Make Room For Fashion: The Easy Access Dress

1:30 PM, August 14 2012

By Nicola Ruiz

Several of my friends are on Round Two: they’re either pregnant or have just had a second baby. So I'm fielding a lot of questions on how to stay stylish in those challenging few months following a newborn's arrival. Most recently, a friend asked for suggestions on cute dresses that she can where while nursing. I usually try to stay away from writing about maternity or nursing clothes, because during those months before and after having a baby you’re pretty much in survival mode. You just wear what works and what’s comfortable. But in this case, I felt that I had a good answer.

A strapless dress is preferable for easy access—Ella Moss' can usually be worn casual, or more dressy with the right accessories. And you really don’t need those apron-like contraptions that cover up both you and the baby when nursing. Instead, pair your strapless dress with a thin, loose cardigan without buttons or zippers that can double as a cover up for your baby and you. If it’s still too warm for a cardigan, wear the dress with a thin summer scarf and use that as your protection from nosy passers-by.

This long Aztec print maxi dress by Ella Moss would be an ideal option for a nursing Mom, and it’s adorable so you’d get lots of wear out of it later too.

For privacy while nursing, you want something thin and breathable—without buttons or zippers that might scratch the baby—such as this lightweight, cotton knit sweater by Egg by Susan Lazar. (Which is technically a maternity line but it’s very versatile and useful both before and after nursing.) I bought it while pregnant and still use it today. And the best part is that it’s currently on sale!

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