Akoya Clothing was born out of both necessity and deep personal experience...
A journey that began when Chelle was diagnosed with breast cancer.
Despite the countless appointments and the wealth of information provided, nothing could have prepared her for the reality of the path ahead. Breast cancer is a journey marked by emotional and physical challenges, some expected, many unforeseen.
One of those unexpected challenges was something as simple, yet essential, as finding sleepwear that was both functional and comfortable. Before surgery Chelle was kindly gifted bags to wear over her shoulders to carry the surgical drains. Whilst deeply grateful, she couldn’t help but wish for something more discreet and secure. Something that would safely hold the drains, and help her feel as normal as possible.
Chelle wanted sleepwear that was soft against her skin, easy to put on despite post-surgical limitations, and above all, something that restored a sense of dignity and normalcy. After searching tirelessly, Chelle and her best friend couldn’t find anything that met these needs in Australia. That’s when she turned to the one person who had always been by her side, her Mum. Chelle’s Mum quickly got to work adjusting pyjamas to offer the solution she was desperately seeking, pyjamas that were functional and stylish, that she could wear in the hospital, at home through recovery and beyond.
What started as a personal solution soon became so much more. Those pyjamas offered Chelle not just physical comfort, but also a renewed sense of confidence and reassurance during one of the most vulnerable times of her life.
From this experience, Akoya Clothing was created!
The name Akoya was chosen with deep intention.
Akoya pearls are created when an irritant enters the shell. In response, the shell doesn’t reject the irritant, instead it transforms it, layer by layer, into something beautiful, strong, and timeless. Each pearl is unique, no two pearls are the same, just like each woman’s journey through breast cancer.
This process mirrors what so many women face during and after breast cancer. The challenges we endure don’t define us; they shape us, making us stronger and more radiant than before. Akoya Clothing is a tribute to that transformation, unique to each woman—an acknowledgment that even through hardship, there is beauty, resilience, and grace.
Our Mission
Akoya Clothing is more than just a sleepwear brand, it is a source of empowerment and confidence for women navigating breast cancer and recovery.
Every piece is designed with thoughtful details, using the softest, most breathable fabrics to provide gentle support and post-surgical needs while maintaining a sense of effortless style.
We know firsthand how important it is to feel comfortable, secure, and seen during recovery. That’s why Akoya Clothing is not only about providing comfort to the women who wear it but also about giving back. A portion of each purchase supports Mater Chicks in Pink, a foundation dedicated to assisting breast cancer patients through their journey and funding critical breast cancer research. With every piece you wear, you’re not just embracing comfort and elegance, you’re also helping make a difference in the lives of countless women facing their own battles.