October isn’t just about Halloween treats and cuffing. In case you didn’t know already, it’s also Breast Cancer Awareness Month. According to the charity Breast Cancer Care, more than 5,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this October, and although survival rates have doubled in the last 40 years, around 11,500 people still die from breast cancer in the UK every year. Whether you’ll be throwing your own Big Pink party on the 12th or donating a few pounds to go towards helping someone with breast cancer, show your solidarity this month by wearing plenty of pink.
For the Office
When it comes to fundraising, there’s no better place to rally up the troops than in the office. And whether you’re fronting a fundraiser in the foyer or just want to make a subtle statement to show that you care, a simple switch up will work wonders. Forego your white shirts and black blouses for something a little more sugary-sweet, and pair with your regular skirts or bottoms.
For Girls’ Night
Whilst it’s true that men can get breast cancer, women are at a much greater risk of developing the disease. In fact, over 99% of new breast cancer cases are women; statistically, 1 in 8 women in the UK will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. For many women who have experienced breast cancer – directly or indirectly – female friendships become a huge source of support. As such, October is the perfect month to show your solidarity (as a group) with those battling breast cancer by turning your night out into a fundraiser.
In their fundraising guide, Breast Cancer Care suggest transforming your Friday pub session into a fully-fledged quiz night for the local community. Though we’re not masters of trivia (it’s the taking part that counts), we fully advocate a pub quiz – especially when it’s for a good cause. Even if you’re keeping your Big Pink party a little more low key, make your night count by donning your prettiest party dress (in pink of course) and glamming up over cosmopolitans; raise money by offering manicures or makeovers to friends for a small fee.
For Laid-Back Weekends
Laid-back doesn’t have to mean lounging (or loungewear!). Picturesque Saturday strolls and cosy Sunday brunches call for something effortless; a pair of soft-touch cotton chinos are an ideal option, since they’re super-comfy yet stylish. Why not find out whether there are any fundraising events one weekend in your local community? If not, you could organise a raffle or bake sale in your area instead. Weekends are ideal for these types of events, since they’re usually low-key and local (though of course, that doesn’t mean you can’t go big with your bake sale!). Pair your pink chinos with a crisp white shirt and wrap up in your winter coat; if you’re having a bake sale, don’t forget to wear an apron too!
For Being Active
From sponsored walks and marathons to extreme sports fundraisers, getting active in the name of charity is nothing new. After all, it’s the most physically rewarding way to generate plenty of pennies for charity. And as any athlete will tell you, what you wear counts. If you’re looking to raise some money by working up a sweat, why not go all-out with bright pink activewear? After all, you might find ‘thinking pink’ all the more motivational when you’re past the halfway point.
For the Everyday
If you’re looking to show your support every day this month (and we think you should!), a pink ribbon pin goes a long way – all proceeds go towards supporting those affected by breast cancer. Pink accessories are always on our radar (what can we say? Barbie’s collection of shoes and handbags had a big influence on us), but especially so during October. From everyday handbags to snuggly scarves, we’ll be wearing our pink accessories with pride this month.
