Empowear exists for people navigating life with an ostomy who refuse to settle for “good enough.” We create swimwear that restores security, style, and presence, so you can focus on living, not adjusting. Feel confident poolside or on the beach again.
Each Empowear suit features a secure, built-in pocket system that supports your ostomy bag without bulky belts or restrictive bands. Our diagonal pocket allows the bag to fill naturally, while compression mesh and reinforced seams distribute weight evenly and comfortably.
Unlike traditional support garments that pull on adhesive or shift during movement, Empowear suits integrate function directly into modern swimwear construction. The result is security without stress and style without compromise.
After becoming ostomates, too many people are handed medical-looking solutions and told to make them work. We believe confidence should never be compromised, especially after surgery.
Empowear was founded on lived experience and built on one core belief:
Shanen is the driving force behind Empowear. After facing her own medical challenges and becoming an ostomate, she discovered that traditional swimwear was limited and isolating. Her personal journey transformed into a calling: create garments that restore confidence, dignity, and joy to people who deserve to be seen. Shanen continues to build a supportive community, including the Empowear Foundation.
Vivian leverages her degree in mechanical engineering and extensive textile manufacturing experience to create functional, beautiful garments. Her blend of technical expertise and compassionate design help her create Empowear designs that restore dignity, confidence and comfort to people often overlooked by mainstream fashion.
Whether you’re living with an ostomy or supporting someone who is, there’s a place for you here. Together, we’re building confidence, connection, and impact.
