What to Wear to Your Maternity Session

Let me be honest with you.

The question I get asked more than any other is: what do I wear?

And I get it. You’re navigating a body that’s changing faster than you can keep up with. You don’t know what fits. You don’t know what photographs well. And the last thing you want is to spend real money on a session and spend the whole time pulling at your outfit.

So let’s sort this out properly.

First, the good news.

You don’t have to shop for a single thing if you don’t want to.

I have a client wardrobe here in Camden, filled with pieces I’ve hand-selected specifically for maternity sessions. Flowing gowns. Wrap styles. Soft fabrics that move beautifully on camera and fit a range of bumps and body types.

When you book, you’ll get access to the full wardrobe before your session so you can browse, choose, and feel excited rather than stressed.

That said, if you’d love to wear something of your own, here’s exactly what to look for.

The soft and feminine look

This is the one most of my clients lean toward, and for good reason.

There’s something about a billowing gown in the golden hour that just works. The light catches the fabric. The bump sits beautifully. And you end up with images that feel timeless rather than trend-dependent.

If you’re going this direction, look for:

Fabrics: Chiffon, jersey, silk, soft linen. Anything that has movement. Stiff or structured fabrics tend to fight the light rather than work with it.

Silhouettes: Wrap styles are incredibly flattering and bump-forward in the best possible way. Maxi length almost always photographs better than shorter hemlines outdoors. Low necklines or off-shoulder styles are beautiful if you’re comfortable in them.

Colours: Earthy neutrals, sage, dusty rose, ivory, warm white, terracotta. Anything that sits within the landscape rather than competing with it. If you’re unsure, go neutral.

What to avoid: Busy prints, logos, or anything with heavy embellishment across the stomach area. They tend to distract rather than flatter.

The editorial and vogue-style look

Not everyone wants soft. Some of my clients want bold.

If you’re drawn to structured shapes, strong silhouettes, and imagery that looks more like it belongs in a magazine than a photo album, this approach is for you.

Fabrics: Bodycon jersey, latex-style stretch, structured satin, tailored suiting.

Silhouettes: Form-fitting styles that show every curve of the bump. Think Demi Moore on the cover of Vanity Fair. Asymmetric one-shoulder pieces. A blazer worn open with nothing underneath. Monochrome from head to toe.

Colours: Black is always striking and always timeless. Deep jewel tones like forest green, burgundy, or cobalt. Or go the other direction and wear all white for something almost architectural.

Accessories: In this style, they matter. A bold earring, a sculptural ring, a heel that adds intention to the whole image.

What to avoid: Over-accessorising. If you go bold on clothing, pull back on the jewellery. Let one thing do the talking.

A few universal tips

Bring more than one outfit. I always recommend two, sometimes three options. Different moods, different looks. Some clients are surprised by which images end up being their favourites.

Underwear matters. Seamless, nude underwear under anything fitted. You’d be surprised how much a visible waistband can pull attention in a photo.

Think about your partner too. If your partner is joining you for part of the session, a simple, tonal outfit in neutral colours works well. Avoid heavy graphics or very bright colours that pull focus.

Comfort is non-negotiable. If you’re uncomfortable, it shows. Wear something that makes you feel like yourself, just a particularly beautiful version of yourself.

Not sure where to start?

That’s genuinely what I’m here for.

Once you’ve booked your session, I’ll send you a full styling guide and you’ll have access to the client wardrobe in advance. We can also chat through ideas before the day so you arrive feeling ready rather than nervous.

If you’re still in the early stages and just exploring, you’re welcome to reach out. I’m happy to talk it through.

Rhi x