If you’re like me and thought a wagon would be perfect for Disney—think again. Disney doesn’t allow wagons in the parks, which left me scrambling for alternatives. Our modular stroller? Way too bulky and not exactly travel-friendly. The lightweight travel stroller? Too small on storage and not nearly as comfy for the kids. Renting one at Disney? Hard pass. What I needed was something that balanced it all: easy to travel with, spacious enough to fit all our essentials, and comfortable for my toddlers. That’s when I found Zoe Baby.

With two toddlers, we chose the Zoe Twin—and it’s easy to see why it’s a must-have for Disney adventures. With its perfect balance of size, storage, and comfort, it handles the demands of a busy day at the parks with ease. Whether it’s gliding through crowds, providing shade and comfort for the kids, or offering plenty of space for all your essentials, this stroller truly has it all. Simply put, it’s designed to make your Disney experience smoother, leaving you more time to enjoy the magic.

Zoe – The Twin Stroller

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Zoe Twin Essentials Bundle

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Tips for Taking a Stroller to Disney

After spending two full days in the parks with two toddlers, I picked up some stroller-specific wisdom that I wish I’d known ahead of time. So here it is: everything you need to know about taking a stroller to Disney—and why the Zoe made it all way easier.

1. Disney Has Strict Stroller Size Guidelines

Disney’s stroller rules are no joke. If your stroller’s too wide or bulky, it’s not getting through the gates. Thankfully, the Zoe Twin fits perfectly within Disney’s stroller size guidelines—and it’s impressively compact for a double. It zipped through crowded paths, fit in tight transportation lines, and slid through doorways without a problem. You have to break down your stroller on buses and monorails, and with the Zoe, that was a total breeze. We were in and out of transportation without making a scene (which is a parenting win at Disney, if you ask me).

2. Comfort is Non-Negotiable (For Them and For You)

Disney days are long. There’s walking, waiting, and walking some more. The Zoe Twin gave both kids a shaded, cushioned place to rest—and actually nap—which I didn’t think would happen with all the excitement. The seats recline almost fully, and the canopies are long enough to provide full coverage, keeping them cool and shielded from the sun. Everyone stayed cool and comfortable even during that post-lunch meltdown window. And in Florida, where rain is practically a given, the Zoe rain cover kept them completely dry. And for me, the leather handle made a big difference. It’s incredibly comfortable to grip, even after a long day of pushing them around the parks.

3. Skip the Fights—Side-by-Side Is the Way to Go

Disney is full of things to look at, point to, and loudly narrate—and when both kids can sit side-by-side, no one misses a moment. With the Zoe Twin, my toddlers had the same view of the parades, characters, churro stands—you get it. And unlike modular strollers where one kid gets the “backseat,” they could chat, laugh, and spot Mickey at the same time. Bonus? No kicking the back of the sibling’s seat out of boredom or fighting over who gets the “good spot.” Side-by-side kept the peace and doubled the fun.

4. You’ll Need More Storage Than You Think

When you’re packing for a day at Disney with toddlers, the gear and supplies can pile up quickly—snacks, water bottles, sunscreen, extra outfits, and of course, the inevitable souvenirs. Thankfully, the Zoe Twin offers surprisingly spacious underseat baskets, and if you opt for the Essential Bundle (trust me, you’ll want to), you get two extra mesh side bags that strap on for even more storage. I was able to carry everything we needed without worrying about running out of space for a Mickey plush or bubble wand. And let’s be real, what mom doesn’t love a good parent organizer? The extra storage in the Twin was incredibly helpful, keeping everything within easy reach and neatly tucked away, so I could focus on enjoying the day instead of digging for snacks or sunscreen.

5. Make Airport Travel Easier on Your Way to Disney

If you’re flying to Disney from out of state, the journey can feel like an adventure in itself. The Zoe Twin makes the whole process much easier. It folds up quickly and effortlessly, and the Essential Bundle comes with a handy travel bag to protect it during gate check. The bag doubles as a backpack, so you can throw it over your shoulders and keep your hands free for everything else.

6. Bonus Tip: Don’t Lose Your Stroller in the Sea of Look-Alikes

At Disney, strollers aren’t allowed in ride queues or most food spots. Instead, you’ll park in designated stroller areas—along with everyone else. And yes, it’s as chaotic as it sounds. Do yourself a huge favor and make yours stand out. We added a cute, personalized sign to ours, and it saved us from a ton of “where did we park this thing?” moments. Bright ribbon, a bold luggage tag, anything eye-catching will work. The goal: spot it fast and keep it moving.

At the end of the day, a Disney vacation with little ones is all about comfort and convenience. The Zoe stroller delivers both in spades. It’s light, it’s compact, it’s comfortable, and it’s built for the hustle and bustle of Disney World. If you’re heading to the parks with kids, this is definitely a stroller you’ll want to have by your side.

When my kids were little, I knew everything that was going on with them — even the tiny, inconsequential stuff. What they ate for lunch, who they played with, which teacher reminded them of a Muppet (yes, really), what they’d constructed in their Minecraft world that day. I didn’t even have to ask. And to be honest, there were times when I wished I had a break from all their information overload.

