Chic Nursing Dresses That Will Make Breastfeeding And Pumping Easier
World Breastfeeding Week 2019 is just a month away (August 1-7) and my firstborn’s birthday happens to fall right in the middle of this global celebration. I will always value those months of bonding with my baby through this feeding ritual. But it took a ton of effort.
From the right cradling positions to latching techniques, the natural art of breastfeeding doesn’t always come naturally to everyone. Thoughtfully designed nursing dresses can help mothers through the steep learning curve and demanding schedule of nourishing a little human around the clock. Hidden zippers and front-panel layers are just some subtle details that make all the difference to nursing moms, whether they are at home with a newborn or pumping on the go.
As World Breastfeeding Week is meant to inform and empower parentsabout the benefits of breastfeeding, here are dresses that let you nurse in style and, more importantly, in comfort.
Maternity Off The Shoulder by Ingrid & Isabel
If you need to attend a summer soirée, this pullover maxi is ideal. The blush dress has an easy off the shoulder fluttery neckline that allows for a trouble-free nursing or pumping session, even at a formal event. If light hues aren’t your thing, it also comes in black floral.
The Cybelle comes in flattering patterns like Chevron, Blue Raindrop, and Waterfall. You’ll find these modern prints refreshing because so many maternity dresses tend to be floral. This shift dress can shift through all three stages of your pregnancy, and will still fit even after baby's arrival. The loose shirtdress with zippers hidden in the front seams comes with deep pockets (equipped to hold extra pacifiers and other essentials).
Each piece in the HATCH Collection is designed to dress mom before, during and after pregnancy. While the long Grecian-inspired gowns like the Naya dress in pinkcan remind a new mom of the goddess she is, the Naomi wrap dress in clay or navy may be a more practical addition to a daily wardrobe. The v-neck wrap has an adjustable tie-front closure that can be useful for a new mom returning to work, with her pump machine in her commuter bag.
The Valentina Nursing Dress by Nom Maternity
Talk about a colorblock dress perfect for your work wardrobe. No need to zip yourself in and out of this office attire as its pull-up front panel will make each break to the pump room less cumbersome. The pullover dress is pleated at the waist, allowing it to grow with your stomach yet still fit true to your size after pregnancy.
Lille Maternity Dress by Savi Mom
A double-grey tulip tunic drapes over a slip of contrasting yellow offering both convenience and style in a casual day dress. If you prefer a longer maxi version, Savi’s Milan black and heather grey dress is also available, with convenient panels that allow for discreet nursing.
The Katie Dress by Mitera Collection
This midi dress is casual chic. The hidden zipper flows into the front collar design, allowing for easy access for feeding the baby. The Mitera collection is made with luxurious Japanese fabric, yet is machine-washable. As for the Katie Dress, the real beauty is in the draped, asymmetrical hemline.
Tiered Nursing Dress by Motherhood Maternity
Striped dresses can add simple and budget-friendly style to your postnatal wardrobe. Contrary to popular belief, striped dresses can also be extremely flattering as long as they come in the right silhouette. This tiered knee-length dress does just that with a slit opening at the bust for easy nursing and pumping. There’s a short-sleeve option, too.
Chambray Denim Maternity and Nursing Dress by Seraphine
Kate Middleton made this brand a favorite among celebrities. But this light denim piece—styled with a tie belt, three-quarter bell sleeves and discreet nursing zippers—makes this dress a perfect staple for new moms, whether they reside in Kensington Palace or someplace more modest.
While style is a great way to celebrate motherhood, all you might want, especially for the first few weeks after giving birth, are comfortable and affordable basics. H&M’s MAMA collection comes in various cuts, like loose tank top dresses, short-sleeve dresses made of organic cotton and even long sleeve knit dresses (note to moms who are expecting winter babies: these are currently on sale). Have last-minute guests who are eager to meet your newborn? Throw on this sleeveless and soft jersey nursing dress. These convenient cuts are sure to make their way into your regular wardrobe.