One of the questions I hear all the time from expecting moms is:
“What am I even supposed to wear during pregnancy?”
And honestly? I get it.
As a mom of two, I remember standing in front of my closet feeling frustrated because nothing fit the same anymore. Jeans suddenly felt offensive. Bras became uncomfortable overnight. Even my favorite oversized sweaters somehow stopped feeling cozy.
Pregnancy changes your body quickly and sometimes unexpectedly. One week you’re squeezing into your regular leggings, and the next week even your softest pajamas feel too tight.
As a maternity photographer, I also see how deeply clothing affects confidence during pregnancy. What you wear can completely change how comfortable, beautiful, and like yourself you feel.
And during the hardest or worst week of pregnancy? Comfort suddenly matters even more.
The good news is this:
You do not need an entirely new wardrobe to feel comfortable and confident during pregnancy.
You just need pieces that support your changing body instead of fighting against it.
Why What You Wear During Pregnancy Matters More Than You Think
Pregnancy is emotional enough already.
Your body changes constantly. Hormones fluctuate. Sleep gets harder. Swelling shows up out of nowhere. Some days you feel beautiful, and other days you barely recognize yourself in the mirror.
What you wear during pregnancy may seem small, but it can genuinely affect how you feel physically and emotionally.
I’ve watched moms walk into my studio apologizing for their bodies before we even start their maternity session. And every time, I wish they could see themselves the way I do.
Strong.
Soft.
Beautiful.
Capable.
Sometimes the right outfit doesn’t just make you look better. It helps you breathe easier, move comfortably, and feel more like yourself again.
And as someone who has photographed so many expecting mothers throughout Yucaipa, Redlands, Beaumont, and the Inland Empire, I can tell you this confidently:
Comfort and confidence always photograph beautifully.
What to Wear During Pregnancy in Each Trimester
One thing nobody really tells you is that your clothing needs change constantly throughout pregnancy.
What works at 10 weeks may feel unbearable at 32 weeks.
The key is choosing clothing that gives your body room to change without sacrificing comfort.
First Trimester Clothing Tips
The first trimester can feel strange because you may not look pregnant yet, but your body already feels different.
Bloating, nausea, exhaustion, and sensitivity can make regular clothes uncomfortable surprisingly fast.
During this stage, I usually recommend:
- Loose-fitting basics
- Soft waistbands
- Stretchy leggings
- Layered outfits for temperature changes
- Oversized button-ups or cardigans
- Comfortable lounge sets
Honestly, some of my favorite first trimester outfits were simply soft clothes that didn’t make me feel squeezed.
Second Trimester Outfit Ideas
The second trimester is often when moms start feeling a little more comfortable in their changing bodies.
Your bump becomes more visible, and maternity clothing usually starts fitting better.
This is the season where stretchy dresses become your best friend.
Some comfortable second trimester staples include:
- Maternity leggings
- Ribbed knit dresses
- Supportive bras
- Relaxed jumpsuits
- Soft maternity jeans
- Transitional pieces that grow with your bump
As a photographer, I love this stage because many moms finally start embracing their changing shape instead of trying to hide it.
And honestly? The bump is beautiful.
What to Wear During the Hardest Weeks of Pregnancy
The late third trimester is where comfort becomes absolutely non-negotiable.
If you’ve reached the stage where rolling over in bed feels like an Olympic event, welcome. You’re not alone.
During the hardest weeks of pregnancy, I recommend focusing on:
- Breathable fabrics
- Loose lounge pieces
- Soft sleepwear
- Slip-on shoes
- Stretchy dresses
- Compression socks if recommended
- Lightweight layers
Swelling, overheating, pelvic pressure, and fatigue can make restrictive clothing miserable during this stage.
I remember reaching a point during my pregnancies where even tying my shoes felt personal.
Comfort matters.
Best Fabrics and Clothing Pieces for Pregnancy
Not all fabrics feel the same during pregnancy.
Some fabrics suddenly feel itchy, tight, heavy, or too warm. Others feel like a lifesaver.
Fabrics That Help During Pregnancy
The fabrics I personally loved most during pregnancy were:
- Cotton
- Bamboo
- Ribbed knits
- Lightweight stretchy fabrics
Breathable materials help so much with overheating and skin sensitivity, especially during the third trimester.
Soft fabrics also photograph beautifully during maternity sessions because they move naturally and create gentle texture.
Pregnancy Staples Worth Investing In
You absolutely do not need to buy an entirely new wardrobe.
But there are a few pregnancy staples worth investing in because you’ll wear them constantly.
