Being pregnant is such a special time. Perhaps you’re becoming a first time mom or dad (like me – yay!). Hopefully you’ve got the “glowing skin” that everyone gushes about and you’re happily enjoying the benefits of thicker, shinier, fabulous hair. I’m making it sound all sunshine and rainbows, but I initially struggled with my growing belly. Ugh… nothing fits! Do I want to document this pregnancy? Those are real feelings! But, as the weeks went on I came to love my baby bump and knew I’d miss it when it was gone. As we went into the third trimester, our to-do list seemed like it was getting longer by the minute. But, one of the best things I did was schedule a maternity photoshoot so I could remember this time of my life.
There’s something so fierce about growing a life and how powerful and feminine it can make you feel at the same time. Now, as I hold my son in my arms, looking back on these photos (and this dress) brings a huge smile to my face. So, get it scheduled! In today’s post I’m sharing 7 maternity shoot outfit ideas that are comfortable and flattering at the same time.
7 Maternity Shoot Outfit Ideas
Before we get started, I’ll share a few quick tips when outfit planning. First, consider your lead time. Etsy has a seemingly endless stream of options when you type in “maternity photoshoot dress” to their search bar. But, many take weeks to ship. Then, sizing can be funny when you’re pregnant since your body is constantly changing. Lastly, different styles suit different body types. So, take that into account as you consider my outfit inspiration below. I’ve made sure to include a few that I believe are universally flattering. But, the vibe may not be what you’re going for!
For example, being a girly girl myself I knew that a big tulle dress was an absolute must for my maternity photos. You may want a more simple look with jeans or a white button up top. Wear what makes you feel good. When you feel good, you feel more natural and it comes across in the photos!
Shop the Post
What to Wear for Your Maternity Shoot
Trust me, in my third trimester I wore lots of joggers and easy dresses. So, the thought of dressing up for maternity photos may be overwhelming. If it helps you, think about putting a Pinterest board together with photo and outfit inspiration in advance. That way, you can see if there’s a trend with what people are wearing that you may want to copy. And, the examples will be helpful for your photographer to see what types of images you may want to capture.
Check out my Pinterest board with inspo and below are the 7 maternity shoot outfit ideas I love most.
Tulle Maxi Dress
Be still my heart. There is something so subtlety sexy about a tulle maxi dress for maternity pics. Even though we have a son, I didn’t feel the need to wear a blue dress. I mostly stuck to neutrals and then this mauve number was the star of the show (aside from the bump). My dress is from this amazing Etsy shop and their shipping was super fast (unlike many others). You can bunch the tulle so you can show off your beautiful bump as much as you want or make it more opaque.
In many of my photos I’m barefoot. But, with this dress I wore crystal heels (similar here) to feel a bit more glam (and the tulle was long!). As an alternative, I also love this tulle dress with pearls.
Long Slip Dress
Say what you want about Kim Kardashian, but there is a reason this long slip dress from Skims has gone viral. It’s a maternity shoot outfit idea that looks good on everyone since it has a generous amount of stretch to the fabric. I sized up one size to accommodate the bump since it isn’t a maternity style specifically. If you’re taking photos somewhere cold, you can layer this with a faux fur stole or keep it casual with a jean jacket.
Jeans with a Bandeau Bra and Blazer
One of my favorite outfit ideas is the one that made me feel the most badass: jeans and a bandeau bra with a blazer. My husbands eyes got real wide when I showed him these pics. But, something about having my full bump exposed and then combining that with the blazer made me feel strong. And, we are strong! We are growing a life! The bandeau is another Skims piece. These come in a ton of colors, but they run small. So, size up 1-2 sizes. I grabbed a blazer I already had in my closet to drape over my shoulders and wore the maternity jeans I invested in earlier in my pregnancy (but this pair is more affordable and people rave about them).
The Dress by Bumpsuit
With a name like this, you know it’s good! Simply known as “The Dress”, this style by Bumpsuit is perfect for your maternity photo shoot. And, you’re in luck! I have a 20% OFF discount code – ‘AGLAMLIFESTYLE’. It works across their site on any style. My dress comes in six different colors, but I also love this long-sleeve style too!
I am a huge fan of Bumpsuit because their pieces can be worn pre, during or post pregnancy. So, take your normal size! While they can be worn on their own, I love my dress styled with a chic leather jacket and booties for Fall or with a long coat for winter a la Rosie Huntington.
Empire Waist Dress
When in doubt, an empire waist dress always flatters a pregnant belly. My black dress from Hatch is beyond comfortable. It’s one of, if not the most worn item during my pregnancy. It’s a splurge! But, you can also wear it while you’re nursing.
I love this maternity photo outfit idea if you’re shooting in a field at sunrise since it’s casual but will accent your belly perfectly. Just wear a pair of ankle booties you already have. Then, grab a wide brim hat that you can wear or hold as an accessory.
Casual Romper
Another casual outfit for your maternity photo shoot is a cute romper like this one. It’s another one of the most popular styles at Bumpsuit. So, my 20% OFF code (AGLAMLIFESTYLE) works on it too!
You can wear your ankle booties with this look too. Throw on a shacket (wearing this one and love this one) or tie a denim jacket on under your belly.
White Button Up Shirt
Perhaps the most classic outfit choice for your maternity photos is a white button up shirt. I say shirt, but honestly a tunic might be better (especially if that’s all you’re wearing!). This is an easy option because you likely own this style top already. So, it may mean you don’t need to purchase anything new. It’s also another subtle but sexy option. If you don’t want to wear the shirt with just your underwear (I recommend boy shorts). Then, you can wear it buttoned just at the top so you can expose your belly and then pair it with your maternity jeans again.
This outfit option always looks cute if you’re taking pictures with your partner. He or she can stand behind you and hold your bump.
While there are so many maternity shoot outfits to choose from, these seven are my favorite. I hope they help inspire your looks for your own maternity photos!
