The Monterey Spring Style Guide: What to Wear for Your Family Session
Spring in Monterey Bay is breathtaking with color and life. But as any local mom knows, spring in Monterey can mean 70°F and sunny or 55°F and foggy all in the same evening. To help you look your best while staying comfortable, I’ve put together this guide to planning your family’s spring session wardrobe.
1. Choose a Spring Color Palette
For spring, I recommend moving away from the heavy dark tones of winter and leaning into neutrals and soft pastels. Consider colors that complement our coastal landscape:
The Neutrals: Cream, oatmeal, driftwood gray, and crisp white.
The "Spring" Pops: Dusty rose, sage green, sea foam, or a soft French blue.
2. Layers are Your Best Friend
If you’re opting for a beach family session, the coastal winds can drop the temperatures drastically
For Moms: A flowy maxi dress looks stunning in the wind, but consider a denim jacket or a chunky knit cardigan to layer over it.
For Kids: Cute vests, knit sweaters, or light trench coats allow them to stay warm without looking bulky.
Texture Over Prints: Instead of everyone wearing busy patterns, mix textures. Think linen, lace, denim, and knits. It adds depth to your photos without clashing.
3. Footwear: Style Meets Sand
Since we might be trekking through the dunes or walking along the shoreline, footwear matters.
Skip the Stilettos: High heels and sand don't mix. Opt for sandals, clean lifestyle sneakers, or a nice Chelsea boot.
Go Barefoot: For beach sessions, there is nothing more classic than kicking off your shoes for a few shots in the tide!
4. Movement is Magic
Choose clothes that allow you to move freely.
Dresses with flow: If you spin around, does the dress move with you?
Comfort for Kids: If your little ones feel itchy or restricted, it will show on their faces. Soft, breathable fabrics are key.
