These businesses are giving back in the name of breast cancer research during the month of October.
October isn’t just about pulling sweaters out of storage and sipping on PSLs — it’s also the time to raise breast cancer awareness. While you can always donate to incredible organizations that support cancer research all year round, these next few weeks are your chance to have a little fun shopping while also contributing to a fantastic cause.
Throughout October, many of our favorite fashion, accessory, and wellness brands make it a point to shine a spotlight on breast cancer, including Ralph Lauren, Easy Spirit, and Vera Bradley. They’re all donating a percentage of proceeds from certain products to breast cancer research and advocacy organizations like Shoes for a Cure, Breast Cancer Research Foundation, and Stand Up To Cancer, among others.
Our very own Katie Couric — who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2022 and is a fierce advocate for advanced dense-breast screenings — was even the inspiration behind a custom sweater bearing a very important message for you and your loved ones.
Whether you want to glam up your footwear collection, stock up on holiday gifts, or add a hot pink touch to your wardrobe, rest assured that you can shop all of these products while making a difference.
Brands to Support During Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2024 (and Beyond)
Lingua Franca Check Yourself Crewneck
Lingua Franca
Katie teamed up with Lingua Franca on this limited edition “Check Yourself” sweater, 10 percent of proceeds from which will be donated to her non-profit Stand Up To Cancer. Hand-stitched in New York, this cashmere crewneck sweater is a friendly reminder (for yourself and anyone you might encounter) to schedule a mammogram.
Easy Spirit Move for Pink Maxine EMOVE Walking Shoe
Easy Spirit
For every pair of Easy Spirit’s limited edition pink-and-white kicks sold in October, a portion of the proceeds supports Shoes For A Cure, a charitable organization that funds breast cancer research. Katie’s a personal fan of these ultra-comfy sneakers that combine plush cushioning, maximum support, and shock absorption in a lightweight, orthotic-friendly design.
Rails Hunter Shirt in Brave Pink
Rails
Now in its sixth year of partnership with Susan G. Komen, Rails released this limited-edition version of its best-selling button-up in “Brave Pink,” supporting an important cause. The Hunter Shirt features the same effortless fit and cashmere-like softness you’ve come to love, thanks to its premium yarn-dyed fabric. Perfect for everyday wear, this shirt not only looks great but also gives back. For every purchase made before November 15, Rails will donate $40 to support breast cancer research and awareness.
Vera Bradley Foundation Woodlark Tote
Vera Bradley
Adorned with a beautiful butterfly design, this canvas tote is more than just a stylish bag — 100 percent of net proceeds (up to $100,000) during October will go directly to the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer. By purchasing this everyday accessory, you’re contributing to life-saving research at the Indiana University School of Medicine, where over $41.7 million has already been raised for breast cancer research.
ElyseRyan SU2C Breast Cancer Awareness Wristrock
ElyseRyan
This handmade bracelet from ElyseRyan incorporates a variety of pink stones and crystals, and 20 percent of the purchase price goes to Stand Up To Cancer’s efforts to accelerate cancer research. Each bracelet is unique, making them a beautiful gift for friends, family, or yourself.
Ana Luisa Breast Cancer Support Bracelet
Ana Luisa
It’s a sobering reality that a growing number of younger women are getting diagnosed with breast cancer. (The recommended age for breast cancer screenings dropped from age 50 to 40 just last year.) 5 Under 40 is an organization that supports medical, beauty, and wellness services for women diagnosed with breast cancer before the age of 40, and this cute Barbie-pink cord bracelet will help you show your support for the organization.
Kindred Bravely Clea Bamboo Long Sleeve Pajama Set
Kindred Bravely
Are your old, mismatched pajamas in need of an upgrade? Treat yourself to a soft and cozy matching pajama set, available in five stylish colors. Throughout October, every purchase from this collection helps support the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation, with up to $25,000 going toward those affected by this aggressive form of cancer.
Talbot’s Kate Cardigan
Talbots
This charming V-neck Talbots cardigan is the perfect layer to transform any outfit with a bold hot-pink accent. For a limited time, 20 percent of each purchase will go to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, supporting vital research efforts.
Gorjana Rose Quartz Heart Necklace
Gorjana
If you’re in need of new delicate accessories, Gorjana will have everything you’re looking for, and then some. Plus, for the entire month, a purchase of any item in the brand’s Pretty in Pink Collection will benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. In case you were wondering, we’re particularly digging this rose quartz heart necklace.
Ralph Lauren Pink Pony Merino Wool Beanie
Ralph Lauren
Time to pony up? We’re loving the new items in Ralph Lauren’s Pink Pony collection for 2024. Filled with hoodies, baseball caps, even hot pink yoga pants, and the beanie pictured here, you can’t go wrong regardless of your pick. The best part? One hundred percent of your purchase will be donated to Ralph Lauren’s ongoing mission to “reduce disparities in cancer care and to ensure access to quality treatment is available to everyone at an earlier, more curable stage.”
UrbanStems Flower Delivery
UrbanStems
UrbanStems delivers fresh flowers coast to coast, and for the month of October, the floral company will donate $5 of each purchase from their Breast Cancer Awareness Month collection to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, up to $10,000.