The Ultimate Guide to Planning Outfits for Your Lake Tahoe Family Session

You’ve been planning your Lake Tahoe vacation for months and you’re dreaming about the stunning mountains, crystal-clear water, and golden light – you decide to book a family session to document this time in your lives. Or maybe you live at the Lake and want to remember the sparkling water and towering pine trees for generations to come with a session with your kiddos. But one of the biggest questions families have is: what should we wear?

Not to worry! I’ve got you covered with this Ultimate Guide to Planning Outfits for Your Lake Tahoe Family Session. The goal is to create a look that feels cohesive, comfortable, and true to your family while complementing Tahoe’s natural beauty.

Choose your color palette

The biggest mistake families make is trying to match exactly (think all white shirts and jeans). Instead, choose a color palette of 3–5 complementary tones. Earthy, natural colors and neutral prints work best, ultimately we want YOU and your connection to be the center of attention, not logos or neon colors.

For Tahoe sessions, these palettes work beautifully:

• Earth tones (tan, rust, olive, cream)
• Soft neutrals (beige, gray, ivory, muted blues)
• Warm fall tones (mustard, burgundy, forest green)

Once you pick a palette, mix and match within it so everyone coordinates without looking identical. Remember – you want to COMPLIMENT, not match!

Dress for the landscape

Tahoe has many different locations, both lakeside and lodge. When putting together outfits, keep in mind where you’ve decided to have your photos done. Tahoe has a very natural, organic vibe—if you’re having photos done by the lake your outfits should reflect that.

Think:

• Flowy dresses
• Soft textures (knits, linen, cotton)
• Layers like cardigans, jackets, or shawls
• Subtle patterns (nothing too loud or busy)

Avoid:

• Neon colors
• Large logos or graphics
• Super bright whites (they can reflect too much light)

If you choose a location that’s indoors and classier –

Think:

• Blazers and structured jackets
• Sleek textures (satin, silk, leather)
• Timeless jewelry like pearls and dainty chains
• Subtle patterns work here as well

Build Mom’s outfit first

This might sound surprising, but it works every time. Mom’s outfit tends to be the most colorful or textured, so building everyone’s attire around her makes things naturally flow.

Start with mom’s outfit—something she feels confident and beautiful in—and build the rest of the family’s looks around it. For example: Mom wears a floral summer dress, Dad wears a shirt that coordinates with the main color of the flowers, kids wear outfits that coordinate with the secondary colors.

If your family doesn’t include a mom, choose the most patterned or complex outfit to build the rest around.

Add layers and texture

Tahoe weather can change quickly, especially near the lake or in the mountains. Layers not only keep you warm but also add depth and visual interest.

Great layering pieces:

• Denim or neutral jackets
• Chunky knits
• Scarves
• Vests

Textures like lace, knit, suede, and linen elevate your photos without overwhelming them.

Think about movement

Outfits that move—like dresses, skirts, or loose fabrics—bring your photos to life, especially with Tahoe’s breeze and open landscapes.

Movement adds:

• Emotion
• Natural flow
• A more candid, storytelling feel

Coordinate, don’t compete

Each outfit should complement the others—not steal the spotlight.

A good rule of thumb:

• One person can wear a subtle pattern
• The rest stick to solids or very minimal prints

This keeps the overall look balanced and timeless.

Don’t forget the details

Small details make a big difference:

• Neutral or coordinating shoes
• Simple accessories (hats, jewelry, hair pieces)
• Clean nails (yes, it shows!)

Try to keep accessories minimal so the focus stays on your connection as a family.

Plan for the season

Tahoe looks different depending on the time of year, and your outfits should reflect that.

Summer:

• Light fabrics, soft colors, breathable outfits

Fall:

• Warm tones, layers, cozy textures

Winter:

• Neutral coats, boots, knits (avoid bulky ski gear unless that’s your vibe)

Spring:

• Soft pastels, light layers, fresh tones

When in doubt, keep it simple

If you’re unsure, lean into simple, neutral, and timeless. Trends come and go, but classic outfits will always look beautiful on your walls years from now.

Prioritize comfort (especially for kids)

If kids aren’t comfortable, it shows immediately in photos.

Make sure:

• Clothes fit well (not too tight or oversized)
• Fabrics aren’t itchy or restrictive
• Shoes are easy to walk in (Tahoe terrain can be uneven)

For little ones, bring a backup outfit just in case—Tahoe adventures can get a little messy.

Final tip: I’m here to help

I’ve written this Ultimate Guide to Planning Outfits for Your Lake Tahoe Family Session so you don’t have to figure this out alone. I’m always happy to help you plan your outfits, review options, or even build a full look for your family.

The goal is for you to feel confident, relaxed, and completely yourself—because that’s what makes the most meaningful photos.

If you’re more of a visual person, I’ve put together a Pinterest board HERE

Some of my favorite shops and boutiques:

For kiddos:

Old Navy and Gap

Rylee and Cru

For Mamas:

Carly Jean Los Angeles

Roolee