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Date of Graduation

5-2027

Description

This study explores the fit, functionality, and style preferences of professional wear for women aged 30 and under who have undergone double mastectomy surgery and have not had reconstruction, often referred to as ‘living flat’. While there have been advancements to make adaptive post mastectomy clothing that prioritizes recovery or traditional prosthetic solutions, there still remains a gap in professional wear for younger women that encourages confidence and comfort in the workplace. This research aims to bridge that gap in the apparel industry by providing inclusive, adaptive, and empowering options for the professional setting. A mixed-methods design approach will be used to better understand the personal experiences and preferences regarding professional wear clothing. The research will begin with a pre-survey distributed to women aged 30 and under who are living flat. The survey will collect data on current garment frustrations, desired fits and silhouettes, needs for comfortability, and emotional experiences related to professional wear. Both close ended and open-ended responses will be analyzed to identify recurring themes within the responses. Based on the findings from the pre-survey, two professional wear tops will be designed and constructed. Design decisions including fabric, style, structure, and closures will be decided based on the survey results to reflect participant feedback and prioritize comfort, confidence, and aesthetics. The garments will aim to challenge traditional ideas of femininity in professional fashion while providing versatile and modern options suitable for today’s workplace.Following garment construction participants will be asked to complete a post-survey to analyze the effectiveness of the designs. The survey will assess if the participants would feel comfortable and confident while wearing the garment and to which degree the constructed garments addressed concerns identified in the pre-survey. A comparative analysis will be completed between the pre-survey and post-survey to analyze the successfulness of the garments created. The anticipated outcome of this study includes greater insight into the experience of shopping for professional wear post-mastectomy and the design strategies that can be taken in the future to prioritize inclusivity and adaptability. By centering participants in the design process this research aims to act as an example of what inclusive fashion design looks like and to demonstrate the role apparel plays in confidence, empowerment and belonging in professional environments.

Publication Date

2026

Document Type

Book

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Human Environmental Science

Degree Level

Undergraduate

Department

Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences

Advisor/Mentor

Apple, Laurie

Disciplines

Business | Environmental Studies

Keywords

Social Sciences

Professional Wear for Women Aged 30 and Under Post Double Mastectomy Without Reconstruction

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