Meet our Fairfax & Favor brand ambassadors

This year, we’re highlighting the stories of our brand ambassadors, Ella, Laura and Phil, who recently modelled for Fairfax & Favor and showcased their individual styles. We talked to Ella, Laura and Phil about their experiences with breast cancer and how their styles have changed since their diagnoses.

Laura

Can you tell us about your experience with breast cancer?

In February 2014, at the age of 25, I was diagnosed with stage 3 primary breast cancer. It was HER2 and oestrogen positive. My treatment included chemotherapy, radiotherapy, a mastectomy and hormonal medication.

After a year of my cancer being in remission, I started to develop a pain in my shoulder, but I assumed it was a gym injury. After 6 months of no improvement, I had a CT scan and it showed that my breast cancer had spread to the bones in my shoulder, spine and pelvis. Aged 28, I found out my cancer was stage 4 and incurable.

I had a full shoulder replacement followed by more chemo. And today, my treatment regime involves HER2 therapy alongside hormonal tablets and injections.

How has your personal style changed since having breast cancer?

I lost a lot of my confidence with clothing after my mastectomy. But since I’ve had a reconstruction, I’ve managed to regain it.

I’m still girly, but I embrace being comfortable more than I used to. I get sore feet from my neuropathy, so flat sandals or trainers are now my go-to shoes.

I need bags that can carry everything I need throughout the day, like my medications and a fan for hot flushes. And I don’t wear figure-hugging clothes as much, since my treatment leaves me feeling quite bloated. But I still love getting dressed up.

What do you look for when you go shopping?

I want to buy things that I’ll wear for years to come. I love colours and patterns, especially floral. Even though I don’t follow fashion, I look for classic pieces that I feel good in.

Ella

Can you tell us about your experience with breast cancer?

I was diagnosed with grade 3 primary breast cancer at 23 years old. It was HER2 positive, so I needed to have 6 rounds of chemotherapy. I lost a lot of weight and all of my hair. I also had a nipple-sparing double mastectomy, and permanent breast implants 6 months later. A year later, I had another surgery to remove my nipples to minimise the risk of breast cancer returning.

I have a genetic condition called Li-Fraumeni Syndrome which means I can’t suppress cancers from growing in my body, so I couldn’t have radiotherapy. The doctor recommended I take Tamoxifen, but you can’t take it whilst trying to conceive. I didn’t get the chance to freeze my eggs, so I decided not to take the tablets and to prioritise having a family.

How has your personal style changed since having breast cancer? 

When I lost my hair, eyelashes and breasts, I lost my confidence too. I didn’t feel like me anymore. I wore oversized baggy clothes that were always comfortable. I just didn’t feel like dressing up.

But now that I’m recovering and regrowing my hair, I’m finding my style again. I like to make an effort to look after myself. I enjoy wearing clothes that make me feel well-dressed and good about my new look.

Phil

Can you tell us about your experience with breast cancer?

I was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 44. As a man, I struggled to find my place and I felt isolated, especially after having surgery. Men are often overlooked in the breast cancer conversation. That’s why it’s such an honour to represent men who’ve been affected by breast cancer and bring attention to this group.

How are you spreading awareness?

I seize every opportunity to raise awareness of breast cancer in men, wherever I can make an impact. Whether it’s through photoshoots, events, or partnering with charities, I want to shine a light on a part of the cancer community that doesn’t get enough visibility.

What do you look for when shopping?

I aim for style but always prioritise comfort. I’m all about re-wearing items I feel good in, and I go through cycles of my favourite clothes. It’s empowering to wear shoes that were designed specifically to raise awareness of breast cancer in men. It’s a meaningful way to make a statement and feel confident in what I wear.