Maternity photos are a beautiful way to capture the special journey of pregnancy and celebrate the anticipation of your little one. As you prepare for your maternity photoshoot, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing what to wear. The right outfit not only enhances the beauty of the photos but also makes you feel confident and comfortable during the shoot.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about what to wear for maternity photos, including outfit ideas, types of clothing that work best, and tips for choosing the perfect look. We’ll also provide answers to some frequently asked questions to ensure you feel confident and ready for your photoshoot.

Why Choosing the Right Outfit Matters for Maternity Photos

The clothes you choose for your maternity photoshoot play a significant role in the overall aesthetic of the images. Maternity photoshoots are all about celebrating your changing body, and the right outfit can highlight your baby bump, enhance your natural beauty, and make you feel like the glowing mama you are.

The perfect maternity outfit should meet a few essential criteria:

  • Comfort: You’ll want to be comfortable and at ease during your photoshoot, so avoid tight or constricting clothing.
  • Flattering fit: Look for outfits that highlight your baby bump while maintaining a flattering shape.
  • Timelessness: Choose outfits that won’t go out of style, as these photos will become cherished memories for years to come.
  • Personal style: Your outfit should reflect your personality and style, making you feel like your best self.

With those criteria in mind, let’s dive into the types of clothing that are perfect for maternity photos!

Types of Clothing for Maternity Photos

1. Flowing Dresses

A flowing maternity dress is one of the most popular choices for maternity photoshoots because it’s comfortable, flattering, and creates a dreamy, ethereal look. The flowy nature of these dresses beautifully highlights your baby bump and allows you to move freely during the photoshoot.

Best Features:

  • Soft, flowing fabrics (like chiffon or silk) add elegance and movement.
  • Empire waist styles accentuate the baby bump.
  • Long-sleeve options are perfect for colder weather or a more formal look.

Outfit Ideas:

  • Soft, pastel-colored dresses (like blush pink, mint, or lavender) for a serene and feminine look.
  • A flowy white or ivory dress for a classic, timeless appearance.

2. Form-Fitting Dresses

For a more modern and sleek look, form-fitting dresses that hug your body can beautifully showcase your baby bump. These dresses emphasize your curves and allow the bump to take center stage in the photos.

Best Features:

  • Stretchy, soft fabrics like jersey or cotton provide comfort while hugging your curves.
  • V-neck or off-the-shoulder designs highlight your natural shape and create flattering lines.
  • Long or short sleeve options depending on the season.

Outfit Ideas:

  • A fitted maxi dress that elongates your figure and shows off your bump.
  • A knee-length dress with a high slit for a chic, stylish look.

3. Boho-Chic Looks

If you love bohemian style, a boho-chic maternity outfit can add a laid-back, carefree vibe to your photos. Flowing skirts, crochet tops, and floral patterns evoke a relaxed yet stunning look, perfect for outdoor or nature-based photoshoots.

Best Features:

  • Light, airy fabrics like cotton or linen that keep you cool and comfortable.
  • Lace and crochet details add texture and visual interest.
  • Flowing skirts and off-the-shoulder tops emphasize a relaxed yet chic style.

Outfit Ideas:

  • A white lace dress with a flower crown for a dreamy, rustic vibe.
  • A boho maxi skirt paired with a simple top or blouse for a comfortable, chic look.

4. Maternity Jeans and Tops

If you’re looking for something more casual and comfortable, maternity jeans paired with a cute top can be an excellent choice for your photoshoot. This look works particularly well for indoor photoshoots or casual, family-focused shoots.

Best Features:

  • Stretchy, comfortable jeans designed for pregnancy that accommodate your growing belly.
  • Fitted or flowy tops in soft fabrics for comfort and style.
  • Layering options like a jacket or cardigan for added texture.

Outfit Ideas:

  • A pair of well-fitting maternity jeans with a fitted, long-sleeve top and a cozy cardigan.
  • A casual blouse with a pair of maternity skinny jeans for a chic, everyday look.

