What to Wear for Maternity Photos: Flattering Styles That Photograph Beautifully | Chesapeake Maternity Photographer | LexLeigh Photography

alexispfaffinger
Nov 25
2 min read

One of the biggest questions I hear from expecting moms is: “What should I wear for my maternity session?”

Choosing the right outfit makes a world of difference - not just in how you look, but in how you feel in your photos. Here’s how to choose pieces that photograph beautifully and make you feel confident.

1. Choose Soft, Flowing Fabrics

Chiffon, silk, and tulle create gorgeous movement and catch the light in a dreamy way. Dresses with a bit of flow give your images elegance and dimension - especially in outdoor sessions.

Pregnant woman in a flowing pink gown stands in a field by a river at sunset, smiling with hand on head, surrounded by tall grass.

2. Embrace Neutral or Muted Tones

Cream, taupe, blush, sage, dusty blue, and soft pastels always photograph timelessly. Avoid bright colors or busy patterns that draw attention away from you and your bump.

Pregnant woman in a white dress cradling her belly, standing against a beige textured background. Serene expression, elegant pose.

3. Highlight Your Shape Gracefully

Form-fitting gowns that accentuate your belly or empire-waist dresses that flow over your bump look especially flattering. Many of my clients love to wear both a fitted and a flowy look for variety.

Pregnant woman in a red dress poses in a sunlit forest. Her hand is raised, expressing calm. Mossy trees and fallen leaves surround her.

4. Coordinate, Don’t Match

If you’re including your partner or family, aim for a cohesive palette instead of identical outfits. Think: warm neutrals for everyone, or tones that complement your dress.

A couple walks hand in hand on a boardwalk, with sunset hues in the sky. The woman in a flowing red dress smiles as they stroll.

5. Accessorize Simply

Barefoot in a field, delicate jewelry, and soft hair styling all add to a natural, elegant look. You want your photos to feel effortless, not overdone.

Bonus: Use the Client Closet

If you book with me, you’ll have access to a curated client wardrobe of hand-selected maternity gowns and pieces that flatter beautifully on camera - saving you time, stress, and shopping trips.

✨ Your maternity portraits should feel timeless, feminine, and uniquely you — and with the right styling, they always will.

Chesapeake Maternity Photographer | LexLeigh Photography