Elle MacPherson Nursing Bras: Look Like a Model (or Just Wear a Bra by One)

The mission: to find a nursing bra that could support my newly massivemilk machines without digging in to give that oh-so-unsexy quadra-boobeffect. Who knew Elle Macpherson would be the one torescue me? The model-turned-designer’s lingerie line was a favorite ofmine pre-pregnancy (Oh, to be that nicely shaped C-cup again…) so whenI saw that she also sold nursing bras, I decided to give them a shot.

The Maternelle ($55), which comes in white, blackand pale pink, is the most comfortable bra I’ve owned that actuallyholds everything in place. I might even keep wearing it after mybreastfeeding days are over. Its cotton lined cups are soft but offersturdy support at the same time, and there’s a pretty hint of lace atthe top, which is a nice contrast to some of the more utilitariannursing undergarments out there. Plus, there are six rows of hooks inthe back, so it can stay snug as you lose those post-pregnancy pounds. Elle Macpherson also offers the La Merebra ($62; pictured), which has less support, but a lot more lace. It’sso gorgeous, your significant other may not even realize it has anotherpurpose besides looking pretty.

Both bras can be purchased at Nordstrom, Bloomingdales and Amazon.com.

Comments

I think the bras are a great idea. The one pictured is absolutely beautiful.

One thing though, I don’t know how a bra having six rows of hooks can continue to be worn as one loses weight. I suppose it could help you with a size or two. When I lose weight, I notice I lose it in the cup size rather quickly and it would not matter how many rows of hooks I had unless the cup size could be adjusted too.

Nevertheless, kudos to Elle for making nursing women feel a little more beautiful!

- Chrystie Delancey on August 18th, 2008

Thanks for this post – I’ve been looking for a nice maternity bra EVERYWHERE, and have had no luck!!! I really like the look of the bra in the picture, and am also wondering if anyone knows what bras Nicole Richie wore when she was pregnant – they were always poking out above her clothes, and looked really nice! I would love to know what she was wearing!

- zaraB on August 18th, 2008

Sarah, can you compare these to Bravados? I’d love for something to compare these to!

- Cate on August 18th, 2008

Hi Cate,

I actually didn’t write this review, I just posted it. It’s a cross-post of Jen’s from CBB Reviews. http://celebritybabies.typepad.com/reviews/2008/08/elle-macpherson.html

Sorry for the misunderstanding! Perhaps another reader will know though and be able to give you a comparison.

- Sarah, Staff Editor on August 18th, 2008

I own both these bras, so I thought I’d give my 2 cents…

The Maternelle is awesome. Probably the best soft-cupped nursing bra I own. Perfect for sleeping in, too. One problem: the top of the bra is a little high, and can peak out over the edge of some tops. But, I’m still wearing it even thought I just weaned my son!

The La Mere bra wasn’t so great. I used it while I was still pregnant and I also when I was nursing. Pre-pregnancy is was OK. Not great support, but did the job and looked fab. Nursing-wise…what a bust! Literally! I don’t/didn’t have a super large chest, but the fabric would shift and sometimes there would be a gap between the flap and the bra (depending on how full I was). Very upsupportive. My boobs drooped – ick! On the plus side, survived many washes.

- Risa on August 18th, 2008

Try http://www.figleaves.com. They carry almost every bra brand out there as well as non maternity wear. The best time to buy is when they have their semi- annual sale (70% off)!!!

- kris on August 18th, 2008

These are lovely but stop at a size 36. I’m a 38 C regularly and when nursing/pregnant go up to a 40 D/E. They are really pretty and I would love to own several since they are so nice looking but no dice it seems. I’ll stick with my Bravados

- Elana on August 18th, 2008

I’ve not tried these, but, I, too, find the Bravados to be very comfortable and supportive.

- Shelby on August 18th, 2008

The Maternelle is my staple nursing bra – I own at least 8 of them. My son just weaned due to my current pregnancy, and I’m still wearing them because they are so comfortable.

Chrystie, most (if not all) Australian nursing bras are made with six columns of hooks, so they can grow with you during pregnancy as your rib cage expands and then you can tighten them again postpartum.

I also own the Bravado lifestyle microfiber bras and like them as well, but prefer the Maternelle. I’ve found there is more stretch in the rib band of the Maternelle which gives me better fit and comfort, but that’s only my opinion.

I order mine online from zodee.com.au and although I pay approx. $20 in shipping, with my member discount they are cheaper than anywhere I’ve found in the States (or through figleaves).

- Brooke on August 18th, 2008

I forgot to add that the Maternelle goes to an E cup and still gives plenty of support – for those of us with larger cup sizes, I also ordered the La Mere and returned them. I think if you’re above a C cup, they just don’t have that much to offer aside from being a pretty, lacy bra.

- Brooke on August 18th, 2008

“Chrystie, most (if not all) Australian nursing bras are made with six columns of hooks, so they can grow with you during pregnancy as your rib cage expands and then you can tighten them again postpartum.”

I understand that Shelby, (but thanks for the additional information about Australia – I did not know). All I was trying to point out was that you do not only gain/lose weight around the bust, but in the cup as well. And I do not think it would matter how many rows of hooks you had if the cup size could not change. In other words, the bra would not fit properly if the cups could not be adjusted and I have yet to see a bra that reflects that.

- Chrystie Delancey on August 19th, 2008

I think Bella Materna bras are the best! They are so comfortable and pretty! Being a 38G I needed support! I have been so pleased, they are worth every penny. http://www.bellamaterna.com

- Genna on September 3rd, 2008

A wide selection of Elle Macpherson bras can also be found at a pea in the pod.

- Michelle on September 3rd, 2008

Her collection looks beautiful. Hautelook.com is having a sample sale tomorrow for it. I can’t wait! They have the best deals on this site.

- loveslove on September 22nd, 2008