style | wide neck dresses

What do you think about trying to nurse in a wide neck dress?  Looking at the dress below, I thought it was absolutely impossible until I tried it on at my local Target.  Where else can a mom buy nice-ish clothing, groceries, and diapers all in the same place?  Seriously, if you know of another place then please tell me!

This dress doesn't have any stretch in the neckline, and it's not incredibly low or wide, so I thought there was no way I could nurse in it.  Somehow it works, but don't ask me how.  The dress is scooped in the front and back, and I do need to slide the neckline forward a bit to get it low enough.  If you have a larger chest, you may want to consider going up a size for a little extra wiggle room.  The waist tie is not attached, and while I love how it looks, you can also sub in your favorite leather belt.  Or belt a little higher for a great 1st/2nd trimester look.

dress / bag / swim suit / flip flops

I wore this dress earlier in the week as a swim cover-up, but if it ever gets below 90 here in Nebraska I would love to wear it with a sweater and boots.

dress / scarf / sweater / bag / boots 

SALE ALERT | nursing-friendly dresses from Old Navy, Gap, and Banana Republic

Old Navy, Gap, and Banana Republic are having a great online sale today!  Use coupon code "FALLFIX" on your order for 40% off Gap and Banana Republic, or 30% off your order from Old Navy!  Ends today (8/19)!

Did you know you can shop online using the same basket for all three stores?  Plus they offer free shipping on orders over $50 and free returns.  This is incredibly helpful if you aren't sure exactly what size to order post-baby - order a few different sizes and send back whatever doesn't work for free (or return in store).  Conveniently all three stores have a great line-up of nursing-friendly dress for fall.  Check out our favorites below, and be sure to email us at infinitymomcontact@gmail.com if we missed one of your favorites!

OLD NAVY:
Wrap dresses are everywhere this season, and they look great whether you've already lost the baby weight or you're just getting started. Also, because they are more adjustable than most dresses, they will get smaller along with you if you're just starting the weight-loss journey!

Old navy has a low-cost winner in their cap sleeve wrap dress:

This dress comes in regular, petite, and long lengths, and enough sizes and colors to work for most body-types and occasions.  This dress style is very versatile and could easily be worn to work, church, girls night, a wedding, or date night with the hubs.  If you're worried about the dress being a little too thin or the wrap skirt exposing too much leg, then you might consider investing in a slip to wear underneath this dress (and others too!).  I'm always amazed how much a good slip can help smooth the parts I don't particularly want to showcase.  Make sure you purchase a half slip like this one and not a full slip.  The last thing you want is to be fighting with a full slip that's blocking your nursing bra access.  On a practical note, undergarments that are too snug or restricting on top can compress your breast tissue and cause poor milk drainage which can contribute to clogged ducts!      

Old Navy also has a cute cross-front maxi dress out right now:

I can't get over how perfect it would be for a late summer/early fall wedding.  Add a statement teething necklace, and you have the ultimate stylish and practical mom outfit.  You will probably want a nursing tank under this dress as it is rather low cut, but depending on your chest size and body type you may be able to get away without one!

GAP:
Gap wins the prize for cute, casual, button-front dresses this season, and we're excited because buttons are a nursing mom's best friend! Why buy overpriced specialty nursing wear when you could buy "normal" dresses that look fantastic, nursing or not?

(all of the Gap dresses below come in regular, tall, or petite sizing, making these a win for just about everyone!)

This dress is polka dot perfection:

Look cute running errands or grabbing lunch with friends wearing this dress:

So crisp and fresh on it's own, but add a bright necklace for a pop of color!  If you're going to have one last hurrah with a white dress before the cold weather arrives, let it be this one:

Make a seamless transition from summer to fall with this dress:

BANANA REPUBLIC:
If you have a little more dough to spend, these pricer options from Banana Republic are fantastic for working moms who need to have pumping access while at the office.

