What to Wear for Maternity Photos in Perth: Gowns, Colours and Styling Tips

"What should I wear?" is the question I'm asked most before a maternity session. The good news: if you book with me, you don't need to buy a thing. My client wardrobe is full of gowns, robes and dresses chosen to flatter a bump. But whether you borrow from me or bring your own, here's how to choose outfits you'll love in your photos.

Choose something that shows your bump

Your bump is the star of the show, so pick outfits that follow its shape:

• Fitted or stretchy fabrics such as stretch lace, jersey and fitted gowns hug your bump beautifully.
• Flowing gowns with a defined waist above the bump give movement and drama, especially outdoors.
• Open robes worn over a bralette, or over nothing at all, show off your bare bump for a softer, more intimate look.

Avoid loose, shapeless tops and dresses. They can hide your bump and make you look bigger than you are.

The best colours for maternity photos

• Soft neutrals like ivory, champagne, blush, sand and beige are timeless and flattering on almost every skin tone.
• Earthy tones like sage, rust and soft browns look beautiful against Perth's beaches, bushland and rivers.
• Black is striking in the studio for a classic, Vogue-inspired portrait.
• Avoid busy prints, large logos and neon colours, which pull attention away from you and your bump.

Studio vs outdoor: dressing for your location

Studio maternity sessions

The studio is warm and private, so it's perfect for sheer lace, silk robes, fitted gowns and bare-bump portraits. I recommend two or three looks: perhaps a fitted gown, a flowing robe, and something simple like a black dress or a draped fabric. My studio maternity session includes two outfits, and the couture maternity session includes two to three looks with studio lighting.

Outdoor maternity sessions

Outdoors, long flowing gowns and dresses with a train look stunning in the breeze, especially at the beach or in long grass at golden hour. Choose fabrics that move, like chiffon, tulle and lightweight cotton. For cooler months, warmer tones and fuller gowns work beautifully. My outdoor maternity session includes access to my gowns too.

Using my maternity wardrobe

Every maternity session includes access to my client wardrobe, with more than 30 gowns, robes and dresses in sizes from about 8 to 16, many of them one size fits most. You'll find:

• flowing boho maxi dresses, including the much-loved Fillyboo 'Wonder Years' off-the-shoulder gown
• sheer lace gowns and kimono robes
• silk robes and kaftans
• show-stopping statement gowns with feathers, petals and sequins
• full-coverage gowns if you'd prefer an elegant, non-sheer look

Before your session we'll chat about your style, and I'll help you choose your looks. You can browse the collection on my maternity dress hire page. Not booking a shoot? Dresses can also be hired separately for a baby shower or special occasion.

What should my partner and children wear?

• Coordinate with your outfit rather than matching it. If you're in ivory or blush, soft neutrals, white, beige or light denim work well.
• Keep it simple. Plain shirts, knits and chinos photograph best. Avoid logos and graphics.
• Bare feet often look lovely for studio and beach sessions.

Final tips for your maternity shoot

• Book your session at 32 to 34 weeks, when your bump is round but you're still comfortable.
• Wear loose clothing on the way so you don't arrive with marks from waistbands or straps.
• Bring a nude, seamless bra and underwear.
• Have your nails and hands looking fresh, because your hands will be on your bump in many photos.
• Bring anything sentimental, like a scan photo, baby shoes or a ring, to include in your photos.

Book your Perth maternity photos

My maternity studio is in Leeming, close to Bull Creek, Willetton, Murdoch and Canning Vale, and I photograph outdoor sessions across Perth. Book a 20-image newborn session and your studio maternity session is free, worth $550. See the Bump + Baby offer.

View my maternity sessions · Check my availability · Call 0438 221 978

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