When applying for your ERAS medical residency, your headshot is one of the most important parts of your application. Residency directors see hundreds of photos, and your headshot needs to look professional, approachable, and polished. At Shari Photography in St. Louis, we specialize in creating ERAS headshots that help you stand out for the right reasons. While lighting, posing, and expression matter, your wardrobe is equally important.
The clothes you choose send a strong message about who you are as a future physician. This guide will give you very specific wardrobe recommendations for both men and women so you can feel confident walking into your headshot session.
Men: What to Wear for Your ERAS Headshot
1. Suits That Work Best
A two-piece, tailored suit is the top choice. Look for these specific colors and fabrics:
- Navy blue suit – classic, professional, and photographs well.
- Charcoal gray suit – conveys maturity and seriousness.
- Black suit – sharp, but best if balanced with a lighter shirt and tie so you don’t look washed out.
- Fabric – matte wool or wool blends are ideal; shiny fabrics can reflect light in unflattering ways.
Avoid tan, khaki, or bold-colored suits (like bright blue or green) — they can appear too casual or distracting in ERAS photos.
2. Dress Shirts That Photograph Best
- White dress shirt – timeless and clean, pairs with any suit.
- Light blue dress shirt – softens the look while still being professional.
- Avoid bold patterns like plaids, stripes, or checks; they can create distracting lines on camera.
Make sure the collar is crisp, and iron or steam your shirt before the session.
3. The Right Tie Choice
Ties are where many men go wrong. For your ERAS headshot, keep it simple:
- Solid colors – burgundy, navy, deep green, or charcoal.
- Subtle patterns – small dots or thin stripes are fine, but avoid anything flashy.
- Avoid shiny satin ties – they catch light and become distracting.
Bring two tie options to your session so you can compare how they look in photos.
4. Grooming and Finishing Touches
- Facial hair – neatly trimmed beard or clean-shaven works best.
- Glasses – wear them if they’re part of your professional image, but clean them thoroughly to prevent smudges or glare.
- Shoes – they won’t show in your headshot, but polished dress shoes help you feel fully put together.
Women: What to Wear for Your ERAS Headshot
1. Blazers and Jackets
A blazer creates structure and instantly communicates professionalism. Top color choices include:
- Navy blazer – versatile and universally flattering.
- Charcoal gray blazer – sleek and polished.
- Deep jewel tones – burgundy, emerald, or deep plum work beautifully for women, adding a touch of personality without being overwhelming.
Avoid bright colors (like neon, orange, or hot pink) and patterned blazers. They can distract from your face.
2. Tops That Work Best Under a Blazer
- Blouses in solid colors – white, cream, light blue, or soft jewel tones.
- Necklines – v-neck or scoop-neck tops work best because they elongate the neckline and flatter most body shapes.
- Avoid sleeveless tops – they can look too casual and may not sit well under a blazer.
- Avoid busy prints – stripes, florals, and polka dots can pull attention away from your expression.
3. Dresses as an Alternative
Some women prefer a tailored dress instead of a suit. This can work as long as:
- The dress has sleeves or a blazer layered over it.
- The color is solid and professional (navy, black, gray, or jewel tone).
- The neckline is modest and structured.
4. Jewelry and Accessories
Less is more:
- Earrings – small studs or simple hoops.
- Necklaces – delicate chains or small pendants.
- Avoid statement jewelry – large earrings or chunky necklaces distract from your face.
5. Hair and Makeup
- Hair – styled neatly away from your face so your eyes are visible. Loose waves, straight styles, or pulled-back looks all work well if polished.
- Makeup – natural and professional. Light foundation, neutral eyeshadow, mascara, and soft lipstick shades like rose, mauve, or nude are ideal. Avoid overly bold eyeliner or dark lipstick, which can be distracting in professional photos.
Universal Tips for Both Men and Women
- Fit is everything. Tailored clothing looks sharper than oversized or baggy outfits. If needed, take your suit jacket to a tailor for small adjustments.
- Stick with matte fabrics. Shiny materials reflect studio lights and can look cheap on camera.
- Solid colors only. The safest choice for ERAS headshots is to avoid patterns entirely. Solids keep the focus on your face.
- Iron or steam your clothes. Wrinkles show up more than you’d expect in high-resolution photography.
- Bring options. Bring a second jacket, blouse, or tie so you can compare different looks during your session.
Why Wardrobe Choices Matter for ERAS Headshots
Your ERAS headshot is often the first impression residency programs have of you. Program directors want to see someone who looks capable, confident, and approachable. A poorly chosen outfit — whether it’s too casual, distracting, or ill-fitting — can subtly undermine that impression.
At Shari Photography in St. Louis, we guide every client through wardrobe selection so that their outfit enhances their image rather than competes with it. Combined with professional lighting, expert posing, and retouching, your wardrobe choice ensures your headshot is polished and residency-ready.
Book Your ERAS Medical Residency Headshot in St. Louis
Ready to take the next step in your residency application? Let Shari Photography help you look your best. With over 15 years of experience photographing medical students and professionals, we know exactly how to create ERAS headshots that make a strong first impression.
Contact Shari Photography today to schedule your ERAS headshot session in St. Louis.
