October may be known for PSLs and falling leaves, but it’s also a month painted in pink; a reminder to show support, spread awareness, and honor the fighters and survivors of breast cancer.
My newest thrifted find, a pink corduroy jacket, felt like it was meant to come home with me — cheerful, cozy, and perfectly timed for a month when pink takes on extra meaning. As someone who’s walked that path myself, October always hits a little differently. It brings moments of reflection and gratitude for early detection, for recovery, for the care I received, and for the community of women who lift each other up through it all.
In April 2017, I was diagnosed with DCIS, and while that chapter of my life has long since turned a hopeful page, it’s never far from my mind this time of year. In October of 2017, I wrote In The Pink And Good To Go about learning to move forward with optimism and strength. If you’re new here and want the fuller story of my journey, I shared it in My World Has Changed: Part 1 and Part 2, and later explored self-image, confidence, and the stories our bodies tell in Remembering the Details: A Sum of Parts.
So, this post isn’t just about color coordination or a great thrift-store score (though it definitely is that, too). It’s a small celebration of resilience, self-care, and the reminder that showing up — for ourselves and for others — matters. Pink may be the shade of the season, but for many of us, it’s also the color of courage.
When I spotted this corduroy beauty on the thrift rack, it practically winked at me. My husband and I had made an impromptu stop at a newly opened thrift store on our way to a destination about an hour away; the kind of detour that often turns into a treasure hunt. Jackets are usually the first racks I browse, and for good reason: there are so many great options to be had. More than half of the ones in my closet are secondhand finds.
Though pink isn’t a color I typically seek out, this jacket was just too good to pass up; soft enough to feel vintage, bright enough to lift a bit of the gloom on a cloudy day. I could already imagine pairing it with the pieces I reach for most this time of year: denim, florals, and a touch of texture. As much as I adore a good statement piece, I also love when something special feels completely wearable, and this jacket checks both boxes. It’s one of those finds that reminds me why I thrift in the first place — you never know what treasures are waiting until you take a closer look.
To let the jacket take center stage, I paired it with an off-white textured top and a swishy, boho-style skirt in shades of rust, caramel, cream, and (of course) pink, first seen three years ago on the blog in Western: Magnificent 8 Collaboration. The earthy tones balance the sweetness of my pink jacket, giving the outfit a cozy, autumn-ready feel. A woven faux-leather belt adds definition at the waist and echoes the warm brown of my fringed faux-suede boots (one of the items in my fall collection), which have just enough detail to keep things interesting without stealing the spotlight. Altogether, it’s a look that feels easy and confident, feminine but grounded, playful but put-together.
Wearing pink in October always feels a little symbolic for me. It’s more than just a nod to a cause; it’s a quiet reminder of what it means to move forward — to heal, to grow, and to live fully in color again. I don’t take that lightly. When I catch a glimpse of this pink corduroy jacket in the mirror, I see more than a thrifted find. I see resilience. I see grace. I see the woman who’s still here, still showing up, and still finding joy in the everyday.
And that, really, is what I love most about personal style: the way it can hold meaning without saying a word. Whether it’s a jacket, a ribbon, or simply a smile, the little things we choose can tell powerful stories. So if you’ve been touched by breast cancer, whether through your own experience or someone you love, I hope this month brings you moments of strength and connection — and maybe a little pink, too.
Lastly, if you haven’t scheduled your yearly mammogram yet, consider this your friendly reminder. Early detection truly does save lives.
Stay well and let’s keep in touch! Subscribe, follow, friend, pin … all options are available. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
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Photo credit: MMPerez
Note: This is an unsponsored post; however, some or all of the links to clothing items are associated with an affiliate program, where I earn a small commission for each click at no additional cost to you.
14 Comments
That is a lovely outfit!
Thank you!
I do need to schedule my mammogram. My poor daughter has dense breast tissue. She could opt for another test her insurance doesn’t pay for or just continue with mammograms. We have no history of breast cancer in our family on either side so her gyno advised her to wait a bit. I do hope she does have further testing at some point because those early finds are the best ones.
I love this fun, flirty, and colorful look! That skirt screams fall while the pink corduroy says, “Hey, wait a minute! I can be a fall color, too!” And, your hair…oh, that glorious hair! I imagine that’s what my granddaughter’s will look like when she’s my age! It’s just as wonderfully curly as yours! Have a wonderful weekend, Rena!
https://marshainthemiddle.com/
Thank you, Marsha! I completely agree — those early finds truly are the best. I hope your daughter decides to follow up soon, just for reassurance. And I love your take on pink as a fall color! It’s a happy contrast to all the brown and rust tones.
I’m a breast cancer survivor and love that your core message is about courage and resilience. Early detection really does save lives and it’s so important to continue to encourage women to get their mammograms and listen to their bodies. Your jacket is such a great find! Love this color combo!
Jill – Doused in Pink
Thank you so much, Jill. It means a lot coming from you, and I didn’t realize we share that survivor bond. You’re so right, early detection and staying in tune with our bodies really do make all the difference. I’m so glad you liked the outfit; this jacket just felt right for October in every way. 💕
Got my mammogram last month before my birthday! I really am trying to be good about all of my yearly exams! Love the photo of you kicking your leg! Yes to feeling good in what we wear (I love this outfit) and being courageous and giving ourselves grace. Needed some of that today as my plate was full this morning and I completely forgot to attend my son’s breakfast at school where he was getting recognized as student of the month!
http://www.chezmireillefashiontravelmom.com
Getting your mammogram before your birthday, that’s what I call celebrating responsibly! 😉 Thank you for your kind words — that leg-kick was definitely a “feeling good in my outfit” moment. And please give yourself grace about the breakfast; we’ve all had those mornings. I’m sure that your son knows you’re always cheering him on, even when life’s a bit of a juggle.
This is the most fabulous pink jacket I’ve seen in a long time! And I love how you styled it, Rena. I just bought, and am currently wearing, a pair of new pink sneakers and I didn’t even think about the pink and October connection so thank you for the reminder.
Big hugs
Suzy xx
Suzy, I bet your pink sneakers look amazing and what perfect timing for October! It’s so cool when something we buy just happens to carry a bit of extra meaning without us even realizing it.
Powerful post Rena, it’s very true that our personal style can hold meaning without saying a word. Love the pink jacket and the story behind it. Thanks for linking.
Thank you so much, Gail. I really appreciate that. This one felt a little more personal to write, and I’m glad the message came through. And I’m so happy you liked the jacket too! 💗
That’s such a fabulous jacket and I love how you’ve styled it! Thanks for linking!
Emma xxx
http://www.style-splash.com
I’m so glad you liked it, Emma. This jacket definitely made me smile when I found it.