A chemotherapy myth that I have personally debunked is that cancer treatment makes you lose weight. Like many women, I thought having breast cancer and the side effects of chemotherapy treatment like metallic taste, nausea, and digestion problems would impact the scale. For certain types of treatments like digestive cancers, lung or pancreatic cancer, this is often true. For me and many other women with breast cancer that requires chemotherapy, the type of chemo drugs along with steroids and fluids, chemo induced menopause, and metabolic changes, can play a role in recovery weight gain. 

When I started my chemo, I stepped on the scale at a reasonable weight. Over the course of four months the needle began to glide higher. It finally got stuck at a figure fifteen pounds heavier than when I started. 

Getting dressed to go out (and even to stay in) became a challenge. At the time, I was an active, working mother with two young school-age daughters. Even to this day, I admit to being a comfy clothes lover, and two of my favorite go-tos are sweatpants and loose, baggy tops. As I went through treatment and recovery, I realized that not only did I need to get dressed for different events, but wearing clothes that I liked, when I could, made me feel better.  (My family too!)

I learned how to dress in comfort and style by incorporating these tried and true fashion tips.

1. Clothing should skim your body. While it is tempting to wear large, loose clothes, particularly after gaining weight, it actually makes you look heavier. Tunic styles  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. Avoid large or busy prints.

3. Glam accessories like great scarves, pashminas and jewelry, add color and style, and draw attention to the areas you want to highlight like your face and eyes. Tops with an interesting neckline are ideal.

4. Strategic 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!)

5. Invest in a few quality pieces that you can mix and match. A fitted, colorful blazer, a pair of figure flattering jeans, a wrapped dress and eye-catching (but comfortable) shoes are great choices.

Interested in more dressing and style advice like this? Read our survivor blogs in our series, Know & Tell or check out our lifestyle guide, Cancer Be Glammed:The Guide. “Take Charge of Your Recovery with Confidence, Self-Esteem and Style”