What to Wear for Maternity Photos
Youโve booked your maternity session and now comes the big question: what to wear for maternity photos? With so many options out there-jeans and a cropped top, flowy dresses, two-piece sets-it can quickly feel overwhelming. As a Toledo Ohio maternity photographer, Iโm here to help you choose outfits that not only look beautiful but also highlight this amazing season in your familyโs story.
Finding Your Style for Maternity Photos
Maternity photos can have many different vibes, so it helps to start by thinking about the overall feel you want. Do you picture something soft and romantic? Elegant and glamorous? Relaxed and playful? Once you have that vision, it becomes much easier to narrow down your outfit choices.
If youโre leaning toward a more dressed-up look, a flowing dress or skirt is always a beautiful option. Styles with an empire waist, wrap design, or off-the-shoulder neckline tend to flatter the bump while still feeling feminine and comfortable. Want to go full glamour? A fitted gown with a dramatic train or structured silhouette adds a wow factor while showing off your shape.
For something more laid-back, jeans with a cropped top or a cozy two-piece set is a great choice. Low-waisted skirts or pants paired with a snug top can create a beautiful shape and still feel casual and approachable. No matter your style, I always suggest picking something that moves well and highlights your bump.
Both of these arenโt maternity pieces, but theyโre styled in a way that beautifully highlights the bump.
Itโs All About The Texture
When deciding what to wear for maternity photos, texture is key. It adds depth and a beautiful sense of movement that really brings your images to life. Some of my favorite fabrics to work with are lace, knit, crochet, linen, and gauze because they feel soft and flow gracefully.
Look for materials that gently flow away from your body without clinging in the wrong places. Natural fabrics usually photograph best. They breathe well and have a timeless look. Try to avoid synthetic materials that can feel stiff, shiny, or clingy on camera. Adding texture not only makes your outfit more interesting but also helps create that dreamy, timeless feel in your maternity photos.
Choosing Colors That Will Enhance Your Photos
There is so much to think about when selecting the color or print when deciding what to wear for maternity photos. Start by choosing colors that complement your skin, hair, and eyes. Then consider the session location. Will you be in a grassy field, by the beach, surrounded by wildflowers, or in a studio?
Using simple color theory can help you stand out naturally and beautifully. For example, a soft mauve or warm rust in a green field creates subtle contrast that draws the eye without clashing. Cool tones like dusty blue look stunning against golden hour light or sandy beaches. If the location has a lot of vibrant color, sticking with neutrals or soft earthy tones will keep the focus on you while harmonizing with the background.
If youโre unsure where to start, neutrals like soft creams, tans, browns, and muted tones always photograph beautifully and work in any season. Pastels add a dreamy feel, while deeper shades like rust, olive, or navy create a rich, grounded look. Light floral prints can also be lovely if they feel organic and donโt overwhelm the image.
Avoid bright neons, super dark colors, bold logos, or busy patterns that pull attention away from your face and the emotion in the image. The goal is to enhance the moment, not compete with it.
Talia Dress by ZebubeYou
Coordinating Family Outfits
If you plan to include family members in your maternity photos, start by choosing your outfit first. Pick something that makes you feel beautiful and confident, then build everyone elseโs outfits around your look. You are the heart of these photos, so it makes sense to start with what feels best for you.
Choose a color palette of about three to four complementary tones for the whole family. This keeps the overall look cohesive without feeling too matchy. Soft neutrals with warm accents or earth tones with subtle pops of color work well. Mix in different textures and small-scale patterns to add interest without overwhelming the photo.
Pairing small florals with simple stripes or solids keeps the look playful yet balanced. Also, consider some contrast between you and your partnerโs tops to avoid blending silhouettes, making your photos feel more dynamic. Above all, the focus should stay on connection and love.
Cora Boho Top & Magnolia Skirt by Chicaboo
Should You Include an Outfit Change?
Including two outfits during your maternity session can add variety and tell more of your story. One look might be more conservative, flowy or fitted to cover your bump, while the other reveals a bit more, like a set or dress that highlights your bare belly.
Showing some skin often creates images that feel raw, powerful, and full of emotion. Itโs a special way to capture the connection between you and your baby. If youโre unsure, I always suggest trying it. You might love those images more than you expect!
An outfit change also lets you shift the mood. Start with a dreamy, romantic dress, then switch to something intimate and cozy for golden hour or indoor shots. Itโs a great way to introduce a pop of color or experiment with different silhouettes and textures. If you plan to bring two outfits, make sure both are comfortable and easy to move in.
Favorite Places to Shop for Maternity Photos
If youโve googled โmaternity dress,โ you know how overwhelming it can be to find photo-friendly options. Some fabrics cling too much, some cuts donโt flatter a growing bump, and others lack movement that brings photos to life.
Some of my favorite places to find beautiful, photo-ready styles include Free People, Chicaboo, Flutter Dresses, Vici, Joyfolie, Baltic Born, ZeBuBeYou, Reclamation, and PinkBlush. These shops carry dresses with soft textures, flattering fits, and gorgeous details like flowing skirts that photograph beautifully.
You donโt need to limit yourself to maternity-only brands. Many non-maternity styles work perfectly. Think of flowy maxi dresses, wrap styles, and two-piece sets with elastic waisted skirts. Just make sure the fit gives you enough room to feel comfortable and confident.
If youโre not sure where to start, I offer a curated client closet with hand-picked pieces that work well on camera. Iโm always happy to help you style your session, whether choosing something from my wardrobe or assisting you in finding the perfect piece that feels like you.
The Cass Dress by Jofolie. The buttons make it a great option to be able to show off the belly.
Beautiful mauve dress by Reclamation. This one isnโt available at the moment but there are so many gorgeous dresses by this Esty shop!
FP dupe found on Amazon. Itโs a great budget-friendly option with a similar vibe, though keep in mind that sometimes the quality or fit may not match the original. Still, it can photograph beautifully.
Such a flowy, boho style dress by Zebubeyou. Another great Esty shop with so many amazing options.
Free People is one of my absolute favorites for dresses. They are usually have some stretch and will fit so many body shapes beautifully.
The Fable dress by Flutter Dress. I love how this one can be worn two different ways and the subtle pattern makes it even better.
Comfort and Confidence Are Key
Above all, choose outfits that make you feel good. Comfort and confidence go hand in hand, especially during a maternity session. If something feels too tight, itchy, or like youโre constantly adjusting it, it will show in your photos. When you feel amazing in what youโre wearing, it frees you to be present and enjoy this special season.
Bringing It All Together
Your body is doing something incredible, and this session is a chance to celebrate every beautiful moment of that story. Whether you show off your bump, keep it covered, go casual or glam, the best outfit is always the one that feels most like you.
What you wear for maternity photos should reflect how you want to remember this moment; soft and romantic, bold and powerful, or cozy and casual. With the right textures, colors, and details, your outfit will help tell your story in a way that feels honest and beautiful for you.
Not sure where to start or just want a second opinion? Iโm here to help! I offer personalized styling support and even have a curated client closet filled with photo-ready pieces that photograph beautifully. Letโs create something that feels like you!