Then, slowly, the curtain closed. And ironically, now that they’re teenagers, I find myself practically begging for even the littlest detail. “How was school?” I ask, knowing full well the answer will be “fine” — or worse, a dismissive shrug. Even when I switch up my phrasing or wait for the “right” moment (in the car, for example), sometimes I get a wall of silence. Other times I get lucky and stumble onto a real, if fleeting, moment of connection. But I never know what made the difference.

That’s exactly why Melinda Wenner Moyer’s new book, Hello, Cruel World: Science-Based Strategies for Raising Terrific Kids in Terrifying Times, hit such a nerve — especially her simple but profound advice: “Listen more than you lecture.”

At a recent SK Conversations event with Melinda, SheKnows Editor-in-Chief Erika Janes, and members of our SheKnows Teen Council, we explored what that really looks like — and what it takes to build better communication with teens who are not only juggling academic and social pressures, but navigating a world that often feels overwhelming.

Here’s what the experts (and the teens themselves) want parents to understand.

The Real Secret to Teen Communication? Timing, Tone, and Trust.

Let’s start with this refreshing honesty from Juliet, a 17-year-old member of our Teen Council: “I love a good dinner with my parents. Who doesn’t?”

If that made you breathe a small sigh of relief, well, me too. Despite the stereotype of teens wanting nothing to do with their families, our panelists made it clear: They don’t mind talking. They just mind how we do it.

“I’d say the main thing is sometimes timing,” said 17-year-old Greta. “I’ll be leaving the house, and my parents will suddenly remember a really important question they have to ask. … You’re really going to get the best answer if you ask at the right time.”

Ajani, 18, agreed — and shared his mother’s solution. “My mom has started asking me, ‘Do you feel comfortable talking about this right now?’”

This checks out with what Melinda emphasized in her research: Listening — truly listening — is more powerful than any script. It builds trust. It opens doors. And it encourages teens to talk more in the long run, even when they’re not prompted.

“Research shows that when people feel heard, they become more open-minded, more intellectually humble,” she explained. When you feel safe and truly listened to, she explained, your brain opens up — and that goes for teens too. That’s a powerful frame shift, because while it’s tempting to think parenting teens means making them listen to us, the real key might be us learning to listen to them first.

What Teens Really Want (Hint: It’s Not a TED Talk at the Dinner Table)

The truth is, most teens aren’t resisting conversation; they’re resisting control. And that distinction matters.

Greta admits that even though she isn’t a parent, she understands where parents are coming from — but she also wants parents to understand that sometimes the best thing they can do is give their teens space to make their own decisions … even if that sometimes means screwing up a little bit.

“It could probably be a little hard to see your kids make mistakes or get hurt, but I really do think that when I have, it’s made me a better person and it’s helped me grow,” she said. “And I think it’s really important to let us have our time … let us be able to make our own decisions without guidance sometimes.”

Juliet echoed that: “I kind of drifted apart from [my parents] when I was like 14, which I feel like is sort of natural. I think that’s just part of growing up. [But] as I’ve gotten older – 16, 17 — I’ve kind of drifted back to them,” she said. And while she doesn’t want her folks to be more friends than parents, she does prefer for them to talk to her from a place of connection rather than control — loosening that strict “I am the parent and you are the child” mentality we can so often find ourselves in.

“I like when we just talk, when they tell me stories from when they were my age. Some people don’t like that, but I do,” she said. “Just connecting with your child, seeing what interests your child and what interests you, and just sort of finding common ground.”

Rather than formal “check-ins” or parental interrogations (those tend to land about as well as surprise math pop quizzes), the moments of casual connection are where the best bonds are formed.

Melinda’s Rule: “Listen More Than You Lecture”

Melinda’s mantra isn’t about letting teens run wild; it’s about mutual respect. So much of our culture trains us to lecture, but when we stop and listen, we actually make more headway — with discipline, with connection, with everything. Teens who feel heard are more cooperative, more curious, more likely to admit when they’ve messed up, and more likely to seek help.

Even tough topics like screen time or mental health become more navigable when parents come from a place of curiosity rather than control.

When in Doubt, Delay the Deep Talk

If your teen just walked through the door or is midway through their third episode of whatever TV series they’re binge-watching this week, it might not be the moment for a heavy chat about grades or college. The topic is not going to be any less important later, when your kid’s had time for a breather … and it will most likely be much more well-received. Just take it from Ajani, who said his mom’s approach of circling back to a topic is “a super great strategy.”

“I feel like giving your child a little bit of space and then coming back to them has been really impactful for me throughout growing up,” he said.

And as Melinda reminded us, giving kids space doesn’t mean giving up. “Respecting their boundaries teaches them to respect others’ boundaries — and their own.”

The Payoff Is Real

When teens feel heard and respected, they open up. They reflect more. And sometimes they even — gasp! — initiate conversations on their own. Sometimes it takes a lot of patience and diligence on our end as parents, and maturity on their end as kids, so even if yours are still resistant, there’s light at the end of the tunnel once they get higher up in the teen years.

“As I’ve gotten older, certain things have not really gotten on my nerves anymore,” said Ajani. “At one point, I would be upset about my parents asking me about my day, but I feel like now there’s nothing wrong with that.”

Talk to them like people. Connect with what they care about. And don’t forget that they still like you — even if they don’t always act like it — so keep showing up.

