Accessible Fashion Interview

 

(Source: The New York Times)

Accessible Fashion Interview

In today’s age, fashion is rapidly evolving. Fashion trends and statements seem to change on a daily basis, and popular figures have particularly developed ways to express themselves through the medium of fashion. As modern companies have created new fashion pieces and designs, there has also been an emphasis on designing clothes that are inclusive to individuals of all abilities. This field is called accessible fashion, which ensures that people with disabilities can wear various clothes that they feel comfortable and proud in.

Recently, I had the chance to interview Madeline Connolly, a student at Virginia Commonwealth University studying Fashion Merchandising. Madeline has specifically studied accessible fashion in her classes and has learned more about the topic. Here's what she said:

1. Tell us a little bit more about your background.

 

"I graduated from Washington International School in 2020, and now I am currently a junior at VCU (Virginia Commonwealth University) majoring in Fashion Merchandising."

 

2. Why did you choose to study accessible fashion?

 

"I’ve always been interested in the fashion industry and I’m eager to create changes in this important industry."

 

3. What do your accessible fashion classes entail?

 

"My classes consist of a mix of business, marketing, and forecasting while tying in aspects of the fashion industry. The classes are very contemporary, requiring me to know all current social issues as they impact upcoming trends."

 

4. How have your accessible fashion studies related to disability advocacy and inclusion?

 

"A repetitive topic discussed in my classes mentions how runway looks are inspired by streetwear and what consumers wear in their everyday lives. In relation to fashion becoming more accessible, many brands sell their merchandise in large corporations such as Target, Kohl’s, and Walmart. 

 

In an introduction to fashion class I took my first year, I wrote a paper creating a collaboration with Ralph Lauren x Wounded Warriors. This collection would create a line of business, business casual and formal wear made using magnetic closures introducing accessible clothing to people with fine motor deficiencies, children as well as adults with arthritis, Parkinson's or people who suffered from a loss of a limb. After completing this assignment I started to notice more accessible clothing, but the industry is still lacking. I hope to fix this in the future."

 

5. What career do you hope to have after graduating?

 

"After graduation I hope to become a stylist, whether that is working for an agency or individually."

I hope that this interview helped you understand a little more about accessible fashion. It is critical to shed light on these topics to raise awareness about issues people with IDD face today and build a fully accessible, equitable world.

Feel free to leave a comment below or share this blog with a friend!

In friendship,

Nathan Moldavsky