8 Postpartum & Nursing Bridesmaid Dresses & Tips
If you've just given birth, well first of all, CONGRATS MAMA! We get so many inquiries from new moms (or mom-to-be's) asking for tips on dressing a post-baby body – especially from bridesmaids who are shopping while pregnant, but whose wedding date is after the delivery. We know, it's tricky... but we've got some helpful tips and gorgeous postpartum and nursing-friendly bridesmaid dress options, to make your post-baby bridesmaid experience a piece of cake!
Prioritize Comfort Without Sacrificing Style
Comfort is key during pregnancy, and it’s essential to choose a dress that allows you to move freely. Opt for dresses with breathable fabrics and soft linings to ensure you feel comfortable throughout the event. Features like adjustable straps, wrap styles, and ruching can offer flexibility and ease.
Choose the Right Fabric
The choice of fabric can make a significant difference in how a dress feels and fits. Lightweight materials like chiffon can drape beautifully over a growing belly, while still providing a high-end feel. Stretch velvet also adds a comfortable, luxe touch.
Breastfeeding in Your Bridesmaid Dress
If you plan to be nursing your new babe, opt for a dress with a neckline that’s easy to maneuver, such as one of our strapless convertible bridesmaid dresses that you can wear as a halter and easily untie for feeding.
Be sure to account for lots of extra room in the bust area – you’ll need it. Keep in mind that you’ll need to sneak away during the wedding to pump or nurse, so it’s a good idea to. And don't forget to wear those nursing pads!!
Embrace the Bump with Style
Modern bridesmaid dresses are crafted to flatter every shape, including a blossoming bump. Look for dresses with adjustable or stretchy fabrics, such as jersey or chiffon, which can accommodate changes in body shape. Empire waistlines and A-line silhouettes are particularly flattering for pregnant bridesmaids, as they provide extra room without compromising on elegance.
Order the Size You Are Now
Resist that temptation to order a pre-pregnancy size dress and order up, just to be safe. Trust us when we say that it’s easier to tailor a dress down in sizing, than vice versa.
It’s also totally okay to order a maternity friendly dress if you’ve recently given birth—they're just as forgiving post-pregnancy as they are during.
Dress Sizing
This can be tricky...
If the wedding date is soon after delivery: You can expect to be around the same size as you were at 5 months pregnant. If possible, measure yourself and order your dress when you are around 5 months along.
If the wedding is 3 or more months after delivery: Wait until you’ve given birth to shop. At that point, you should be clear to just order a size up from what you would normally wear.
As a Birdy best-practice, we strongly recommend ordering your bridesmaid dress 3 months before the wedding, to avoid last-minute dress drama.
Love Your Body
Try not to compare your body to others in the bridal party, and focus on appreciating the sweet moments you’ll share alongside your best gal on her wedding day. This day won’t come around again, and you'll definitely want to spend every moment having fun and making sure you're fulfilling all of your bridesmaid duties, instead of stressing over your post-baby body.