Trying to decide what to wear for your maternity photos? This Wisconsin-based style guide walks you through outfit tips and ideas for every season!
Hi there mama-to-be! First of all, congratulations! This chapter of life is so special and it deserves to be documented in a way that feels both meaningful and beautiful to you. Maternity sessions aren’t just about pretty photos (though you’ll absolutely get plenty of those!). They’re about celebrating you: your strength, your story, and the incredible life you’re growing. Whether you’re soaking up your very first pregnancy or you’re on your third and it’s flying by, these images will become timeless reminders of such a special season you’ll never want to forget and this maternity photos style guide will help get you prepped.
As a Wisconsin maternity and newborn photographer, I know that each season brings it’s own kind of magic and a whole lot of unpredictability too (because, let’s face it, the Midwest likes to keep us on our toes). One day it’s sunny and 75, the next it’s snowing in April. But no matter what mother nature throws our way, I’ve got your back. I’m here to help you find something you feel comfortable in, that flatters your bump, and makes you feel like the radiant mama you are.
Ready to find the perfect outfit for your session? I’ve put together this complete Wisconsin maternity photos style guide just for you! Let’s break it down season by season and make sure you’re styled confidently for whatever weather Wisconsin throws your way!
Maternity Photos Style Guide for Every Season in Wisconsin
Spring Style Guide
Spring in Wisconsin is often the most unpredictable season. This is why I personally love doing studio sessions during the spring! If your session will be outdoors, make sure to bring a few layer options so you’re prepared for both a 70 degree day and a 30 degree day.
- Color Palette: Think neutrals paired with soft earth tones like browns, tans, cream, pale blue and sage. These hues will pair well with both the soft blooms outside and a neutral studio backdrop.
- Best Fabrics: Flowy chiffon, simple linens, or light jersey that blows in the breeze are ideal options.
- Silhouettes: Look for empire waist maxi dresses or wrap dresses that gently hug your bump and move with you.
- Layering & Accessories: Pairing a dress with a soft cardigan or neutral shawl can help to add texture and variety to your photos.
Summer Style Guide
There’s nothing like a golden sunset session on a warm summer night. If you’re planning to do your maternity session in the summer, focus on wearing something light and flowy so that you’re more comfortable if the temps are on the hotter end.
- Colors: Light neutrals paired with soft pastels or earth tones are best for summer! (plus white and cream tones will really help your complexion look less pale Wisconsinite and more “I just came back from 2 weeks in Florida”)
- Fabric Choice: Keep it breathable—cotton blends, lightweight lace, or breathable jersey are usually best.
- Style Picks: Aim for flowy maxi dresses, sundresses, or lightweight wraps that let you move freely and stay cool.
- Comfort Tips: Opt for simple to keep more comfortable in the heat. Minimal jewelry and simple sandals are great, especially if you’ll be in a lakeside or grassy location.
Fall Style Guide
There’s nothing quite as magical as fall sessions with a full backdrop of all the autumn colors. If you’re thinking of a fall maternity session, focus on pairing earth tones and cozy knits together. Make sure to bring along multiple layer options so you’re prepared for any unpredictable temps.
- Colors: Earthy tones like rust, olive, darker tans, and warm neutrals pair beautifully with autumn foliage.
- Textures & Fabrics: Look for cozy knits, chunky scarves, or warm flannels.
- Shape & Flow: A fitted knit dress paired with a cozy outer layer is always a great option. Or try a flowy skirt paired with a warm sweater.
- Seasonal Flourish: Add a felt hat, a soft scarf, or cute boots for a fun way to make your photos feel more you.
Winter Style Guide
I always love a cozy winter maternity session! Whether your session will be in studio or outdoors, focus on ivory and cream shades. Fitted sweater dresses are always a great option in winter! If your session will be outside, remember to bring plenty of cute layers to stay warm!
- Color choices: Soft neutrals like cream and ivory pop beautifully against snowy backdrops. If you want to add in a bit of color, stick to those earth tones!
- Fabrics & Layers: If your session will be outside, start by choosing a base texture like velvet or chunky knits. Then layer up with a cute coat or shawl for extra warmth and style!
- Accessories: Keep these simple and purposeful—a wool coat, a knit shawl, cute boots, or even knit mittens.
- Bonus Tip: Avoid wearing too many heavy blacks; they can flatten your silhouette and hide that beautiful bump!
Evergreen Style Advice (Tips Good for Any Season)
- Focus on Comfort and Confidence: Above all, choose something you feel good in. This will help you enjoy the session and love your photos more!
- Prioritize Silhouette Styles That Highlight Your Bump: Fitted styles like bodycon, wrap, or empire waist dresses are best for showing off your beautiful bump.
- Keep Patterns Simple: Busy patterns tend to distract from the focus of your photos…you! Stick to solids and subtle textures when choosing your outfit.
- Coordinate, Don’t Match: If your partner or little ones are joining for your session, pick complementary colors (not identical). Coordinating tones always look 1000 times better than everyone in matching colors.
- Think Timeless Over Trendy: You don’t want to look back on your photos in 10 years and cringe at out-of-date outfits. Instead of going with the newest trending piece, try to focus on more of a simple and classic style for your outfit.
Ready to Plan Your Dream Wisconsin Maternity Session?
I hope you found this seasonal Wisconsin maternity photos style guide helpful as you prepare for your upcoming session! If you are a visual person like me and need more outfit inspo to help you find the perfect fit for your session, check out my Maternity Outfit Pinterest Board! It’s filled with TONS of cute outfit ideas.
Local to the Twin Cities or Hudson area and still need to book your maternity session? I’d be honored to capture this beautiful season for you and your family! Simply fill out my contact form, and we’ll start chatting about the details to bring your vision for your maternity photos to life.
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