Women who have cancer can learn "how to use everyday clothing to feel comfortable and confident inside and out," says Emily Spivack, founder and executive director of the not-for-profit Shop Well with You (SWY). Having seen her own mother (a four-time cancer victor) struggle to find the right garments as she was going through treatment, Spivack wanted to provide resources for women nationwide.

Through SWY's one-on-one clothing consultations, Website, printed materials and outreach programs, "women can feel better about themselves ‑- wherever they may be in the treatment process," says Spivack.

Below, Spivack answers her five most frequently asked questions about how to deal with one's appearance during cancer treatment.

Question: Can you help me find garments that I can wear regardless of my fluctuating weight?

Emily's answer: Surgery and its accompanying treatments can cause your weight to yo-yo. We recommend clothing that you can wear whether you lose or gain a few pounds. For instance, opt for flat-front pants with a wide, elasticized waistband (also called a yoke), drawstring pants, wraparound skirts or items with a little stretch. Additionally, if you are concerned about weight gain, dressing monochromatically tends to be slenderizing.

Q: How can I dress to even out my breasts?

Emily's answer: We hear from many women who have this concern after breast reconstruction or a lumpectomy. The key is drawing attention away from the chest area. Cardigans and blazers do so by creating an additional layer, but you can also achieve a similar effect with a patterned blouse, scarves and accessories, or a shirt with a draped or cowl neck. What's more, bra inserts are easy to wear and can make a real difference. Check out Shop Well with You's Where to Shop section for more info.

Q: I need a bathing suit with a pocket (to hold a prosthesis). What brands do you recommend?

Emily's answer: Our suggestions include Amoena, Anita, Jodee, Lands' End, T.H.E. and a British company called Nicola Jane ‑- all of which offer a variety of styles (one-pieces, tankinis, etc.). In addition, some mastectomy boutiques will sew in a pocket for a small fee; inquire to see if your local store provides this service.

Q: Chemo has caused my body temperature to fluctuate wildly. How can I dress for this?

Emily's answer: Clothes that wick away moisture can keep you dry. Look for items made with Coolmax fabric, which are available at your local sporting goods store or in a department store's lingerie section (where you may also find wicking nightgowns; check out the Wicking J. Sleepwear Website or "Cancer Specific Garments" in Shop Well with You's Where to Shop section). Other helpful strategies: Wear natural, breathable fabrics (like cotton, linen or silk) and dress in removable layers (don a sleeveless tank or camisole underneath a cardigan or button-down shirt, for instance).

Q: How can I dress in spite of lymphedema?

Emily's answer:Lymphedema, an accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the arm ‑- and, less commonly, in the legs or trunk ‑- can result from having your lymph nodes removed (or from radiation). When your arm is swollen from lymphedema, it can be challenging to find a shirt that fits properly. To make matters easier, we recommend a shirt with a dolman sleeve (which has a wider armhole and is connected to the body of the shirt without seams) or a raglan sleeve (which has a lowered armhole, allowing for more arm room and easier movement). Another option is wearing a long-sleeve shirt made of a gauzy, lightweight material over a tank top. Whatever you do, don't hide behind volumes of clothing, which generally draws more attention.