What To Wear For A Maternity Photoshoot: 6 Styling Tips That Help You Look & Feel Beautiful

What To Wear For A Maternity Photoshoot

One of the quickiest ways to stress yourself out before a maternity session is trying to find the perfect outfit. Many moms-to-be overthink it, ordering tons of dresses, doubting every choice, and feeling unsure if it will look good in photos.

But here’s the truth: picking the right outfit doesn’t have to be hard and it can actually be fun once you have the right guidance. These helpful tips will take the guesswork out of what to wear so you can show up confident, glowing, and ready to create something beautiful.

1. Choosing TwoOutfits: One Dressy, One Casual
   Having two looks gives variety to your final gallery and allows for a balance of both elegant and relaxed moments. A dressy gown draws attention to your bump and creates that “wow” factor, while a more casual outfit feels natural and authentic, especially when including your partner or kids in the session.
   
   For most studio sessions, most moms start in the dressy gown and switch to something more playful or personal for the second look.

2. Rent A Dress For The Photoshoot
   Most maternity gowns are only worn once, so renting is a smart and affordable option. You’ll have access to designer styles without the full price and no need to store a big dress after the shoot.
   
   When you book with Royal T Visuals Photography, you’ll get a 15% discount on dress rentals from one of our trusted styling partner. No affiliate fees, just a little extra support to make the process easier.

3. Pick Styles That Flatter Your Bump
   Outfits that highlight the shape of your growing bump always photograph best. Look for soft, stretchable fabrics that hug your curves or flow beautifully without feeling restrictive.
   
   Some client-favorite styles include:
   - Fitted dressed
   - Flowing gowns with sheer overlays
   - Two-piece sets with crop tops and skirts for modern look
   
   Always try on your outfit ahead of time to make sure it fits your current shape comfortably.

4. Stick To Solid Colors & Timeless Tones
   To keep your photos looking elegant for years to come, choose solid colors in soft or neutral tones. Avoid loud patterns, bold logos, or trendy prints that might date your photos.
   
   Here are a few color ideas that work:
   - Soft pastels (Blush, sky blue, lavender)
   - Warm neutrals (Cream, beige, taupe)
   - Earthy tones (Olive, rust, terracotta)
   - Classic black or white for a dramatic look
   
   Bonus tip: If you’re planning to display your photos in your home or at your baby shower, coordinate your outfit colors with your decor or theme.

5. Don’t Forget The Details: Shoes, Undergarments & Jewelry
   A polished look comes down to the little things. Here’s how to avoid last-minute wardrobe mistakes:
   
   - Shoes: For dressy gowns that cover the feet, barefoot looks are elegant and timeless. If your shoes will show, choose ones that look great but skip heels that are uncomfortable to stand in.
   - Undergarments: Nude-tone or neutral seamless underwear helps prevent visible lines or clashing colors. Strapless bras or sticky cups are helpful for certain gowns.
   - Jewelry: Minimal pieces work best. chosing dainty accessories that complement your outfit and don’t draw focus away from your bump. Avoid anything too bold or flashy.
   - Smartwatches: These often clash with the look of your session. Be sure to take yours off before the shoot, it’s a small detail that makes a big difference in the final images.

6. Think About The Final Display
   Knowing how and where you’ll use your photos helps guide your outfit decisions. If you plan to turn them into canvas prints, frames, or albums, choose colors that blend seamlessly with your home’s design. Or match one outfit to you baby shower theme for cohesive visuals across your celebration.

Bonus: Wardrobe Styling Support Comes With Every Booking

Feeling unsure? No problem. Every maternity session with Royal T Visuals Photography includes wardrobe styling support. From outfit inspiration and color ideas to dress rental links and personal feedback, you’ll have help every step of the way.

Final Thoughts

The right outfit makes a world of difference, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. Use these simple tips to plan your looks with confidence, knowing you’ll walk into your maternity session feeling beautiful and fully prepared.

And remember: the best outfit is the one that makes you feel like you.