Today, September 12, 2022, JCPenney sponsored the Runway of Dreams Foundation at New York Fashion Week “A Fashion Revolution” runway show. Runway of Dreams advocates for industry change while empowering those with disabilities to find confidence and self-expression through fashion and beauty with accessible, inclusive and adaptive apparel.
This marks JCPenney’s second year as a Runway of Dreams partner. Last fall, we premiered our Thereabouts brand and showcased adult adaptive wear from several private brands. Since then, our adaptive assortment has expanded even further within new brands and seasonal styles.
The event showcased adaptive clothing and footwear on over 60 models with varying disabilities and backgrounds, from our collections as well as other leading brands. The show was hosted by Logan Aldridge, Peloton’s first adaptive instructor. Featured throughout the show were models from GAMUT Management, the consulting and talent management company also founded by Mindy Scheier, in 2019, which exclusively represents people with disabilities.
The Runway of Dreams Foundation is a nonprofit organization leading the charge on inclusion, acceptance and opportunity in the fashion industry for people with disabilities. This is their seventh year participating in New York Fashion Week. Their shows raise funds for the foundation in an effort to continue raising awareness, educating consumers, advocating for industry change, providing scholarships to develop the next generation of design innovators, and providing access to fashionable adaptive apparel.
How We Celebrate Diversity Through Fashion
At JCPenney, we share the Runway of Dreams vision for a future of inclusion, acceptance and opportunity. Offering adaptive and inclusive fashion is core to our purpose to celebrate and serve America’s diverse, working families. JCPenney is committed to providing access to affordable adaptive and continuing to lead in this space.
When we design adaptive clothing for customers with sensory, dexterity or mobility needs, we look for super soft fabrics and materials and incorporate features like easy-access openings, sensory-friendly seams, no tags, adjustable waist bands and pull-on loops. While function is important and each adaptive feature aims to provide comfort and confidence, we’re also passionate about making sure every customer can have great style, which is why so many of our collections celebrate adaptive fashion, apparel and accessories. Check them out here.