TL;DR: How to Talk So Your Teen Will Talk

As much as it can feel like parenting teens means constantly walking a tightrope between staying close and letting go, Melinda’s advice — and our Teen Council’s candor — offered a welcome reminder (and, OK, a little bit of relief): They do want to talk. They just want to be heard first.

And hey, maybe that’s the real “talking point” we need to remember.

The young royal, who turned 10 last month, is expected to have a busy summer holiday after wrapping up her school year in the coming weeks. The first event on her agenda will be Trooping the Cloud on June 14, per Hello! Magazine. As mom, Kate has been protective over her three children, including sons Prince George, 11, and Prince Louis, 7, so she only wants them to step into the spotlight when they are ready.

It’s why a palace insider described Charlotte to People as “a strong character” who is “almost wise beyond her years.” That calm presence that royal fans consistently witness is “truly her personality — it’s not forced,” per childrenswear designer Amaia Arrieta.

“She looks very confident and at ease with herself and the environment she’s in,” she told the media outlet. “The maturity that comes with that responsibility—she seems to nail it every time.”

It’s why tennis fans are likely to see Princess Charlotte back at Wimbledon in July with her older brother to support their mother’s royal patronage of the All England Lawn Tennis Club. Charlotte handled meeting Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz like a pro last summer, so it wouldn’t be out of the ordinary to see more moments like that this summer.

Her leadership skills were noticed early on with her late great-grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, pointing out that Charlotte had great confidence, even as a little girl.

“The queen has joked that at home, even at Buckingham Palace, Charlotte rules the roost. And I think that very much is the feeling amongst the Cambridges,” royal expert Katie Nicholl told Entertainment Tonight in September 2019. “Prince George may be the eldest child, but I think it’s Charlotte who calls the shots and has everyone running rings around her.”

Still, William and Kate are making sure Charlotte and her siblings experience as normal a childhood as they can. That means there will be plenty of downtime at their country home at Anmer Hall in Norfolk, England, and the royal family retreat to Balmoral Castle in Scotland in August.

No matter what the summer of 2025 brings, Princess Charlotte appears to be ready.

Before you go, click here to see our favorite Kate Middleton mommy moments!

On the June 5 episode of the Not Gonna Lie With Kylie Kelcie podcast, Bindi shared how her younger brother Robert, 21, embodies the spirit of their dad and shares it with his niece. 

“He is such a good uncle,” gushed the 26-year-old mom of one. “We actually call him a ‘funcle’ as well. As Grace has grown up, she just gets more and more excited to go on Uncle Robert adventures because, you know, he kind of like pushes the limits a little.”

“He does fun things and exciting things, and so she loves it,” she continued. “He’s so present with her which I love so much. When we were growing up as kids, me and Robert, it was very similar with Dad. He would do the same thing with us where he would pick us up and be like, ‘OK, we are going to hike up this mountain while we’re heading to the Simpson Desert to research fear snakes.’ 

As kids, Bindi and Robert would happily follow Steve, who was “such an adventurer” — a trait that she also sees in her brother. 

“I see that he is so similar to dad and I’m really glad that Grace is gonna have that energy in her life like she would’ve had from dad,” she added. It’s truly a tissue-grabbing moment because Steve lives on through his only son. 

Bindi and her husband, Chandler Powell, are raising Grace to know all about her late grandfather even though he passed in 2006 at the age of 44. They are both able to see flashes of the late conservationist in their daughter. 

“I see so much of dad and our beautiful daughter Grace,” Bindi told E! News in May 2024. “She has so much fiery, passionate energy about her. She just is a determined woman, and she never stops moving… She thinks that it’s her job to make all the make sure all the animals are cared for. She is the kindest and most beautiful soul while also having this fiery energy that’s like dad and I love it. I love it so much.”

From the sounds of it, Grace is ready to run the Australian Zoo even as a preschooler, and that would make her grandfather proud.

Before you go, click here to see which celebrity kids lost their parents too soon. 

Simpson celebrated Maxwell’s graduation from the sixth grade on June 3 with a sweet mother-daughter Instagram selfie. The golden light of the day shined bright on the twinning family members. Simpson looked radiant with her long, blonde locks gently framing her face while Maxwell adorably made a funny face. 

“Let the good times roll into the 7th grade my beautiful Maxwell Drew 🎓✨💛,” wrote the proud mom in the caption. 

Simpson, who shares Maxwell, son Ace, 11, and daughter Birdie, 6, with estranged husband Eric Johnson, often speaks about how motherhood shaped her adult life, especially when it comes to body image. 

“Raising Maxwell makes me realize that I don’t want her to see me beat myself up for things like food choices or numbers on a scale,” she told People in 2013. “Those things don’t determine who we are and instead make us feel terrible about ourselves I want her to know her value, rather than spending her energy fighting negative voices from within.”

The 44-year-old singer praised her teen daughter for being “a leader, a doer, a protector, a light, a determined force, a lover of life, a goofball, a treasure, a creative, a care bear, a trusted wise old soul” in a May 11 Mother’s Day post. She continued, “Maxwell is indeed a drama free intuitive feelin’ empath. She is an inspiration to all who know her, follow her and confide in her.”

Simpson revealed that her mother, Tina, treated Maxwell to a Parisian trip in honor of her 13th birthday on May 1. 

