I know firsthand how frustrating it can be to figure out what to wear when you are pregnant. When I was pregnant with my daughter I had such a hard time feeling good about myself and whatever I could fit my growing belly into! But at your maternity photo session, I want you to feel confident, beautiful, and comfortable in whatever you are wearing and how you look. Even if pregnancy doesn’t always feel like it, there is truly nothing more beautiful or magical than growing your small baby! The last thing that I want you to worry about is what to wear, so I want to share my top tips for what you should wear for your Chicago maternity photos!
Embrace Your Bump
Floor or knee length maxi or midi dresses are incredibly flattering on any body, but they are especially flattering when you are pregnant. These dresses help to keep the focus on your beautiful baby bump and help to cover and conceal any areas on your body that might make you feel less confident than you would like. A long, flowy maxi dress can look incredibly beautiful and helps to create movement in your images, not to mention a flowy maxi dress is incredibly comfortable! However, a fitted dress is a true maternity wardrobe staple and can really help you to embrace your growing curves. Either a flowy or fitted dress or skirt offer the benefit of accentuating your bump while also looking timeless and elegant.
Color, Texture & Pattern
When it comes to selecting the color you would like to wear, I always recommend and strongly suggest solid pastels and soft muted colors. Neutral colors like creams and grays as well as soft pastels such as a dusty rose or sage tend to photograph beautifully. These colors are timeless and classic, and won’t distract from you, your face, or your baby bump.
Rather than adding pattern to your wardrobe, which can often look busy when photographed, I would recommend incorporating texture for your maternity photos. Texture helps to add dimension to your images and can easily be included through the addition of a chunky knit sweater, a lace maxi dress, or a beautifully embroidered top.
Coordinate With Your Partner
Although you and your growing little one will be the stars of your maternity photo session, your partner will be there too so it is important to coordinate your outfits with one another! I always suggest selecting what the mom-to-be will wear first, than choosing your partner’s outfit after. When coordinating your wardrobe it is important to avoid anything too matchy-matchy, and instead focus on complimentary colors and patterns. Of course if you have any doubts or questions you can send me photos of the options you are considering and I will point you in the right direction so that you both look your best!
If you still aren’t sure about how to dress for your upcoming photos I’ve included a few examples below to help inspire you. And as always, I’m here to help!
Audrey Hoover Photography is a lifestyle photographer located in Chicago, Illinois specializing in maternity, newborn, and baby and family photography in the Chicago area, including the surrounding suburbs. Click here to begin planning your Chicago hospital Fresh 48 portrait session or to see more of my newborn, maternity and family session portfolios.
If you would like to reserve your session date on my calendar, please complete the contact form in the menu or email me directly at audreyhooverphoto@gmail.com
