What Should Guys Wear for Maternity Pictures?

Maternity Photoshoots

I am often asked by women for advice on what their partner should wear to a maternity shoot, so today I am going to tackle this topic of the “what” and “why” some outfits are preferable over others. To preface, many of my clients like to do an in-studio session but on occasion, I will have clients request an outdoor location. The wardrobe ideas that I will discuss can work for both in studio and outdoor locations.

One of the main reasons to book a maternity photo shoot is to celebrate you and your pregnancy. I want to help capture this special moment in time when you are glowing and gorgeous by photographing these beautiful memories for you, both personally and for your child to have in the future. I always like to include Dad in the photos even if it is just for a few poses.

What Should Guys Wear for Maternity Pictures?

I always suggest that Dad bring at least two wardrobe changes. The outfit selections should complement what Mom is wearing and avoid perfectly matching colors unless you are planning a beach photo shoot and you both want to wear all white.

Men’s wardrobe for maternity shoots can be as simple as tan khakis or dark/light denim jeans with a black or white V-neck or crew neck t-shirt. You can also choose other pant textures such as cotton, linen, and cashmere. When selecting jeans, try sticking with a clean style that is free from tears and select t-shirts that do not contain logos. If you have a specific shirt you do prefer that does contain a logo, I can Photoshop it out for a small fee. Unless you’re going for a really casual session, I advise dads to wear pants instead of shorts.

With this simple look in-studio or a photo shoot on the sand at a beach, I suggest wearing no shoes, and most of the time the long gowns that Mom wears cover both your feet anyways. But if the session is anywhere else outdoors, I suggest clean shoes and styles such as Vans, Converse, or something similar.

Maternity Photoshoot Outfit Ideas

Another option for a more formal look is dark dress pants with a white dress shirt and a dark sport coat. My favorite look is when the men wear a cardigan sweater over a dress shirt. With both of these more formal styles, I suggest bringing dress shoes or a nice pair of clean loafers.

Regarding accessories, keep it to a minimum as we want the focus to be mostly on the belly. When Dad has hands around the round belly, a large bulky watch can be distracting. Although, scarves and stylish hats/caps can be a nice additional touch.

Another look that I like, is a dress shirt with a vest and tie. This is very fashionable and if you can pull it off, I highly suggest it what a perfect opportunity to dress stylishly!

Keep away from bright neon colors. I suggest solid colors that are light in a tone such as white, beige, heather gray, or pastel colors in baby blue, yellow or pink. For men that are very fair-skinned, it is nice to have some contrast so I would suggest dark or earthy colors such as black, charcoal, navy, green, olive green, or maroon. If you do decide to wear a patterned shirt, please make sure the pattern is small and not distracting. Large prints such as a Hawaiian shirt can be very loud and offset the ambiance of the photoshoot.

What Outfits to Avoid

Undershirts that pop out at the neckline
Shirts that are too tight
Shirts that are too big and gather around the waistline. If there is too much fabric in that area, consider tucking it in and wearing a belt.
Lint covered clothes
Old, scuffed, or dirty shoes
And men, don’t forget to have a freshly shaven face or trim your beard. Just like women, make sure your nails are clean and hair styled just as you like it!

Below are a few suggestions of places to shop for suitable styles:

Macy’s
Nordstrom
J.Crew
Express
H & M
Target
Kohls