“3 generations 3 connected hearts 3 spirit-filled souls 3 women who smile, laugh, and shine brighter through it all ✨💛💛💛✨,” gushed the “I Wanna Love You Forever” singer. “It is official…I AM THE MOTHER OF A TEENAGER, and I LOVE IT.”

Maxwell is one lucky teen to have Simpson as a mom!

Before you go, click here to see which daughters who look just like their famous moms. 

Malia made her Sundance Film Festival debut in January with the short film, The Heart. While the movie was well-received, fans were curious about the notable name change: “Malia Ann.” Now, Michelle is breaking her silence on the June 2 episode of the Sibling Revelry podcast, hosted by Kate and Oliver Hudson.

With her usual sense of humor, Michelle told the celebrity brother and sister, “Malia, who started in film—I mean, her first project—she took off her last name. And we’re like, ‘They’re still gonna know it’s you, sweetie.’ But we get it.”

Mom understands that Malia and younger sister, Sasha, 23, want their “own identity” and “own life” that is separate from their parents’ White House careers.

“They are young adult women, but they definitely went through a period in their teen years where it was the push away … [where] you’re trying to distinguish yourself,” Michelle added.

She revealed that Malia and Sasha are “very sensitive” to the “nepo baby” label that is often branded on kids with very famous parents. She knows her children “want to be their own people” and “not mom and dad hooking them up.”

“I mean, it is very important for my kids to feel like they’ve earned what they are getting in the world, and they don’t want people to assume that they don’t work hard, that they’re just naturally, just handed things,” she confirmed.

Malia, who recently directed a Nike commercial starring WNBA star A’ja Wilson, received rave reviews from Donald Glover in March 2022 after she wrote for his Prime Video show, Swarm.

He described her as “an amazingly talented person” to Vanity Fair, noting that she is “really focused, and she’s working really hard.”

It remains to be seen whether Malia will continue to use her middle name for Hollywood, but Michelle knows that the Obama moniker carries a heavy weight in the spotlight.

Before you go, click here to see the best photos of Malia Obama.

The teenage summer job: it’s an American rite of passage that once seemed inevitable, but now feels more optional than ever. In an age of competitive college applications, AP class overloads, and year-round sports schedules, many parents find themselves wondering: Should teens even have jobs anymore? Or is that idea just a dusty relic of our own teenage years — back when the only summer goal was to make enough money for gas, movie tickets, and Taco Bell?

The answer, like practically all other parenting decisions, is: it depends.

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to teen employment. Some teenagers thrive with the structure and responsibility of a job. Others are already stretched to their limits with academics, extracurriculars, and mental health challenges. But as college admissions become more competitive and the job market tighter than ever, some families are rethinking the value of a paycheck and what it teaches beyond money.

So let’s break it down — the good, the bad, and the unexpectedly beneficial — with help from some career experts who know exactly what teens stand to gain (or lose) from clocking in.

The Resume Builder That Doesn’t Feel Like Homework

It’s no secret that college admissions and early job markets are increasingly competitive. That’s why Sam DeMase, a career expert at ZipRecruiter, believes summer jobs are more relevant than ever. “The job market is competitive, so securing a new role has become increasingly difficult for job seekers. That’s why standing out to employers is key,” she tells SheKnows. “When building a resume, internships, summer jobs, and volunteer work are all great sources to pull from. While summer jobs won’t guarantee future employment, they can provide teens with new, tangible skills that strengthen their resume and boost their college applications.”

DeMase also notes that these experiences are powerful self-discovery tools. “Taking on a summer job helps teens get an idea of what they’re good at and interested in pursuing later on. Trying different part-time jobs such as retail or customer service builds confidence and can ignite passion for a future career.”

Seb Morgan, Senior Career Expert at CV Genius, agrees — and emphasizes how early work experience offers concrete proof of important soft skills. “Each summer job can add to your resume is potential hard evidence of your reliability, motivation, and time management — qualities that employers look for when they review applications for teen jobs, internships, and entry level positions,” he explains. Especially in industries like marketing, customer service, or retail, Morgan says, enthusiasm and accountability matter more than technical knowledge.

And these early roles don’t just build resumes; they build resilience. Teens learn how to deal with disappointment (like not getting hired at their first pick), navigate tricky customer interactions, and adapt to different leadership styles. They also learn the importance of balancing work with rest — a lesson that’s crucial for lifelong burnout prevention.

A Crash Course in Life Skills

Whether it’s flipping burgers, lifeguarding at the local pool, or babysitting for neighbors, summer jobs give teens something school doesn’t always provide: a chance to navigate the real world.

From resolving customer complaints to juggling a weekly schedule, a part-time job exposes teens to the kind of responsibility that no worksheet can teach. They’ll learn to manage money, advocate for themselves, show up on time, and work alongside people they might not necessarily like. These are skills that translate to adulthood in a way no classroom can replicate.

Laurie Kopp Weingarten, President and CEO of One-Stop College Counseling, has seen teens explore a wide variety of jobs. “Is there a ‘perfect job’ for a teenager? There’s no ‘best job’ because it depends on the student, their personality, and their goals,” she says. “We’ve had students tutor at learning centers, work as busboys/hostesses/waitstaff. Some earn their Red Cross Lifeguarding Certification or Water Safety Instructor Certification and work at a pool, while others secure their Umpire Certification and work baseball games. Many of our teens have been employed at fast food restaurants, clothing stores, libraries, historical villages, dance studios, and amusement parks. And quite a few have even started their own businesses!”

