Just FYI, there's an organization of volunteers 'Knitted Knockers' who knit for free soft, lightweight prostheses for the rare occasions you might want to wear them. They'll make them any size you need or used to be. Etsy also has the same sort of offerings on sale. Save your most comfortable bra in case you 'need' it for adapting to clothes that would really benefit from some oomph. I had a double 6 years ago now and I love being flat.
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife Жыл бұрын
Hi Signalfire, Thank you so much for reaching out and for chiming in! YES!! I am a big fan of Knitted Knockers! Found at KnittedKnockers.org for anyone who would like to order! You’re so right … they are a soft and lightweight prosthetic for a special event or for everyday wear. Holding on to a bra is a great suggestion too! I would recommend one without underwire. Also, many insurance carriers cover “post mastectomy bras.” I have seen 6+ garments per year. AnaOno.com is a Survivor owned business who supports our community, and can help with insurance. Thank you again for connecting! Sending you love, sister!! 💞💞
@mhhmulaty51582 жыл бұрын
Four days post surgery and this is what i needed. Don't think i am ever going to rock the off the shoulder look. But lady this video is a winner. You're so positive. 😍
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife2 жыл бұрын
Hi beautiful sister, Thank you for reaching out. I’m sorry you had to have this surgery, but grateful you found this video helpful. The off the shoulder look might not be your thing, so I encourage you to try new looks with your new body. Most of all, adore and cherish all your beautiful, strong body has brought you through. Sending you so much love!!! 🥰💞💞
@mmsdecorator9282 жыл бұрын
I have been diagnosed with breast cancer and my bilateral mastectomy will be in two weeks. I’m having a flat aesthetic closure. Thank you for the ideas!!
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife2 жыл бұрын
Hi M&M! I am thinking about you, and sending so much love and sister strength to you for your surgery and recovery. One. Day. At. A. Time. 💞💞💞
@ZakiaLott Жыл бұрын
Hi! I just wanted to stop by and thank you! I decided to have a mastectomy with no reconstructive surgery and your video gave me confidence to make that tough decision. I LOVE fashion always thought I would work for vogue so I wondered how it would alter my wardrobe. Sounds superficial but it’s honest. Fast forward 2 years and I’m so glad I made that decision. I’m adding pieces to my wardrobe that tricks the eye just like you said. Thank you so much!!!
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife Жыл бұрын
Hi Zakialott! Wow! Just wow! THANK YOU! 💞💞 I LOVE that you were empowered to make the best decision for you! I am incredibly thankful you reached out, and that you found this video helpful. Go rock your styling ideas, Ms. Vogue! The flat fashion world needs you! ❤️ Wishing you continued health! Lots of love!! 🥰💕💕
@nadinewyche33534 жыл бұрын
You look so bloody darn cute in ALL the outfits and the best thing about this video is your SMILE.
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife4 жыл бұрын
Hi Nadine! You are SO SO sweet!! Thank you!! 🥰 I enjoyed putting this video together for gals who may find the tips helpful. It took me some trial & error to figure out what worked for my new body. Wishing you all the best!! ❌⭕️💗💗
@liannebenn20973 жыл бұрын
I will be flat in the next week or two. I could have a lumpectomy but with both my mother and sister having had cancer I immediately asked for freedom from both boobs. Nobody around me understands that I am so looking forward to not wearing a bra and being able to run without jiggling. They start to explain how well reconstruction can be done but I will design my own tatoo and enjoy. I understand that at 60 I don't have the fear of what my partner will think that I would have had at 20. I think flat is fine and on a slim woman it looks just like her natural build. Looking at you I don't think I would even notice.