My personal favorites:
- Maternity leggings
- Supportive bras
- Neutral stretchy dresses
- Nursing-friendly tops
- Comfortable sneakers or sandals
- Oversized button-up shirts
When I was pregnant, I basically rotated the same comfortable outfits over and over again.
No regrets.
What to Avoid Wearing During Pregnancy
There are a few things that tend to become uncomfortable very quickly during pregnancy.
I’d personally avoid:
- Tight waistbands
- Restrictive fabrics
- Poorly fitted bras
- Uncomfortable shoes
- Heavy fabrics that trap heat
- Clothing that digs into swelling
If something feels uncomfortable now, it probably won’t magically feel better later in pregnancy.
Trust your body.
What to Wear for Maternity Photos
As a maternity photographer, this is one of my favorite conversations to have with expecting moms.
Because the truth is, maternity photos are not about dressing perfectly.
They’re about feeling comfortable enough to connect naturally.
Colors That Photograph Beautifully
The colors I recommend most often for maternity sessions are:
- Neutrals
- Creams
- Earth tones
- Soft greens
- Warm browns
- Dusty blues
- Muted tones
These colors photograph timelessly and keep the focus on connection instead of distractions.
I also recommend avoiding:
- Busy patterns
- Neon colors
- Large logos
- Harsh graphics
Outfits That Flatter a Growing Bump
One of the biggest misconceptions about maternity clothing is that everything needs to be oversized.
Actually, fitted dresses often photograph beautifully because they highlight your shape and define the bump naturally.
Some flattering maternity session options include:
- Fitted ribbed dresses
- Flowing gowns
- Bodysuits with layers
- Knit dresses
- Coordinated family outfits with complementary tones
The goal is always movement, comfort, and confidence.
What I Recommend to My Maternity Clients
When helping moms prepare for their maternity session, my biggest advice is always:
Wear something that feels like you.
If you feel uncomfortable, tugging at fabric, or overly self-conscious, it will affect how you feel during the session.
Comfort comes first.
I also offer a studio wardrobe because many moms simply do not want to buy another outfit they’ll only wear once.
And honestly? Sometimes having guidance makes everything feel less overwhelming.
How Clothing Can Affect Confidence During Pregnancy
Pregnancy can bring up a lot emotionally.
Your body changes rapidly. Clothes stop fitting. You may feel disconnected from yourself some days.
And during the hardest weeks of pregnancy, confidence can feel especially fragile.
As both a mom and photographer, I want expecting mothers to hear this clearly:
You do not need to “bounce back.”
You do not need to hide your changing body.
And you do not need to look perfect to deserve photographs of this season.
Your body is doing something extraordinary.
Sometimes clothing that supports comfort instead of comparison can make a huge emotional difference.
Honestly, some of the best pregnancy outfits are simple, comfortable pieces you can mix and match easily.
FAQs About What to Wear During Pregnancy
What should I wear during pregnancy for comfort?
Breathable, stretchy clothing like maternity leggings, loose dresses, soft waistbands, and supportive bras tend to be the most comfortable during pregnancy.
When should I start wearing maternity clothes?
Every pregnancy is different. Some moms switch to maternity clothing during the first trimester because of bloating, while others wait until the second trimester.
What should I wear during the third trimester?
During the third trimester, lightweight fabrics, slip-on shoes, stretchy dresses, and soft lounge clothing often feel most comfortable.
Can I wear regular clothes while pregnant?
Yes. Many moms continue wearing regular clothing by sizing up or choosing stretchy fabrics, especially during early pregnancy.
What colors look best in maternity photos?
Neutral colors, earth tones, and soft muted shades photograph beautifully during maternity sessions.
What should I avoid wearing during pregnancy?
Tight waistbands, restrictive fabrics, uncomfortable shoes, and unsupportive bras can become especially uncomfortable during pregnancy.
Related Resources for Expecting Moms
You may also enjoy reading:
- 5 Best Places to Buy Maternity Clothes in the Inland Empire
- Hardest Week of Pregnancy
- Early Pregnancy Symptoms Inland Empire Moms Should Know
- How to Prepare for Your Maternity Session
- Pregnancy Cravings as an Inland Empire Mom
Browse Maternity Session Inspiration
If you’re looking for maternity session inspiration, I’d love for you to browse my recent maternity portraits.
My sessions are calm, guided, and designed to help expecting moms feel comfortable and cared for throughout the entire experience.
Reach Out About Your Maternity Session
If you’re planning your own maternity session, I’d love to connect with you.
I serve expecting mothers and families throughout Yucaipa, Redlands, Beaumont, and the Inland Empire with maternity photography focused on genuine connection and timeless artwork.
You can reach out anytime through my contact form. No pressure. Just a conversation about documenting this meaningful season of motherhood.