What to Wear for Your In-Home Newborn Session: A Complete Guide for the Whole Family

Welcoming a new baby into your home is one of the most beautiful and emotional moments of life. An in-home newborn photography session captures these fleeting first days in a cozy, familiar setting. When planning your session, one of the biggest questions families have is about choosing the perfect newborn session outfits: What should we wear?

The right clothing choices will ensure your photos feel timeless, cohesive, and true to your family’s unique style. In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly what to wear for your in-home newborn session—including tips for moms, dads, siblings, and, of course, the newest little star of the show.

Prioritizing Comfort and Simplicity

Your newborn session is all about capturing love, connection, and those tiny, precious details. Comfort should be your top priority when choosing outfits. Soft fabrics, neutral tones, and minimal distractions help create a natural, warm aesthetic.

Here are some general tips:

• Stick to neutral and soft pastel colors (whites, creams, beige, soft grays, blush, dusty blue). These tones keep the focus on your family and prevent distracting color casts on your baby’s delicate skin.
• Avoid bold patterns, logos, and bright colors, as they can take attention away from the moment and create visual distractions.
• Choose soft, textured fabrics like cotton, linen, or knits, which add warmth and dimension to your photos.
• Opt for simple silhouettes that allow for easy movement and comfort.

Now, let’s break down outfit ideas for each family member.

What Should Mom Wear?

Moms, this session is about capturing your love and connection with your baby. Choosing an outfit that makes you feel comfortable, beautiful, and relaxed is key.

Best Outfit Choices for Moms:

• A flowy dress or soft, oversized sweater paired with leggings or a maxi skirt creates an elegant and effortless look.
• Dresses with delicate lace, subtle embroidery, or soft textures add visual interest without overpowering the image.
• Button-down or wrap dresses are great for easy access if you’re nursing.
• If dresses aren’t your thing, a simple knit sweater and fitted jeans or leggings can be just as beautiful.

Color Suggestions:

• Ivory, beige, soft grays, blush, dusty blue, muted greens.
• Stick with solid colors or subtle textures instead of busy patterns.

What to Avoid:

• Super tight clothing that may feel restrictive.
• Bright neon colors, heavy patterns, or anything that clashes with your home decor.
• Stiff, structured fabrics that don’t allow movement.

What Should Dad Wear?

Dads should keep their outfits simple and neutral, complementing mom’s look without standing out too much.

Best Outfit Choices for Dads:

• A plain, well-fitted t-shirt or henley in a neutral tone (white, gray, beige, soft blue).
• A light, textured sweater or button-down shirt for a cozy feel.
• Khakis, well-fitted jeans, or linen pants in a soft, neutral shade.

What to Avoid:

• Bright or neon colors.
• Large logos, graphic tees, or distracting patterns.
• Wrinkled or oversized clothing—fit matters!

Pro Tip: Rolling up sleeves or layering with a cardigan can add some dimension and make the look more relaxed.

What Should Your Newborn Wear?

Newborns are perfect just as they are! Their outfits should be simple, soft, and comfortable.

Best Outfit Choices for Baby:

• A plain, snug-fitting onesie in white, cream, or pastel tones.
• A soft, neutral swaddle blanket (solid colors or subtle patterns like a gentle ribbed texture).
• A simple knit romper or footed sleeper for a classic and cozy look.
• Diaper-only shots wrapped in a soft blanket can highlight those tiny toes and fingers.

What to Avoid:

• Outfits that are too big or bulky (they can overwhelm their tiny frame).
• Bright colors or large prints.
• Scratchy fabrics that might be uncomfortable.

Pro Tip: Keep a few outfit options handy in case of spit-ups or accidents!

What Should Siblings Wear?

If older siblings are part of the session, their outfits should coordinate with the rest of the family.

Best Outfit Choices for Siblings:

• Simple dresses, rompers, or neutral-colored tops with soft pants.
• Soft, flowy dresses for girls in light pastels or earth tones.
• A henley shirt or sweater with neutral pants for boys.
• Barefoot is best for an at-home session—it keeps things relaxed!

What to Avoid:

• Super bright colors or distracting patterns.
• Large bows, hair accessories, or outfits with stiff collars.

Pro Tip: If toddlers are involved, choose something comfortable and easy to move in so they stay happy during the session.

Coordinating as a Family

The goal is for everyone’s outfits to flow together without looking too matchy-matchy. Here’s how to achieve a cohesive look:

• Pick a neutral color palette and work within that range (e.g., ivory, beige, light grays, dusty blues, blush tones).
• Mix different textures (knits, cotton, linen) to add depth to the images.
• If one person wears a pattern (like a subtle floral on mom’s dress), keep everyone else in solids.
• Avoid overly contrasting colors—soft, complementary tones work best.

Additional Tips for a Stress-Free Session

1. Lay Out Outfits the Night Before

Take a few minutes to lay out everyone’s outfits and ensure they complement each other. This will help avoid last-minute stress.

2. Keep a Backup for Baby

Newborns are known for surprise spit-ups and diaper leaks! Having an extra onesie or swaddle on hand is always a good idea.

3. Plan for Barefoot Comfort

Shoes aren’t necessary for an in-home session. Being barefoot gives a more natural, intimate feel to your photos.

4. Avoid Too Many Accessories

Simple is best. Avoid heavy jewelry, watches, or anything that might look too busy in photos.

5. Dress for the Temperature of Your Home

If it’s winter, keep cozy sweaters and layers in mind. In summer, opt for light, breathable fabrics to avoid overheating.

6. Remember—Your Comfort Matters Most

These photos are meant to capture the love and connection in your family. Feeling good in what you’re wearing will make all the difference in the final images.

Final Thoughts

Choosing outfits for your in-home newborn session doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Stick with neutral colors, soft fabrics, and simple silhouettes to create a timeless and heartwarming look. Most importantly, wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident—your love and connection will shine through in every photo.

If you have any questions about what to wear for your session, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m here to help ensure you feel your best and create images you’ll treasure forever.

Looking forward to capturing your family’s beautiful moments!

Ready to Book Your In-Home Newborn Session?

Contact me today to schedule your session and preserve these precious first days forever.