5. Classic White or Black Dress

A classic white or black dress never goes out of style and can be perfect for a timeless maternity photoshoot. Whether you prefer a flowing gown or a form-fitting silhouette, this color choice can create striking contrast against various backgrounds.

Best Features:

  • Neutral tones like white and black provide a clean, polished look.
  • Simple, elegant designs highlight your baby bump without distractions.
  • Flexible for any setting from studio photoshoots to outdoor sessions.

Outfit Ideas:

  • A white maternity gown with delicate lace details for a soft, elegant look.
  • A fitted black maternity dress paired with minimal jewelry for a chic, sophisticated vibe.

6. Coordinating Outfits for Partner and Family Photos

When including your partner and other family members in the maternity shoot, consider coordinating your outfits for a cohesive look. Matching or complementary colors can tie everyone together while ensuring that you still stand out as the center of attention.

Best Features:

  • Coordinated colors for a unified look (think soft neutrals, pastels, or bold matching tones).
  • Complementary styles that match your vibe (casual, formal, boho, etc.).

Outfit Ideas:

  • For a family photo, consider wearing a flowing dress while your partner wears a well-fitted button-up shirt in a coordinating color.
  • For a more casual shoot, you could opt for matching neutral-toned tops and bottoms.

Tips for Choosing the Best Maternity Photoshoot Outfit

  • Consider the Location: If your photoshoot is outdoors in a natural setting, consider wearing earthy tones and light fabrics. For studio shoots, you can choose more dramatic or sleek outfits.
  • Be Comfortable: Comfort is key when selecting your outfit. Make sure you can move freely and feel relaxed during the shoot.
  • Think About Layers: If you’re shooting in cooler weather, bring a stylish cardigan, jacket, or shawl for extra warmth and style.
  • Accentuate Your Baby Bump: Select clothes that draw attention to your baby bump, such as form-fitting dresses, empire waistlines, or high-waisted skirts.
  • Avoid Too Many Patterns: While patterns can be beautiful, try to avoid overly busy or distracting designs. Solid colors or subtle patterns work best to highlight your natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best color to wear for maternity photos?

The best colors for maternity photos often depend on the look you want to achieve. Soft, neutral colors like whites, creams, pastels, and earth tones work beautifully. Bold, darker colors like navy or black can also provide a timeless and elegant look.

2. Should I wear makeup for maternity photos?

Makeup is a personal choice, but many people choose to wear makeup for their maternity photos to enhance their features. If you prefer a natural look, opt for light, breathable makeup, and focus on highlighting your eyes and baby bump.

3. Can I wear maternity pants for photoshoots?

Yes! Maternity pants, especially those designed for photo shoots, can be an excellent choice for a casual maternity shoot. Pair them with a fitted or flowy top to create a chic and comfortable outfit.

4. How far along should I be for maternity photos?

The best time for maternity photos is typically between 28 and 34 weeks, when your baby bump is prominent but you’re still feeling comfortable enough for a photoshoot. However, this can vary depending on how you feel and your personal preference.

5. Can I wear a dress if I’m having a casual maternity shoot?

Absolutely! You can wear a dress for any type of maternity shoot, including casual ones. Opt for a simple, comfortable dress with minimal accessories for a laid-back but flattering look.

6. What should my partner wear for maternity photos?

Your partner should wear something that complements your outfit but doesn’t steal the spotlight. Neutral or complementary colors work well, and they can either go for a more formal look (like a button-up shirt) or a casual style (like a simple t-shirt or sweater).

Conclusion

Choosing what to wear for maternity photos is an exciting and personal decision that can make all the difference in capturing the beauty and excitement of your pregnancy. Whether you choose a flowing gown, a form-fitting dress, or something casual, the key is to wear something that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and beautiful. By considering the location, the season, and your personal style, you can create a stunning, memorable look that will make your maternity photos truly unforgettable.

This page was last edited on 27 March 2025, at 1:32 pm