SHOW OFF MY BODY
Sam Scott Thomas hid away when she battled cancer, but now she’s ready to be noticed again
Iwas diagnosed with breast cancer in January 2013, and the experience took a toll on my confidence. I was afraid of being defined as ‘the girl who had a mastectomy’. I have moments when I’m proud of how far I’ve come, but the emotional and physical scars remain.
At the peak of my illness, fashion was the last thing on my mind. I was very sore from biopsies before the operation, and in so much pain afterwards that all I wanted was to be comfortable. I bought tracksuit bottoms and big jumpers… my cancer clothes. To me they were a form of disguise. I didn’t want anyone looking at me – I simply wanted to disappear.
Fast-forward to now, and my self-confidence is much better. But I’m conscious that one breast is bigger than the other, so I tend to avoid fitted shirts or skinny jumpers. I used to love experimenting with clothes, but I feel as though I’ve lost my way a bit in the past few years and need a fashion re-boot to bring me up to date with trends. I’ve started my own online jewellery business, Ilda London, so I’m often at meetings, and I would love a new look that’s smart, feminine and makes me feel great. It’s time to focus on my future.
THE FASHION BOOST
‘Our goal was to give Sam a professional look that would give her confidence when meeting clients, yet still convey her creative flair,’ says Jo. ‘A mix of prints and the striking red coat have a real wow factor, yet the outfit is simple enough to show off her jewellery.’
LOOK AT ME NOW!
‘I feel fabulous in this outfit,’ says Sam. ‘It’s fresh, lovely and comfortable.’