One of the most common questions I receive before a newborn session is, “What should we wear?” The good news is that dressing for a newborn session at The Cottage is simpler than you might think.
The Cottage was designed with soft, natural light and a neutral color palette in mind, which means your clothing doesn’t need to compete with the space. Instead, think comfortable, timeless, and connected. The goal is for your family’s connection and your new baby to be the focus—not the outfits.
Because spring and summer weather in the Colorado foothills can change quickly, I also recommend choosing lightweight pieces and incorporating layers that add visual interest without causing anyone to overheat.
Start with a Soft, Natural Color Palette
The Cottage photographs beautifully with muted, earthy tones that complement both the indoor and outdoor spaces.
Some of my favorite colors include:
- Cream
- Oatmeal
- Bone
- Warm beige
- Camel
- Light taupe
- Sage green
- Olive green
- Dusty blue
- Muted denim
- Soft rust
- Rose brown
- Warm gray
These colors create a cohesive, timeless look while allowing skin tones to remain the focal point.
Colors to Avoid
I recommend avoiding:
- Bright neon colors
- Bold primary colors
- Stark white
- Bright red
- Large logos
- Busy patterns
- Matching everyone exactly
Instead of matching, aim for coordinating tones and textures that feel collected and natural.
Embrace Texture
Texture photographs beautifully and instantly creates a more cinematic, cozy feel.
Look for pieces made from:
- Linen
- Gauze cotton
- Ribbed knits
- Lightweight sweaters
- Muslin
- Eyelet fabrics
- Soft cotton blends
These fabrics add dimension without feeling heavy and help create the organic, lived-in aesthetic The Cottage is known for.
What Should Mom Wear?
Comfort is key, especially during the newborn stage.
Some favorite options include:
House Dresses
A flowy midi or maxi dress in a soft neutral tone is always beautiful. Look for breathable fabrics like linen or cotton.
Lounge Sets
Coordinated knit or ribbed lounge sets photograph beautifully while allowing you to move comfortably with your baby.
Wide-Leg Linen Pants + Tank
A simple tank paired with relaxed linen pants creates a timeless look that feels effortless and elevated.
Oversized Cardigans
A lightweight cardigan can be layered over a tank, dress, or lounge set. It adds texture and warmth if clouds move in without making you feel overheated.
What Should Dad Wear?
Keep things simple and relaxed.
Great options include:
- Cream or oatmeal t-shirts
- Lightweight henleys
- Linen button-downs worn open over a tee
- Soft knit polos
- Khaki, olive, or light denim pants
Avoid athletic clothing, graphic tees, and very dark tops whenever possible.
What Should Siblings Wear?
Children tend to photograph best when they’re comfortable.
For girls:
- Simple cotton dresses
- Bloomers with oversized sweaters
- Soft rompers
- Linen sets
For boys:
- Linen shorts
- Cotton overalls
- Simple henleys
- Neutral shorts with a lightweight button-down
Bare feet work beautifully at The Cottage and help keep the overall feel relaxed and natural.
Don’t Forget Lightweight Layers
One of the unique things about spring and summer sessions in Conifer is that the temperature can shift quickly when the sun ducks behind a cloud.
Instead of heavy jackets, consider lightweight layers such as:
- Open-knit cardigans
- Linen button-down shirts
- Oversized denim jackets
- Lightweight sweaters draped over shoulders
- Soft cotton cardigans for babies
These pieces serve two purposes:
First, they help everyone stay comfortable if the temperature drops unexpectedly.
Second, they add visual depth and variety to your images without requiring a full outfit change.
A simple cardigan removed halfway through a session can instantly create a second look while maintaining a cohesive gallery.
Dressing Baby
Simple is almost always best.
Some favorite newborn options include:
- Bamboo sleepers
- Knit rompers
- Muslin onesies or kimono tops
- Neutral swaddles
Cream, oatmeal, soft brown, sage, and muted blue photograph beautifully.
Avoid clothing with large graphics, bright colors, or stiff fabrics that can overwhelm a tiny newborn.
The Goal: Comfortable, Connected, and Timeless
The most beautiful newborn photographs aren’t created by perfect outfits—they’re created by genuine connection.
Choose clothing that feels like you, prioritize comfort, and lean into soft colors, natural textures, and lightweight layers. When everyone feels comfortable, it’s easier to relax, snuggle close, and focus on what matters most: celebrating this fleeting season with your newest family member.
If you’re unsure about outfit choices, I’m always happy to help coordinate wardrobe selections before your session. I also have a client wardrobe which you can borrow from.
The second most common question I get is how to look natural in front of the camera. You can learn more about that here.
