Guide: How to Choose the Perfect Nursing Shirt
The nursing blouse is an essential piece in any new mom’s postpartum wardrobe for those who want to combine professional elegance with practicality. Unlike traditional clothing, it features discreet opening systems and cuts designed to accommodate your body’s changing shape.
At 23 Mai Paris, we create nursing shirts that transform your daily life as a new mom. This guide reveals all the factors to consider when choosing the perfect style, combining technical expertise with an eye for style.
Discover our nursing tops Stylish for any occasion.
The different opening systems: the number one criterion
The effectiveness of a nursing top depends primarily on its opening mechanism. Understanding these features will help you make an informed choice based on your needs.
Side openings vs. front openings
Side openings (under the arms)
| Benefits | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Maximum discretion | Slightly less direct access |
| Classic look preserved | May take a little practice |
| Perfect for the office | - |
| Invisible even when open | - |
Front openings (with appropriate buttoning)
| Benefits | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Very easy and direct access | Less reserved in public |
| Precise adjustment of the aperture | "Breastfeeding" appearance sometimes visible |
| Perfect for the home | - |
Our recommendation: Side vents for work and outings, front vents for home use.
Discreet clips: the innovation to choose
Clips represent the most advanced innovation in the world of nursing wear.
Types of clips:
| Type | How it works | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Magnetic clips | Invisible magnets | Quiet, one-handed, very discreet |
| Snap clips | Hidden snap fasteners | Sturdy, discreet |
| Traditional clips | Small hooks | Affordable, reliable |
Why choose magnetic clips:
- Silent opening (important at night!)
- One-handed operation
- Secure and automatic closure
- No visible features that give away its function
At 23 Mai Paris, we use magnetic clips that are seamlessly integrated into the design for a completely discreet look.
The double-layer system
This system creates a reassuring visual barrier thanks to two layers of fabric placed one on top of the other.
Advantages :
- Psychological support for breastfeeding in public
- Holding the fabric in place
- Additional protection
Ideal for: Moms who are concerned about modesty or who often breastfeed in public.
Choose based on your postpartum body type
Your body changes after giving birth. A good nursing top accommodates these changes to help you feel your best.
For a comprehensive guide to body types, check out our article Nursing Tops: 5 Styles to Compare Based on Your Body Type.
For a full bust
Breast augmentation requires specific incisions.
What to prioritize:
| Element | Why |
|---|---|
| Empire waist (high waistline below the bust) | Highlights the slimmest part of the torso |
| Adjustable clamps | Shape the silhouette without a "baggy" look |
| Princess seams | Flatter curves naturally |
| Generous armholes | Avoid layoffs |
Avoid:
- Shirts that are too tight and constricting
- Shirts that are too loose and make you look bigger
- Buttons that pull or gape
For the post-pregnancy belly
The abdominal area is often tender after childbirth.
What to prioritize:
| Element | Why |
|---|---|
| Straight or slightly flared cuts | Gently brush without leaving marks |
| Flowing fabrics | An elegant drape that conceals |
| Box pleats or basques | Distract attention |
| Mid-thigh length | Provides coverage without weighing it down |
Avoid:
- Shirts that are too short and end at the waist
- Fabrics that are too thin and show through
- Fitted at the waist
For size variations
Your size may fluctuate while breastfeeding (milk coming in, gradual weight loss, etc.).
Adjustment solutions to look for:
| Solution | Advantage |
|---|---|
| Hidden sliding links | Invisible adjustment in everyday life |
| Offset buttoning | Several possible positions |
| Adjustable martingales | Adjustable bending |
| Stretch fabrics | Fit naturally |
These technical details will help you track your progress over several months.
Preferred materials
The choice of materials directly affects your everyday comfort.
Discover also our Breastfeeding t-shirts made from organic cotton for everyday wear.
Natural fibers vs. synthetic fibers
| Subject | Benefits | Perfect for... |
|---|---|---|
| Organic cotton | Hypoallergenic, absorbent, soft | Sensitive skin, summer |
| Cotton-spandex (3–5%) | Comfort + shape retention | Everyday use |
| Viscose/modal | Light, silky, fresh | Fine days, special occasions |
| Flax | Breathable, stylish | Summer |
| Poplin | Organized, professional | Office |
The ideal combination:
- 90–97% cotton (preferably organic)
- 3–5% spandex for comfort
- Or a cotton-viscose blend for a softer drape
Ease of maintenance: a key criterion
With a baby, stains and laundry are a daily occurrence. Your shirt needs to hold up.
