Breastfeeding your baby is one of the most important things you can do to give them the best start in life. At the same time, the process of breastfeeding poses its own set of challenges, ranging from clogged milk ducts to broken nipples to insufficient milk production. But what if we tell you that wearing the proper nursing apparel is critical to breastfeeding success?
Whether you are an expectant or nursing mother looking for the perfect wear to accommodate your changing body and meet your breastfeeding needs, look no further than a nursing dress that combines style, comfort, and functionality.
What to Look for in a Nursing Dress: Guidelines for New Mums
As a nursing mum having a collection of nursing dresses in your wardrobe can make your breastfeeding journey more convenient and enjoyable. Therefore, shop for stylish and comfortable breastfeeding dresses made from the finest fabrics. Designed with discreet openings or hidden panels that allow easy access for breastfeeding or pumping, they offer a stylish and practical solution, to feed your baby wherever and whenever needed.
However, with so many options available, finding the model that best suits you might be challenging at first. To make the selection process easier and stress-free we have narrowed down some important considerations to keep in mind.
Subtle Difference
The difference between maternity and nursing dresses is one of the first and foremost things first-time mums should be aware of. Breastfeeding clothing is made to allow you easy access to your breasts so you can breastfeed your baby. Some breast-feeding dresses are designed to fit during pregnancy and support your bump while also retaining their shape, allowing them to be worn in the fourth trimester, as you’ll still look 25 weeks pregnant after giving birth.
Maternity dresses, like most pregnancy clothing, are designed to fit your growing belly. That’s its only function. Some offer shaping, and some support, but the cuts of the upper part of the dress, the side ruching, the panels, and the waistband designs are there to accommodate your baby’s growing real-estate needs.
Nursing Access Styles
Since the major function of breastfeeding dresses is to allow for easy and discreet breast access, there are numerous alternatives for nursing mums, ranging from fabrics to nursing access methods such as side openings, front zippers, pull-downs, and many more.
Models with a hidden zipper in the front or on both sides provide for easy breast access. All you have to do is unzip it to feed your child. Zippers are extremely useful since they keep everything hidden and in place during feeding. Just make sure to check the length of the zipper.
The layered wrap style conceals nursing access while simultaneously producing a fashionable faux-wrap impression to keep you looking great. You can even cradle the baby’s head inside the outer cover while nursing to keep your hands free. This style should be your go-to pick for hassle-free breastfeeding whether you’re searching for something for work or a night out.
The V-neck tie-up allows you to nurse without having to pull the top down, while also adding a summer feminine touch to your style. It is available in a variety of styles, including front tie-up, wrap tie-up, and tie-waist.
Easy lift-up access is a favourite among nursing mothers since it is convenient, simple, and practical. It has a horizontal fabric layer that descends over the bust and rises around the empire line to reveal nursing apertures in the inner layer. No clips, hooks, buttons, zips, or fasteners. It gives you discretion when nursing in public, and the double-stitched layer absorbs any spills. Ideal for mums who don’t want to show too much flesh while breastfeeding.
Material Choices
Designs made of soft, breathable fabrics will keep you comfortable all day. Cotton, bamboo, and modal are all acceptable since they are mild on the skin and allow for better airflow, lowering the possibility of irritation or discomfort.
Picking such premium quality materials will make your piece survive endless washings while maintaining the dress’s form and colour. However, this doesn’t imply that you have to spend an arm and a leg to get a good quality one. Dresses for breastfeeding come at a variety of pricing points, so striking a balance between quality, utility, and affordability is now easier than ever.
Functionality
Good breastfeeding-friendly dresses should be functional. In this regard, ensure that the design you choose offers quick and easy access to breastfeed your little one. Also, consider only those models that offer an adjustable fit to support your changing figure during pregnancy and after childbirth. Dresses featuring empire waists, tiebacks, or elasticated panels can provide flexibility as your body changes and give you a comfortable and flattering fit.
Versatility
Feeding-friendly dresses are something you will wear for a limited amount of time. Therefore, investing in too many pieces may not be the wisest decision to make. Instead, buy several dresses that can be worn for almost every occasion. The versatility factor plays a major role here.
The ones that may be dressed up or down for different situations, should be your go-to choice. Versatile designs in traditional colours or patterns enable you to wear the dress to both informal and formal occasions. Layering possibilities can also increase its versatility.
