How does fashion relate to Breast Cancer Awareness Month? As I was trying to conjure thoughts for this column, I was so stumped. I felt that talking about fashion was trivial compared to a cause that is so big. Breast cancer has devastated so many lives. But then I sat back, took my fingers off the keyboard, rested my chin in my hands, and took a sip of coffee.
Then it came to me!
Because fashion inspires others to start over and reinvent their look, this couldn’t be more relevant to breast cancer survivors. For these women, rebuilding their lives entails being healthy, happy, and stylish.
Shopping (especially shopping sales and clearance racks!) is a popular outlet among those who are weighed down or lifted up with emotions; and I can imagine that breast cancer survivors may feel both highs and lows as treatment concludes. Whether you were the one diagnosed with breast cancer or are a loved one who experienced its suffering with someone throughout her treatment, it may be time to take a deep breath, put on some cute flats, and head on down to the local mall. It may be time to treat yourself to a new wardrobe or update your already-fabulous style.
As for where to find affordable pieces to invest in, think such stores as Target, JCPenney, and Old Navy. For personalized care and customer service, Nordstrom offers you excellence. But before you get going with spending your hard-earned dollars, make a shopping list of your essentials. If you or your loved one underwent a mastectomy or a double mastectomy, specific types of undergarments may be the first items to purchase.
However you approach shopping, remember not to overspend! That is my number one tip. Feeling reinvigorated with new fashion is an understatement, but you never want to go home broke. After all, don’t you want some money left over for your next trip? Treat yourself well, and be kind to your bank account in the process. Healing with fashion doesn’t have to leave your wallet empty.
Tragedy is prevalent in so many lives, and recovery is a blessing. This column is dedicated to those who lost their lives to breast cancer, those who are beginning treatment, and those who have survived.
Written by Elana Pruitt
