What to Wear for Your Maternity Session: Outfit Inspiration to Elevate the Storytelling
Choosing what to wear for your maternity session is about so much more than finding a beautiful dress. It’s about honoring this chapter in your life and elevating the storytelling behind your photos. Whether you’re drawn to ethereal silhouettes, cozy knits, or minimal styling, your wardrobe is a powerful tool for expressing the softness, strength, and individuality of this moment.
As a maternity photographer, I want you to feel empowered, comfortable, and radiant. This guide is here to help you feel inspired, not overwhelmed—and to give you plenty of ideas to make the process fun and stress-free.
What to Look for in a Maternity Session Outfit
If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few things I always recommend to clients when choosing what to wear for their maternity photos:
Movement: Flowy dresses and fabrics catch the light and wind in ways that feel dreamy and cinematic.
Texture: Lace, gauze, knits, and embroidery add depth and dimension that translate beautifully on camera.
Comfort: Choose pieces that feel good on your body, especially around your bump. You should be able to move, sit, and breathe with ease.
Color Palette: Earth tones, neutrals, and soft pastels tend to photograph well in natural light and complement many outdoor and in-home settings.
Minimal Styling: Draped fabrics or implied nude looks can feel bold, elegant, and timeless without needing much at all.
Avoid: Large logos, busy patterns, and pieces that feel restrictive or over-structured.
Outfit Inspiration by Style
Think of these ideas as jumping-off points. Whether you're leaning into a specific aesthetic or just want to see what resonates, here's a little wardrobe inspiration:
Dreamy & Flowing
Long, ethereal gowns that move with the breeze are perfect for beach, field, or open-air sessions. Look for dresses with open fronts, long trains, or delicate layers that catch the light.
Earthy & Natural
Think soft linen pieces, bare feet, and neutral tones. Perfect for in-home or outdoor sessions where you want the mood to feel organic and effortless.
Bold & Minimal
Draped fabrics, skin-toned garments, or an implied nude look can create powerful, fine art imagery that feels intimate and raw.
Casual & Cozy
Oversized sweaters, open button-downs, or a loved one’s shirt can create a laid-back, nostalgic vibe—especially great for in-home sessions or for pairing with simple textures and clean backgrounds.
Where to Shop for Maternity Photo Outfits
I’ve curated a list of brands and shops that offer pieces perfect for maternity sessions. Many of these are small businesses, sustainable brands, or places to rent special pieces without the waste of buying something you’ll only wear once.
Eco-Friendly, Ethical, Sustainable
Beachwood Baby – Lightweight, natural fabrics with a relaxed, boho feel.
Christy Dawn – Romantic, sustainably made dresses in earthy tones.
Quince – High-quality basics at affordable prices with a focus on sustainability.
Rental Options
Mama Bump Rentals – A wide selection of maternity gowns you can rent for your session.
Salt Gowns – Beautiful designer pieces for rent, many with dramatic silhouettes.
Etsy Favorites
We Are Reclamation – One-of-a-kind lace and boho pieces made from reclaimed fabrics.
Maeve Unique Creations – Ethereal gowns with whimsical details.
KDpracownia – Elegant and timeless handmade pieces.
ZeBuBeYou – Romantic and unique designs with a vintage flair.
Earthernwear – Linen and natural fiber options in earthy colors.
OhAh Dresses – Beautiful maternity gowns with artistic silhouettes.
Everyday Maternity
PinkBlush Maternity – Outfits for any and every occasion with fits for every body.
Motherhood Maternity – Everyday basics and comfortable fits.
A Pea in the Pod – Elevated basics with a chic edge.
Bumpsuit – Sleek, modern one-pieces that work beautifully with layers.
Couture & Statement
Anyuta Couture – High-end, editorial-style maternity gowns for a bold and artistic look.
A Note on Partners and Children
If your session includes a partner or older children, aim for coordinated tones rather than matching outfits. Neutral or muted tones with some texture photograph well and help keep the focus on connection and emotion.
Final Thoughts
Your maternity photos are a celebration of this extraordinary season—and what you wear should feel like an extension of who you are. Whether you choose a flowy gown or opt for something more minimal, the most important thing is that you feel confident, beautiful, and empowered.
As your photographer, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. If you’re unsure about your outfit or want a second opinion, I’m always happy to help with styling guidance or outfit suggestions tailored to your session location and vision.
Let’s create something beautiful together—and let your wardrobe elevate the storytelling in a way that feels uniquely you.