If you’re like me, the family photo shoot can turn into a major panic moment when you realize you have to get your whole family dressed (with a streaking three-year-old, just the “getting dressed” part is a challenge!) in outfits that are (A) all washed and ironed (B) are flattering to all individuals and (C) coordinate somewhat.  Notice I said “somewhat”.  Taking a family portrait does not mean you all have to look like clones. You want your family to look like you–not like any family on the wall at Olan Mills. So get ready to break out of the white-button-down-and-denim rut and take a spin through these suggestions. (Yes, washateria pun intended).

(If you’re chuckling at the idea of my putting together a fashion guide that is totally fine. If you know me, you know my idea of “fashion” consists of some cargo pants and shoes you can hike and raft in. So, no, I did not put this together. The lovely and talented Pinkle Toes put this together. Check her out: Pinkle Toes Photography. And check out her site for photogs where you can join and get great goodies like this: www.pinkletoes4photographers.com)

I will say that my hubbs came up with a great idea for discussing what to wear. In three easy steps!

1. Pick your favorite store to shop at. Gap. Anthropologie. Banana Republic. Wherever.

2. Get their catalog or go to their website.

3. Look at the outfits they have put together.

4. Whip out the credit card and order them. (Okay, that fourth one is my addition. I’m sure he wouldn’t mind, right?)

Okay, back to the fashion guide. (Click on any of the smaller images to start scrolling through larger images in the gallery.)

So what did you notice? Color! Texture! Layers! Patterns! Interest! Not too matchy! No clone outfits!

Pick a color or two. Add some patterns. And texture. A jacket, hat, or scarf. Chunky jewelry. Have fun!

So you’re going to ask. . “Where are these fabulous clothes from?” That’s not an easy answer. These items were found around Austin (where Pinkle Toes is based). I can find out where some items are from (Macys. Nordstrom, Boden, Pea in the Pod, for example) so if there’s a must-have item, let me know. But you can go into any store or pick up any catalog (or visit any website) and see the “looks” they have put together. Do you need to break the bank? Surely not. Old Navy has fabulous outfits. Or anywhere. Just give it a whirl!

Pick a color or two. Then throw in some patterns. A jacket or hat or scarf. Or a tie. Maybe on your toddler for fun! Go beyond white and denim or khaki. I can’t wait to see how you look!