One of the first questions I get when a mom-to-be books her maternity photos is where do I shop for those beautiful maternity dresses? The type of maternity clothes that make you still look cute and stylish even though you may not feel it. Not only does your outfit need to be chic but it has to be a dress that you feel comfortable in and can move in. That’s a big order. Knowing where to shop is key. That’s why I put together this post to help you find where to shop in New Orleans for maternity clothes.
Your second trimester is when most moms need to start looking for maternity clothes, and although you might end up wearing your favorite pair of leggings and baggy shirt around the house, there are so many online and local New Orleans stores that will help you plan for the perfect maternity dress for photos and that gorgeous baby shower outfit.
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Why Shopping for the Right Maternity Clothes Matters
During your maternity photo session you might be sitting, standing, picking up a soon-to-be sibling and hugging into your partner. Contrary to belief, the act of being still is actually less flattering on a person in photography. It’s important to be able to move freely and show off your baby bump and in doing so we will find those flattering poses. Finding the right fabric and cut of your dress or top and pants will help you feel more comfortable just being you. And in New Orleans, chances are we will be taking your photos when there is humidity. Finding a maternity dress that breathes will help you feel good and stay cool.
We also want that belly bump to be front and center, a little snug is perfect, but only around your belly. A cross-body dress that is flowing past the belly is perfect to help you move and feel comfortable. If you want a maternity dress that makes a visual impact, there are lots of options online for something fun! Here’s a favorite seen above!
Where to Shop in New Orleans for Maternity Clothes
If you love to try on before you buy, take a look at something locally and shop for a maternity outfit at one of these stores!
Peony Nola
You can find outfits for everything from your baby shower to Mardi Gras balls at this stylish boutique on Magazine St. Although they don’t specifically carry maternity clothes, several of their dresses are blousy and loose, especially during Spring and Summer. If you like trying on before buying, this is a great store to check out locally. And they have some of the most beautiful baby and kids clothes to get you ready for your new baby. For inspiration, make sure to follow Peony on Instagram, new arrivals get posted often. Follow them on Instagram here!
Trashy Diva
Do you like vintage inspired dresses in flowing fabric? I have the place for you- Trashy Diva on Magazine St. is a great place to find a unique print in a flattering style that works well for your maternity photos and beyond. Their fun and bright fabrics come in several dress styles, the caftan being the most maternity friendly. Make sure to check out their cute shoes as well. Check out the caftan dresses at Trashy Diva HERE and that gorgeous peacock dress above!
Old Navy + Loft + Torrid
Chances are, all of these stores located at the Elmwood Shopping Center are filled with dresses and tops that will work as a maternity outfit. Make sure to try on something with elastic in the waist so you can continue to fit in your dress in the later months if needed. For my plus-size mamas, take a look at Torrid, they have great dresses in midi and maxi with fabulous prints.
Target
Talk about stepping it up, Target has created a fabulous line of maternity clothes and, even better, the local stores in Clearview Mall and on the Westbank actually have most sizes in stock! This is a really great option for finding a pair of pants and top if dresses aren’t your thing. A loose linen pant or legging with a cute maternity top can be perfect for photos, and give a chance to expose your baby belly. Here’s a fabulous dress for maternity photos in a garden at Target!
How to shop for maternity clothes Online
Let’s face it, in the days of Amazon and online shopping, finding something to actually try on in a store has become challenging. Sometimes your best options are to find a maternity dress or outfit online.
A few tips for shopping for maternity clothes online.
- Take out your measuring tape. It’s easy to lean into the sizing chart and think you have it figured out, but when you look at the actual numbers you might be a surprised that a large online is really a small in the stores. Measure your basics and have them handy when you find something you like just to be sure.
- Investigate the fabric. Make sure your maternity clothes have some stretch. You want to find a fabric that is made with elastic fibers often labeled as lycra or spandex. If you find a cotton jersey with at least 3% of spandex you will have a pretty good stretch. Although 100% cotton is a beautiful natural fiber, without some synthetic fibers it will give you no stretch. With maternity and motherhood clothes, stretch will be your best friend.
- Order Two Sizes. Don’t be afraid to order two different sizes when ordering your maternity clothes online. Try on both at home and return the one that doesn’t fit or will be tight in a few weeks as your baby grows. Most online stores have easy and free return policies. There is nothing more frustrating than ordering a dress you love online and it doesn’t fit.
- Rent Your Favorite. If you don’t feel like you will use this dress outside of being pregnant, consider renting something fabulous. Two of my favorite rent sites are Nuuly and Rent the Runway. Both have specific sections for maternity clothes and options for dresses that would work pregnant or not. With Nuuly, you can subscribe month-to-month and enjoy 6 items at a time. When you are ready to take a break, simply pause or cancel your subscription. This is a great way to take a chance on a designer or brand.
A few of my favorite online maternity clothes options include
Storq
Pink Blush Maternity
Amazon Maternity
Moms The Word
Nothing Fits But
Finding the right outfit for your maternity photos in New Orleans can be a lot of fun. Pregnancy seems to take forever, but before you know it you will be holding your little baby and saying “did that just happen!” Let’s celebrate your baby bump and incredible body that is creating life! There are so many great options out there for a stylish, chic and comfortable maternity dress or outfit that will be perfect for your maternity photos.
Don’t be afraid to shop online with the tips above or go spend a fun afternoon popping in the local New Orleans stores that carry maternity clothes or loose dresses that might work for your close up. And let me know where you like to shop for maternity outfits in New Orleans!
And when you are ready, make sure to reach out to schedule your maternity photos in New Orleans. You can check out How to Rock your Maternity Photos and Nursery Trends for your Baby’s Room.
Reach out to Jennifer to schedule your upcoming photos at mail@twirlphotography.com or find out more about what a New Orleans lifestyle newborn and maternity session is like here! I can’t wait to see what you wear!