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife3 жыл бұрын
Hi Lianne! I love that you made this decision FOR YOU!! It isn’t anyone else’s body, or decision to make. I sort of did both … I lived flat for 1.5 years, and later decided to reconstruct. I will say for me, (and everyone is unique) I felt more physically comfortable in my body when I was flat. Having a bilateral latissimus flap (using both the skin and muscle from both sides of my back to create the front) left a lot of numbness & tightness that I didn’t have when I was flat. I don’t regret my decision to reconstruct, but for me… They look better than they feel. Implants are only good for about 10 years, and have to be replaced. I’m not real sure what direction I will go in 10 years… I can’t imagine that I will continue replacing the implants. The benefit for going flat… One and done girl! No more surgeries, you can get on with your life and just enjoy living! I support you full heartedly! One thing is for certain, the relief I felt with my bilateral mastectomy was immeasurable! I just wanted the cancer GONE, and to do all I could to prevent cancer in my “healthy” breast. Lots of love to you!! Wishing for a smooth surgery & recovery. OH!! Please be sure your surgeon is 100% CLEAR and on board with your FLAT CLOSURE surgery!! Some surgeons have been known to “save some skin just in case we change our minds,” which does NOT result in a smooth finish. 😡 Not cool! If I can help in anyway, please let me know! 💞💞💞
@liannebenn20973 жыл бұрын
@@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife Thank you! I have been learning so much from the internet and have been very lucky there is so much info online. I live 5 minutes from the hospital and the surgeon is very expert and not at all arrogant. He explained that he would cut in a way to avoid dog ears and where the scar should be (not a straight line accross but more naturally placed) and it should be as aesthetic as possible under the circumstances. He is absolutely with me on my decision which he saw was also immediate and unfaltering. So many thanks for your in depth reply and offer. Love from Jerusalem.
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife3 жыл бұрын
@@liannebenn2097 That is wonderful … it sounds like your surgeon is amazing! What a blessing. That’s great that the hospital is so close. I wish you all the best with your surgery! Wow… Do you live in Jerusalem? 💞💞
@liannebenn20973 жыл бұрын
@@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife Yes, I am lucky to have fallen on all the right doctors and also that all my appointments have been very quick. Thanks for your good wishes! Overnight you find yourself in a new world and it is very heartening and helpful to see strong, optimistic women who have gone through it and are so positive. Yes I live here in Jerusalem.
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife3 жыл бұрын
@@liannebenn2097 It does change life overnight. The process is difficult and takes time and patience. But there are many beautiful moments, people, and memories that can come from the journey. 💞💞💞 Sending you lots of love across the miles. 🥰
@micaelaynostrosa48853 жыл бұрын
You saved my life I’m crying
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife3 жыл бұрын
Oh my goodness, I’m so grateful this is helpful. 💕 I’m sorry you’re going through this. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if I can help you in any way!! I’m on Instagram @chantelevisions you’re welcome to private message me there, or of course on here. Sending you soooo much love! 💗💗 xo Chantel
@robinowen30585 ай бұрын
Two weeks out from bilateral mastectomy with flat closure. Was looking for ideas on what to wear, thanks!
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife5 ай бұрын
I am so glad you got some ideas! Sending you so much love and sister strength for your upcoming surgery. 🙏🥰💞💞
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife5 ай бұрын
This video has some helpful tips, as you prepare for your surgery. Please reach out if I can support you in any way! 💗💗 kzbin.info/www/bejne/gqrOloJoltejhJosi=o5mvewOuG4WUqCC9
@emperatrizclemente2912 Жыл бұрын
You look amazing!! And gave me hope I can still look feminine
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife Жыл бұрын
Hi Emperatrizclemente2912! Thank you for reaching out! I am so sorry you have a reason to be here, but I am thankful you found this helpful and encouraging! There are many reconstruction options, if you choose to go that path. If I can help you in anyway, please let me know. Sending you so much love, Breastie! 💝
@martiweddepohl46942 жыл бұрын
That was great thank you. Loved the little fashion show and all the clever ideas.
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife2 жыл бұрын
Hi Marti, Thank you so much for reaching out! I am so grateful you found the video and different styling ideas helpful! That can be sort of a fun adventure learning how to dress our new bodies. I wish you great health. Sending you lots of love, sister! 💞💞
@andreawallace64812 жыл бұрын
Really loved this. Week 2 after double mastectomy, and going back to work mid September. This was very helpful, and love ur style
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife2 жыл бұрын
Hi Andrea, Thank you so much for reaching out! I am so sorry you have to go through this, but grateful 🙏 you found this video helpful! I hope you are recovering well!! Much love to you, sister! 💕🥰
@mammabear2183 Жыл бұрын
Thank you for sharing your fashion ideas. This video is extremely helpful to demonstrate many ways to draw attention toward a fashion detail and away from less desirable aspects. You clearly have a great eye for design and fashion. You are beautiful inside and out. I appreciate your sharing so many options because layers like scarves are pretty but don’t appeal to my hot flash struggles. Thank you so much!!!
