Breastfeeding is many things: joyful, exhausting, fulfilling, time-consuming, and—from what I’ve come to understand from connecting with other moms—a unique experience for everyone. And while breastfeeding may look different for each person, one thing we can all perhaps agree upon is this: Dressing for breastfeeding is far from a walk in the park.
Something nursing moms quickly come to terms with in their breastfeeding journey is that it can be surprisingly difficult to dress in a manner that allows your child easy access to their food supply. This is especially true in the early days when you have a crying newborn who basically wants to do nothing but eat around the clock. As difficult as it can be just finding something (anything) to wear, the difficulty level increases tenfold when you want to dress in something stylish. And when considering the winter months, when many of us are attempting to battle cooler temperatures by throwing on as many clothes as possible? I get it—it feels like a lost cause.
The good news is that not all hope is lost. Between clothing pieces that are designed specifically for nursing moms and options found beyond the maternity clothing aisle (buttons, we love thee), there are thankfully many stylish options to choose from beyond your same tried-and-true (but admittedly tired) nursing tee.
Whether you’re in the throes of newborn life or are contentedly nursing a toddler, here are 24 nursing-friendly sweaters and dresses you can add to your closet this winter.
Sweaters
A versatile closet staple that’s also available in a number of fun winter colors.
6 colors available
sizes XXS-XXL
Nursing mom or not—everyone needs a gray cardigan in their closet. You can pair it with pants, dresses, skirts; the list goes on and on.
sizes XS-4X
With zippers that allow this cardigan to be opened either up or down, it may as well have been designed with nursing moms in mind.
6 colors available
sizes XXS-XL
We love the Peter Pan collar on this sweater. Suitable for both pregnancy and postpartum, it’s an investment piece that can be worn over and over again.
sizes XS-XL
This cable-knit cardigan is the epitome of cozy chic. It's as suitable for daily outings as it is comfortable for nights spent at home with your baby.
3 colors available
sizes XXS-3X
There’s nothing cozier in the wintertime than a long cardigan. We love that this piece comes with a kangaroo panel, designed to fit over a baby carrier.
sizes XS-XL
No one deserves to treat themselves more than moms. This timeless cardigan can help you add cozy style to your postpartum fashion.
2 colors available
sizes XS-XL
A classic piece available in a wide assortment of colors.
9 colors available
sizes XXS-XXL
This adorable nursing-friendly sweater comes with an equally adorable version for baby.
3 patterns available
sizes XS-XL
Built for both pregnancy and postpartum, try layering this chic cape with a nursing-friendly top underneath.
Dresses
Ideal for the holiday season and beyond, this dress is versatile and can help you feel put-together while staying comfortable.
2 colors available
sizes XXS-XL; also comes in petite and tall
Puff sleeves, buttons, corduroy—what’s not to love?
2 colors available
sizes 00-16; also comes in petite and plus
Grab this seersucker dress for holiday photos. Don’t forget to pick up the matching options for your baby or toddler.
sizes XS-4X
This chic, office-friendly dress is practically made for those workweek pumping sessions.
sizes XS-3X
Utility-inspired details, a fitted waist, and a well-placed zipper make for a nursing mom home-run.
sizes 12-24
The buttons and eyelet embroidery on this mini dress make it classic femme. With a color that lends itself to all seasons, you can enjoy it all year round.
sizes XXS-XXL
Professional and beautiful—just in case you need to sneak out of your holiday office party to pump.
3 colors available
sizes XXS-XL; also comes in petite and tall
We love a wrap dress, especially while breastfeeding. This sparkly number is made for winter dates, parties, and special occasions.
sizes XS-XXL
It’s hard to say no to a good shirt dress. Grab the pink version of this affordable piece to embrace this year’s trending Barbiecore aesthetic.
2 colors available
sizes XS-XL
Corduroy has been taking over the shelves this year. This soft shirtdress is versatile and can be dressed up or down.
2 colors available
sizes 1X-3X; also comes in petite and standard sizing
Flannel during the winter months will never get old. This dress is pure holiday joy.
sizes XS-XXL
Available in a swoon-worthy hunter green, this dress can easily earn its keep as a work-week staple.
2 colors available
sizes 00-20; also comes in tall and petite
Can you ever have too many sweater dresses? We don’t think so.
3 colors available
sizes S-L
Grab this fitted dress to use as a layering piece or to have on-hand as a warm-weather option.
sizes S-XL