Who am I to design luxury fashion that is inclusive to women with disability?
I don’t think I’ve told you ,
Since I studied fashion in 2007 I wanted to start my own fashion label. But I couldn’t see the point. There’s already so much out there. And I definitely did not want to contribute to the negative environmental and social impact fashion is accountable for.
It wasn’t until I noticed that people with disability are offered limited fashion choices, that I had a reason to start.
This morning I read :
“But a lot of the hesitancy just [comes down to] fear. Designers are afraid to enter the adaptive market because they think they’ll make a mistake or say the wrong thing,”
Whilst I have friends and family with disability and have a background in education, delivering curriculum that is inclusive to diverse students; I don’t have disability, and I do feel overwhelmed and scared that someone will question, who I am to design luxury fashion for women with disability?
Because of my fear I have noticed, I don’t talk enough about the actual purpose of my designs!
But this morning I will answer that question. Gaby Kennard said “the hardest thing is to start” Let’s start the conversation I’ve been avoiding.
Who am I to design luxury fashion that is inclusive to women of a range of abilities?
I am Emma. I am happiest when creating, problem solving, sharing and learning. I am a people person. I think it is ridiculous that there is more fashion designed for pets than for people with disability. I intend to use my craft to design for and with, a range of abilities; that love colour, print and texture.
“I don’t like to save special clothing for specific occasions. I buy or craft fashion that lights me up, items that are different. Cheerful and well crafted.”
“I like to be able to get dressed fast. My wardrobe is bursting with colour and the pieces on high rotation are easy to put on and take off, comfortable, made of natural fibres and are machine washable. ”
Unfortunately, I can’t fit into all the clothing I have acquired over the last decade. Now when I design and sew, I apply universal principles creating beautiful clothing that can be morphed and transformed by the user, adapting for one’s lifestyle and aesthetic.
I noticed not everyone out there has the time to learn to sew or has someone with the skill to craft them special pieces. Making special clothing for my beautiful customers brings me immense joy and pride.
“I have dedicated myself to my craft and I love being able to share my gift with others.”
I hope my garments will give you the confidence to get through your big day ahead. If each item brings but one smile and a flicker of more joy; I am proud.
If you love colour, art, print, texture and have a disability, work with people that have disability, or have friends with disability; let’s connect.
Two heads are always better than one!
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What do others say about me?
“Emma’s credentials are impressive; not only has she studied fashion design, but she has also ventured into education, which has led to a successful teaching career. As well as Fashion industry skills, she holds a Bachelor of Fine Art and Bachelor of Education (Secondary) from The University of Newcastle. Studying, travelling, meeting clothing manufacturers and teaching fashion design helped her acquire foundational knowledge of garment construction prior to starting her label. ”