What to check:
| Criterion | What you need |
|---|---|
| Washing | Machine wash, 30–40°C |
| Drying | Quick, ideally without a dryer |
| Ironing | Minimal or unnecessary |
| Stain resistance | Invisible stain treatment, if possible |
| Color fastness | Colors that don't fade |
Tip: Shirts made of high-quality poplin or tightly woven cotton are easier to remove stains from than textured fabrics.
Choose based on your daily needs
Nursing shirt for work
Priorities: Maximum discretion, professional appearance.
| What you need | Why |
|---|---|
| Hidden side openings | None of my colleagues will guess |
| Neutral colors (white, sky blue, beige) | Fits the dress code |
| Structured cut | Professional appearance |
| Fabric that doesn't wrinkle | Looking great all day long |
Our tip: Invest in 2–3 high-quality shirts rather than 5 basic ones. You’ll wear them often.
For more tips, check out our article Stylish Nursing Outfits: 5 Tips for Staying Chic.
Nursing blouse for special occasions
Priorities: Elegance, femininity.
| What you need | Why |
|---|---|
| Refined details (tailored collar, mother-of-pearl buttons) | Dressing effect |
| High-quality fabrics (silk blends, fine poplin) | Elegantly draped |
| Flattering cut | Brings out the best in you |
| Solid color or subtle print | Out of the ordinary |
Everyday nursing shirt
Priorities: Comfort, practicality, and ease of maintenance.
| What you need | Why |
|---|---|
| Very convenient openings | Frequent breastfeeding |
| Comfortable materials | Prolonged wear |
| Easy to maintain | Frequent washing |
| Casual chic | Suitable for everything |
Mistakes to avoid
Mistake #1: Buying too early or too late
| Timing | Problem |
|---|---|
| Too early (during pregnancy) | Morphology has not yet stabilized |
| Too late (at the last minute) | A hasty choice, a bad decision |
The right time: Around the 8th month of pregnancy or in the first few weeks after giving birth.
Mistake #2: Skipping the fitting (or testing the openings)
Before you buy, try it out:
- Can you open it with one hand?
- Is the opening wide enough?
- Is the system quiet?
- Does the shirt stay in place once it's open?
Mistake #3: Choosing based solely on price
| Quality | Estimated price | Service life | Actual cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | €25–€40 | 2–4 months | €8–15/month |
| Mid-range | €50–€80 | 8–12 months | €5–8/month |
| Premium | €80–120 | 12–24 months+ | €4–7/month |
Conclusion: Quality saves money in the long run.
Mistake #4: Forgetting about versatility after breastfeeding
A good nursing shirt can still be worn after weaning. Check:
- Are the openings really invisible?
- Is the cut timeless?
- Could you wear it without breastfeeding?
How many nursing shirts do you need?
| Profile | Recommended amount |
|---|---|
| Stay-at-home mom | 1–2 for formal occasions |
| Mom Going Back to Work | At least 3–4 |
| A very active mom (who goes out often) | 2–3 |
Our tip: A nursing blouse isn't an everyday staple (that role belongs to the T-shirt). It's a piece for when you want to dress up a bit.
To put together your complete wardrobe, check out our article How many nursing clothes do you really need?
Pre-purchase checklist
The opening system:
- Is it closed?
- Can it be opened with one hand?
- Is it quiet?
- Is the opening wide enough?
The cut:
- Does it suit my current body type?
- Will it adjust to changes in size?
- Is the length flattering?
Materials:
- Do they feel comfortable to the touch?
- Are they easy to maintain?
- Will they hold up to frequent washing?
Versatility:
- Will I be able to wear it after weaning?
- Will it go well with my existing wardrobe?
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect nursing top requires considering several factors: the opening style, a cut that flatters your body type, high-quality materials, and versatility. By investing in well-designed pieces, you’ll enjoy comfort, style, and practicality throughout your breastfeeding journey.
At 23 Mai Paris, we design nursing clothes that meet all these criteria. Because a mom returning to work or going out for a special occasion deserves to feel both beautiful AND comfortable.
Browse our collection of nursing wear and find the perfect shirt for your workdays and special occasions.
