Why I'm Loving These Dresses for Mom: Summer Session Inspiration

As a photographer who values storytelling and genuine, heartfelt moments, styling is such an essential piece of the puzzle—and it all begins with Mom. When Mom feels beautiful and confident, it shows in every image, and the rest of the family naturally follows her lead.

Today I'm sharing some of my absolute favorite dress picks for summer sessions—and I'm completely obsessed with these palettes and styles!

Neutrals & Ivory Tones

I'm always drawn to neutrals because they photograph beautifully—soft ivory and off-white (rather than stark white) are timeless and elegant. These Free People dresses have dreamy textures, romantic silhouettes, and flowy details perfect for catching movement and adding visual interest to your session. Bonus? These shades blend effortlessly with any family color palette and location.

Dusty Blues & Muted Greens

Soft blues and subtle greens are always a go-to, especially for outdoor summer sessions. They complement nature beautifully, feel fresh and airy, and photograph wonderfully. From sage and dusty blue hues to earthy olive greens, these dresses offer both softness and sophistication. Puff sleeves and delicate patterns are the perfect little details that add charm without overpowering the photos.

Warm Browns & Earthy Tones

If you've seen my mood boards, you know I adore earthy, moody shades. Browns, muted rust, and terracotta-inspired colors are warm, inviting, and effortlessly chic. These colors add richness and depth to your session—especially against golden hour backdrops—and pair beautifully with nature-inspired palettes for the entire family.

Florals & Subtle Patterns

Florals scream summertime in the best possible way, adding a romantic and whimsical touch. Delicate floral prints with subtle shades of pink, soft neutrals, or muted blues are flattering and joyful. They're versatile enough to coordinate easily with other solid family looks, and they always look stunning in photographs.

Moody Pinks & Soft Blush Tones

Soft blush, dusty rose, and mauve dresses are so flattering and photograph with warmth and softness. These shades create a subtle pop of color without overwhelming the session's aesthetic. They pair perfectly with neutrals, earthy browns, and blues, making them an easy, elegant choice.

Budget-Friendly Finds & Accessible Style

Styling your session doesn't need to break the bank. Many of these dresses (especially those

under $50 finds!) offer stunning style, comfort, and affordability. You can easily build a gorgeous look with these pieces while still mixing in items from your own wardrobe.

Where to Shop

If you're looking for these dresses, I’ve made it simple—many of these beautiful selections are linked and ready for easy shopping on my LTK page. I've chosen styles from Free People, Bohme, and Amazon—brands I trust and love for their flattering fits, textures, and beautiful colors.

Whether your session is beachside, in a blooming field, or among the summer greenery, these dresses will have you feeling gorgeous, comfortable, and perfectly styled to capture the magic of your family story.

Happy styling, friends—I can’t wait to see you in these beautiful pieces at your summer session!