A chemotherapy myth that I have personally debunked is that cancer treatment makes you loose weight.

For certain types of cancers & treatments this is true, but I’d like to “weigh in” on my experience with chemo to treat breast cancer.

When I began my chemotherapy , I stepped on the scale at a reasonable weight. Over the course of four months the needle kept gliding higher and higher. It finally got stuck at a figure twenty five pounds heavier than when I started. Steroids, certain medications, chemo induced menopause, and lack of exercise were the culprits.

Getting dressed to go out (and stay in) became a challenge. Over time I developed a new “full figured & fabulous” approach to dressing. Refusing to give in to the lure of sweatpants and loose, baggy tops, I relied on these style tips.

1. Clothing should skim your body. While it is tempting to wear large, loose clothes, it actually makes you look heavier. Tunic styles like this flatter because they have length but style and shape as well.

2. Choose fabrics and patterns that flatter. For example, diagonal stripes are a better choice than horizontal ones. For pants, avoid front pleats and opt for a jean with a little spandex in the material for stretch.

3. Glam accessories like great scarves, pashiminas and jewelry add color, style, and draw attention to the areas you want to highlight like your face and eyes.

4. Layering is key, (particularly if have chemo induced hot flashes!) A stylish blazer, long button down top, sweater or wrap can change-up any outfit instantly. The length should hit mid thigh. Clothes that stop at the waist, visually cut your body in half. (Youch!)

Want more dressing and style advice like this? Check out our guidebook, Cancer Be Glammed:The Guide. “Take Charge of Your Recovery with Confidence, Self-Esteem and Style”