Welcoming a newborn into your family is a beautiful, life-changing moment, and your at-home newborn session should capture the tenderness and connection of this special time. One of the biggest questions new parents have is: What should we wear? The good news is, the best outfits are the ones that make you feel comfortable, confident, and like yourself—because that’s what truly shines through in your photos.

Remember, I’m just a call or email away to support you in selecting what you might like to wear for your portrait session with me. I am more than happy to help you make any clothing selections (for you, your partner and of course your little one!) – just send me a WhatsApp with what you have in mind and we can decide together!

So what are my top tips on what to wear for newborn photos?

Prioritizing Mom: Choosing an Outfit That Feels Good

Comfort is Key

After bringing a baby into the world, the last thing you want to worry about is feeling uncomfortable in your clothing. Your priority should be choosing soft, breathable fabrics that feel gentle against your skin. You’ll likely be moving around, cuddling your baby, and sitting for extended periods, so wearing something that allows for ease of movement is essential.

Flowy dresses or cozy oversized knits are excellent options because they look effortlessly beautiful while giving you the comfort and flexibility you need. If you’ve had a C-section, opt for a dress or a high-waisted skirt paired with a soft, loose top to avoid placing any pressure on your incision. If you’re breastfeeding, consider wearing a button-up blouse, a wrap dress, or something with a stretchy neckline so you can easily feed your baby during the session without feeling restricted.

Selecting the Right Colors & Textures

When it comes to choosing colors, think soft and neutral. Shades like creams, soft grays, beiges, and pastels tend to be the most flattering and won’t cast unwanted tones onto your baby’s delicate skin. Plus, neutral colors create a timeless, light, and airy aesthetic that blends beautifully into any home decor.

Textures can add another layer of warmth and interest to your photos. Light knits, linen, and delicate lace give depth without overpowering the image. On the other hand, bold patterns or bright colors can be distracting and may take attention away from the connection between you and your baby—so it’s best to keep those to a minimum.

Dressing Baby Simply & Comfortably

Your baby is naturally beautiful just as they are, so when it comes to their outfit, keeping it simple is best. A plain white onesie or a solid-colored knit set is always a great option. Not only does it photograph well, but it also ensures that your little one stays the center of attention in every shot.

Kimono-style onesies are especially helpful for easy dressing, since they don’t require pulling fabric over your baby’s delicate head. It’s also a good idea to have a backup outfit nearby—because as any new parent knows, outfit changes can happen unexpectedly!

Embracing Bare Baby Details

Some of the most cherished newborn images are the ones that capture the tiniest details—those tiny hands, feet, and soft newborn skin. Consider including a few shots where baby is simply wrapped in a cozy blanket, allowing their natural beauty to take center stage.

And while bare feet are sometimes a taboo in certain cultures, tiny newborn toes are just too precious not to document! These little details change so quickly in those first few weeks, and having a few timeless images without distractions can make for some of the most treasured keepsakes.

Coordinating the Family (Without Matching!)

Once you’ve chosen your outfit, the next step is to coordinate the rest of the family. But let’s clear this up right away—coordinating doesn’t mean everyone has to match exactly. Instead, aim for a complementary color palette with 2-3 soft tones that blend well together.

For example, if you’re wearing a soft beige dress, dad could wear a gray henley and jeans, while baby is wrapped in a simple white onesie. Mixing different textures, like denim, knit, and linen, adds dimension to the overall look without making the outfits feel too uniform or forced.

If you do want to incorporate a pattern, choose one that is subtle and understated—perhaps a small floral or a faint stripe. This keeps the focus on your family’s expressions and connection rather than the clothing itself.

Final Thoughts: Feeling Your Best in Your Newborn Session

Your newborn session isn’t about creating a perfectly curated look—it’s about capturing the love, connection, and magic of this fleeting time. When you feel good in what you’re wearing, that confidence and comfort will shine through in your photos, making them all the more beautiful and authentic.

So, take a deep breath and enjoy the process. Start with what makes you feel your best, choose soft, natural tones, and let everything else fall into place. The most important thing is that you feel relaxed and present, soaking in every precious moment with your new baby.

If your newborn session is coming up soon, I hope this guide has helped you feel more prepared and confident about what to wear. If you have any last-minute questions or need extra outfit advice, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’d love to help!