‘The Secrets Beneath Our Clothes'

With More Women Opting For Comfortable Underwear Over Sexy Lingerie, We Ask Four Ladies To Reveal Their Preferences – And The Stories Behind Them

‘ It was nice to finally feel attractive again’

claire Howard, 55, lives with her husband, dave, 60, and their dog, Ollie.

When I was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2016, I had no idea just how much it would affect how I felt about my body. Thankfully, the cancer was caught in the early stages, and a surgeon said that they

could cut the tumour out of my right breast. But I refused. I wanted the whole thing gone. I didn’t want to risk the cancer coming back later on.

After chemo and radiotherapy, I was declared cancer-free in November 2017. And just under a year later, I had my right breast reconstructed. My boobs had been part of what made me feel feminine, and without one, I didn’t feel like myself. After the op in October 2018, I couldn’t wait to get back into lacy underwear. Since my diagnosis, I’d lived in support bras. It was nice to finally feel attractive again.

I know my right breast will never feel the same as a natural boob, but in a pretty bra, no one would ever notice. Funnily enough, the older I get, the more confident I feel. I’m not about to start hiding away just because I’ve reached a ‘certain age’. In fact, as this picture proves, quite the opposite!

‘ My scar is something I’m self-conscious about’

Aminata Mansaray, 31, lives with her partner and their 19-month-old son, Na’im.