Of course, the right job isn’t just about the duties — it’s also about the hours. “It’s important that they choose a job where the hours are manageable,” Weingarten advises. “We had one 16-year-old commit to working 60 hours per week during the summer — and she ended up hating the work. We typically suggest 20-40 hours per week during the summer (and no more than 10 hours per week during the school year, as academics should be the priority).”

Parents should also consider how much support their teen will need. Younger teens may require help filling out applications, preparing for interviews, and setting boundaries with managers. You might be coaching them through how to ask for a day off or what to do if a coworker makes them uncomfortable. These micro-moments are part of the big picture: raising an independent adult who knows how to advocate for themselves.

The Flip Side: What to Watch For

While a job can be a growth opportunity, it’s not without drawbacks. If your teen is already overwhelmed by academic pressure, mental health struggles, or extracurricular commitments, adding a job might do more harm than good. Some teens may feel pressure to work more hours than they can handle or to stay in a job that’s toxic simply because they feel like they can’t quit.

That’s why parental involvement — not micromanagement, but guidance — matters. Talk with your teen regularly about how they’re feeling at work. Do they dread their shifts or come home proud of what they accomplished? Are they managing their time well, or do they seem more tired and irritable than usual?

Watch for red flags like mood changes, complaints about unfair treatment, or declining grades. It’s okay to pull back, re-evaluate, and remind your teen that quitting a job (gracefully) is also a legitimate and valuable life skill.

Beyond the Paycheck: Other Meaningful Options

Some teens simply aren’t interested in working — and that’s okay, too. There are plenty of meaningful ways for them to spend the summer that still build character, skills, and self-awareness.

Maybe they want to volunteer, explore a creative hobby, attend academic enrichment programs, or build something entrepreneurial. Maybe they’re creating digital art, learning to code, or babysitting for family. Just because it doesn’t come with a W-2 doesn’t mean it’s not preparing them for adulthood.

The key is purpose. As long as your teen is spending their time doing something that stretches them — intellectually, socially, creatively — they’re on the right track. There’s no single path to becoming a capable, independent adult.

Final Thoughts: It’s About the Bigger Picture

A summer job won’t make or break your teen’s future. But it can be a powerful stepping stone.

It can help them understand who they are, what they enjoy, and how to navigate responsibility. It can provide a sense of independence, a boost to their resume, and even clarity on what they don’t want to do.

So the question isn’t just should teens have jobs. The question is: What kind of experience will serve this particular teen best right now? When you start from that place — and trust their instincts as much as your own — the answer usually becomes pretty clear.

In the video above, Real Housewives of Atlanta star participated in SheKnows’ Parents Tell All and dished all about life with her boys, 15-year-old Ayden and 12-year-old Dylan.

Parks has met her match with her “opinionated” boys who weigh in on all aspects of her life, particularly her youngest son, who she says inherited her “sharp tongue.”

“The hardest part of having a tween and a teenager is basically they’re so opinionated, they know everything, but absolutely know nothing,” she told us. “And so they’re always continuously challenging you or asking questions, and that’s these new age kids, because we didn’t do that when I was growing up.”

Parks, who split from her sons’ father, Apollo Nida, in 2017 after eight years of marriage, says her boys also don’t hesitate to speak their minds when it comes to who she dates.

“The oldest one is more interested in what the people look like,” she said. “The youngest is more interested in what their bank account looks like.”

“The youngest, he’s like, ‘What kind of car do they have? Do they have a plane? What can they do for us?’ The oldest is like, ‘Is he attractive? Does he have muscles?’ You know, like one wants Fabio, the other wants, I don’t know, Jeff Bezos.”

That said, Parks isn’t taking her sons’ opinions too seriously, telling Stylecaster in a May 25 interview that she’s feeling “free” since returning to RHOA single, eight years after fans last saw her on the show.

“Well, when you first saw me, I was married to a person who was very controlling,” Parks said. “Now, I’m free to be who I am, and I don’t have to consider my partner. I’m single, satisfied, and successful. I can do what I want, and I don’t have to worry about anyone else’s opinions.”

Before you go, click here to see the best reality TV shows on right now.

In the few months leading up to childbirth, you may find yourself wanting to capture every last bit of your bump era on camera. Rather than stick to just selfies, many expecting mamas book a maternity photoshoot to encapsulate these last moments with their growing baby. But just as identifying the best maternity clothes for everyday wear can be challenging, finding your dream maternity photoshoot dress can take some time, too.

