Top 10 Dresses for a Summer Photoshoot

One of the hardest things to do once you have booked your session is figure out what everyone is going to wear.  My advice is to start with one piece you love and then build off of that.  I usually tell Mamas to start with themselves and find something that you feel confident, comfortable and (dare I say it) beautiful in.  I have searched some of my favorite websites for my 2019 Top 10 Dresses for a Summer Photoshoot.

1. Mauve Lace Mesh Overlay Maxi Dress by Pinkblush

This dress is great for so many reasons.  First, it comes in 15 different colors from white to mustard to burgundy and everywhere in between.  Shown here in Mauve it has great detail, airiness, and can fit a variety of different body shapes. It also incredibly flattering for my pregnant Mamas.  It is double lined so that it will not show through and will look gorgeous on a sun soaked family session.  I love this dress so much that I bought it in white for myself to wear in my baby’s newborn pictures, so if anyone wants to borrow a Large White, I have one for you! Maybe next time I’ll get the Mauve?

2. Wonder and Wow Maxi Dress by Modcloth

As a sucker for a cold shoulder and a cool print, I love this dress.  There are so many colors to pull from it to unite your families attire; a little girl in a pale pink romper, big brother in a mint polo, and Dad rocking a light blue dress shirt with sleeves rolled up would be perfection.  The fit would also be great for my body conscious Mamas.  If this dress is not your style check out Modcloth, as they have many unique ensembles.

3. Yes Please Maxi Dress by Freepeople

This dress, at first glance, looks pretty simple but it’s one of those pieces that is interesting from every angle.  I can envision a Mama with her little girl snuggling in over her shoulder, showing off the gorgeous back of this dress.  Shown here in Harvest Moon, it comes in 7 different colors like Paloma (a pale peach) or Deep Pacific (a gorgeous blue green).  I would recommend, however, that you stay away from Bright Pink as everyone in your family would have a pink color cast on their face. I also love that with proper styling, it could either be dressed down for a Bohemian/beachy vibe or dressed up for a chic city shoot.

4. Yellow Floral Crochet Open Back Hi-Low Maxi Dress by Pinkblush

Yellow not your thing? Don’t worry, it also comes in Navy.  However, I am dying for someone to wear this dress to a shoot.  This yellow color with the rest of the family dressed in violets and ivory would be killer!  And check out that carefully designed back and the gorgeous crochet detail.  Okay, I may have talked myself into buying the navy version.  This post is getting very expensive for me.  This is another one of those dresses that would be flattering on several different body types.

5. Passion Petite Wrap Dress by Anthropologie

Calling all my petite Mamas. This print is gorgeous and could coordinate with so many things.  The ruffled V-Neck is stunning and I love how the designer has added paisley to an Indian print to create this harmony.  The dress is interesting from any angle which is very important for family sessions and it’s a wrap dress so it should be super comfy. We know how I like to make you forget I am there and just play with your kids!

6. Navy Striped Ruffle Trim Maxi Dress by Pinkblush

Can you say comfortable and classy? I love this piece with the hat and heels!  Styling can go a long way in the look of your wardrobe, but I digress. This striped maxi dress with ruffle trim and pockets is a modern twist on a traditional look. I can imagine it on many of my favorite clients for an effortless style.  Did I mention that the dress has pockets?  Also, pinkblush has sales pretty regularly, so look out for discounts on all of their stuff.

7. Akasa Exclusive Multicoloured Maxi Split Beach Dress by ASOS

This dress is Declan’s favorite.  He was sure to tell me multiple times while I was creating my Pinterest board and then again while writing this post.  This beachy dress with plunging V-neck and tie back would be great for going on a creek walk or strolling by a pond with weeping willows in the background.  It is romantic, beautiful, and colorful all at the same time.  

8. Amelia Maxi Dress by Freepeople

If you haven’t been to the freepeople website you really should treat yourself, especially if you dig the Bohemian look.  I love the flow and natural look of this dress.  The material is so simple, but the design is incredibly romantic. You can button it up for more closure or flaunt a little skin.  It would be gorgeous in a sunset session walking in the tall grasses of the midwest and could basically go with anything you choose for your family to wear. The dress also has great 360 degree appeal which you know this photographer loves.

9. Kennedy Dress in Burgundy by Joyfolie

I am a sucker for a cold shoulder dress as I know a lot of you are.  This piece would be great for a city shoot or a prairie shoot.  The color is remarkably vivid and would work wonderfully with light pink and ivory as well as mustard and navy in the fall.  This faux wrap dress also has ruffles and high-low design.  

10. Genevre Dress in Rust by Joyfolie

I saved my favorite for last. 

First, I love this color for a sunset session. Second, this dress would flatter every figure and is so romantic. It could be dressed down for a Bohemian look or dressed up for a more upscale shoot. I just wish that they showed the back! While you are on the Joyfoliesite, check out all of their amazing accessories.

There you have it – 2019 Top 10 Dresses for a Summer Photoshoot. If these dresses don’t strike your fancy then you can check out my Pinterest for ideas on wardrobe pieces for Mamas or babies, things I have in my client closet, and maternity wear. Once you book with me you are sent a “What to Wear Guide” that gives you more ideas as well as my favorite places to shop for Moms, Dads, Boys, Girls, and Babies. So if wardrobe is the thing that is keeping you from capturing memories of your family, do not let it stop you anymore. I am more than happy to help. 

If you are thinking about a session with me, please email me at alisontheresephoto@gmail.com or use the let’s talklink on top. I am happy to answer any questions you may have. It is best to book your session with me about 4-6 weeks in advance (sooner if it will be a newborn session) as I can’t guarantee space, especially in Spring/Summer and Fall. *NOW booking 2019!*

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