I have four children - ages 10, 8, 5, and almost 9 months.
Over the past decade, I have nursed for six and a half years collectively (approximately two years for each baby)...and I am currently nursing my 9-month-old baby! That is a lot of breastfeeding!
Although nursing bras, tanks, and clothes aren't strictly necessary, I have found them to be a HUGE help in my comfort and ease of nursing.
Below are my favorite nursing bras, tanks, and clothing from the past decade. Note that some are brand new, while others are no longer available. Be sure to check out the brand websites if you like a particular style to see their newest collections.
If you are reading this article as a newly pregnant or first-time mom, this post will provide an excellent introduction to the leading nursing bra and nursing clothing brands.
Nursing bras don't have to be boring! There are plenty of gorgeous, detailed, lacy, and attractive options on the market. It's important to point out that you may need to try several different styles to determine what works best for you based on your cup and band size.
A structured bra in deep maroon with a black lace overlay and sparkling jewels, this bra by Hotmilk is my favorite "fancy" bra. Although it is a soft cup bra without wires (so important for nursing), it offers exceptional support and lift - and looks great under clothes.
Hotmilk offers the prettiest nursing bras around - florals, prints, lace, you-name-it. They also sell nursing camisoles, nightgowns, and sports bras.
The Tee-Shirt Soft-Cup Nursing Bra by Melinda G is super soft, supremely comfortable, and especially ideal for the first six months. Available in black or a beautiful subtle nude.
The Belly Bandit B.D.A. Nursing Bra is my favorite sports-bra style nursing bra! Plenty of stretch AND plenty of support! I wear this bra at least 3 times per week - often more.
P.S. Belly Bandit just introduced a clothing line! Can't wait to continue to watch their growing collection. I already have my eye on the Mother Tucker Leggings and Mother Tucker Nursing Tank.
Soft, supportive, and attractive with a deeply plunging neckline, the Anytime Nursing Bra offers a convenient pull-aside design. No clasps or ties to manage. 80% nylon, 20% lycra equals a luxurious and cool material that feels great on your skin.
Bella Materna also offers clothing and you need to head over there to check out the Jet Set Nursing Dress. Classic appeal in timeless navy.
I first got this bra in 2010...and it has been washed & worn hundreds of times! The material is silky smooth and so soft. Seven years later, I still wear it, but it's lost a bit of "support" so I tend to wear it around the house only at this point. Definitely check out Bravado Designs though. They are an established nursing bra brand with lots of terrific options for new moms!
There's nothing quite like slipping into soft and ultra-comfortable pajamas at the end of the day (or any time of day!). Although you can wear any stretchy tank top or gown to bed, nursing-specific PJs make for a more peaceful nighttime nursing experience.
Bella Materna's Anytime Nursing Gown is an ideal pick for a "coming home" outfit for the new mom. Pull-aside nursing gowns, like this one, help to make nursing a newborn a breeze - and Bella Materna's line is particularly luxurious. The gown looks like lingerie, but feels like a pajama dress to lounge around in.
The Pachisi set is great for summer because it is sleeveless and has capri style leggings (with an elastic waist). Super flattering and forgiving. You’ll want to wear them all day.
Buy this set for a new mom in your life! I'd hashtag this set with #BestBabyShowerGift.
Of note: All Majamas items are made right here in the USA!
Ten years later and lots of nursing years in between, I still rarely wear "nursing clothes." On most days, I simply opt to wear "layers" - a fitted tank or camisole as a bottom layer with a button-up, zip-up, or flowing blouse on top.
The nursing tops below, however, are ones that I would recommend. Smartly designed with nursing mamas in mind!
Made with 95% rayon and 5% spandex, you'll love the buttery soft feel of the Trendy Tank Nursing Top by Udderly Hot Mama. Unlike many breastfeeding tanks, this one actually offers a modest neckline (so thankful!), while still providing easy access for baby. I LOVE the design of this tank! Pull down from the top and still keep your belly covered. No clasps or ties. It's a terrific length too - wear with jeans or leggings for an instantly stylish outfit.
The Julian t-shirt is downy soft with a genius double-layer design! I love the laid-back casual vibe that totally doesn't scream "This is a nursing shirt!"
Milkstars' social media accounts were last updated in 2016 so I'm guessing that their current production is minimal or at a standstill. I'm really hoping they "stay in the game" and re-launch with a new collection.
Quick aside to Milkstar Designers - I wish the Julian wasn't quite so clingy around the tummy. Can you make it a tid-bit more roomy at the middle?
I discovered these tank tops during my pregnancy, but have since noted that they are ideal for breastfeeding. The material is soft and stretchy, easy to pull down or up for nursing. I have two colors (black + gray) and they are my go-to for at home, on walks, and out-and-about. I wear them by themselves in warm weather or as a base layer under other shirts. Don't let the "maternity" label mislead you. These are excellent for nursing!
Dear Liz, please make this tank in more colors. I suggest deep navy, forest green, vibrant orange, and cardinal red. XOXO.
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Do you have a favorite nursing bra or tank top? A go-to nursing clothing brand?
Chime in and help the new mamas out there!