Outfits for lactating mothers

While breastfeeding it is crucial that you wear clothes that feel comfortable. They should not only make breastfeeding easy, but also complement your style, whether indoors or outdoors.

What you should look for:

When shopping for lactating clothes, go for colors and patterns with darker shades because they help hide leaks better than light colors.

Breast pads help prevent stains from getting to your clothes and ruining your day. Have a pair or two just in case of an emergency. You can also pair them with a comfortable nursing bra.

Having a scarf, shawl, jacket, and sweater is a necessity. Not only are they stylish and can complement your outfit, but they also help cover leaks and provide privacy if you are breastfeeding in public.

Avoid tight clothes around the chest area. Applying pressure on your breast can be uncomfortable and could lead to sour nipples. The outfits should be comfortable and easy to breastfeed in.

Breastfeeding friendly clothes

Button downs

Button-downs (shirts or dresses) give quick access to the breasts in case the baby is screaming for their lunch. A button-down dress, for example, gives room to breastfeed while still covering the body.

Feeding camisoles

Feeding camisoles are also known as nursing tank tops or nursing Camis. They have sides you can unclip and pull down like a bra. You can layer them with your favorite cardigan to still rock your style. They can be styled up by wearing a button-down shirt for a cooperate look.

Nursing dresses

Avoid dresses with thin straps as they would look unstylish with a nursing bra under. Find stylish, flattering, and comfortable nursing dresses to rock at dinner parties or formal events. These dresses should be of stretchy material.

High-rise dresses and pants

These will cover your tummy when you breastfeed. Pair these with a feeding camisole and you have a lactating-friendly casual outfit. To style the pants for work, pair them with a button-down shirt, and a pair of comfortable shoes.

What to avoid

Lactating mothers should avoid regular bras. Regular bras come with an underwire, that is uncomfortable for the breast. Unlike regular bras, breastfeeding bras are comfortable and come with a clip that one can unhook and breastfeed a child.

Although cute and fashionable, most jumpsuits and rompers do not have easy access to the breasts. Unless they have a zipper at the front and you can cover your upper body, it is best you avoid them.

As mentioned, lactating clothes should make breastfeeding easy. Dresses without front buttons make it hard to swiftly start feeding your baby. In case you must wear one carry a scarf to cover your back, if you wish to.