriously?"

YES, REALLY!! Nothing will ever say power like a perfectly tailored blazer. Even if you pair it with jeans, a miniskirt, or (gasp) leggings, you're going to look amazing in a blazer. It's a timeless and versatile staple for professionals.

Whether you go for a structured classic in black or navy or a modern, oversized cut in a bold color, a blazer instantly pulls your look together. And if you're tired of conservative blazer colors but bold is not your thing, you're in luck! Right now, blazers in soft neutrals like olive, khaki, and dark brown are suuuuper popular as a break away from the plain old "work attire" colors.

The right blazer enhances your shape, adds authority, and photographs beautifully—-making it a must-have for branding sessions and everyday wear. No matter your size range or body type, they look amazing on everyone! Make sure the blazer is structured at the shoulder and the lapels--cheaper blazers will not have reinforced shoulders and floppy, soft-looking lapels, giving a cheap look to the blazer. Save your money and invest in better pieces elsewhere.

Pro Tip: Choose high-quality fabrics with a good drape, and don’t be afraid to take it to a tailor for that perfect fit.

2. The TOP--and we're not just talking button-ups.

A statement top is a game-changer for branding photos and in-person meetings alike. Whether it’s a sleek silk blouse, a structured button-up, or a bold pop of color, the right top brings personality and interest to your wardrobe.

However, don't think a crisp cotton button-up is the only route you have to take! If you want to make your look polished but fashion-forward, swapping a conventional blouse with a knit top or good quality plain t-shirt looks absolutely outstanding without feeling impersonally corporate.

Don't forget about cardigans! Wear it as normal, or tie it around your waist or your shoulders. Boom! Old money aesthetic gorgeousness right there.

On-Camera Tip: Avoid super busy patterns or logos. Clean, solid colors or subtle textures work best to keep the focus on you.

3. Pants That Flatter and Command Attention

Your go-to trousers should be equal parts flattering and confidence-boosting. Wide-leg, tailored, or high-waisted trousers create a sleek silhouette that looks strong and sophisticated.

If you're like me and have short/wide legs, wide-leg trousers might not feel the most flattering on you. Don't panic! Now retailers offer boot-cut, flared, and skinny trousers that give you a flattering feel without sacrificing an ounce of professionalism. Whatever style of trousers makes you feel best, is what matters MOST. If they're paired with a great blazer or top, they will never fail to create a cohesive, elevated look.

Best Colors for Branding Photos: Neutrals like black or navy always work, but just like the blazers we discussed above, try out muted neutrals like ivory, olive, and beige, too!

Pro Tip: It's really amazing how much both blazers and trousers can make or break a look, just based on how they were designed and manufactured. Trousers that have a piped seam or pleat down the front of each leg or a pintuck (pleat on each pant leg near the waistband) instantly look more expensive. If you can't find these, you can either have a tailor add them, or try out trousers that are made with thicker fabric or have a double-layer of fabric, rather than just one thin layer.

4. Sleek, Confident Footwear

Your shoes make a statement before you even say a word. Whether you prefer pointed-toe pumps, ankle boots, loafers, or something entirely different, your footwear should be polished, comfortable, and aligned with your brand’s aesthetic.

Some of my favorite shoes to buy for my own work wardrobe are kitten heels from Zara and H&M. On photoshoot days when I need to be actively on my feet, I love wearing Vans and New Balance sneakers! Any of these I would be happy to incorporate into my own branding photos, because they bring me joy and are a genuine reflection of me, both as a businesswoman and a photographer.

Branding Photography Tip: If going all-out isn't your thing, avoid overly flashy or super high platforms that might not stand the test of time, and even worse, lead to achy legs and feet at your session. A classic, high-quality shoe adds sophistication and confidence to your presence. If heels aren't even your thing, don't feel like you need to bring them! They're not the only footwear that say "I'm a boss and I know it."--A clean, good quality pair of flats, sandals, or sneakers will look just as outstanding on you and look great in your photos.

5. Minimalist, High-Impact Accessories

The right accessories can transform a look without overwhelming it. A structured handbag, a sleek watch, or delicate gold jewelry can refine and add extra interest to your outfit while keeping it professional.

If you work with tools or equipment in your business or job, we consider those accessories as well in branding photos! If you bring any to your session, make sure they're clean so they add visual enjoyment to all the photos you use them in.

Keep in Mind: Unless your personal or brand aesthetic centers around heavy accessorizing, then less is more in branding photos. One or two statement accessories can do the trick without looking cluttered, as it can actually distract the viewer from focusing on what's important--YOU! ;)

Best Places To Shop For Wardrobe Staples:

As promised, here's my recommendations for shopping locations where you can get good quality clothing staples. I try to choose stores that are both size inclusive (because that's very important to me & my clients), and that also won't require a large investment for just one outfit.

1. H&M Online: I use and recommend H&M Online for blazers especially, as you can easily get one for around $30-$40 that is structured and in many color options! They also carry a huge assortment of trendy tops/blouses/cardigans, as well as shoes and accessories. While H&M does have a plus-size section, I don't typically recommend their pants/trousers, as they often run much smaller than advertised and their best pants/trousers are often not sized inclusively.
2. Old Navy: Old Navy has come such a long way with inclusivity in their sizing! They always carry great staple blazers, tops, and trousers. If you need recommendations on trousers, try their Taylor Wide-Leg Trousers, or their Pixie Skinny/Flare Pants (note: Pixie pants have a lot of stretch, and will look like jeggings in your photos if you buy your normal size--ask me how I know. Buy one size up to avoid that!)
3. Abercrombie & Fitch: For trousers, I can't recommend A&F enough! Their workwear collection is a bit more of an investment, but the quality, sizing, and ability to choose your inseam is sooo worth it. A&F has sales or discount codes often which helps bring their trousers down to about $75-$80 per pair.
4. SHOES: I love buying my heels, sandals, and flats from Zara, H&M, and Miss Lola. Zara especially has such a great kitten heel selection that feels modern and feminine while keeping you comfortable on your feet.
5. Accessories: You can get amazing jewelry and other accessory finds from stores like ASOS, JLUXLABEL, and Zara. ASOS in particular has a waterproof jewelry lineup that is my favorite and looks SO GOOD!

show off your style with a branding session!

Wardrobe and styling guidance is always included when you book a branding session with our Milwaukee Branding Photography Studio. We help working women attract their dream clients through visual marketing (aka, branding photos), and we love what we do! If you're thinking about booking a session for yourself, fill out our contact form below so we can get you started.