Maternity photos are a must-have for any pregnant person. But deciding what to wear for maternity photos can be a little challenging – especially if you have the infamous “baby-brain.”
Don’t worry though, that’s why I’m here!
I’ve got you covered with outfit ideas, inspiration from my recent maternity shoots, and wardrobe links to help you feel well prepared for your photoshoot!
In this post, we’ll dive into:
- Maternity dresses and gowns
- Floral lace maternity gowns
- Wrapping and draping fabrics
- Maternity bodysuits
- Artistic Nudes (or implied nude)
Ready for some inspiration? Let’s go!
Maternity Dresses and Gowns
Maternity dresses and gowns are popular among my clients. They’re flattering, comfortable, and can be as casual or dressy as you’d like!
In my client closet, I have a stunning red maternity dress for my pregnant mamas to wear. It has all the ruffles you can dream of! I have the same style in a neutral beige and a jewel toned green. Add a crown and take it to the next level as a pregnant goddess!
With all the dress options available, you’ll never wonder what to wear for maternity photos again.
But we’re not done here. Scroll on for some more ideas!
Floral Lace Maternity Gowns
If you want to feel sexy but elegant, opting for a floral lace gown is a flattering option too!
If you choose the lace maternity gown, I suggest wearing nude or color-matching undergarments underneath for a polished look.
I have the black lace gown shown here in my client wardrobe. But if black isn’t your color, you have plenty of other options. These come in lots of colors, and they’re relatively inexpensive. Win/Win!
Wrapping and Draping Fabrics
Beyond maternity gowns and dresses, long pieces of fabric create some versatile looks through wrapping and draping.
They can be wrapped around your pregnant body to create a dynamic portrait. Or they can drape down over you like water for something more tender and romantic.
You get to conceal or reveal as much of your baby bump as you’d like. You have complete creative control!
One of the fun parts about long flowy dresses and fabric draping is that it gives us options to create movement in the photos. With a fan and some fabric tossing, we can get sublime flowing fabric.
Tweak it a little in editing, and now we’ve got a beautiful fine art, magazine worth dress.
Queue the drama!
Maternity Bodysuits
If flowy gowns and draped fabrics aren’t your styles, maternity bodysuits are a fun and comfy option.
Maternity bodysuits can elevate your photos and are great for adding a modern touch. They’re sleek, comfortable, trendy, and look sophisticated! They can be dressed up, dressed down, or paired with a great pair of jeans.
My clients have loved the maternity bodysuits so much that I’ve written an entire blog about them here.
Artistic Nudes (Wear Your Birthday Suit!)
We’ve all drooled over the nude maternity portrait of Demi Moore in the ’90s, right?
Maternity nude portraits are captivating, timeless, and minimalist in style.
With creative lighting techniques, nude maternity portraits can capture your beautiful connection with your baby and your expanding body.
While getting nude for photos may not be the easiest thing, here are some tips that may help ease your hesitations.
- Wear nude or skin-toned undergarments to help you feel more comfortable bearing your beautiful bump without exposing it all.
- Opt for pasties to give you extra coverage and comfort.
- And lastly, don’t worry if something slips out of place. I can edit those parts, so your photos look effortless, beautiful, and modest.
Not comfortable with the idea of full nudity – no problem! It’s just one of the many options you have!
Accessorize to Round Out Your Maternity Outfits
If you’re also looking for that extra something, accessories are your best friend! They add personality to your outfit and help show your style!
Some great accessory options:
- Oversized hats
- Jewelry
- Cute heels or boots
- Oversized button-up shirts
- Lace bra and underwear set
- Long flowy robe
- Belts
- Cardigans or oversized swearters
- Crowns
Accessories aren’t necessary, but they can help to spice things up a bit and make the images more personalized. So, wear what you’re comfortable in. And if you’re unsure, bring extra items with you just in case!
Helpful Links to Purchase Your Own Maternity Wardrobe Items
*This post contains affiliate links, so I may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on our site at no additional cost to you. I only share and promote products/services/businesses that I have actually used and that believe could be beneficial to you.
Maternity Bodysuits Links:
- Black Bodysuit – Turtleneck Style
- Black Bodysuit – One Shoulder
- Black Bodysuit – Cross Wrap
- Black Bodysuit – Sheer (shown below)
Maternity Dress Links:
Maternity Lace Gown Link:
Final Thoughts on What to Wear for Maternity Photos
You’ll have your maternity photos forever. So while it’s fun to wear trendy items, incorporate classic and timeless outfits too.
Yes, you want to look stylish for your photos – but don’t discount how beautiful classic wardrobe items and maternity nude portraits can be. They’ll never go out of style!
Looking for a maternity photographer?
If you’re looking to scratch finding a photographer off your to-do list, I’d love to document this special time for you and your growing family!
I’m based in Nashville, TN, and work with families all over Middle Tennessee.
P.S. I love providing an elevated client experience which is why custom wardrobe planning is included with every maternity photo session! And all of the items shown in this blog are part of my studio closet and are available complimentary to clients that work with me!
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