If you prefer a little more coverage while nursing, breastfeeding dresses are certainly an option. Along with breastfeeding tops, the majority allow easy access, are straightforward to manoeuvre and, thanks to the growing maternity and nursing market, are becoming much more fashion-forward.
Celebrities like Ashley Graham, Emily Ratajkowski and Shay Mitchell have shown us that your style shouldn't be restricted just because you're nursing. Some of the best breastfeeding clothes can be worn anywhere, including to the upcoming wedding event in your calendar.
Although style is also a major determining factor, a breastfeeding dress should, above all, be comfortable. The average mum probably has just enough time to dress herself before tending to her newborn, so it needs to be effortless to throw on.
There are a few styles that would work here. A simple shirt dress with buttons down the front that you can easily undo, or a dress with a crossover front, are great ideas for your maternity wardrobe and beyond. Equally, a cut out detail gown for an occasion would be a fitting choice.
If you'd rather buy a dress that goes the distance when that phase ends, shop our edit of the most stylish breastfeeding dresses below.
SHOP: The best breastfeeding dresses
Sézanewww.sezane.com
From go-to French brand Sézane, the Caprice Dress is a stunning solution that will meet all your needs. An embroidered short dress with balloon sleeves, flared skirt and button down fastenings - it's the ultimate summer dress.
Kitrikitristudio.com
Kitri's Bethany tea dress makes the ideal dress for nursing, with easy to open button fastenings down the front. It comes in a classic black and white polka dot print - meaning it's effortless to wear. Pair with a red lip to match.
Rixorixolondon.com
Similarly, the Bloom Shirtdress from vintage-inspired brand, Rixo is another great dress for this reason. Depending on how you style it, you could get away with wearing this dress all year round, but is a better option for spring and summer months.
Free Peoplewww.freepeople.com
Free People has a knack for breezy silhouettes which make them a sure fit for nursing mums. Its Vintage Summer Midi Dress includes a knotted bust detail and flowy skirt, with a whole host of colours to choose from.
H&M www2.hm.com
This simple Striped Ribbed Nursing Dress from H&M is so easy to wear. It's layered top provides easy access for breastfeeding while you're out and about. Wear with a pair of trending flats and a cardigan to elevate your look.
Cult Gaiawww.coggles.com
If you're off to an event with baby in attendance or you're needing to use your breast pump on the go, the ease of the Enzo Ribbed-Knit Maxi Dress has you covered. Cut out details and stretch knit fabric allow plenty of movement to make the job easier - and, of course, looks incredible.
Mint Velvet mintvelvet.com
One for transitional months when there's still a bit of chill in the air. Mint Velvet's Cream Cotton Blend Knit Midi Dress looks ridiculously stylish, and still comfortable. Tired of buttons? Try a zip instead.
& Other Storieswww.stories.com
Another one for your occasion wear wardrobe, the Twist-Detailed Midi Dress from & Other Stories looks effortlessly chic. Its stretch material and plunging neckline work hand-in-hand to make the event dress to beat all others, all while breastfeeding.
Reiss www.reiss.com
A great choice for summer, the Andie Striped Double Breasted Midi Dress is sure to become your new favourite. Dress it up or down - it's structured fit, striped print and sleeveless design make it a versatile option.
MSGMwww.farfetch.com
The MSGM Single-Breasted Blazer Dress takes the LBD to a whole new level. A blazer dress is a great transitional piece, working equally as well from the day and into the night.
Diane Von Furstenberguk.dvf.com
Made from the softest cashmere, the Astrid Wrap Dress will feel so gentle against baby's skin - and yours. It features a highly adaptable, sophisticated camel colourway, so this Diane Von Furstenberg dress is definitely one for all occasions.
SKIMSskims.com
SKIMS' collection of soft lounge dresses has been an ever-popular pick from mums. Between the stretch material and easy to manoeuvre straps, the Soft Lounge Long Slip Dress has the potential to be one of the most comfortable breastfeeding dresses.
H&Mwww2.hm.com
For new mums, H&M's Satin Nursing Dress from the MAMA collection comes in both light beige and this eye-catching red. Combining practicality with a fashion-forward focus, the satin fabric drapes around the waist to conceal a hidden inner top for easier nursing access.
COSwww.cos.com
It's true, denim dresses are having a moment. Made from organic-cotton denim, the COS Denim Shirt Dress is fantastic for all seasons. One that you can instantly throw on and create a put-together, cohesive look.
ARKETwww.arket.com
This Bandeau Dress from ARKET grazes the ankle and comes in a dark grey viscose that has a subtle sheen finish. Easy enough to manoeuvre down so that you can nurse, the dress is a firm-favourite.
What Is A Breastfeeding Dress?
Nursing or breastfeeding dresses are designed to make the job easier. Essentially, they often have discreet access so baby can feed while you're on the go. They can have layered fabric or side openings so that you don't have to carefully scrunch your top up, all while holding your baby.
Where To Shop The Best Breastfeeding Dresses?
For specially designed nursing dresses, we recommend taking to H&M, where there's a whole collection of chic nursing dresses in its MAMA range. Maternity fashion brand, Seraphine, also has a range of nursing and postpartum clothes to browse.
What Are Some Of The Best Dress Styles For Breastfeeding?
Other styles that may work for breastfeeding include wrap dresses, slip dresses and blazer dresses for their accessibility. Additionally, you might find that low, plunging necklines, off-the-shoulder or loose fitting bandeau designs have just the right amount of give for easy nursing. Although you can wear any colour, darker colours and prints tend to work best to account for leakage.
Main image credit: @emrata
Samantha Price is a Beauty, Fashion & Wellness Product Writer for Grazia. With two years of experience at Bauer, she has worked on several projects, from championing newsletters to writing expertly crafted buying guides.