Classy, professional, and gorgeous all rolled into one dress:

Or take a ride on the wild side with this version:

As you head out to spruce up your fall wardrobe just remember this: if it has a wrap top, cross-front, or a button top, chances are you'll be able to nurse in it!

life | nursing-friendly date night

Though my dad wouldn't have believed it when I was 13 and wanted a belly shirt like, oh my gosh, more than anything else in the whole entire world, I tend to be more on the modest side.  I don't usually feel comfortable nursing in public without a cover, though I have done so in the past.  I started InfinityMOM, not to force moms to use a cover in public, but to give moms who WANT a little privacy a stylish, discrete alternative to the traditional nursing covers out there.  I also understand that, just as some mamas don't need or want to use a cover while nursing in public, not everyone feels comfortable nursing in highly visible places even with the use of a cover.

If you're just starting out nursing, or if you've struggled to nurse in public in the past, it can feel like it's almost impossible to leave the house.  I've been there.  Still, every mom needs to get out once in a while! One of my favorite date nights is going to a drive-in movie theatre.

via

I love that I can freely nurse in the car whenever my baby is hungry while still enjoying the fun of a movie out.  Dirty diaper?  I can change it in the open hatchback of our car and not worry about missing the movie while I'm in the bathroom.  Crying baby?  I don't have to worry about disrupting an entire theatre, and I can comfort and soothe my child without worrying what everyone else is thinking.  Our drive-in does double features, so we usually watch the first movie as a family, and then I nurse the baby and put her in her car seat so she can fall asleep while my husband and I watch the second flick "just the two of us".  It saves us a bundle on hiring a babysitter every time we want to go on a date, and we really love having the family time, too.  If you have several kids, then a drive-in is a great (and usually inexpensive!) family fun night.  Our drive-in even has a featured "family night" every Tuesday where adult tickets are only $5 - keep in mind this is for entry to TWO movies!

You can check out this database to see if there is a drive in theater near you.  A few tips, search your whole state, not just your city/town, and make sure the status is set to "open" (so it doesn't list closed or historic drive-ins) for the best results.  There are 447 open drive-in theaters in the USA and Canada, so chances are you'll be able to find one nearby!  We live in the Indiana/Michigan/Ohio area, and there are TONS of drive-in theaters around here!

Where is your favorite place to nurse - public or not?  

style | nursing bras

Good style starts with the right undergarments.  At the very least you want a bra that fits well, doesn't pinch or sag, and looks smooth under clothes.  Looking cute and/or sexy is a huge plus, but now, on top of all that, you need a bra that also opens easily (but not too easily!) for nursing access.  Oh, and a little bit of stretch is nice for the times when your boobs aren't the same size because your baby only ate on one side (how's that for sexy?).  That's a lot to ask of a bra, and at first search it may seem impossible to find one that delivers on everything.  I tried on dozens of bras in different sizes and styles before I finally found my perfect everyday bra.  I can't believe I'm admitting this on the internet, but I actually do wear it just about every day, and I should probably buy a second one so I can rotate more often.

My daughter is 10.5 months, and I'm at the point where my milk supply is established, my boobs are usually the same size, and I no longer need to use nursing pads.  However, there are a few things I wish I would have known when I first went out shopping for nursing bras.  If you're pregnant or a new mom, here are a few things that may be helpful to know:

1) You probably don't want to buy a nursing bra before you have your baby and start nursing!  You may think you know about how big your boobs will get, but it could really, really surprise you!  You may get larger than you ever imagined (this is coming from a former 32B cup, now sporting 32DDD's), OR you may only gain a cup size and the 3-sizes-too-large bra you purchased will be going right back to the store.  It's best to wait a few weeks to allow your milk supply (and cup size) to stabilize and then go try on bras.

