Disability is No Barrier to These Inspiring Models!

In a world of 7.9 billion people, over one billion people have one or more forms of disabilities. These numbers show that they make them the largest minority group on the planet- and yet, they are the most under-represented. Unfortunately, in the fashion world, the representation of disabled models is far less than it should be. However, change is here and is here to stay. Now, disabled models are finally finding their spotlight on the ramp walk. With inclusivity on the rise, it is only a matter of time before the fashion industry celebrates beauty in all its forms.

What it is like to be a disabled model in the world of fashion

Disabled models often find people around them only define them with one trait- their disability. They do not look beyond it, as if their personality, talent, skills, and individuality are invisible. As a result, these models often think that they are not good enough. It can also be dehumanizing and traumatizing for models to experience these situations daily. But, when the disabled models get their time to shine, the fashion industry tends to look at them with judgmental eyes. Moreover, brands often do not include disabled models in their campaigns. It is a tough time for disabled models to navigate their way through the fashion industry.

"Fashion is about dressing according to what's fashionable. Style is more about being yourself." -Oscar de la Renta

Chelsea Werner on facing rejection in the industry.

We can find fashion and beauty anywhere and everywhere- yet the fashion industry has yet to completely embrace all the beauty that the differently-abled have to offer.

Chelsea Werner, a two-time world champion and model with down syndrome, has experienced the highs and lows of the industry in her journey to success. She states, "The industry is slowly becoming more diverse. However, the diversity of the disabled is still lacking- Models with disabilities are still rare," commenting on the lack of representation in the industry. She follows, "It is hard for all models, and I have had a lot of challenges in my life, but I never gave up."

Aaron Rose Philip on why disabled talent matters.

Aaron Rose Philip, a model who has walked for Moschino, recalls the childhood moments that inspired her to take the modeling industry by storm. She narrates how she would look at fashion magazines, covers as a teenager, and wonder why she never saw anybody like her?"

'It is surprising how so many people do not think that disabled folk, too, want to feel good by dressing themselves up, she says. She highlights the immense lack of representation and recognition the disabled lack in the industry.

"If I am going to be a model, I will present myself with my disabilities in the industry because I am allowed to be here," she says, revealing just how important portraying disabled talent is. She believes that no disabled person should feel left out or told that they do not deserve to dress well simply because of their condition.

Jillian Mercado on Empowering the disabled community

In the journey to make fashion more inclusive of disabled talent, countless community models have made their voices heard- one of whom is Jillian Mercado. As one of the most successful models in the community, she has been very vocal about empowering fellow disabled models on social media. "I want to live in a world where people who have disabilities feel like it is okay to make the career that they want to do, and not have to think about whether society does not want them to be a lawyer or doctor or astronaut just because they have a disability," she says. In addition, she wants to amplify the need to empower those models who otherwise face discrimination in fashion. "Only by empowering each other can we rise as a whole," she says.

The fashion industry is heading in the right direction.

As much as the fashion industry is heading towards inclusivity, there is still a long way to go. Most models still struggle to gain recognition in their careers. In addition, modeling agencies do not even sign disabled models, barring them from starting their careers. Nevertheless, the fashion industry is beginning to open for the differently-abled. Here is to change and inclusivity!