The brainchild of mum Sam Telfer, the award-winning undergarment has been created, designed and tested by breastfeeding mums who mention “a deep-rooted fear of exposing the postnatal tummies our babies left behind.”
It doesn’t cover your breast; in fact it sits just under the bra, like a very low-necked vest top. But when breastfeeding there isn’t any need to pull it down or lift it up as it’s already where you need it to be.
How is the Breastvest when feeding?
It’s easy to feed while you’re wearing the Breastvest. Because the straps sit outside of your bra straps it doesn’t get in the way.
It also solves the problem of having to pull your top down and stretching it while you breastfeed.
But I didn’t really find it a huge help in preserving my modesty, mainly because I’m more self-conscious about exposing my boobs, rather than my tummy, in public.
Does it give you more confidence?
Not really. Being well endowed, I’m quite self-conscious when it comes to breastfeeding in public. And having big boobs makes it difficult for me to feed my 10-week-old baby Ellis discreetly.
Because my boobs are larger than average, less of my stomach area is exposed when I breastfeed. And Ellis tends to hide some of it too.
This could explain why perhaps it was less effective than I’d imagine. Saying that it would probably be better for mothers who reveals more of their midriff.
Is it comfy?
Yes, very comfortable. The vest has a lovely soft and silky feels as it’s made from 95% viscose and 5% elastane. which makes it super stretchy –a bonus.
It is also a good length and creates an extra layer underneath my clothes and still allows me to wear some of my normal pre-pregnancy tops.
And it’s also machine washable, handy as it’s bound to get covered in milk.
How does it compare to other maternity wear?
I’ve used the Bebe au Lait nursing cover, which is basically an apron you can use to cover up while breastfeeding.
Ellis hates it. And I sometimes find it can be awkward to feed with, as it can be hard to see him underneath it. But it definitely gives me a lot more coverage than the Breastvest.
Is it value for money?
At £15 it’s a little on the steep side for a vest top. But it’s good quality and if you’re breastfeeding every day you’ll definitely get your money’s worth out of it.
MadeforMums verdict
The Breastvest is a clever idea. It’s designed to help with feeding in public, but it doesn’t actually cover your boobs.
If you’re self-conscious about showing you stomach then it’s great as it’s made to flatter your figure and hide your tummy. But if you’re not keen on exposing your breasts while you feed, then this top isn’t going to do much for you.
