When we partnered with Cotton Australia, we wanted to get to know the people behind the fabric. Brooke Summers is as passionate about Australian Cotton as the farmers who grow it. Here, she shares why it is regarded amongst the highest quality in the world, why traceability is becoming increasingly significant in fashion supply chains and how our local cotton production is becoming even more sustainable.
As part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month we are joining forces with our charity partner, Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA), to raise awareness, inspire hope, and celebrate resilience.
Throughout October, we will unite to amplify the personal stories BCNA are sharing of those affected by breast cancer and its powerful theme for Breast Cancer Awareness month, which is “Living well, Your Way”.
One story that profoundly touched us this year was that of Julia Alberico, a dedicated hairdresser and proud BCNA member.
With warmth and vulnerability, Julia shared how her breast cancer journey led to a profound shift in her self-image and style. Her experience was a catalyst, inspiring her to embrace a fresh perspective on both her wellness and her wardrobe.
In the spirit of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Julia’s story serves as a poignant reminder that we should dress for any moment, because every moment deserves to be cherished and celebrated.
Hairdresser and Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) member, Julia Alberico, shines a new light on her wardrobe after breast cancer.
In the past, colour-coordinating my gym bag with my workout attire was my way of adding fashionable flair.
After being diagnosed with breast cancer, I started matching my hospital bag to my outfit instead. But it wasn’t about making a style statement anymore; I was trying to reassure myself that I still had it all together.Last year, after years of regular breast checks and biopsies, my doctor found a lump called a fibroadenoma and recommended we take it out. My breast tissue had always been quite dense, so I suggested having a breast reduction as part of the surgery — something I had thought about for a long time.
As a fitness enthusiast and weightlifter, I had always embraced my body, understanding my large breasts couldn’t be altered through exercise. Still, I longed to wear racerback singlets to the gym and tops that celebrated my cleavage instead of concealing it. I remember getting home from my reduction surgery and – despite being sore –eagerly trying on all these beautiful tops that I couldn’t previously wear. I even asked my partner to take a photo of me wearing one I’d always wanted to button up.
I hadn’t even had a chance to enjoy my new body when my surgeon rang me two days later. They had found a 2.5-centimetre tumour in my breast tissue. I was 36 years old, and within days went from having breast surgery to breast cancer surgery. It’s been really interesting for me because I was initially so excited about the confidence I would gain from my new breasts, only to have my entire body image shift.
One of the hardest things I have found is that your self-esteem can suffer after you finish treatment. There’s a misconception that after chemo and radiation, everything is fine, but in reality, you’re left on your own in a body you no longer trust. And, while there’s incredible support available for your mental and physical health — something I am so grateful to BCNA for — sometimes it’s simple things like knowing how to dress for your new body that you can struggle with the most. Cancer completely changed me and I didn’t know where to start. I just knew I didn’t want to wear clothes that would accentuate my flaws, because that’s exactly how I felt: flawed.
My hair still hasn’t grown back, I’ve gained weight, and in my case daily hormone treatments also mean I don’t have collagen in my skin, so it appears wrinklier.
But in seeing my body in this new light, I am trying to positively work with what I’ve got.
I always had an hourglass figure, so I would choose clothes cinched in at the stomach to highlight my small waist. Now instead of pinning my waist, I look for silhouettes that flow from under the bust and don’t cling to my body. I’ve also tried to incorporate more colours and prints into my wardrobe because, in a way, you feel stripped back of everything. In my case, I don’t have any oestrogen, so I feel like I’m robbed of my youth, and I find that injecting bright, fun and playful pieces into my outfit can boost my mood.
Scarves and necklaces have become another way of adding a pop of colour, but also soften my appearance and make me feel empowered. As a hairdresser, I chose not to wear a wig because I didn’t want to hide my journey; I wanted people to recognise what I was going through.
Above all, what I’ve learnt on this journey is that we never truly know what another woman is experiencing. So, when you see someone wearing a nice top, take a moment to compliment and ask where they found it. These seemingly small acts of kindness can be a powerful source of encouragement, igniting confidence, and uplifting spirits in ways we may never know.
Finally, I’ve discovered that some days you just have to get dressed, because putting on a beautiful dress can instantly make you feel more confident to embrace life. But also, on the days when the weight of it all feels too heavy, request that your friends visit you wearing their PJs, too. No expectations, no judgement — just a reminder that you are not alone in your journey.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting Australian women. For 18 years, Sussan has been proudly supporting BCNA. Together with the support of our customers, we have raised more than $3 million for the organisation.
More ways to support and connect with BCNA