Our Top 10 Maternity Photoshoot Dresses at a Glance

Best Overall: Angel Maternity Baby Shower Ruffle Sleeve Maternity Dress, $70
Best Smocked Dress: Ingrid & Isabel Maternity Selma Smocked Dress, $128
Best for Wearing After Pregnancy: Hill House Home, Ellie Nap Dress, $178
Best Statement Dress: Dedysler, Maternity Gown, $73
Best for Showing Off Bump: YnimioAOX, Off-Shoulder Strapless Dress, $21 (originally $28)
Best Black Dress: Quince Recycled Knit Maternity Midi Dress, $50
Best Long-Sleeve: Bumpsuit, The Monica Dress, $155
Best on Amazon: Pumiey Women’s Square Neck Cap Sleeve Maxi Bodycon Dress, $33
Best Ribbed: H&M Mama Ribbed Viscose Dress, $40
Best Floral: Petal & Pup Madilyn Maxi Dress, $119

What a Stylist Recommends to Wear to a Maternity Photoshoot

There are a few things to consider when shopping for a maternity photoshoot dress, the first being what time of year you’re taking said photos. Think warm for fall and winter, cool for summer, and somewhere in between for spring, depending on where you live. You want to dress accordingly for the weather, specifically if your vision includes outdoor snapshots.

Speaking of vision, what do you want your photos to look like? Do you have a setting (i.e. indoor or outdoor, beach or park) or a vibe (traditional or modern, romantic or whimsical) in mind?  These key details will help set the tone as you shop as they widdle down your options to a niche look.

Regarding the actual dress, Stitch Fix M.O.M Stylist Jillian Obarski tells SheKnows that fit and fabrication should be top of mind. She often suggests clients looking for styles with an empire waist, which cinches right under the bust, highlights the smallest part of your torso and provides plenty of room for your growing bump. But, if you’re opting for a bump-friendly, non-maternity dress, Obarski recommends sticking with styles like wrap dresses, A-line dresses, and maxi dresses. Stretchy materials, she says, are also key – think jersey or spandex blends that hug your curves and highlight your bump.

Lastly, your maternity photoshoot dress should make you feel good, inside and out. Dressing comfortably should be the goal throughout your pregnancy (when mama is at ease, so is baby!), but this is especially vital during your maternity photoshoot. You want to associate the experience with fond memories rather than with how the fabric of your dress was too restrictive, heavy, or itchy.

Our mission at SheKnows is to empower and inspire women, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Nordstrom is a SheKnows sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

Experts in This Article

Jillian Obarski: Stitch Fix M.O.M Stylist

Best Maternity Photoshoot Dresses

BEST OVERALL

Angel Maternity Baby Shower Ruffle Sleeve Maternity Dress

$70

Buy Now

“As someone who is currently pregnant and planning their maternity photoshoot, I’m not looking to spend a lot of money. It’s a one-time event, so I’m not treating this as an investment piece or part of my capsule wardrobe. I just want something elegant, something that stands out, and something that showcases my bump. And something that’s 2025 economy-friendly,” Vaynshteyn says.

This dress offers enough stretch for comfort, and the fabric is breathable, so you won’t have to worry about sweating through it during a summer or early fall photoshoot.

Sizes available: XXS-2XL
Colors: 3
Material: Textured light fabric

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BEST SMOCKED DRESS

Ingrid & Isabel Maternity Selma Smocked Dress

$128.00

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Ingrid & Isabel’s Ripe Maternity Selma Smocked Dress comes in two colors – Pink Multi and Pale Blue – perfect for maternity photoshoots. We love that the dress is dainty and romantic, with flutter sleeves that can be worn on or off the shoulder, and a flirty hem. The dress boasts a bodycon fit, hugs the figure, and accentuates your growing bump. But unlike other form-fitting dresses, this number is smocked from top to bottom, so the material is comfortable with a lot of give.

Sizes available: XS – XL
Colors: 2 (Pink Multi, Pale Blue)
Material: 100% viscose

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BEST FOR REWEARING AFTER PREGNANCY

Hill House Home Ellie Nap Dress

$178

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“One of my go-to special occasion dresses is my Ellie Nap Dress by Hill House Home,” says Gina Vaynshteyn, senior commerce director. “It’s splurge-y, but the beauty of it is that it’ll likely fit you (and look good—that’s always the catch!) at nine months as well post-pregnancy (including right after). I’m nearing eight months, and my Ellie looks really pretty and fits beautifully, and it’s a dress I used to wear a ton before getting pregnant.”

The dress’s bodice is elastic and has really generous stretch, while the tiered skirt is quite billow-y. On the Hill House website, it’s even labeled as being “pregnancy and breastfeeding-friendly” due to its construction, as well as its soft fabric. Another nice thing about it, is thanks to the smocking and gentle material, you can likely wear this sans bra, which, if you’re pregnant, is a god-send for that sore bust.

The design is also just really pretty, and really timeless—it went viral in 2020 (and continues to be a best-seller) for a good reason! And whether you wear it on your maternity shoot, baby shower, or to work, just keep in mind that, true to its name, it does make for an excellent nap uniform.

Sizes available: XXXS-XXXL
Colors: 33
Material: 45% Rayon, 35% Tencel, 20% Nylon

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BEST STATEMENT

Dedysler Maternity Gown

$73

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For a quintessential, Pinterest-worthy maternity photoshoot dress, look no further than this gown (it’s begging to be photographed on you!). The dramatic sleeves and train give it a fairytale-like look, and it comes in 15 different colors (the above burnt sienna colorway is gorgeous, but might work better for a fall photoshoot — for summer, you may want to go with something brighter, like yellow or light blue). Soft, breathable, and wrinkle-free (important: you don’t want to wrinkle your dress in the car on the way to the shoot!), this dress is made of sturdy enough quality to be reworn again.