2) Your probably wondering, "So what the heck am I supposed to wear for 2 whole weeks if I don't have a nursing bra?!".  Well, there are a few great options for the in-between time.  Some nursing bras (also called sleep bras) are designed with super soft, stretchy cups (kind of like a loose sports bra) that will provide comfort and support even if your boobs are feeling especially large or small while you're milk supply establishes.  Even though mine was technically called a sleep bra, I wore it all the time during the first month or so.  When I wasn't wearing a soft-cup bra, I was wearing a nursing tank top.  I  LOVE nursing tanks!!  Nursing tanks are great because you don't need to wear a bra underneath if you don't want to.  You can wear them with a bra, and many people do, but you don't have to double-up if you don't want to because most have a built in shelf bra.  The shelf bra combined with nursing pads usually provides plenty of coverage for those first few weeks home from the hospital when you aren't going out of the house quite as much as normal.  I didn't take a nursing bra to the hospital, but I'm so glad I took my black nursing tank top.  I wore it most of the time I was there (when I wasn't in a butt breeze gown).

3) To contradict my first point, even if you wait several weeks to buy a bra, one bra may not fit forever.  It's best to not go overboard and buy 5 or 6 bras in one size because, because, as you lose weight and your body shape changes, you may need to go down a size if you nurse for an extended time.

4) Take a pair of nursing pads with you when you try on nursing bras.  Most nursing pads aren't incredibly thick, but depending on the padding and fabric of the bra you purchase, you may find that they show through or don't fit comfortably.  Since you'll be wearing those pads everyday, all-day for the first couple months or so, you'll definitely want to make sure they fit well and don't show in whatever bra you purchase.  

5)  If you find a bra you absolutely love, do yourself a favor and buy two.  This is where I need to take my own advice.  When I finally found "the one" it was more than I had been wanting to spend so I only bought one.   I survive just fine with one good bra and a few not-so-good bras, but the days when I have to wear "the other bra" I'm uncharacteristically grouchy.  Just kidding.  Kinda.

6) Buy a bra with enough coverage that you don't have to rely on nursing pads to avoid "exposure".  You won't have to use nursing pads forever (believe it or not), so make sure the cups of your nursing bra are padded enough that you feel confident wearing it without the extra thickness and coverage that nursing pads provide.  Most soft cup bras are super comfortable but may not be ideal for wearing out and about without nursing pads.  I have a soft cup nursing bra that is like wearing a soft, snuggly, supportive cloud, but I can't wear it out to the grocery store with only a t-shirt unless I completely avoid the entire refrigerated/frozen foods section.  

Now that you have the basic nursing bra info, here are my recommendations for a well-stocked nursing undergarment collection.  In total you'll want:

• 2-3 nursing tank tops in neutral colors
• 1-2 soft cup/sleep nursing bras
• 2 all-purpose everyday nursing bras    

Here's my pick for the best nursing bra for v-neck shirts: Gilligan & O'Malley® Women's Nursing Micro Wirefree Bra.

This bra doesn't have a huge range of sizes which is incredibly unfortunate, but if you can find your size it is totally worth it.  It's a very low-cost bra, and it adds versatility to your wardrobe with its deep plunge.  Be forewarned, the band stretches a bit so buy a band size that is snug on the largest or middle hook so you can move to a smaller hook as it stretches out.  This bra is the most "normal" looking nursing bra I have found, and it is fantastic for v-neck t-shirts or lower cut shirts/dresses!  This one is husband approved as actually looking "sexy".  While the reviews aren't great on the Target website, I love this bra as do many mamas from whom I have personally heard from but clearly didn't leave a review.  It's definitely worth a try, if you can find your size!   

Here's my pick for the best brand-name sleep/soft cup bra: Bravado Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra.

This is a great-fitting and very comfortable bra!  In general, if you prefer soft cup bras then you will probably LOVE this one!  Even though this bra has awesome removable, molded foam cups, I still prefer something with a little more shape (more "real" bra-like), so I didn't keep this one as my everyday bra even though I loved the fit and support.  Also, this bra comes in small, medium, large, and extra large sizing which is kind of nice for the early weeks when you don't know exactly where your cup size will stabilize.  Check out the Bravado size guide here since Amazon just links to a generic size guide which doesn't help in the slightest.
  
Best low-cost sleep/soft cup bra: Gilligan & O'Malley® Women's Comfort Nursing Bra.

