Welcoming a new life into the world is such an exciting, yet daunting experience. A maternity photoshoot is a great way to capture all the emotions and anticipation of this fleeting moment in time. One of the most common questions I get asked when for maternity shoots is ‘what should I wear?’

In this blog, we’ll explore a range of maternity dress ideas, including options for every price point, as well as the convenient option of hiring a maternity dress.

Choosing a Maternity Dress

When choosing a dress to wear for a maternity shoot, the most important thing to consider is if you feel comfortable. Pregnancy is already enough of a strain on your body, so ensure you don’t compound that with an outfit that is tight, or makes you feel hot. Many women opt for feminine, loose flowing dresses for a maternity shoot. Keep in mind that you don’t need to buy a ‘maternity’ dress for a photoshoot. You can simply buy a normal dress that has the ability to adjust it’s waist size- that way you can wear it again even when you’re not pregnant (which is better value for money).

Deciding on a style of maternity dress will depend on the type of photoshoot and location. Here are a few different styles of maternity dresses, including a few options at different price points.

Maxi Maternity Dress

Maxi dresses are one of the most popular options for a maternity shoot. Due to their flowing, feminine style- I tend to find maxi dresses work exceptionally well for beach maternity shoots. The floor length design provides ample coverage, while allowing freedom of movement for posing. Opt for breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen, to help regulate your body temperature, especially during an outdoor shoot.

Here are a couple of options for different budgets:

Budget Maxi Dress ($17.95 from Shein)

Mid Range Maxi Dress ($179 from Iconic)

Designer Maxi Dress ($695 from Filly Boo)

Empire Waist Dress

Empire waist dresses feature a high waistline that sits just below the bust. This creates a flattering silhouette that accentuated your baby bump. This is a very popular style of maternity dress, due to its loose fitting comfort. It’s often made with moisture wicking materials such as linen and cotton, which is ideal for a maternity shoot. Ensure your empire waist dress has a stretchy waistband and fabrics to accomodate your growing belly.

Budget Maxi Dress ($24.95 from Shein)

Mid Range Maxi Dress ($170 from Iconic)

Designer Dress ($1350 from Zimmerman)

Wrap Dress

Wrap dresses are universally flattering and due to their adjustable waist tie, adapt beautifully to your changing body. They’re comfortable and chic, providing the ultimate style of dress for your shoot. This style of dress is a wardrobe stable than can be worn time and time again, even after your maternity photoshoot is over.

Budget Wrap Dress ($19.95 from Shein)

Mid Range Maxi Dress ($74 from Iconic)

Designer Dress ($595 from Aje)

Sheer Maternity Dress

A sheer maternity dress is a popular choice for a beach or garden photoshoot. They are usually worn over a bikini or underwear. While these can be bit more revealing for some, they are incredibly elegant and feminine and proudly show off your baby bump. I recommend a simple bikini in the colour of white or black (depending on the colour of your dress). Some when opt to wear nothing at all underneath, to really show off the raw and empowering process of transitioning into motherhood.

Budget Sheer Dress ($25.95 from Shein)

Mid Range Dress ($125 from Lulaluka)

Designer Sheer Dress ($189 from Mama Rentals- HIRE)

Sequin Maternity Dress

For those wanting to explore their inner diva, a stunning sequin dress is the right dress for you. A sequin dress adds a touch of sparkle and sophistication to your maternity shoot. They work well for a studio shoot, where the high end lighting can amplify the shine of the sequins perfectly. You can also consider a sequin dress for an outdoor shoot, as shown in the photos below.

Budget Dress ($57 from Shein)

Mid Range Sequin Dress ($69 from Mama Rentals- HIRE)

Luxury Sheer Dress ($525 from Tiffany Rose)

In conclusion, maternity dress shopping doesn’t have to be daunting. With a huge range of stylish options available, you can feel confident and comfortable during your maternity photoshoot. As you’ve seen- you don’t even need to buy maternity specific dresses. A loose fitting dress with an adjustable waist will work perfectly fine and will be versatile enough to wear beyond pregnancy as well!