Have you ever searched for “adaptive clothing”? If so, you might have noticed a lack of inspiring options. Most adaptive wear, designed for individuals with disabilities, tends to prioritize functionality over style. While practicality is certainly crucial—easy-to-use closures, adjustable elements, and multiple entry points are essential—adaptive clothing doesn’t have to be dull or reminiscent of hospital gowns.
This very concept sparked the creation of the Runway of Dreams Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded by fashion visionary Sarah Collins. Established in 2014, the foundation is dedicated to transforming the landscape of adaptive fashion, one garment at a time.
Collins, a seasoned designer and mother of a child with unique needs, was motivated to start Runway of Dreams after her son, Ethan, who has a rare muscular condition, expressed a desire to wear jeans to school like his peers. Traditional jeans were not feasible for Ethan, but Collins refused to let her son down. She spent the night altering a standard pair of jeans to meet his requirements, enabling him to wear them the very next day. This pivotal moment opened Collins’ eyes to the reality that millions of individuals face similar challenges in accessing fashionable clothing suitable for their needs.
According to the Runway of Dreams website, Collins’ vision is clear: she aspires to make adaptive clothing mainstream. With two decades of experience in the fashion industry and a background in teaching design to children, she merged her expertise and passion to launch the foundation.
Unlike a traditional clothing brand, Runway of Dreams collaborates with the fashion industry to create inclusive options for the differently-abled community. As Collins states, “Our mission is to empower individuals with disabilities through fashion. Clothing is a fundamental human need that fosters confidence and independence, which should never be compromised due to a disability.” The foundation aims to improve access to adaptive clothing while promoting career opportunities for people with disabilities.
Runway of Dreams has already made significant strides in the industry. In 2016, they teamed up with renowned designer Tommy Hilfiger to release an adaptive clothing line within his iconic children’s collection, marking a groundbreaking moment as the first major designer to offer adaptive versions of existing apparel. Since then, the foundation has continued its partnership with Hilfiger, developing adaptive wear for various seasons.
Moreover, Runway of Dreams is committed to empowering the differently-abled community through various initiatives, including adaptive design workshops, employment opportunities, awareness campaigns, and scholarship programs. On June 8 of this year, the foundation hosted its second annual gala and fashion show in New York City, featuring models with disabilities.
While the future remains under wraps, one thing is certain: Runway of Dreams is poised to continue its impactful journey in the fashion world. For further information about their initiatives or how you can support this important cause, visit RunwayofDreams.org.
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Summary
The Runway of Dreams Foundation, founded by Sarah Collins, is revolutionizing adaptive fashion by making it more stylish and accessible for individuals with disabilities. Through partnerships with major brands and a commitment to empowerment, they are reshaping the fashion industry, ensuring that clothing is inclusive for all.