This bra comes in some really pretty colors and prints, and is probably the cutest soft cup bra I have seen.  It is sized small, medium, large, x-large, AND xx-large, similar to the Bravado one, but it rings in at less than half the cost.  This was my pick for the first couple weeks/months because I knew it wasn't a bra I would want to wear forever, and I wanted to spend my big bucks on a regular cup nursing bra.  If you want a soft cup bra for everyday then I would recommend going with the Bravado one.  If you plan to wear a soft cup bra for the few months and then only occasionally, go with this one.                     

Best brand-name nursing tank top: Bravado Designs Essential Nursing bra camisole.

This nursing tank is very supportive which makes me want to say that it's great for the larger chested ladies, but it's also more low cut which might make it not so great for the large chested depending on how much skin you are comfortable showing.  It's an incredibly flattering tank thanks to the scoop neckline and light ruching, and it feels and looks very feminine   This is a tank that really needs to be tried on, because it might work perfectly for you, or you might find it supportive yet uncomfortably low-cut.  One huge bonus - this tank comes in a plethora of sizes!

Best low-cost nursing tank top: Gilligan & O'Malley® Women's Cotton Nursing Cami.

You could buy two of these tanks for the price of one of the Bravado tanks, but it is more basic and a little less supportive.  This tank does layer better than the Bravado thanks to its higher and smoother neckline which makes it a little more versatile.  All in all, a good tank at a good price!  You can find these tanks in most Target stores in the undergarments/sleep-ware department which is a nice bonus.     

Finally, here is my pick for the best-of-the-best everyday bra: Bravado Designs Allure Nursing Bra.

I absolutely LOVE this bra!  It comes in a large variety of sizes - especially hard-to-find small band/large cup sizes.  It's flattering and looks smooth under shirts, but it has enough detail to look pretty even as a basic everyday bra.  Check out the beautiful lace detail on the sides and back:

The cups fold down easily for nursing, though the clasps did stick a bit initially.  However, after a few uses the clasps were easy to open and close one-handed.  I love that this looks and feels like a "normal" bra while still functioning as a nursing bra!  This bra DOES have underwire which can be a huge no-no for nursing moms.  However, the underwire in this bra is designed to avoid constriction of breast tissue and is lactation consultant approved and safe for nursing!  Hurray!

style | nursing-friendly summer travel bag

It can be difficult to plan outfits for a trip when EVERYTHING you pack has to be nursing-friendly.  You don't want to pack a ton of clothing, but you want to have enough options to look cute no matter the weather or situation.  I've put together a summertime weekend away packing guide with some ideas that are cute, versatile, and most importantly, incredibly easy to nurse in!

Here are the basic pieces you'll want to pack:
3-4 shirts (1 tank top, 1-2 t shirts, 1 long-sleeve button up)
1 nursing-friendly dress (check out my review of the dress featured below)
2 pairs of bottoms (1 pair shorts, 1 pair cropped jeans)
1 belt
1 InfinityMOM nursing scarf
1 pair of flip flops or sandals
1 large handbag


Using only these basic pieces, you have at least 5 outfit options!  You could expand your options even more just by adding a few extra t-shirts in varying colors, and then you would easily have enough outfits for a weeklong trip.



The neutral bag, tank top, and scarf go well with all the outfits, and the purse is large enough to be used as a "basics" diaper bag.  Toss in a few diapers, a package of wipes, your nursing scarf (if you're not already wearing it), your wallet, and whatever other little items you might need, and you're out the door and on your way without juggling multiple bags/purses!  Your nursing scarf plays double duty as an accessory and a nursing cover which means one less thing for you to pack.  The long sleeve button up is a great lightweight layering piece that is perfect for nursing - unbutton a few buttons or simply leave it open for easy nursing access.  White shorts are fresh and easy to care for, and if you get any stains (you know you will...), they come right out with a little help from a bleach pen.  The nursing tank shown here is from Undercover Mama, and it attaches directly to your nursing bra which I absolutely love!  We're actually doing a giveaway with Undercover Mama which you can enter here (contest ends TODAY, 7/30/13, at noon).  Not only does my Undercover Mama tank mean one less strap hanging off my shoulder, but I think it provides a much smoother look under t-shirts.  I've already written about the Target t-shirt dress here (check out the link for even more outfit ideas!).

