Adaptive Styling

No matter how many times I would ride the same train to work each day, the commuters’ shameless stares at a woman in a wheelchair would persevere. So, I decided, I might as well give them a show. Self expression has always carried great importance to me, however, my daily OOTD’s for my BART rides felt monumental. I felt that by expressing myself interestingly and confidently, I could change their perceptions of those with disabilities.

There are many gaps to fill when it comes to adaptive fashion, however, one of the most important gaps is apparel safety. Due to the nature of some disabilities, certain clothing could hinder our mobility and even cause serious harm to our bodies - i.e. a metal button on a pant’s back pocket or a shoe’s narrow toe-box could cause a pressure sore on a wheelchair user which leads to life long complications and even death. Below, I broke down a few of my favorite outfits and the reasoning behind some of the pieces to demonstrate to other wheelchair users how I can still express myself flatteringly and safely, regardless of my abilities.

• Italian Silk Robe, Groove (Rome, Italy)

• Silk camisole, Oak + Fort (SF, CA)

• Faux leather pants, Primark (Edinburgh, Scotland)

• Suede kitten-heal sandals, Nordstroms (online)

• Cerulean sweater, Oak + Fort (SF, CA)

• Cross-body, Baggu (SF, CA)

• Sheer dress, Shein (online)

• Air Max 97, Nike (online)

• Sheer top, Ambiance (SF, CA)

• Skirt, Jupiter Row (Ashland, Oregon)

• Boots, 24Colours (Heidelberg, Germany)

• Thrifted Givenchy Cream Coat, Labels (Walnut Creek, CA)

• Tights, Sheertex (online)

• Cowboy boots, Boot Barn (Salem, Oregon)

• Gingham coat, Alameda Antiques Fair (Alameda, CA)

• Turtleneck, Oak + Fort (SF, CA)

• Miniskirt, Oak + Fort (SF, CA)