At five years old, I became aware of the differences in fashion accessibility due to my body. The discomfort from the plastic of my AFOs (Ankle-Foot Orthosis) created blisters, forcing me to rely on Band-Aids while my peers wore glittery jelly shoes. These early experiences shaped my understanding of how fashion often excludes those with disabilities.
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Despite my desire to embrace makeup and express my femininity, I often encounter challenges. Brands like Rare Beauty are making strides with accessible products, which help empower individuals like me to participate in the beauty world. Over the years, my fashion choices have evolved from mere accommodation to a distinct aesthetic that reflects my identity, despite the difficulties presented by my body.
Fashion Week, a highlight in the industry, can often feel alienating for disabled individuals. The event promises inclusion and representation, yet those who need to see themselves often remain overlooked. The industry's focus on fantasy and beauty leaves many marginalized voices outside the narrative. As one critic noted, the inaccessibility of premier fashion cities is treated as unavoidable rather than an area in need of reform.
The contrast between showing a humanoid robot on the runway and the struggle for real disabled representation is stark. Although some representation exists, it feels insufficient when the industry prioritizes non-existent bodies over real ones. This disconnect carries over to other fashion capitals, where the experience remains similarly exclusive for disabled individuals.
Inaccessibility is not just about representation on the runway; it's also about the ability to physically participate in events. The industry has a responsibility to address this through accessible venues, clear communication regarding access information, and thoughtful planning, rather than viewing it as a burden.
Efforts to challenge this exclusion have emerged, such as the Wheelchair Fashion Row at Paris Fashion Week in 2022, which highlighted the need for universal design within mainstream fashion. This initiative aimed not only to showcase fashion for disabled individuals but to dissolve the idea that such fashion is separate from the broader industry.
True representation means integrating disabled people into the fabric of fashion culture, rather than relegating them to token appearances. Organizers must go beyond acknowledging the physical limitations of venues and consider their duty to uphold standards of accessibility, reflecting current legal obligations under the ADA. Participation in fashion should be inclusive and engaging, not a minimal effort suffused with gratitude for mere inclusion.
Reflecting on my childhood experiences, I recognize how my relationship with fashion has been shaped by awareness of exclusion. I notice the barriers—shoes I cannot wear, materials I cannot handle, and venues I cannot enter. Yet I also celebrate progress, like seeing a wheelchair user at the Met Gala, which serves as a reminder of what is possible when accessibility is prioritized. These milestones are significant, but they highlight the ongoing need for a critical lens on future changes in the industry.