style | target t-shirt dresses

Whether you breastfeed for 6 weeks, 6 months, or several years, you quickly realize that some clothing does NOT lend itself to discrete nursing.  I remember being thrilled when I finally fit into my go-to black shift dress for a friend's wedding until we arrived at the chapel, and my baby went from happy to hungry in about 5 seconds flat.  I realized that my side-zip dress was going to have to come off - all the way off - if I was going to have any hope of nursing.  So I made my way to the women's restroom and, dressed in only a nursing bra and slip, I uncomfortably I fed my baby while sitting on a chair next to a row of stalls.  Thankfully no one came in, and I was saved the embarrassment of explaining that I seriously failed at planning ahead.

Since then, I've learned a few things about nursing in public and how to dress myself so as to make it not only painless but enjoyable.

Our InfinityMOM scarves are a great tool to create privacy so you can nurse virtually anywhere but, without the right apparel underneath, you'll be stuck in the bathroom in your slip like I was.

I've tried just about everything when it comes to nursing-friendly apparel - the good, the bad, and the (quite literally) ugly.  In general I've had much better luck (style and cost wise) with stuff that isn't "official" nursing apparel.  I started this blog as a way to collect and share items of clothing that are stylish, functional, and economical for nursing moms.  I would love to hear about your favorite nursing-friendly article of clothing, so please submit your suggestions (we may even feature it on the blog!) by emailing infinitymomcontact@gmail.com.

One of my favorite nursing-friendly dresses is available at Target for only $19.99!

Get them here!

First off, I bought this dress with my own money, and I don't receive anything if you choose to buy this dress so you can be sure my review is honest and unbiased.

Now on to the good stuff! This is by far the softest, most comfortable t-shirt dress I have ever owned.  It is so stretchy that the neckline easily pulls down for nursing and then bounces right back.  Most t-shirt dresses are either so skin tight that I would never wear them out of the house, or they're not stretchy enough even to attempt pulling down far enough to nurse.  This dress is also shaped perfectly so that if you want to size up for a little extra room is stays proportional and cute.  It is technically a Junior's department dress so I bought one size up from what I usually wear, and it gives me just a little extra room so I don't feel like I need a pair of Spanx.

The dress is available online as well as in most Target stores, so stop by and try a few on to see what fits you best.  One caution: this is a shorter dress.  I'm 5'3'' on a good day, and it fits me as a dress.  If you're blessed with long legs, then you may prefer it as a tunic with tights or leggings.

I love it belted at the waist, but belt it a little higher (or not at all!), and you would have a perfect 1st/2nd (probably even 3rd) trimester maternity dress or tunic!  My sister-in-law, Kris, is almost 39 weeks pregnant and a little taller than me, and it still fits her great!  You would not believe how much stretch this dress has!  Can you even imagine a world where one dress would fit when you're not pregnant, pregnant, and post-pregnant/nursing?!?

I put together a few outfit ideas so you can see the versatility of this dress for warm and cold weather:

Perfect for looking put-together during the warm summer months!
Dress
InfinityMOM Nursing Scarf
Belt
Bag
Flip Flops

Add a sweater, tights, and boots, and this dress transitions perfectly to the colder months!
Dress
InfinityMOM Nursing Scarf
Belt
Sweater (no longer available)
Bag
Boots
Tights

This dress is definitely more casual, but it can easily be dressed up with a chunky necklace, a pair of heels, and a cute clutch!
Dress
Necklace
Wedges
Bag

Thanks for reading!  Tomorrow I'm posting a summer packing guide, so be sure to check back for that.  Also, be sure to add us on Facebook or Twitter so you never miss an InfinityMOM blog post, update or sale!
-Kaite