Being a mom without sacrificing your style
There’s a persistent misconception about motherhood: that when you become a mom, you’re supposed to put your personal style on hold. To tuck your pretty dresses away in the back of the closet. To wear “practical” outfits at the expense of everything else. As if being a mother and being yourself couldn’t coexist.
At 23 Mai Paris, we refuse to compromise. Since our founding, we have held a deep conviction: every mother deserves to feel beautiful, free, and true to herself, no matter what stage of motherhood she is in. Breastfeeding, the postpartum period, nursing in public, sleepless nights—all of this is compatible with style, elegance, and self-confidence.
In this article, we’ll tell you who we are, what we believe in, and how we decided to prove that being a mom and staying stylish isn’t an impossible feat. That’s our mission.
To learn more about our vision, explore our collection of nursing wear designed for the woman who refuses to compromise.
The realization that changed everything: the impossible dilemma of the breastfeeding mother
What breastfeeding moms really go through
Before launching 23 Mai Paris, we listened. Hundreds of moms were all telling the same story:
| What they were going through | How they felt |
|---|---|
| Having to choose between feeling beautiful and breastfeeding easily | Frustration, a sense of sacrifice |
| Dull, unstylish nursing clothes | "I don't recognize myself anymore" |
| Having to undress almost completely to breastfeed | Embarrassment, discomfort in public |
| A wardrobe reduced to "what's practical" | Loss of identity |
| Breastfeeding in public in uncomfortable positions | Stress, isolation |
| The feeling of having "lost" one's femininity | Sadness, lack of confidence |
The problem with traditional nursing clothes
What was available on the market always presented the same dilemma: functional but unattractive, or stylish but not suitable for breastfeeding. The colors were dull when we wanted trendy shades, the cuts were shapeless when we expected flattering silhouettes, low-quality synthetics replaced high-quality natural fabrics, and soulless basics took the place of pieces with personality.
The bottom line: There was a huge gap in the market—a gap between practicality and style that no one had really filled with the same level of dedication and attention to detail.
The Birth of 23 Mai Paris A Date, A Story, A Belief
Why that name?
May 23. A date. The date it all began. Not the official founding date of a company, but a moment in life, a turning point when the idea became crystal clear.
For us, May 23 represents a specific moment, rooted in authenticity and real life. Paris embodies French elegance and timeless style. It’s a birthday, like that of our children—precious and unique. It’s grounded in reality, not in marketing.
Our founding principle
Every mom deserves to feel beautiful, because self-confidence affects everything. Breastfeeding shouldn’t require sacrificing style, because no life choice should. Fashion can be socially conscious: creating something beautiful AND responsible is possible. It’s the details that make all the difference, whether it’s a discreet opening, a soft fabric, or a flattering cut. And moms deserve better: to be seen as whole women.
Our Philosophy on Nursing Wear
The invisible touch that makes all the difference: our discreet openings
The first technical challenge with nursing wear is the opening. How can you make it easy to breastfeed without the garment looking like... nursing wear?
Our design is based on several key features: openings integrated into the seams so they’re invisible, a natural double layer that creates a trendy layered look, an elegant wrap-around design that’s both feminine and practical, discreet clips that fasten quickly and silently, and hidden side openings for maximum discretion.
Our golden rule: If you can't tell it's nursing wear just by looking at it, it's a success.
Materials: our obsession
We use only natural fibers—or a blend where natural fibers are the majority: organic cotton, linen, bamboo, modal, and viscose. We carefully select the fabric weights so they’re neither too light (see-through) nor too heavy (overly warm). The fabric feels soft against the skin, designed with breastfeeding, sensitive skin, and exhausting days in mind. Breathability is essential for hot weather and skin-to-skin contact. And durability is key: pieces that last, not disposables.
To discover our basics made from natural fabrics, check out our Breastfeeding t-shirts made from organic cotton.
