It's always fun to have a reason to get dressed up, but the holidays make it extra special. Nothing makes me more excited than an invitation to a holiday party – the fancier the better. It wasn't until a recent event that I learned that not all moms are as desperate to get dressed up as I am. Moms who are breastfeeding have a hard time with cocktail attire, and dresses in general, because wearing them makes it really difficult to nurse. I didn't realize how hard it is to find holiday dresses you can breastfeed in comfortably.
If you do a little research, you can find companies that design dresses specifically for nursing moms. There are also several shops on Etsy that will make you a custom nursing dress. But, if you are looking to shop off the rack, your best bet is to search for a dress with a surplice (diagonally crossed) neckline. Wrap dresses have a neckline that can be easily moved to the side in order to feed your baby without requiring you to get undressed.
If you're breastfeeding, and bringing baby to your holiday party, here are some dress options that you might want to consider.
1
Lace Nursing Dress
If you want a nursing dress that's chic as hell, then this choice is perfect. Just look at those lace sleeves and the detail on the hem. The lace nursing dress ($50, H&M) looks like a standard little black dress, but it's made with nursing moms in mind with a layered top that makes feeding your baby a breeze.
2
Nursing Midi Dress
With its color block design and peplum hem, this is one modern look fit for any stylish mom. The nursing midi dress ($50, ASOS) is made of stretchy material so it will keep you comfortable no matter how long those holiday office parties rage on, and it's loose fit works for every stage of your pregnancy as well. The color block design cleverly aids in hiding the zippered nursing panel.
It's so neat, right? Hats off to the dress designer. This is one brilliant creation.
3
Floral Nursing Dress
If you love florals for winter (and who doesn't?), check out this dress. The floral print nursing dress ($60, Target) would look lovely paired with a cable-knit cardigan, tights, and boots. Or, if you live in a place with warm winters, the dress is great on its own. The v-neck makes breastfeeding or pumping much easier.
4
Nursing Evening Dress
Need to get all fancy for your holiday party? No problem. The maternity evening dress ($189, Seraphine), features gorgeous draping, an empire waist, and a discreet nursing panel. The stretchy fabric also makes for a comfortable evening gown, which are three words you never expected to see together. Also, the claret red hue is absolutely stunning.
5
Nursing Dress With Sweater Top
This dress is a two-in-one. The two piece nursing dress ($59, Amazon) features a striped spaghetti-strap dress and sparkly sweater crop top. No one would guess it's a nursing dress, and you can mix and match it with existing items in your wardrobe. I think it would look amazing with an emerald green scarf.
6
Lift Up Nursing Dress
Check out the cool neckline on this dress. The lift up nursing dress ($70, A Pea In The Pod) is an awesome take on this piece of functional clothing. Seriously, it just looks like a sleek black dress that's perfect for all holiday parties, so keep this one well after you've finished nursing.
7
Wrap Front Nursing Dress
Wrap dresses are always in style, and now you have a great reason to wear them. The wrap front nursing dress ($30, Kohl's) makes breastfeeding super easy. Plus, the dress is available in a variety of colors and styles, including a cool marble geo print. It would look lovely paired with a sleek blazer and some boots.
8
Blue Lace Nursing Dress
If it's glamour you want, this dress has you covered. The blue lace nursing dress ($240, Tiffany Rose) is perfect for attending a winter wedding, holiday cocktail party, or any other event this season. The double layers facilitate nursing, and the deep blue lace turns you into one glam mamma.
9
Crossover Maternity Dress
Understated elegance is what this dress is all about. The nursing crossover dress ($55, GAP) features a tiny heart print, as well as a v-neck for easy feeding. If hearts aren't your thing, it also comes in a striped or solid black option.
10
Cowl Neck Nursing Dress
This dress disguises the breastfeeding opening with an elegant cowl neck. The cowl neck nursing dress ($25, Milk & Baby) is a classic style that will work for a variety of occasions. Oh, and the pretty fuchsia hue adds a bright pop of color to your holiday look.
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