This is a sponsored guest post.
Breastfeeding leaves many women feeling like their body is no longer their own. You cannot wear just anything, but you do not want to look frumpy either. People always have their opinions on how you should look after you have a baby, but comfort is important. Therefore, what clothes are best to survive this period.
What and What Not to Wear
Before you start to think that maternity clothing is all you have available for the next couple of years, let us talk about outfits. Just keep in mind, you want easy access for your child to feed.
What to Wear:
- Button-down dress shirts
- Nursing tops
- Nursing bras
- Wrap-style blouses
- Nursing tank tops
What Not to Wear:
- Rompers
- Tight dresses (without buttons in front)
- Several layers
- Pre-maternity bras
Tips for Selecting an Outfit
Before diving into specific article pieces, it is best to discuss overall tips on selecting outfits.
- Prints and patterns hide leaks better than solid colors.
- Always wear pads inside your bra to prevent stains (disposable or reusable)
- Jackets and scarves are great accessories to cover stains and allow for discreet nursing.
- Shy away from tight-fitting clothing of any type
Ideal Nursing Clothing
We have covered things to look for in pieces of an outfit, but there are a few articles of clothing that every breastfeeding mother should own. The following are five nursing items that will make your life easier.
Nursing Tops
Blouses, shirts, and other daily tops have come a long way for women breastfeeding. Styles allowing a child to nurse discreetly, including:
- Hidden panels
- Buttons
- Loose material to pull to the side
Many tops available would not be recognized as a nursing-specific blouse, which means you can wear them after the breastfeeding stage.
Nursing Bras
Regular bras are designed to fit and support a breast that does not change sizes. Nursing bras provide mothers with easy access to feed their infant(s) and accommodate milk-filled breasts. You will want one made with breathable and absorbent material but still plan on wearing nursing pads. Remember that as you fill will milk, your body will need more support. It is best to purchase a bra with padding on the straps, as they support the weight.
Nursing Tank Tops
A nursing tank, or cami, is a necessity for most mothers. Check mommas comfort nursing tank for an example of how these camisoles allow for easy nursing while looking classy. Some are designed to be worn around the house, and others can be worn alone during warm weather.
Nursing Nightgowns
Being comfortable while you sleep is a necessity because infants do not allow for much rest. Nursing nightgowns are designed to allow for easy nighttime feedings without leaving the bed. The goal of these clothing pieces is for mom to get rest and baby to receive nourishment.
Nursing Formal Wear
Having a child does not mean your life stops. You can find stylish, formal dresses that are perfect for going out on the town. Classy sundress styles are perfect for family parties or church, while flattering nursing gowns are ideal for nice dinners.
The bottom line, you want clothing items that do not fight you while you feed your infant. However, you also want to look like the woman you were pre-pregnancy. Nursing garments have come a long way, and these are just a few of the options available.