The cuts: flattering above all else
Our designs are tailored to the postpartum body—a body that evolves, changes, and deserves respect. Our silhouettes are flattering without concealing or exaggerating. The lengths are carefully considered, neither too short nor too long. The proportions are balanced to flatter all body types. And there is enough room to accommodate the changes in bust size associated with breastfeeding.
Colors and prints: trendy and timeless
Our color palette combines timeless neutral tones (off-white, beige, gray, black), on-trend colors (terracotta, sage green, lavender) to stay in style without being overly trendy, and cheerful, carefully selected prints (floral, stripes, tie-dye) that hide stains. A new palette is introduced each season to keep up with the latest trends.
Our product line: something for every stage of a mother’s life
For everyday feedings
Daily life with a baby means 8 to 12 feedings a day at first. Your wardrobe needs to be up to the task. The Breastfeeding t-shirt an absolute essential, worn every day. The nursing tank top is perfect for summer or layering. The nursing bra is ideal for nighttime or exercise.
For everyday wear, our nursing tank tops are perfect for any season.
For outings and special occasions
Because life doesn't stop when your baby is born, and moms have appointments, dinners, and special events to attend. The Breastfeeding dress, elegant and versatile, is a one-piece that does it all. The feminine wrap-style top is perfect for special occasions. The flowing blouse remains chic and casual.
For nights out and special occasions, check out our Breastfeeding dresses that transition seamlessly from everyday wear to special occasions.
For relaxation and bedtime
Nights with a baby deserve care and comfort, too. Nursing pajamas provide comfort at night and make feeding easier. The nursing sweatshirt, warm and cozy, is your go-to for a cozy night’s sleep. The nursing nightgown is perfect for summer nights.
For cozy evenings at home, our nursing sweatshirts have become the go-to pieces for thousands of moms.
And for quieter nights, our Breastfeeding pyjamas combine softness and practicality.
What our customers say about us
Stories that touch us deeply
Moms write to us saying they finally feel like themselves again—that’s a sign our mission is accomplished. They tell us that no one knows they’re breastfeeding—proof that our nursing openings are truly invisible. They’re still wearing their dresses a year after weaning—our clothes have a life beyond breastfeeding. For many, this is the first thing they’ve bought for themselves since giving birth—we’re thinking of them, and they can feel it. And they tell us they finally feel like getting dressed in the morning—style boosts self-confidence.
What Moms Love Most
The top things they mention are: discreet nursing openings, soft fabrics, a style that makes you forget you’re breastfeeding, the versatility of the pieces, and their durability.
Our commitment: more than just clothing
A blog to support moms
We believe our role goes beyond simply selling a garment. That’s why we regularly post tips, guides, and testimonials on our blog to support mothers in every aspect of their breastfeeding journey.
It features practical guides on breastfeeding, building a wardrobe, and returning to work; fashion tips for dressing for different occasions; stories from moms sharing their experiences; and health information on breastfeeding, the postpartum period, and well-being.
To make sure you buy the right items, check out our guide How many nursing clothes do you really need?
A community of moms
We are building a supportive community on social media—a space for sharing without judgment or pressure, where moms can offer each other support through personal stories, advice, and mutual assistance, and where motherhood and breastfeeding are portrayed in a positive light.
Our Commitment to Quality
Our materials are carefully selected—no low-quality synthetics. Our products are crafted with care, featuring sturdy seams and impeccable finishes. Every item is rigorously tested by real moms. Our customer service team is attentive, because you deserve to be heard. And we make exchanges easy, because we understand that sizes change.
Our vision of stylish motherhood
What We Stand For
Our stance is clear: moms deserve to feel beautiful, and style shouldn’t be a luxury. Breastfeeding is compatible with elegance—breastfeeding doesn’t mean hiding away. The postpartum period deserves thoughtfully designed clothing, not “survival outfits.” Every mom is different, and we reject one-size-fits-all solutions. Self-confidence affects everything, and it’s not superficial.
What We Never Say
Where others say , "Hide your pregnancy, " we say: show it off if you want to. Where we hear , "You should take care of yourself afterward, " we say: during it too, right now too. Where we hear , "Style is secondary when you have a baby," we reply: no, style is part of well-being. And to “Are you still breastfeeding?”, we reply: as long as you want.
