One of the most common questions I receive from newborn clients is:
"What should we wear?"
The good news? Choosing outfits for your newborn session doesn't have to be stressful.
My studio style is clean, timeless, and focused on connection. The goal is for your images to feel just as beautiful 20 years from now as they do today. That means we want your family to be the focus—not trendy clothing, loud patterns, or distracting logos.
Here are my best tips for choosing outfits for your newborn session.
Start with Mom's Outfit First
Moms, I want you to feel beautiful and comfortable.
Your body just did something incredible, and while you may not feel completely like yourself yet, the right outfit can make a huge difference in how you feel in your photos.
I recommend:
* Flowy dresses
* Maxi dresses
* Soft knit sweaters
* Neutral tops with simple textures
* Long cardigans layered over tanks or dresses
Some of my favorite colors include:
* Cream
* Ivory
* Beige
* Taupe
* Soft blush
* Dusty blue
* Light sage
* Warm gray
The studio is kept warm for baby, so lightweight fabrics are always a great choice.
What Should Dad Wear?
Dads, let's keep it simple.
The best outfits for newborn photos are usually the least complicated.
I recommend:
* Neutral henleys
* Solid crew neck shirts
* Light sweaters
* Button-down shirts in soft colors
Stick with:
* Cream
* Gray
* Tan
* Olive
* Navy
* Light blue
Avoid:
* Athletic shirts
* Bright colors
* Logos
* Graphic tees
* Plaid that feels too busy
Trust me—simple photographs beautifully.
Coordinating, Not Matching
Gone are the days of everyone wearing the exact same white shirt and jeans.
Instead, think about coordinating colors.
Choose a color palette and let everyone wear different shades and textures within that palette.
For example:
Mom: Cream dress
Dad: Light gray henley
Big Sister: Soft blush dress
Baby: Cream wrap
Everything works together without looking overly matched.
What Should Siblings Wear?
For little girls:
* Simple dresses
* Bloomers
* Neutral rompers
* Soft textures
For little boys:
* Neutral henleys
* Suspenders
* Knit rompers
* Simple button-ups
Avoid:
* Character clothing
* Neon colors
* Busy graphics
* Large logos
Remember: children photograph best when they're comfortable.
What About Baby?
The best part?
You don't need to worry about outfits for your newborn.
I provide a carefully curated collection of wraps, blankets, headbands, bonnets, and newborn accessories for studio sessions.
Most newborn portraits are photographed wrapped or posed with simple styling that keeps the focus exactly where it belongs—on your beautiful baby.
If you have a special heirloom item, blanket, or outfit you'd like incorporated, please let me know beforehand and I'd be happy to discuss ways we can include it.
My Favorite Studio Color Palette
If you're completely stuck, you can never go wrong with:
* Cream
* Beige
* Soft white
* Taupe
* Light gray
These colors create the timeless, airy look you see throughout my portfolio and allow your baby's tiny features and your family's connection to truly shine.
Don't Stress
The truth is that your baby won't remember what anyone wore.
What they'll see years from now is how much they were loved.
The snuggles.
The tiny fingers wrapped around yours.
The way you looked at them.
That's what matters most.
And if you're still unsure about what to wear, send me a few photos of your outfit options before your session. I'm always happy to help you put everything together.
I can't wait to meet your growing family and create something beautiful together.
— Tara
Tara Lee Photography
Edwardsville, Illinois Newborn Photographer