AVAILABLE NOW!Robe 2011 Sewing Patterns
Go to "Buy Patterns" page!
Home and loungewear
for the asymmetrical woman after mastectomy
Several fashion concepts helped restore my confidence after mastectomy in 2007, which then led to my own designs that flatter an asymmetrical woman WITHOUT a prosthesis. My new line of Amaste™Woman sewing patterns are now available! In the photo above, I am wearing my favorite robe yet; it is made from a gorgeous rayon print and is so pretty, it could almost be worn out in public as a dress. Maybe someday this style will be acceptable in all venues--but for now, I feel confident and attractive in my own home, making breakfast for family or opening the door if a neighbor drops by....all BEFORE I put on my prosthesis for the day.
If you do not sew, I'll bet a friend, co-worker, family member or church group would be thrilled to sew one of these new designs for you!
What does "Amaste™" mean?
A - ma - ste™ (ah-mah-STAY) is a word I created to describe myself --and all other women like me -- who have had a single-side mastectomy AND chose not to have reconstruction. It is pronounced "ah-ma-STAY," which ryhmes with namaste. Saying Amaste™ is simpler than giving the surgical explanation of our newly asymmetrical body type.
AmasteWoman Video
Click on this link to check out my video about the creation of Amaste™Woman patterns!
The butterfly
Did you see the letters "OK" in the butterfly in my logo?
This is part of the message I share: We are "OK" no matter what our body shape is. The elements of "O" and "K" can also be combined to create a key, the ancient Greek symbol for Chiron, symbolizing the Wounded Healer. Chiron teaches us that we find our greatest gifts and strengths within our wounds. I love the concept that a key to our transformation can be found in the area where we feel most deeply hurt (emotionally or physically).
Stay in touch
I look forward to your feedback on my prototypes. When Amaste™Woman sewing patterns are available, you will be notified if you have signed up on this site. Simply fill out a contact form ("Contact Jody" at left) and you'll be on my mailing list. And check out my blog at wordpress.com!
A team effort brings vision to life.New clothes for the Amaste™ body
I have always felt great support from the "teams" in my life. Amaste™Woman has proven once again the power of a team: bringing my visions of these garments to reality -- from early designs and testing, to prototypes, pattern making and printing -- required a new "team."
For months I have been connecting with amazing men and women: business consultants and attorneys...
graphic artists and illustrators... pattern-makers and
designers. The joy of connecting with people who are excited about helping Amaste™ women has been beautiful and inspiring, and has kept me moving forward despite the challenges of this venture.
In my heart, I know that Amaste™Woman garments will boost self-confidence for many women. I always feel better about myself when I wear a flattering garment. I believe Amaste™Woman patterns and the creative process of making them will help women find outer and inner beauty.
I believe that an Amaste™ woman's arduous journey and healing
process can ignite her inner beauty and love for herself.
Then, with support and time, she can blossom
as a beautiful force for good in this world.
Losing a breast forced me to dig deeper and reclaim a part of me that I thought I had lost. Instead, I discovered a great power and joy in accepting my body, and finding gratitude for still being alive. I know that each woman's journey with breast cancer is different, but I hope my designs will help Amaste™ women renew their enthusiasm for life.
Feeling as attractive as possible is a fundamental part of confidence in all areas of our lives. Women play a key role in families, workplaces, and communities.
If we help one another, there is no telling what we can accomplish!
Namaste,
Jody Kraner
© 2011 Jody Kraner. All Rights Reserved
