Fashion with a Purpose: Breast Cancer Awareness Month By Alyssa Taylor

Every year, the world tributes the month of October to breast cancer awareness, during which thousands of brands, companies, and individual people come together to drum up global support for the cause. While the month is intended to increase awareness of the disease it also seeks to raise money for research into its “cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure.”



According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the second most common cancer for women after skin cancer. In fact, approximately 1 in 8 U.S. women will develop invasive breast cancer during her lifetime. That is a staggering twelve percent of all women in the United States! For this reason, organizations like National Breast Cancer Foundation and Susan G. Komen for the Cure have sprung up to advocate for individuals with breast cancer, educate the masses on the particularities associated with cancer, and thoroughly investigate ways of eradicating this cancer.



During and slightly prior to October it is not surprising to see a plethora of Pink Ribbon or pink-themed products everywhere. Everyone wants in on this great month-long international health campaign, which began in 1985. All different types of brands have launched campaigns to contribute and make a difference with their brand names. From Ralph Lauren with their Pink Pony line to Marc Jacobs with their “Fight Like A Girl” campaign, there has been a concerted effort by major fashion houses to bolster support for breast cancer awareness. The Ralph Lauren Pink Pony line retails from $125 and is available at RalphLauren.com.



Other examples of labels who are also advocating for awareness include, OPI nail polish, who just recently released their limited edition ‘Pink Shatter for Breast Cancer Awareness” polish. In conjunction with Breast Cancer Awareness month, Movado, the Swiss luxury watchmaker has designed a limited edition watch that will help support awareness and the fight against breast cancer. The stainless steel watch retails from $350 and available at all Movado boutiques. $50 from each purchase will be donated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Even the NFL has joined the fight: their online gear shop now sells breast cancer awareness themed merchandise for every NFL team.

The fashion industry’s namesakes are doing their part to make a difference by advocating for Breast Cancer awareness and research. With these charitable products, you can do your part in supporting a great cause!