Sizes available: XS-XXL
Colors: 15
Material: 95% rayon, 5% spandex

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BEST FOR SHOWING OFF YOUR BUMP

YnimioAOX Off Shoulder Strapless Dress

$20.99 $27.99 25% off

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If you’re looking for a dress that puts your bump front and center, we love this affordable strapless number that’s just $21 (which is ideal if you plan on just wearing this once). The sheer chiffon material gives it an ethereal, fairy-like look (perfect for a woodsy or beach shoot!) and it comes in 18 different colors to choose from. Although it’s one-size fits (most), the fabric is extra stretchy, so it’s truly designed to fit most bodies.

Sizes available: One size
Colors: 18
Material: 65% polyester,35% spandex

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BEST ON AMAZON

Pumiey Women's Square Neck Cap Sleeve Maxi Bodycon Dress

$32.99

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When shopping for the best maternity photoshoot dresses, keep in mind that the piece you choose doesn’t have to be marketed as “maternity.” As long as the material is bump-friendly, it’s fair game. PUMIEY’s cap sleeve maxi dress is a qualifier, and a popular pick among mommy influencers on Instagram. While this author doesn’t own this exact dress, she owns multiple PUMIEY tops in the same fabric and can vouch for its comfortable wear and smoothing abilities. It’s made from nylon and spandex, offering optimal stretch, while stylistic details like square cap sleeves, a fishtail hem, and a scooped neckline exude sophistication and make the wearer feel sexy.

Sizes available: XS – XXL
Colors: 10 (Bubblegum, Jet Black, Periwinkle, Pool, Stone, and more)
Material: 95% Rayon, 5% Spandex

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BEST BLACK DRESS

Quince Recycled Knit Maternity Midi Dress

$50

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If you’re on the hunt for something classic but also don’t want to spend a paycheck on a designer gown, look no further than one of our favorite brands, Quince, which makes similar-to-the-designer-version clothing and accessories. Unlike some other retailers, their materials are sustainably sourced and the products are of a high caliber.

“I’ve been testing Quince products for a few years ago, and nothing has ever left me disappointed,” Vaynshteyn says. “The brand sent me some maternity pieces, and I’ve been wearing them non-stop from the second trimester on.”

This black midi is made from a recycled polyester-Elastane combination, making it nice and stretchy. It’s also double-lined, giving you some reassurance that nobody will be able to see your VPL. The brushed fabric is ultra soft, too, so you don’t have to worry about feeling uncomfortable or stiff when you wear it.

Sizes available: XS-XL
Colors: 1
Material: 90% recycle polyester, 10% Elastane

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BEST LONG SLEEVE

Bumpsuit The Monica Dress

$155

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The second this author announced her pregnancy on social media, she was flooded with advertisements for Bumpsuit – one of the most stylish, yet minimalistic maternity brands by far. The Monica Dress is a best-seller and an especially popular maternity photoshoot dress. It comes in four colors – black, ivory, dusty pink, and powder blue – so you can choose something gender-specific or neutral, and a maxi design complete with a slide slit, long sleeves, and a turtleneck. The only major caveat reviewers note is the dress’s length is a little too long if you’re on the shorter side, but that detail is nothing a quick stop into the tailor or a good pair of heeled boots can’t fix.

Sizes available: XXS – XL
Colors: 4 (Black, Ivory, Dusty Pink, Powder Blue)
Material: 97% Polyester, 3% Spandex

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BEST PETITE

PinkBlush Green Smocked Off-Shoulder Long Sleeve Maternity Dress

$76

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If this author has learned anything from styling her petite stature, it’s that when it comes to dresses, mini hemlines are best as they give the illusion of longer legs (plus, they save you a trip to the tailor). The PinkBlush Smocked Off Shoulder Long Sleeve Maternity Dress is a great option for petites. It checks the mini box and also boasts a slew of romantic stylistic details that will look gorgeous photographed, like its puffed-and-smocked off-the-shoulder sleeves and smocked elastic top.

Sizes available: S – L
Colors: 4 (Green, Pink, Blue, Navy Blue)
Material: 100% cotton lining: 100% rayon

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BEST RIBBED

H&M Mama Ribbed Viscose Dress

$40

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On the hunt for a dress that’s pretty, but no frills? Enter the H&M Mama Ribbed Viscose Dress. This throw-on-and-go fit is a minimalist’s dream because it does the work for you. With a high, round neckline and a slit at the side of the hem, the dress is a statement on its own. You can add accessories, or not. The goal is to be comfortable and look cute. Check and check.

Sizes available: XS – XXL
Colors: 2 (Green and black)
Material: Rayon 94%, Spandex 6%

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BEST FLORAL

Petal & Pup Madilyn Maxi Dress

Buy Now $119 $119

Petal & Pup’s Madilyn Maxi Dress would be a stunning option for a maternity photoshoot set in a garden or park peppered with flowers. Its floral print is eye-catching and the V overlay neckline paired with the dress’s adjustable cami shoulder straps brings home the dress’s romantic elegance. All you need is a pair of dainty heels or delicate sandals to complete the look.

