Summer Outfits for Senior Pictures in St. Louis

Staying Cool, Comfortable, and Fashionable in the Midwest Heat.

 

The St. Louis summer can get pretty hot and humid, so planning the perfect outfit can feel like a bit of a struggle. You want to know what to wear to keep you cool and comfortable while still looking fashionable. Here are 5 outfit ideas for both girls and guys that will help you put together the perfect summer look.

Trendy senior portrait by a St. Charles senior photographer, showing a girl wearing a light blue crop top, white pants, and tan wedges, sitting with her feet crossed and hand behind her head on historic stone steps.
Classic summer senior photo of a guy wearing a grey polo shirt, light blue shorts, and tennis shoes, sitting on a rock by a peaceful creek in Forest Park with a beautiful sunset glowing behind him.

For the Girls: Breezy & Vibrant

Summer is all about lightweight fabrics and pops of color that stand out against the lush greenery.

  1. Flowy Sundress: Effortlessly beautiful in cotton or linen.

  2. Romper: Playful, flirty, and perfect for showing off your legs.

  3. Maxi Skirt and Tank Top: A versatile piece that can be dressed up or down.

  4. High-Waisted Shorts and Crop Top: Trendy and cool for those warm afternoons.

  5. Jeans and Blouse: From white denim to floral patterns, this is a summer staple.

Bonus Items: Statement necklaces, denim overalls, Birkenstocks, and off-the-shoulder tops.

Need more ideas for your summer session? You can find a complete collection of seasonal looks and fashion tips for girls in my Senior Portrait Style Guides.

Playful and whimsical senior picture of a girl in a white floral dress and flip-flops, posing with her hands in her hair and one foot kicked up on a lush green pathway lined with summer flowers at Lafayette Park.
Elegant high school senior girl wearing a white top and black skirt, sitting gracefully with her hands in her lap on a wooden park bench surrounded by deep summer greenery at Lafayette Park.
Whimsical boho senior portrait by a Eureka MO senior photographer, featuring a girl in a white off-the-shoulder top, blue jeans, and short tan boots, holding a floppy hat and looking over her shoulder in a vibrant sunflower field at Brookdale Farms.

For the Guys: Polished & Breathable

Guys can stay sophisticated without overheating by choosing the right fabrics and relaxed styles.

  1. Polo Shirt and Khaki Pants: A versatile look that works for formal or casual vibes.

  2. Printed Button-Down and Shorts: Add some personality with a bold print and tailored shorts.

  3. Linen Suit: The ultimate sophisticated look for a hot Missouri day.

  4. Graphic T-Shirt and Jeans: Cool, casual, and a great way to express yourself.

  5. Plain T-Shirt and Denim Shorts: A comfortable summer staple that looks great on everyone.

Bonus Items: Watches, chinos, sunglasses, baseball hats, and leather bracelets.

To help inspire your look even more, head over to my Senior Portrait Style Guides to see more guy-focused summer fashion ideas.

Sharp senior portrait by a Freeburg IL senior photographer, showing a guy wearing a blue long-sleeve button-up shirt, blue jeans, and brown shoes, leaning confidently against a weathered brick wall.
Cool, edgy senior picture of a guy wearing an orange polo, khaki pants, and brown loafers, sitting on the ground directly in front of a sleek red Porsche sports car in Forest Park.
Sophisticated senior photo of a guy dressed in a white button-up shirt, blue tie, and black dress pants, standing on a dirt pathway leading toward a historic wooden covered bridge over a sandy creek at sunset.

Beating the Humidity

Since St. Louis summers are notoriously humid, stick to breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, and chambray. Avoid dark colors and heavy materials like wool or velvet. Don’t forget to stay hydrated, I always recommend bringing water and a small fan to stay fresh during our time together.

To ensure we get that beautiful, glowing light while staying as cool as possible, I typically shoot during Golden Hour to make those summer colors pop. Check out my timing guide to learn more about why I work during this time.

Choose outfits that fit your style and make you feel confident. Have fun with it, and feel free to bring extra accessories to swap in during your session!

 
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Fall Outfits for Senior Pictures in St. Louis

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Paige | A Goalie’s Graduation at Lutheran South