If you’ve ever bought an outfit just for brand photos and thought, “Wait… can I write this off?” you're definitely not the only one asking.

When you run a brand-forward business (Instagram, YouTube, coaching, photography… you name it), your wardrobe can feel like part of the job. But when it comes to taxes? It’s a little tricky.

So let’s talk about it in plain language 🤸

The short answer? It depends.

I know, I know. That’s the most annoying answer ever. But here’s the deal:

For clothing to be a legit business deduction, the IRS says it has to be both:

• Required or necessary for the work you do
  
• Not suitable for everyday wear
  

So if you’re buying something super cute to wear to a shoot or event, even if it's “for work,” it probably doesn’t count because you could wear it to brunch too, and that’s where the IRS draws the line.

A few clothing things that can be deducted:

• Branded gear. If you put your logo on a sweatshirt or T-shirt and wear it for events or photos
  
• Costumes or stylized outfits you’d never wear in real life (think: themed YouTube skits, character content, cosplay, etc.)
  
• Actual uniforms (scrubs, aprons, protective gear, or anything required for your industry)
  

If it’s weird to wear in public but makes sense for your job? You’ve probably got a shot.

What about brand photos?

So let’s say you bought an outfit just for your website shoot. You don’t plan to wear it again or at least not in “real life.” That feels like it should count, right?

Unfortunately, the IRS tends to say no. 

Even if you’re only wearing it for business stuff, unless it’s branded or not suitable for everyday wear, it usually still falls under “personal.”

That said, you can make a stronger case if:

• It has your logo
  
• You’re using it only for work-related appearances
  
• You keep receipts and make a note of the purpose
  

Just know this one lives in a big gray area. When in doubt? Ask your CPA.

Creators + influencers — here’s your section 👇

If you buy outfits or makeup just for filming, this gets really situational.

Most of the time, the IRS still calls it personal — unless:

• It’s a costume or super-specific character look
  
• The products aren’t used outside of filming
  
• You’re creating themed content that clearly isn’t daily life
  

Basically: a ball gown for a fairy tale photoshoot? Maybe. A nice Target dress for a Reel? Probably not.

What if you’re a photographer with a client closet?

You’re in a better spot here.

If you buy outfits for clients to wear during sessions — and only for clients — those clothes are typically considered business tools. Especially if they’re styled, cleaned, and used exclusively for your work.

Just make sure you:

• Keep those receipts
  
• Don’t wear the items personally (not even once)
  
• Track how/when they're used
  

If it’s not deductible, can you still make it work for your business?

Totally. Here’s how:

• Adding a logo = it’s now a marketing expense
  
• Hire a photographer, stylist, or makeup artist for the shoot = those are deductible services
  

Even if the outfit doesn’t count, the process around it often does.

Bottom line:

Most everyday clothes don’t qualify, even if you only wear them for work. But branded items, costumes, uniforms, and client closet pieces? Those are worth exploring.

Keep good records, document the use, and run anything you’re unsure about past a tax pro. It’s so much easier to be proactive than to clean it up later 🤗