Figuring out what to wear for maternity photos can feel overwhelming when your body is changing week by week. The outfit you loved at 28 weeks might not fit the same at 32 weeks.
After photographing dozens of maternity sessions in Chico and Northern California, here is what I know works. These are not theoretical fashion tips. They are tested, photographed, and proven outfit strategies that make every expecting mom look and feel incredible.
The Number One Rule
Show the bump.
This seems obvious, but you would be surprised how many moms instinctively want to hide or minimize their bump in photos. Maternity photos celebrate pregnancy. The bump is the star. Choose outfits that highlight its shape rather than cover it up.
Form fitting fabrics, defined waistlines, and silhouettes that hug the belly are your best friends.
Outfit Styles That Always Work
The Fitted Maxi Dress
This is the most universally flattering maternity photo outfit. A long dress that fits snugly through the bust and belly and flows from the hips down creates a beautiful silhouette from every angle. It adds movement when you walk, catches light beautifully, and looks elegant without trying too hard.
Best colors: Ivory, dusty rose, sage green, burgundy, rust, navy
The Bodycon Dress
If you want to fully celebrate your bump shape, a bodycon (form fitting) dress in a solid color is stunning. It shows every curve and creates a clean, modern look. These work especially well in studio settings or against simple backgrounds.
Best colors: Black, white, jewel tones, earth tones
Jeans and a Fitted Top
Not every maternity session needs to be formal. A great pair of maternity jeans with a fitted top or crop top that shows the bump is casual, authentic, and photographs beautifully. Add a jacket or flannel for layering options.
This outfit works particularly well for couples sessions and lifestyle shoots.
The Sheer Overlay
A fitted undergarment (bodysuit, bralette and skirt, etc.) with a sheer or lace overlay creates depth and texture that photographs like a dream. The layers catch light differently and add an ethereal, artistic quality to the images.
The Partner Coordinated Look
If your partner is joining the session, coordinate your outfits without matching. If you are wearing a sage green dress, your partner might wear navy and cream. The goal is a cohesive palette, not identical outfits.
Colors That Photograph Best
Universally flattering:
- Earth tones: cream, rust, olive, brown, mustard
- Jewel tones: emerald, sapphire, burgundy, deep plum
- Soft neutrals: ivory, blush, dusty blue, sage
Be careful with:
- Neon colors (reflect onto skin)
- Busy patterns (compete with the bump for attention)
- All black (loses detail and shape, though black paired with another color works great)
Match your location: Earth tones for outdoor fields, jewel tones for dramatic settings, soft neutrals for light and airy locations.
Practical Tips
- Try everything on the week before. Your body changes fast during the third trimester. What fit perfectly at 30 weeks might be different at 33.
- Comfort is non negotiable. If you cannot breathe comfortably in an outfit, it will show in your face. You need to be able to move, sit, and stand without constantly adjusting.
- Bring options. Even if you plan to wear two outfits, bring a third just in case. Having choices on the day reduces stress.
- Shoes matter. Comfortable flats or sandals for walking between locations. You can go barefoot for the actual photos if you prefer (barefoot in a field or on a blanket looks beautiful).
- Minimal jewelry. One or two meaningful pieces. Your engagement ring, a necklace with significance, simple earrings. Less is more.
Where to Find Maternity Outfits
You do not need to spend a fortune. Here are budget friendly options:
- Amazon has surprisingly great maternity photo dresses in the $25 to $50 range. Search “maternity photo dress” and sort by reviews.
- ASOS, PinkBlush, and Baltic Born carry gorgeous options specifically designed for maternity sessions.
- Rent the Runway and similar services let you rent a designer dress for a fraction of the purchase price.
- Your own closet. A fitted non maternity dress that still zips might be all you need. Stretchy fabrics are forgiving.
Need Help Planning?
Outfit guidance is part of every maternity session with North Rim Photography. During our pre session consultation, I will help you choose colors, styles, and combinations that work for your body, our location, and the season.
Maternity sessions start at $350. View session details or reach out to start planning.
Joel Jauregui is a portrait photographer based in Chico, California, specializing in maternity, family, senior, and wedding photography throughout Northern California.