Getting dressed in the postpartum phase can be a tricky situation. Your body may not be the same as it was pre-baby, and for several weeks and months, you might find yourself in an in-between place: Your maternity clothes are too big and your old clothes are too small. Add to that the task of finding clothing you can breastfeed in and you might find yourself shopping for an entirely new wardrobe.
The good news is that you probably have a few items already in your closet that will work for breastfeeding. Even so, you may want to invest in some new pieces as well—new pieces that suit your new body, that you feel comfortable in, and that make breastfeeding in public possible.
When I had my first baby, I figured I could get away with loose clothing that I already owned. Plus, since I didn’t know how long I’d breastfeed for (and my body was constantly changing postpartum), I was hesitant to buy for my new body. Well after a year of breastfeeding, I wish I had spent a little money to get clothing that really suited me and allowed me to easily breastfeed when out and about. Now going through it the second time, I’m giving my wardrobe a much-needed refresh.
If you’re also looking for some fun new pieces this summer that are breastfeeding-friendly, here are our favorite tops, dresses, and jumpsuits we have our eye on.
Nursing-Friendly Tops
Broderie Anglaise Cotton Maternity & Nursing Top
You absolutely would not know this delicate detailed top has concealed zipper nursing access.
sizes 2-14
Rosalie Tie-Strap Top
You can easily untie a strap on this top to allow for breastfeeding while out.
sizes XXS-4X
Oversized Linen-Blend Shirt
Shirts with buttons are a breastfeeding mom's best friend. Plus, this linen blend screams summer.
sizes XS-XXL
The Shirt
This top has an extra layer of fabric that hides the nursing access, making this a super easy top to throw on when out with baby.
4 colors available
sizes XS-XL
Button-Front Smocked-Back Top
Another summery button-front pick, this pretty floral top would pair beautifully with denim basics.
sizes 00-16
MAMA 2-Pack Nursing Tank Tops
These soft jersey tanks have a double layer in the front with an inner top that will allow you to breastfeed while staying completely covered.
4 colors/patterns available
sizes XS-XXL
Tie-Shoulder Swing Cami Blouse
The tie straps make this cute and summery top super nursing-friendly.
2 colors available
sizes XS-4X
Crossover Ruched Maternity Nursing Tank
The wrap style of this pregnancy-to-nursing tank makes breastfeeding access as simple as ever.
7 colors available
sizes S-XL
Button-Up Loose Shirt
Not only does this top come in six adorable colors, but the buttons also make it a simple solution for nursing.
6 colors available
sizes XS-4X
Nursing-Friendly Dresses & Jumpsuits
Sage Maternity & Nursing Midi Dress
This dress has hidden zipper nursing access in the top for those who prefer to nurse and stay covered.
sizes 2-14; also comes in petite
Puff Short Sleeve Dress
The relaxed fit and stretchy neckline of this dress create the perfect balance of comfort while looking put-together.
6 colors available
sizes XS-4X
Striped Sweetheart Button Front Maternity Dress
This pretty striped dress works from pregnancy to nursing thanks to the buttons up the front.
sizes S-L
The Nurse-to-Errands Onesie
The name says it all. You'll want to wear this jumpsuit all summer, whether or not you are breastfeeding.
3 colors available
sizes 0-14
Textured-Knit Utility Short-Sleeve Romper
This utility romper is ideal for weekend activities with the kids, and the button-up front makes for easy nursing.
6 colors available
sizes XS-4X
The Smocked Secret Nursing Dress
This lightweight and breathable dress has secret slits at the chest that close with hidden snaps.
2 colors available
sizes 0-14
Flutter Sleeveless Short Dress
Another adorable button-front dress, this is perfect for summer picnics or park outings.
4 colors available
sizes XS-4X
V-Neck Nursing Jumpsuit
This breezy jumpsuit features a snap front V-neck for easy nursing access and pockets!
5 colors/patterns available
sizes XXS-3X
Smocked-Bodice Midi Dress
This lightweight dress is structured enough while having a stretchy top, which is ideal for nursing.
4 colors/patterns available
sizes XS-4X
Tasseled Colorblock Maxi Swing Dress
The tie straps on this gorgeous colorblock dress make it the ideal choice for nursing on the go.
2 colors available
sizes XS-4X
This article was originally published in June 2021 and has been updated for timeliness.