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13 October: what is celebrated today
13 October brings together a curious set of celebrations which, although very different from one another, share a common thread: freedom and awareness. From the need to prevent natural disasters and foster more transparent communication between citizens and governments, to the assertion of the female body and the celebration of style and elegance, this day invites us to look at the world responsibly… but also with a smile.
International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction
Every year, 13 October reminds us that nature does not destroy on its own: disasters occur when a lack of prevention makes us vulnerable.
Proclaimed by the UN in 1989, this day seeks to foster a global culture of prevention and resilience, encouraging governments, communities and citizens to prepare for increasingly intense natural phenomena.
Since 2009, the official name has been International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, underlining an essential truth: disasters are not natural; they are the result of human decisions.
The message is clear: planning saves lives. And preparedness—from an evacuation plan to sustainable policies—is the best tool for protecting people and the planet.
International Plain Language Day
Also on 13 October, we celebrate the power of understandable words. International Plain Language Day seeks to ensure that governments, institutions and companies speak directly, simply and humanely.
The inspiration came from the 2010 Plain Writing Act in the United States, which marked a turning point in public communication. Since then, more and more countries have adopted this practice so citizens can truly understand what they are being told.
Plain language does not only improve comprehension: it strengthens democracy. An informed society can decide, make demands and trust. Because speaking clearly is also an act of respect.
No Bra Day
13 October is also No Bra Day, a date that combines breast-cancer awareness with a symbolic gesture of female freedom.
The initiative began in Canada in 2011 thanks to surgeon Mitchell Brown, with the idea of recalling the importance of early detection of breast cancer and promoting breast reconstruction as part of the recovery process.
Over time, the campaign became a global expression of self-acceptance and empowerment. Not wearing a bra for a day is a way of remembering that a woman’s body does not need to justify itself to anyone, and that health—physical and emotional—begins with knowing and caring for oneself.
International Suit Up Day: elegance with attitude
13 October also has its touch of style. On that day, men and women around the world dust off their most elegant suits to celebrate International Suit Up Day.
The inspiration for this fun observance comes from the series How I Met Your Mother, in which the charismatic Barney Stinson turned the phrase “Suit up!” into a life motto. Since then, thousands of people have taken advantage of the date to celebrate the art of dressing well.
But beyond fashion, wearing a suit symbolises confidence, care and presence. It is not only about clothing, but about the attitude with which one chooses to face the day: with elegance, confidence and a touch of humour.