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife Жыл бұрын
Hi Mamma Bear! You are so wonderful, thank you for your loving words! 💓 I am sorry your path lead you here, but I am grateful you found this helpful. The hot flash struggle is real, sister! 😂 Even a light weight scarf is too much in the midst of a hot flash, right?! Pockets, ruffles, a chunky necklace, or even choosing a patterned blouse over a solid can help. Most of all, loving your beautiful self exactly as you are honors all you have sacrificed to be here. Sending you a heart full of love!! 🥰💕
@mammabear2183 Жыл бұрын
@@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife Thank you so much for all your kindness and thoughtfulness. Sending you so much love. 💓
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife Жыл бұрын
@@mammabear2183 ❤️
@GP-qu9ev5 ай бұрын
Love this. I've been flat for 1 year, and I'm really proud of myself already dressing in many of these styles. Hormone meds are making me hot, so my summer go to tanks or sheer linen blouses with a linen vest. I also use longer, polyester, sleeveless vests with t-shirts. My double chin doesn't work well with my infinity scarves. Therefore, I use light silk or sheer scarf. Which I had cut so they aren't messy and hanging too long. I'm 5'2. PS breasts are so overrated!😊 I substituted my bra drawer with lovely scarves.
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife5 ай бұрын
I love ALL of this so much!! Thank you for sharing your ideas with us! 💗💗 The go-to tanks, vests, and silk / sheer scarf ideas!! What a fantastic repurposing of your bra drawer to use it for your beautiful scarves now. Sending you lots of sister love!! 🥰💕💞
@Chericherry410 ай бұрын
I need to do chemo before my surgery, hopefully will begin it before February. I’ve had almost two months to get over the shock. At first I was totally positive that I would get reconstructive surgery. But after lots of thought and prayer, I’ll go flat. BUT i have a big belly so if I don’t lose those inches, I’ll wear prosthetics and a bra or I think I’ll look terrible. Thank you for the fashion ideas and maybe I’ll be able to use some of them.
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife10 ай бұрын
I’m so sorry you have to go through this, but I’m grateful you found this video helpful! I completely understand… It is such a difficult and personal decision to decide about reconstruction. I think the trick with flat fashion is to focus the attention around the neck and shoulders… Whether it be with jewelry, summer and winter weight scarves, ruffles, an interesting neckline, etc … There are several options when it comes to prosthetics also… I can do a video if it’s helpful… But there are the medical grade prosthetics, but then there are also lightweight options. Check out the amazing volunteers at knittedknockers.org.🩷🩷 Sending you so much sister strength 💪and love! 🥰💕💕
@Oma788 Жыл бұрын
I like to wear colorful scarves. Yes, I’m old (68)!
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife Жыл бұрын
Hi Mary Ellen, Great idea! Thank you for sharing! A colorful scarf is a great way to add a pop of color to your outfit and even your mood!! 😊 🌈 ☀️
@willmitchell2553 Жыл бұрын
68 huh you’re-not old im 81 and been rocking those styles before i saw this video and I’m so pleased Chantel did it so others could see how great they can look..PS don’t forget to be conscious of your posture even with a tummy you can look good if you do that Best to all my boobless sidters❤
@reneefigueroa54982 жыл бұрын
Wow this was amazing! You make it so cute to have flat fashion! This is great!
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife2 жыл бұрын
Hi Renee, Thank you for reaching out! I am so grateful you found this helpful!! I encourage you to embrace your powerful, beautiful, sexy self!! Lots of love! 🥰💞💞
@dianaquicker40372 жыл бұрын
This is just what I needed!
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife2 жыл бұрын
Hi Diana, I am so grateful that you found this helpful! I wish you well! Sending lots of love! 😘💕
@chandrascreation84322 жыл бұрын
You are super example of so many breast cancer survivors
@KatherineTheGr8t3 жыл бұрын
You're right that leopard shirt w/front pockets & zipper does check all boxes. Do you have a store/boutique online that you favor? I wear a medium, I'm sure you're a small or xs and no bra will stay on, not even a sports "bra" that fit so snuggly so I just wear cammies. I was only a B before but it's still weird and it's been 4 yrs since masto. I like my neck & decollete' and have a good body so I get your wanting to wear over the shoulder blouses & dresses. Thank you for making this video. I never talk about the cancer or mastectomy or clothing options so I really enjoyed seeing this specific video. Good days ahead : ) ps: your fave shopping shop and do you remember where you got the leopard print top?