How to Build Your Wardrobe 23 Mai Paris
The capsule method
We recommend a capsule wardrobe approach: a few well-chosen pieces that go well together. Start with the basics (2–3 T-shirts in different colors), then add versatile pieces (1–2 dresses that go with everything), cozy wear (1 sweatshirt + 1 pair of pajamas), seasonal pieces (a tank top in summer, a sweater in winter), and finally a dressy piece for special occasions.
Must-haves
For a complete wardrobe, you’ll need 3–4 Breastfeeding t-shirts everyday wear, 1–2 Breastfeeding dresses outings and special occasions, 1–2 nursing sweatshirts for lounging and staying in, 2 Breastfeeding pyjamas nighttime, and 2–3 tank tops for summer and layering.
Estimated budget
A starter kit (€80–120) includes 2–3 essential basics. A complete wardrobe (€150–250) gives you everything you need to be fully dressed. A seasonal collection (€250–350) offers a stylish and complete wardrobe.
The questions we’re asked most often
On our clothing
"Are the openings really invisible?" Yes. That's our top priority. "Can you wear it after weaning?"Absolutely, that’s what it’s designed for. "Do the sizes run true?" We recommend sizing up if you’re unsure. "Is it designed for long-term breastfeeding?" Yes, for 6 months or even 2 years. "Can you breastfeed discreetly in public?"That’s exactly why we created them.
On 23 Mai Paris
"Where are your products made?" We work with socially responsible manufacturers. "Do you ship internationally?" Yes, to many countries. "Do you carry plus sizes?" Yes, our collection is inclusive. "Can we contact you?" Our customer service team is here to help.
What sets us apart
23 Mai Paris the Rest
| Criterion | 23 Mai Paris | Classic brands |
|---|---|---|
| Style | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Discretion regarding openings | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Quality of materials | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Versatility | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Support | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Value for money | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Variable |
Our promise in a nutshell
At 23 Mai Paris, we create nursing wear that lets every mom feel exactly the way she wants to: beautiful, free, and like herself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is your clothing really different from other nursing brands?
Yes, and that is our firm belief. The difference lies in the details: the discreet openings, the quality of the materials, the attention to cut, and the color palette designed to be on-trend. We don’t create “functional clothes with a touch of style.” We create stylish clothes with built-in nursing functionality.
How long can your nursing clothes be worn?
As long as you’re breastfeeding—and often long after that. Our openings are so discreet that you can continue to wear our pieces as regular clothing even after weaning. Many of our customers tell us they still wear their dresses and T-shirts years later.
Are your clothes suitable for breastfeeding in public?
Absolutely. In fact, it’s one of our top priorities. Our openings allow you to breastfeed discreetly in any setting: restaurants, offices, public transportation, or formal events. No one will notice that you’re breastfeeding unless you want them to.
How can you care for your clothes so they last longer?
Wash at 30°C on the delicate cycle, turn garments inside out before washing, and air-dry. Avoid the dryer. These simple care instructions will significantly extend the life of our garments.
Do you offer exchanges if the size doesn't fit?
Yes, our customer service team handles exchanges with care. We understand that your body changes during and after pregnancy, and that finding the right size may require some adjustments.
Conclusion
Being a mom without sacrificing your style: it’s not just a slogan. It’s a belief we’ve stood by since day one at 23 Mai Paris. Because every mom deserves to look in the mirror and recognize herself. To feel beautiful while breastfeeding. To breastfeed on a patio without stress. To get through the postpartum period without feeling like she’s lost who she was.
The perfect nursing top does exist. It’s stylish, practical, comfortable, and discreet. It’s with you from the moment you wake up until you go to bed, from home to special occasions, from the first month through weaning. It reflects who you are.
That’s what we create at 23 Mai Paris. For you. For all moms.
Discover our collection of nursing wear and find the pieces that suit you.
If you're looking for the perfect gift for a breastfeeding mom, here are our collections:
