What to wear for your maternity photos (with sample pictures)

So you’re planning your pregnancy photo shoot but are stuck on what to wear? Let’s get into the fun world of maternity fashion and make sure you’re wearing the best clothing with these fab clothing ideas. Whether you’re showing off that baby bump by the beach or striking a pose in a cozy studio, we’ve got the outfit inspiration you need to look absolutely stunning!

First, decide on a color palette

Solid colors are your best friends when it comes to maternity photo outfit ideas. They keep attention on you and your bump without any distractions. Plus, they have a way of making your skin look absolutely radiant. I would stay away from busy patterns, and logos, and stick to 1 solid color per outfit. If you want to add something more fun, you can bring accessories like hats, ultrasound photos, etc.

color palette showing boxes in color black, tan, and white color palette showing boxes in color beige, pink, and light green color palette showing boxes in color light blue, feather grey, and white  color palette showing boxes in color beige, tan, and brown

Are you including your other children or partner?

Color palettes are especially important if you’re planning on taking photos with your family. The goal is to coordinate colors, and not match. Having clothes that exactly match can sometimes take away from the emotion of the photograph. This is because the first thing you look at is the matching outfits. Although this can be awesome for special events like Christmas PJs, or toddler twins photos, I would stay away from exact matching for your maternity session.

family wearing white shirt, tan beige cardigan, blue jeans, black jeans in greenery in arizona  Pregnant woman in a black form-fitting dress.

Photos above were taken by Gabby Canario Portraits in Arizona

OUTFIT IDEAS:

Form-fitting around the belly

The most important thing to do is make sure you are showing off the belly! After all, your expecting baby is the star of the show too. Make sure any dress or outfit you pick is form-fitting around the belly, or open to show your baby bump! This type of style hugs you in all the right places, highlighting your bump with love.

Pregnant woman in a gold dress indoors posing while holding her belly Pregnant woman in orange dress with gold embezzlements, she's wearing a crown and holding her belly

Gold dress: Buy Here

pregnant woman wearing black form-fitted tight black dress

Black Dress: Buy Here

Maxi Dress

A maxi dress is the MVP of maternity photoshoot clothing. Why? It’s all about that effortless, flowy look that drapes beautifully over your baby bump. Plus, it’s super comfortable, which is a huge bonus when you’re rocking a mini-you.

pregnant women in room wearing long sleeve green dress

Green Dress: Buy Here

Pregnant woman in a floral maxi dress

Floral Dress: Buy Here

Chiffon dress or fabric

Chiffon fabric? Oh yes, please! It’s lightweight, it’s elegant, and it adds a touch of whimsy to your photos. Whether it’s a part of your dress or a cute accessory, chiffon brings in that dreamy vibe.

Pregnant woman in a red chiffon dress.

Red Dress: Buy Here

Pregnant woman in a white chiffon fabric dress

White Chiffon Fabric

a screenshot of a website showing pregant woman dresses that you can purchase.

Buy Links:

Veronica Dress

Lily Dress

Poppy Dress

Hyacinth Dress

Mermaid Dresses

Want to feel like a goddess? Slip into a mermaid dress. This style flares out at the knees, giving you a stunning silhouette that’s both elegant and fun. It’s a classic choice for some seriously gorgeous maternity picture outfit ideas.

Pregnant woman in a red lace mermaid-style gown

Red Lace Maternity Gown

Bodysuits

If you’re feeling a little daring and want to go for a modern, sleek look, consider a bodysuit. Paired with a flowy skirt or some chic maternity jeans, it’s a bold choice that says, ‘I’m here to slay!’

Pregnant woman in a sheer mesh bodysuit

Sheer Mesh Bodysuit

a screenshot of a page showing 3 different colored bodysuits for maternity photos

Mirabilis Bodysuit

Erika Bodysuit

Daylily BodySuit

View other bodysuits HERE

Textures

Textures are like the secret sauce in your maternity photoshoot outfit recipe. They add depth, and interest, and can elevate your look. Here’s the scoop on how to make textures work for your bump style:

  1. Lace: Lace is timeless, and for good reason. It’s delicate, it’s feminine, and it adds a layer of sophistication to any outfit. Picture a lace overlay on a dress or a lace bodysuit paired with a skirt – it’s a texture that can take your maternity photo clothing ideas from lovely to wow-worthy.
  2. Ruffles: Ruffles aren’t just cute on baby clothes; they can add a playful charm to your maternity outfit too. Pleats, on the other hand, give you a polished, refined look. Both add movement to your outfit, making your photos dynamic and full of life.
  3. Knits and Weaves: Cozy up to knits and weaves, especially if you’re shooting in a cooler setting or going for that snug, autumnal vibe. A chunky knit sweater or a woven shawl can introduce a homey, warm texture that’s as comforting as it is stylish.

Pregnant woman in a white off-shoulder dress

Ruffled Lace Dress

Pregnant woman in a beige knit boho-style dress

V-Neck Maternity Lace Dress

Pregnant woman in a light-green satin off-shoulder dress.

Ruffled Dress

Pregnant woman in a cream knit midi maternity dress with a side slit and waist tie

Knit Dress

Tulle Dress

Tulle is the best way to get an ethereal and enchanting look. It’s made of light layers and adds a dreamlike quality to your pictures without weighing you down. Whether you cinch it with a belt to highlight your bump, pair it with a leather jacket, or let it flow freely, the tulle dress stands out making you appear as if you’re floating in a fairy tale.

Three maternity dresses: blue ruffled gown in snow, white lace dress, and red tulle gown in a studio.

Look at all *Mii Estillo* Tulle Dresses HERE

Pregnant woman in a blue sheer tulle maternity robe posing in the studio

Blue Tulle Robe Dress

Boho Chic

Embrace your inner free spirit with some bohemian-inspired maternity picture clothing ideas. Flowing skirts, embroidered tunics, and natural accessories like flower crowns can create a carefree and organic look that’s absolutely enchanting. Boho could also be worn if you’re heading to the shore for your photoshoot because it’s breezy and light. A sundress or a sarong paired with a cute bikini top can make for some truly memorable maternity beach photos.

Pregnant woman in a cream off-shoulder tiered boho maternity dress

Cream Off-Shoulder Dress

Pregnant woman in an ivory boho maternity dress with floral embroidery

White Embroidered Floral Dress

Glam / Fashion Gowns

Who says you can’t be glamorous when you’re expecting? Amp up the glam with a sequined gown or a shimmery top. Maternity photos are a perfect excuse to sparkle and shine, reminding everyone that pregnancy glow is real!

Elegant red chiffon maternity dress with a dramatic bow on a mannequin

Red Bow Dress

Mannequin wearing a gold maternity gown with sheer sleeves, showcasing a pregnancy belly. Mannequin displaying a gold sheer maternity dress with a flowing train and tie-back detail.

Golden Hour Dress

Mannequin wearing a dramatic red floral tulle maternity gown with a voluminous train.

Red Floral Tulle Dress

Pregnant woman in a black ruched maternity dress with sheer long sleeves.

Shimmer Mesh Long Sleeve Dress

Glam Maternity Gowns Outfit Stores:

https://www.etsy.com/market/glam_maternity_dress

https://www.kh.fashion/maternity/?language=en

https://www.sewtrendyaccessories.com/pages/womens-maternity

https://www.glamixmaternity.com/

https://mamabumprentals.com/

https://everaftermaternity.ca/

https://beforeever.com/

Casual Comfort

Sometimes, the best outfit is one that feels like a second skin. A soft tee paired with stretchy leggings or a cozy wrap dress is perfect for a more laid-back, intimate shoot. These are the maternity photo clothes ideas that say, “This is me, comfortable and happy with my bump.”

Pregnant woman in a fitted olive green maternity dress with a matching duster coat.  Pregnant woman in a chic nude bodycon maternity dress with a matching duster coat

Strappy Cowl Neck + Duster Coat (all colors)

Pregnant woman in a classic white button-up shirt and dark blue jeans, seated in a studio.

Last, don’t forget the shoes

Let’s not forget about footwear. While heels can be stunning, don’t shy away from a pair of pretty flats or even going barefoot. Comfortable doesn’t have to mean boring. Choose shoes that make you feel stable and stylish.

With all these maternity photo outfit ideas up your sleeve, you’re all set to rock that photoshoot. The key is to wear what feels good and looks good on you. After all, when you’re taking photos that’ll last a lifetime, the best thing you can wear is your joy. So go ahead, mix, match, and make those maternity moments magical!

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