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife3 жыл бұрын
Hi Katherine, Thank you so much for reaching out. I have found quite a few tops at Ross, Marshall’s and TJ Maxx, and even on the Poshmark app. I am a pretty conservative shopper. 😊 As for bras, I discovered AnaOno.com! www.anaono.com/. Dana is the owner, and is a breast cancer survivor sister. She understands our needs, and has something for EVERYONE! Regardless if you are flat, reconstructed, or have had a unilateral mastectomy … The AnaOno bras fit beautifully, and I truly feel feminine and sexy! Many insurance providers also cover post mastectomy garments (BRAS!). This is a little known fact that I’m trying to share… You can check with Anna Ono, and they will help direct you as to what you need to ask your insurance and how to have your doctor write the prescription. My insurance provides 6 garments per year. If I can help with anything, please reach out! Sending you lots of warrior sister love! 💕
@daphadila Жыл бұрын
I am in your very situation right now and was just wondering how will I teach flat and go through chemo at the same time. 💛
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife Жыл бұрын
Hi Daphne! I’m so sorry you have to go through all of this! These are a few stylish ways to camouflage and work with your new flat chest that helped me. Play around to see what feels right for you. Adding a ruffle or texture, any third piece layer like a weight scarf, vest, jacket, a blouse with chest pockets, or choosing a pattern over a solid are all good options. Teaching through chemo might be a struggle. Please just take care of YOU and let others DO!! 😊 (accept all the help with meals, cleaning, errands, etc) Sending you ALL THE LOVE AND STRENGTH!!! 💓💓
@Myname2663-w2z2 жыл бұрын
Love this video. Thanks so much
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife2 жыл бұрын
Hi Debbie, Thank you so much for reaching out! I am grateful to know you found this video helpful! If I can help you navigate in any way, please reach out! Sending you lots of love, sister!! 🥰💕
@mmsdecorator9282 жыл бұрын
You look lovely! Thank you for sharing your fabulous ideas!
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife2 жыл бұрын
Hi sister! Thank you for reaching out! I am so grateful you found the video helpful! Sending you BIG hugs!! 💞💞
@mmsdecorator9282 жыл бұрын
@@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife your video is even more helpful now than I imagined when I posted my comment three weeks ago! I was diagnosed with breast cancer last week, and will be having a bilateral mastectomy with aesthetic flat closure later this month. So thank you!!!!!
@anitasunny73563 жыл бұрын
Did u get surgery? If so how did it go. I have to go for 2nd mastectomy as preventive. What do people think of Diep surgery
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife3 жыл бұрын
Hi Anita, After living flat for 1.5 years, I did get surgery. I had a bilateral latissimus flap. First I had tissue expanders that we slowly expanded for about six months, and then we exchanged those for implants. I know some women who have had the DIEP flap, and are quite happy with their results. Honestly speaking, some women had a little pooch perhaps from age or child bearing before cancer, that was corrected significantly with the DIEP reconstruction. I’m happy to answer any questions you might have. Also, I’ve tried to share some videos… Even though I definitely need to update. 😊 Wishing you all the best with your next surgery! 💞💞
@colleengilmartin51152 жыл бұрын
Any recommendations for people who aren't as thin as you are, and ending up feeling a bit like they had the "Budha belly" look.
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife2 жыл бұрын
Hi Colleen, thank you so much for reaching out. I’ve talked to so many girlfriends about the Buddha belly, and completely understand. Truly, I think many of the tips I shared work for any body type. Adding accessories around the neckline, or a drop shoulder top helps to draw the eye to that area. Also, some women like to offset a looser top with a more fitted bottom or legging. We are usually our hardest critic… noticing all sorts of things that other people do not. It’s sometimes a daily practice to remind ourselves to embrace and love our perfectly imperfect bodies. Sending you lots of love! 💞💞💞
@andrewfox2673 жыл бұрын
pretty cool! very great styling of an elegant Lady, wowwwwww! I am impressed!
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife3 жыл бұрын
Thank you.
