Trying to find an outfit for any occasion after having a baby might feel like an impossible task, especially when it comes to finding a breastfeeding-friendly outfit. That said, you can feel your best self with a little help from breastfeeding occasion dresses.
Whether it’s an outfit for a baby shower or a family event, it takes time to find the perfect maternity nursing dress. But with a baby, your shopping days are probably behind you, and breastfeeding can make it a lot harder to find a dress that you love that makes nursing easier too.
Stacey Solomon's hen do dress
Stacey Solomon wore a gorgeous occasion dress on her hen do and as well as being a versatile pick for bridesmaids, brides-to-be, and formal occasions, it's great for breastfeeding mums too.
In a beautiful satin fabric, the dress has a wrap front and adjustable tie-waist that makes it ideal for easy access and adjustment, and the large frill detailing can be used to make breastfeeding a little more discreet. Available in a bunch of colours on ASOS, we had to include it on our list.
The best breastfeeding occasion outfits
From floaty maxi dresses with hidden nursing slits to double-layered cocktail dresses, take a look at our pick of gorgeous maternity dresses that also make breastfeeding easier at any occasion.
www.asos.com
Description
Sizes available: 4-18 and petite
Whilst it's described as a bridesmaid dress, this dress is perfect for dressing up for all sorts of occasions. If the gold version Stacey Solomon wore isn't quite your colour, you can also buy it in sage, navy, green, and lilac with less metallic options available in each. Each features a plunge neck and wrap front for easy nursing access.
Pros: Different colours available
Cons: Not exactly a maternity dress
www2.hm.com
Description
Sizes available: XS-XXL
H&M has delivered with this timeless flounce dress, perfect for summer occasions. Dress it up with accessories or dress it down with a comfortable pair of trainers. That said, the best thing about this outfit is the amount of wear you'll get out of it. Plus, it features a practical inner top for easier nursing access.
Pros: Two different designs available
Cons: Reviewers say it may come up too big
Review: "Lovely dress, really easy and comfortable for feeding."
www.asos.com
Description
Sizes available: 6-16
Smart and sophisticated, this dress comes in a colour choice of navy, making it perfect for an occasion where you're wanting to look put together yet glamorous. With a tie belt detail and button-down top, this makes breastfeeding accessible and easy.
Pros: Designed to fit you from bump to baby
Cons: No reviews yet
www.asos.com
Description
Sizes available: 8-18
If you're looking to stand out from the crowd, this bold animal print dress will do just that. Be a fashion-forward mama with this dress from ASOS. A tie waist detail and wrap style front means feeding times have never been easier. Ideal for christenings and baby showers alike.
Pros: Designed to fit you from bump to baby
Cons: Print may be too bold for some
www.asos.com
Description
Sizes available: 6-20
Chic and classy, everyone needs a black midi dress in their wardrobe for all occasions. This nursing dress would be a beautiful choice if you're out for a family meal, birthday or celebrating someone's anniversary. With a wrap-style front, preparing for feeds couldn't be more convenient.
Pros: Inclusive size range available
Cons: No reviews yet
www.seraphine.com
Description
Sizes avaliable: 8-18
Truly a stunning party dress, this gorgeous sparkle nursing dress from Seraphine is a showstopper. Made from soft and comfy fabric with a touch of sparkle, the style drapes beautifully and shimmers as you move. The empire waistline gives you plenty of room for your growing bump and easy lift up access is so practical.
Pros: Soft and comfortable fabric
Cons: No reviews
www.seraphine.com
Description
Sizes available: 6-18
If you're after a dress with more boho than formal vibes, this dress is a must. It has beautiful feminine flutter sleeves, and a soft tiered hemline with plenty of room to grow. It also features a hidden zip for discreet nursing access - it's fully breastfeeding-friendly.
Pros: Concealed zip for easy nursing access
Cons: Low in stock
www.neverfullydressed.co.uk
Description
Sizes available: 6-24
The ideal going out dress, this satin-feel wrap dress comes in a variation of colours and designs. The tie waist is adjustable, meaning not only can it be worn in a number of different ways, but it's also breastfeeding-friendly and can be worn throughout your pregnancy too. The luxurious fabric will drape over your bump, meaning you'll be comfortable while still looking stylish.
Pros: Inclusive size range available, different colours available
Cons: No reviews
www.seraphine.com
Description
Sizes available: 6-20
A whimsical dress suited for a spring or summer occasion, be it a wedding, christening or baby shower. With floral design and maxi length, its shirred smocked bodice disguises an underslip that has easy breastfeeding access. All you need to do is lift up the bodice when it comes to feeding times.
Pros: Inclusive size range available
Cons: Expensive
www.seraphine.com
Description
Sizes available: 6-18
We love this rich forest green wrap dress that is also breastfeeding-friendly. Crafted in premium flowing fabric, it offers a soft sheen and drapes beautifully over your growing bump with hidden nursing access to keep up with your changing needs.
Pros: Also available in a maxi dress design
Cons: Expensive
www.seraphine.com
Description
Sizes available: 6-18
With flutter sleeves and floaty skirt, this dreamy dress is the perfect occasion dress. There's discreet nursing access due to its tie waist and adjustable wrap design. And, if pink isn't your colour, it also comes in a delicate sage green, too. It may be best for warmer months, but this dress had to make our list.
Pros: Different colour options available
Cons: Expensive
Breastfeeding occasion outfits FAQs
What is a breastfeeding dress?
A breastfeeding dress, more commonly known as a nursing dress, is an outfit that allows you to feed your baby without exposing your breasts, sides, back or tummy. How amazing is that?!
You'll usually find that these dresses have hidden openings near the breast. Sometimes, the bodice is even made of two pieces that cross over each other, with one that can be pulled to the side.
The best thing about breastfeeding occasion dresses is that they allow you to stay at the event without having to pop to the toilets to undress and feed. That means you can do so discretely without having to miss a thing.
What to wear to a wedding when pregnant?
Although we've included some wedding-appropriate dresses within our list, our guide of maternity wedding guest dresses also has some stunning recommendations. First and foremost, be sure to dress according to the weather. After all, you don't want to be shivering in a summer dress during a winter wedding!
If it's a summer wedding, opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics so you don't overheat on the day. If you're not wanting to wear heels due to swollen pregnancy feet, sandals are also a lovely option. Think pastels, bright colours and floral patterns during the summer.
For a winter wedding, breathable fabrics are also a good idea but be sure to layer up so you're kept warm. Winter maternity clothes should keep you warm from the cold weather, so long sleeves are generally recommended. Think rich, deep colours or even sparkles for winter.
Just remember not to wear white - or black for that matter, and you should be fine!