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There is no dress code for a Santa call. Pajamas are fine, and so is a party dress. But a few small choices make your child look great on camera and feel comfortable for all 10 minutes. Here is a practical guide, from the top down.
The one rule that matters most
Comfort wins. A child who is itchy, too warm or fussing with a tight collar will not enjoy the call. If your child picks the outfit, you will usually get a happier, more relaxed conversation than if you choose something stiff.
After comfort, think about how clothing looks on a small screen in a home setting.
Colors that look good on camera
A video call with Santa happens on Google Meet, so your child will appear in a small window. Some colors read better than others.
- Jewel tones such as deep green, rich blue, burgundy and plum look warm and clear.
- Soft solid colors like cream, light blue or blush work well in good light.
- Classic holiday red looks cheerful, though very bright red can look flat on some cameras. If it looks harsh in a test, try a deeper shade.
- Avoid colors close to your wall. A white shirt against a white wall can make a child look washed out.
Santa wears red and white, so you do not need to match him. A little contrast makes everyone easier to see.
Patterns and textures to think twice about
- Tiny stripes and checks can shimmer on a camera. Larger patterns are usually calmer.
- Heavy sparkle and sequins may catch the light and glare.
- Big text on shirts can be fun, but a distracting slogan may pull attention from your child's face.
- Scratchy sweaters. Cute, but a child who keeps tugging at the neckline will be uncomfortable.
None of these are rules. If your child adores the sparkly dress, wear the sparkly dress.
Outfit ideas by mood
Cozy and calm
Soft pajamas, a robe or a favorite hoodie. Great for evening calls close to bedtime, especially for younger children. Add a Santa hat if your child likes hats.
Festive and sweet
A holiday sweater, a plaid shirt or a velvet dress. Add a bow or a headband. Check the neckline for comfort.
Dressed up
A button-down shirt, vest or party outfit. Perfect for a photo-worthy moment. Choose shoes and fabrics that do not need constant adjusting. On a call, only the top half shows, so the shoes are for your child's own sense of occasion.
Silly and playful
Reindeer antlers, a light-up sweater or a themed shirt. If your child loves it, Santa will, too. A real-beard Santa in a velvet suit is happy to see a child's personality.
Think about what the camera sees
Most of the time, only the head and shoulders show, with maybe a bit of the chest and arms. So the top matters most.
- 1
Check the neckline
Make sure it is not falling off one shoulder.
- 2
Keep hair out of the face
A clip, headband or simple braid helps Santa see your child's smile.
- 3
Skip big hats that shade the eyes,
unless it is a favorite, in which case, go for it.
- 4
Think about accessories
A necklace is fine, but a jangly bracelet can be noisy against a table.
Lighting matters as much as clothing. For ideas, see set up a Santa call corner at home.
What to do about siblings
If more than one child will be on the call, siblings are welcome. Santa can greet them if you add their names, ages and a wish or two to the fun facts box when you book.
Coordinate, do not match
Similar colors look polished, but identical outfits are optional.
Let each child choose
Ownership makes kids happier.
Watch the order of dressing
Get the child who is slowest to cooperate ready first.
For mixed ages, see keeping the magic for younger siblings.
What about parents?
You may be on screen briefly, especially if your child is on your lap.
- Wear something comfortable that you do not mind a child wrinkling.
- Avoid very busy patterns that compete with your child.
- Skip the formal blazer, unless you want one.
Honestly, the best parent outfit is one you do not think about once the call begins.
Details that help the whole look
Put it on early
Dress your child before the call so you are not rushing at the last minute.
Do a quick camera test
Open your camera for ten seconds and check the color.
Have a backup
Spills happen. Keep a second option nearby.
Keep it simple for toddlers
Our toddler's first Santa call guide suggests easy fabrics and snaps.
Photos and recording
If you want to capture your child's reaction, you can record your own side on a phone, only if you choose. See record your child's Santa call reaction.
The 60-second outfit check
- Is your child comfortable sitting in this for 15 minutes?
- Can the neckline and sleeves stay put?
- Is hair away from the face?
- Does the color stand out from the wall behind them?
- Does your child like it?
If you answered yes to all five, you are done. Add it to your Santa call checklist, and see how it works if you want to go over the booking steps.
Frequently asked questions
Do we have to dress up for the call?
No. Pajamas, a favorite sweater or a party outfit are all fine. Comfort matters most.
What color is best on camera?
Solid jewel tones and soft solids usually look clear on a small screen. A quick camera test before the call will tell you.
Can siblings be on the call?
Yes. Add their names, ages and a wish or two in the fun facts box when you book, and Santa can greet them. The call is 10 minutes total.
Where can I learn more about the live call?
See the video call with Santa page and pricing.