Think back to the last time you flipped through a fashion magazine. Did the glossy pages and poses seem reflective of you and your crew? Probably not. The style status quo is shifting a bit, for sure, but there’s plenty of work to be done when it comes to true representation of all people.
Case in point: Did you know that one in five people globally identify as disabled (and the other four have a disabled friend or family member)? And the biggest industries—yes, fashion included—don’t exactly reflect those stats. That’s why when an iconic designer steps up with a fashion line to help support people of all abilities and their caregivers, you pay attention.
Tommy Hilfiger Adaptive is exactly that: A collection of classic-modern pieces for the entire family with functional innovations like easy closures, seated wear, adjustability for prosthetics, sensory-friendly fabrics, and more to make style more accessible to all.
“Most of the world was designed without disability in mind,” Christina Mallon, director of inclusive design at Microsoft and chief brand officer at Open Style Lab, says. Historically, the adaptive fashion space has been limited—and the few options that do exist have been geared toward older demographics, Mallon says. This under-representation has personally affected her since 2010 when, at 22 years old, her arms became paralyzed. “One of the hardest things about being disabled is not being able to easily dress myself in any outfit, as I express myself through fashion.”
So when Mallon had a chance to try out a few pieces from the fall Tommy Hilfiger Adaptive line, she was thrilled. She selected wardrobe essentials like elastic-waist pants, which are perfect for her busy work schedule, and style statements like colorful blazers, for fun nights out with friends. Her verdict on the collection? She’s all in. “I had an amazing experience trying on items from the latest Adaptive line,” she says. “The increase in adaptive options means that we are moving in the right direction toward equality.”
And with a cart full of Tommy Hilfiger finds, that direction is just as fashionable—and fun—as it is functional.
Keep reading for Mallon’s favorite adaptive clothing picks from Tommy Hilfiger.
Sign Up for Our Daily Newsletter
Get all the latest in wellness, trends, food, fitness, beauty, and more delivered right to your inbox.
Got it, you've been added to our email list.
