What to Wear for Your Portrait Session - Maternity Edition! | Brooklyn Maternity Photographer
I recently blogged about no-stress boudoir wardrobe that you likely already have in your closet. But what if you’re pregnant and, well, not much in your closet actually FITS you right now?? There are still plenty of classic and classy options for your maternity portrait session, and you STILL won’t have to spend an arm and a leg.
KEEP IT SIMPLE
This is my number one rule in ALL kinds of shoots. These photographs are of YOU not your wardrobe really and I don’t want to distract from your natural beauty, or create something trendy that you are embarrassed by 10 years from now. So in my mind, classic & simple is best. Overall, opt for solids over patterns and neutrals over bright colors - think black, white, grey, creme, navy and dark red. This helps keep the focus on you, your belly and your connection to the camera. I have a few simple stapes in my kit including a beautiful white lace gown (which looks beautiful on every body type)
MAKE IT PERSONAL
All that said, many women opt to bring a beautiful silk robe form their wedding day or honeymoon, or her husband’s button down shirt as one of their wardrobe options. A snetimanetal item can add meaning and variety to your photoshoot. Often times this type of wardrobe will “breaks the rules” with brighter colors and patterns but in this case, it’s the meaning behind the piece that matters most. So if you love it, bring it!
SHOW OFF YOUR BUMP
There was a time when women wanted to hide their bumps under tent-like clothes and baby doll lingerie, but that’s not why you’re having your maternity portrait taken, is it? If you don’t feel comfortable showing off your bare tummy, consider form fitting pieces that hug your curves. I love a simple, stretchy tube dress for this and have a black one in my studio that amazingly fits so many women. It’s sleek, form fitting and timeless. Bodysuits are also a favorite of mine, or (if your regular bodysuits no longer fit) a black bathing suit or even a tight black turtlenects worn with a simple undie give the same idea. This look can be completely covered up and fashiony while still featuring your bump beautifully.
SWATHS OF FABRIC
If you’ve been looking through instagram for inspiration you’ve no doubt seen images ot women with long flowy fabric flying up in the background. It makes an epic and artistic photos and was something I was setting out to learn when I mentored with the master of the fabric toss, Lola Melani this past summer. i have collected and a few large swaths of silk and chiffon for this dramatic and iconic look, which is particularly magical with a growing bump.
GO BARE
The “Demi Moore” was scandalous at the time but now is a classic for good reason! It’s intimate choice, natural and my personal favorite. There are so many different ways to be nude but also covered up in your photos. Your body never goes out of style. (Bonus that it requires the least amount of prep work or planning!) We can take this even further by applying some body paint to your bump - it’s edgy and artistic and when else in your life might you do something like that!?
Whatever you decide to wear, a maternity shoot is a beautiful way to memorialize this time in your life and something you will always be happy you did. The ideal time to have your maternity portrait taken is between 28 - 34 weeks so be sure to plan in advance and book during that “sweet spot.”