@andrewfox2673 жыл бұрын
@@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife How are you? where did you come from?
@alicetobin74866 ай бұрын
Patterns work well to disguise.
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife5 ай бұрын
You’re so right, I agree! Patterns, interesting features and accessories are a breastie’s best friend. Thank you for your input!! 🥰💞💞
@roseoliver71798 ай бұрын
Thank you for sharing keep up the good work looking forward to seeing your VIDEO again so beautiful great job
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife8 ай бұрын
Thank you so much! 😘💕
@Michelle-qd9gm3 жыл бұрын
Hi again I found it hard trying to get the right breast filler for me afterwards after mastectomy I know soft cotton one first but after the recovery it was hard these so many to choose from I think am there with it now I do wish more stores sells mastectomy bras I am from the uk 😊🙏
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife3 жыл бұрын
You are so right, it can be really difficult to find post mastectomy bras that are actually made to support our unique situation. Please try Ana Ono. They are US-based and survivor owned. I have a feeling they may be willing to ship to the UK. Their garments are so beautiful, feminine, and most important… Comfortable and supportive for our unique needs. Sending you lots of love! 🥰
@Classyladyjazz862 жыл бұрын
What would be your best advice for fashion for the same situation but with a bit of a tummy
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife2 жыл бұрын
Hi Monica, thank you so much for reaching out! I’m sorry you’ve had to go this route, but I’m happy we have connected. I truly would have the same recommendations for any body type. I like the layers of having a Cami under a button front blouse. Looking for blouses with decorative accents or pockets, or using scarves and accessory pieces. I am also still a big fan of a little peekaboo shoulder or halter style tops. Everyone embraces their new body in their own unique way. I believe EVERY BODY is beautiful, perfect, feminine, and whole just as it is! Try to embrace your beautiful body and wear what feels right and the most comfortable for you. If I can help support you in any way, please let me know! Sending you so much love and big hugs!!! 💞💞
@jumjumjumuk2 жыл бұрын
Thank you lovely xx
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife2 жыл бұрын
You are so welcome, beautiful sister! Much love to you!! 🥰💞
@marinachan2970 Жыл бұрын
Fashionable,good looking ❤
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife Жыл бұрын
Hi MarinaChan! You’re so kind, thank you!! 🥰💞💞 Be blessed.
@agnessymon8869 Жыл бұрын
Great outfits.
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife Жыл бұрын
Hi Kathy! Thank you! I’m glad you like them! 🤗💗💗
@jeangold6803 жыл бұрын
Did it cause you depression seeing how flat you are now? How did you overcome
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife3 жыл бұрын
Hi Jean, That is such an important question, i’m happy you asked. I will start by saying that everyone handles all of this differently… We all just sort of process in our own way. To add to that, we might feel good today, but struggle tomorrow. It is a little bit of a roller coaster sometimes. Personally, I handled being flat much better than I would’ve ever thought possible. I did not experience depression from being flat, but I did have some wardrobe challenges (that I figured out) and emotional challenges as far as feeling feminine and like a “normal” girl. After living flat for 1.5 years, I decided to reconstruct. My personal reasons were to feel “normal” and feminine, and to mentally help me move PAST cancer. This is such a personal decision. I have so many girlfriends who have decided to stay flat, and they flaunt their flat, absolutely embrace their beautiful, badass bodies, and are rocking it!! I’m happy to share some of their Instagram accounts if you’re interested in a little inspiration. Above all else… Remember this… You’re beautiful, imperfect body fought cancer. The scars it leaves behind are just reminders of how amazingly strong, brave, and unstoppable you are!! Anything I can help you through… Please just let me know. Sending you so much love. 💕💕
@anitasunny73563 жыл бұрын
Yes Chantel I will be glad if you can share their insta pics!
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife3 жыл бұрын
Check out my friend’s page ... instagram.com/shudluck?igshid=4h0b1h33alkg
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife3 жыл бұрын
Check out these amazing women instagram.com/flatclosurenow?igshid=1szxjqkd1pdza
@ChantelPurcellLiveYourBestLife3 жыл бұрын
Check our this awesome (private) Facebook group of flat fashion divas! Truly inspiring feel-good fashion for flat warrior women. facebook.com/groups/566921350071484/?ref=share