Styling Your Family to Complement Your Maternity Gown

When it comes to planning your maternity shoot, one of the most important aspects is styling your family to create a cohesive and beautiful look. The goal is to highlight your stunning gown while ensuring that your loved ones look polished and put together. Here’s how to achieve that perfect balance in your family styling.

1. Choose Nice Clothing for Your Family

For a luxury maternity session, it’s essential that your family’s attire reflects a higher level of elegance. This means opting for nicer clothing that elevates the overall aesthetic of the shoot. Consider options such as:

Button-Down Shirts: A crisp button-down shirt can add sophistication and structure. Choose colors that complement your gown while remaining stylish.

Suits or Blazers: For dads and older siblings, a well-fitted suit or blazer instantly enhances the look. This formal touch can make the family photos feel timeless and elegant.

Nice Vests: A tailored vest can be a great alternative to a full suit, offering a polished appearance without being overly formal. Pair it with a dress shirt for a refined look.

Elegant Dresses for Children: If you have little ones, consider dressing them in elegant outfits that coordinate with the overall color scheme without overshadowing your gown.

2. Avoid Matching Colors

While it may be tempting to have your family wear the same color as your gown, this approach can detract from the focus on your beautiful baby bump. Instead, aim for coordination rather than matching. Here’s how to do that:

Choose Complementary Colors: Select colors for your family’s outfits that work harmoniously with the color of your gown. For example, if you’re wearing a soft blush gown, consider dressing your family in shades of cream, gray, or muted pastels that won’t compete for attention.

Use Different Textures: Coordinate colors, but play with different textures to add depth and interest. For example, a velvet blazer on dad can create a beautiful contrast with a silk gown.

Consider Patterns Wisely: If you want to introduce patterns, choose subtle designs that won’t overpower the overall look. Small checks or delicate florals can add a touch of personality while keeping the focus on you.

3. Incorporate Accessories

Accessories can enhance the overall styling without taking away from your gown. Here are some ideas:

Stylish Shoes: Ensure that everyone’s footwear is polished and stylish. Consider dress shoes for adults and nice flats for children.

Jewelry: You may want to choose delicate jewelry for yourself that complements your gown, while family members can wear matching accessories to tie their looks together.

Seasonal Touches: Depending on the season, consider adding elements like scarves, hats, or shawls that can introduce texture and warmth to the family’s outfits.

4. Quick Changes for More Than One Gown

If you plan to wear more than one gown during your maternity shoot, consider how your family can coordinate their outfits with quick styling changes. Here are some tips:

Change Dad’s Tie: If you’re switching to a different gown, a simple change of tie can create a fresh look. Choose a tie that complements the new gown’s color and enhances the overall style.

Swap Suit Coats: Instead of a full outfit change, dad can switch to a different suit coat that coordinates with your new gown. This allows for a seamless transition while still keeping a polished appearance.

Add or Remove Accessories: Kids can change their accessories, like bow ties or hair clips, to match your gown changes without needing a complete outfit switch.

Layering Options: For cooler weather, consider using layers that can be easily added or removed. A stylish jacket or shawl can enhance the look and be taken off when you switch gowns.

5. Communicate with Your Photographer

We’ll begin with a styling appointment where we’ll select your gown and accessories, and discuss wardrobe options for the rest of your family. If you need to purchase any clothing after our appointment for your family, please be sure to send photos of your selections. Once your color palette and outfits are finalized, share them with me—I’ll offer feedback on how everything will photograph together to ensure your session looks polished and cohesive on camera.

Conclusion

Styling your family for your maternity shoot is all about creating a polished and cohesive look that enhances your stunning gown while allowing your baby bump to take center stage. By choosing nicer clothing, avoiding the urge to match colors, and incorporating thoughtful accessories, you can achieve a beautifully coordinated family portrait that you’ll cherish for years to come. Embrace this special time in your life, and let your family shine alongside your radiant glow!

Ready to start planning your session? Contact me for more details!

Tavera is a Luxury family, maternity photographer in Denver Colorado who specializes in creating an experience that will make mom feel comfortable, papered, and beautiful so she will be excited to turn her portraits into art for her home. Sessions are available outdoors all over the Denver and Boulder area and beautiful mountain locations.