Sizes available: XS – XL
Colors: 1 (White Floral)
Material: 100% Polyester

 

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BEST SLIP

Hatch The Ricky Slip Dress

$228

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For a throw-on-and-go dress with a “wow” factor, turn your attention to The Ricky Slip by Hatch. Made from 100% cupro (a man-made cellulosic fiber with a reputation of being more sustainable than materials like rayon), this LBD (that’s long* black dress) is designed to fit and flatter your bump at any stage of pregnancy and postpartum. And, because it’s black and black is the quintessential neutral, with a silky finish, you can dress it up or down, depending on your maternity photoshoot vibe.

Sizes available: 0 – 4
Colors: 1 (Black)
Material: 100% Cupro

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BEST KIMONO-STYLE

Baltic Born Kia Kimono Maxi Dress

$75

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The Kia Kimono Maxi Dress is the quintessential floral maternity photoshoot dress. It’s a Baltic Born-exclusive and one you’ll want to save for post-partum wear. The material is lightweight and flowy, and the dress’s crossover surplice neckline perfectly enhances the bust and is great for nursing mothers. The style also boasts an elastic waistband and detached self-tie, so it stretches accordingly with your bump.

Sizes available: XS – XXXL
Colors: 12 (Deep Topaz Floral, White Floral, Sage Floral, Midnight Floral, and more)
Material: 100% Polyester

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ASOS Embellished Wrap Front Tulle Skirt Maxi Dress

$36 $179 80% off

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This maxi wrap dress looks like it could also double as costume design for a Shakespearean play — so if you’re going for that fairy-like vibe at your maternity photoshoot, we highly recommend this sweet lilac pick from ASOS. The long sleeves with ruffling detail, large sequins, and the keyhole detail (for those side-profile shots!) make this a major contender in our book.

Sizes available: 2-14
Colors: 1
Material:
Lining: 100% Polyester
Shell: 100% Polyester.

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BEST SUNDRESS

Nom Maternity Colette Maternity Sundress

$178

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This classic square neck sundress can be your maternity photoshoot dress pick, but it can also just be the dress you wear all summer long, even post-pregnancy—it’s really just that versatile. Made of 100 percent cotton, the fabric is nice and breathable and high-quality. Features we love: snap opening in the front for easy breastfeeding, and wide straps to accommodate thicker bra straps.

Sizes available: XS-XL
Colors: 1
Material: 100% cotton

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As Charlotte and Lisa scramble to get the best college counselor for their rising high school seniors, it eventually becomes so intense that both the moms and children end up spiraling instead. Coming from two teens who just went through the process just a year ago, we remember how conflicting this time can be for rising seniors: choosing where they’ll be for the next four years while dealing with a constant fear of rejection. Many worry they haven’t taken enough APs, have participated in too few extracurriculars, or are even, like Charlotte and Lisa’s children, too well-rounded. Although the show can be outlandish at times, it depicts the real apprehension that many teens and their parents struggle with while going through this process. So, how can you avoid becoming them?

The two of us, a rising sophomore and a rising junior in college, have had contrasting application experiences that radically differed by the approaches that our parents took.

Sophie:

When I watched Charlotte and Lisa panic over landing the best college counselor, it felt bizarrely familiar. They were two glamorous, neurotic mothers barreling into full-blown admissions mania. And their already ambitious kids? Wilted. Numb. Visibly cracking under the weight of their mothers’ motivation.

There was one Christmas, during my junior year of high school, when my stocking was light on candy and heavy on college prep. I unwrapped a shiny SAT/ACT practice guide with a red bow on it, as if it were some sacred gift. “Start early!” my mom said cheerily, as if she had handed me a sweater. I laughed because, well, what else could I do? But deep down, I felt the quiet constriction of something tightening inside of me. A sense that my childhood had officially been declared over.

What I really wanted was a December without deadlines — a moment where she looked at me as her daughter instead of a future applicant. I wanted her to ask me what I was dreaming about, not what I was preparing for.

Esme:

On the other side of the spectrum was the experience I had with my parents. They were never the type to nudge me in particular directions; they sat back while I cultivated pros and cons lists, weighing possible majors and campuses. They made sure that I knew the process was mine and that they were in the stands cheering me on, ready to assist when needed. As a parent, it can be easy to fall victim to catastrophizing every minute detail and become a “momager”, but it’s important to take a step back, at the very least for you and your child’s sanity.

I remember sitting down with my parents in July, fresh off a Zoom with my college counselor, and making a list of schools that I wanted to apply to with my parents. They kept their opinions to themselves, solely butting in when they noticed a school’s English program was too understaffed or the class sizes were too large. They waited for me to come to them, reading my personal essay only when my college counselor and I had perfected it, taking me to the schools that I asked to see, and sitting with me at the kitchen table as I pressed submit.

Though wildly unalike, both of our experiences are common in America’s current culture. Yet while these two approaches might gain similar end results, both journeys were not experienced with equal sanity.

Finding the delicate balance between ensuring your child gets into college and allowing them to make their own decisions is difficult, but not impossible. Having open and continuous conversations about where you want the process to take your teen and what they need in the early days of the application process will save you both many sleepless nights. If Charlotte and Lisa had initiated that sort of conversation before stalking and bribing a college counselor, their children could have avoided a “crash out” entirely.

After acting as a role model to your child since the day they were born, how you behave during the college process is no different. It’s simple enough: overwhelmed parents make stressed-out teens.

Before you go, brush up on what the kids are saying these days.