What to wear is one of those questions that feels like it shouldn’t take much thought but somehow ends up taking quite a lot. Here’s everything you need to know to make it easy.
Keep it neutral and soft
Soft, neutral tones work best for everyone. White, cream, beige, pale grey, and muted pastels all photograph well and keep the focus on your baby rather than what everyone’s wearing. Bright colours and bold patterns can reflect onto your baby’s skin and pull the eye away from the faces in the image.
You don’t need to match exactly, but coordinating your colour palette helps create a cohesive look. Pick a general tone and have everyone wear a variation of it. Soft blues and greys, warm beiges and blush tones, that kind of thing. If one person is wearing something with a subtle pattern, keep everyone else in solids.
What should mum wear?
Comfort matters a lot, especially in the early weeks. A loose-fitting dress, a soft jumper with leggings, or a flowing top all work well. If you’re planning any skin-to-skin shots, a strapless or off-the-shoulder top makes that easier. Keep hair and makeup natural rather than heavily styled, it tends to feel more like you in the finished images.
Wear soft, neutral underwear to avoid any harsh lines or dark straps showing through lighter fabrics. And bring a spare top in case of any little accidents while you’re holding the baby.
What should dad wear?
Simple, neutral-coloured t-shirts or button-up shirts with jeans or chinos work really well. Avoid heavy branding, logos, or loud patterns. A light-coloured shirt with the sleeves rolled up gives a relaxed feel without looking too casual. If wearing a collar, keep it soft rather than stiff.
What should siblings wear?
Comfort is the priority. They need to be able to move freely and feel happy in what they’re wearing. Simple dresses in soft tones work well for girls, a plain t-shirt or collared shirt with soft trousers for boys. Bare feet tend to look best for younger children. Avoid anything tight, itchy, or with writing on it.
Bring a spare outfit. Kids being kids, you’ll probably be glad you did.
The main things to avoid
Bright colours, large logos, bold patterns, stiff formal clothing, and anything that might be uncomfortable to sit or move around in. These things either distract from your baby, reflect unwanted colour onto their skin, or make everyone look tense and awkward.
Simple and comfortable gives you the best images every time.
