Stay Warm During Your Winter Session

    You and your photographer have an image in mind, and it’s wonderful. You both envision a blanket of white snow and neutral skies that contrast a striking jewel-colored gown. That’s a beautiful theme, and we love the idea too. In fact, we are cheering you on; but, there are a few hiccups we’ve come across with this plan that you might not have thought about. With that, here are the tricks we’ve learned to make your winter maternity photo session a smooth run.

    How you feel will affect your photos. If you embody confidence, you’ll shine in your images. If you are uncomfortable, it’s easy to see in the final product. Some of that can be handled with a good photographer and careful planning; but, comfort can also come from the environment. So, if you’re looking to brave the cold weather, we suggest styling your look to stay warm.

    One way to stay warm is with a fitted Bolero jacket. Taking your gorgeous gown and transforming it into a full-coverage show-stopper is an easy and stylish way to keep the cold at bay. Bolero jackets come in a variety of sleeve sizes, from short to long, and are subtle enough not to take over your gown’s unique aesthetic. Bolero jackets are a comfortable and efficient add-on. They are the sauce to your spaghetti; the cream cheese to your bagel. They don’t become the focus of your look, but they keep you warm while you and your gown take center stage. The best part: A Bolero jacket just took your sleeveless gown, and made it into a transforming multi-wear piece to match any season. A look that transitions is more bang for your buck, and who isn’t happy about that?

     Let’s talk bold styling. We don’t want your images to come out with crazed eyes and a stiff smile as hypothermia joins your session, so look at the weather and plan accordingly. It’s a bone-chilling season, and a fur jacket or vest can ward off the sub-zero winds. Better than that, fur add-ons show your strong personality and fearless fashion choices. While some seek basics, others like that ‘WOW’ feature. A fur vest or jacket is a great way to showcase the outgoing aspect of yourself, while keeping you oh-so-very warm.

    Fur is a perfect avenue to explore to showcase your individuality; take that to another level with a fur cape, and now you’ve stepped into a fantasy. A fur cape with a hood plays to the imagination, and tells a story in the image. Not only is this style one of the best ways to stay toasty warm (ask any fairytale elf), a fur-cape presents an ethereal look and brings out a mysterious allure in the wearer.

    Speaking of being wrapped in a cocoon of coziness as the harsh winter breeze chills your face…

    There’s nothing better than a warm blanket on a cool night. So, why can’t that be part of your look? It can. It’s all about the draped look these days, and a textured blanket can add the comfortable warmth you need. We aren’t talking about the old rag you keep on your couch just in case your feet get cold, we’re talking yards of cascading luxury with textures that complement your sleek gown. If you’re one of those gals that finds true happiness wrapped in a blanket, then take that personality trait into your session. If texture isn’t your thing, and contrast is, look for a patterned blanket instead. The right pattern can enhance the bold colors of your gown, and mirror your carefully selected backdrop. Remember, this whole shenanigan is about you, so pay homage to your burrow-loving identity with a blanket.

    Can we talk about winter without mentioning scarves? No, and I wouldn’t want to anyway. A scarf can add atouch of warmth, and be styled in endless ways. Whether you let it hang from your shoulders, or master an intricate knot, a scarf can accentuate your look by adding a fashionable touch to your session. Choose a scarf that brings you warmth, and plays on the hue of your gown. It can pop with contrast, or be a different shade of your dress. Try patterns, or solids, just let the scarf mirror your personality.

    So far, we’ve discussed accent pieces that can provide warmth while not overly changing the look of your gown; but, there are also more beautifully drastic options. Keep in mind, being willing to completely change your look is often where you will find glittering gold.

    A brilliant satin slip can take a dress from simply elegant to impactful brilliance. This full-coverage styling choice can be placed underneath flowing chiffon fabric, and will boost the drama of your photos. A satin slip will also keep the frosty air off your legs, so strained shivers won’t interrupt that beautiful smile.

    You can take that ideal even further by layering your favorite gowns. This isn’t like your childhood snow suit over your jeans and sweater, tugged snugly underneath a winter’s coat. I’m saying purposeful matches that enhance the best parts of you and your gowns. Layering to accentuate and provide warmth is a classic technique, for good reason. The layering effect creates a constructed elegance through silhouette illusions. That full split gown combined with a contrasting gown layers draws the eye to the center of your image; while uniform color layers showcase a soft ethereal appeal. Through it all, your smile is real, because your teeth won’t be chattering with each burst of wind against your body.

    Now, if you’re a woman that likes to keep it simple, you might shy away from adding more to your look. That takes us back to the initial gown choice. When you are browsing through your options, and you find that perfect look, here is where to consider the weather. The simple decision of an on-the-shoulder option might save you from frostbite at your photography session. Plus, the on-the-shoulder options are a customization that doesn’t aggressively change the look of the gown you fell in love with; this way, you don’t have to change your entire style aesthetic to match the short seasons. It’s a small adjustment with a big payoff.

    Don’t forget to have fun out there. You want to look back at your pictures with happy memories, not remember the time you were hospitalized from cold weather.

    ‘Tis the season, keep warm and jolly!

Check out the Cold Weather Flash Sale

15% off Cold Weather Favorites Collection

PLUS Free Rush Processing and FREE Shipping on orders over $150

NOTE | Free Rush Processing only applies to items from the Cold Weather Collection. If ordered with additional items from the store with longer processing times, they will not ship separately. Please plan accordingly.

Offer Ends 1.28.2018 at 11:59pm MST | Free shipping on US orders only | CAN be combined with other discounts

Photos Courtesy of Amber Fite Photography | Green Tangerine Photography | Lori Dorman Photography | Vic & Marie Photography | Julie Newel Photography | Jennifer Reynolds Photography | Melissa Mullins Photography | Kiersten Belnap Photography | Pics by Pat | Miranda Helmuth Photography