Your Styling guide
Everything you need to feel confident and beautiful on the day
That’s the exciting part before your session. How can we bring to life your vision for the day ( if you have one), or what to wear if you would like your photos to look like the work I love and share.
Colours and Textures
The colours that photograph most beautifully in my sessions are soft, warm and natural — think cream, sand, beige, warm brown and caramel (avoid white as it could show some blue under-tones on the photos). Kaki (light or dark shade) works too for darker mood in the studio or outdoor sessions.
All black is also a favourite of mine, particularly for maternity sessions.
Please avoid bright or neon colours, stripes, or very dark clothing (except for all-black outfits).
And rather than matching — for example, everyone in beige — aim to coordinate. Choose colours from the same warm palette that complement each other without being identical.
Don’t forget underwear and bras in nude, white or black, depending on what you will wear Mum.
For textures, I love: chunky knits, linen, corduroy, waffle fabrics. Layers always add something beautiful to a photograph, especially for outdoor or cooler sessions.
Make-up & nails : Keep make-up as natural as possible — avoid heavy eye makeup or thick fake lashes, and be mindful of very dark fake tan as your baby's skin will be much lighter. Neutral nails are best (this applies to partners too — I take close-up shots of hands in newborn sessions).
No shoes needed in studio — we go barefoot.
What to avoid
DO
Soft neutral tones
Natural fabrics
Layering & textures
Coordinated (not matching)
Relaxed, comfortable fits
DON’T
Logos or characters
Bright / neon colours
Hair ties on wrists
Bulky watches
Business attire (dads)
Not sure what to wear? I have a full client wardrobe available as well.
Message me to discuss on whatsapp if you need help
07824 362735
Little details that matter
Small little things can make a difference in your photos, and bring this personalised touch, like :
Hair bows and clips - cream, beige or dusty pink. Simple, sweet, timeless.
Patterned socks - lovely in close-up shots of little feet.
Headbands - soft knit or fabric headband on a newborn or sitter. Keep it minimal, no oversized flowers ( I have some in my studio that you can use)
Knitted baby hat or socks - adorable for newborn.
Styling for Maternity sessions
Not sure how to dress your bump? Here are six styles I love and shoot regularly. All of them are beautiful — it's simply about what feels most like you.
1/ Blazer vibe
One of my absolute favourites. A white or black blazer with a lace bra underneath is incredibly elegant. You can wear it with trousers, jeans, or just the blazer if you love showing some skin.
2/ Flowy dress
I have lots of options in my client wardrobe, in a range of sizes. Whether you want to cover your arms or your bump, I have something for you.
3/ The classic jean
Works for every session. You probably won't be able to zip it anymore, Mum — and that's absolutely fine. Pair it with a lace bra or a simple white shirt.
4/ Oversized jumper
Perfect for cooler months. Moody, timeless, incredibly comfortable. It will highlight your bump and your beautiful curves.
5/ Oversized shirt
Another great classic, simple and minimal, to focus just on you and your bump. One of my favourite.
6/ Underwear only
Raw, natural, glamorous. If you want to embrace your body exactly as it is, this style is for you. M&S has some beautiful lace bras.
We can accessorise the look with a hat or an oversized shirt.
6/ All black
I have a gorgeous black long robe in my client wardrobe, which looks incredible on pregnant mums. I also have a black bodycon if you prefer to show your shape.
If your partner wears black too, that’s a great vibe I adore,
Seasonal Inspiration
I've put together outfit inspiration boards for each season, for family sessions - ideal for outdoor sessions.
Where to shop:
Women: Zara, Mango, Free People, H&M, & Other Stories, Next, M&S
Men: Zara, Next, Uniqlo, M&S
Kids & baby: Zara, Mango, H&M, Next, Mamas & Papas
Start your Styling
Not sure what to wear? I have a full client wardrobe available. Have a peek at it, and you are welcome to use any during your session, with 2 to 3 outfits change depending on your session length.
If you have any questions or would like my opinion on your outfits, feel free to whatsapp me (07824 362735) or email me (hello@clairedubostphotography.co.uk) and we can find together what works best for your family.