Improving the shopping experience
Lucy Dawson
Our Change 100 intern Lucy Dawson chatted to model Caitlyn Fulton.
I would have a much better shopping experience knowing that I wouldn’t have to worry about what I couldn’t wear!
Caitlyn has cerebral palsy and models for Zebedee Management. She is passionate about disability rights and told us the following:
‘What accessible fashion means to me is that people with disabilities are being included. This is brilliant as we have so many pet peeves when it comes to fashion!
‘I am a wheelchair user and have been into many clothing stores. There are so many pieces that I would love to wear but they just aren’t practical when sitting.
‘For example, too much material can get caught up in my wheels.
‘Anything that is supposed to have that oversized feel to it just looks like it’s drowning me. Anything with buttons, zips or fasteners becomes uncomfortable.
‘There are some great examples when it comes to accessible clothing. But more fashion brands need to get on board.If I knew that a certain store had an accessibility range, I’d be more inclined to shop there. I would have a much better shopping experience knowing that I wouldn’t have to worry about what I couldn’t wear!
‘In terms of accessible makeup, that would be amazing! With my disability, I have fine motors skills and when doing intricate tasks this can become an uneasy task for me. Like when applying my eye makeup or eyeliner. It can become a challenge as I find it tricky being able to blend more than one colour into my eye. With eyeliner, precision is hard for me.
‘I’ve always thought that beauty companies could ask people with disabilities to test out any new products that they have made. Then they could see if it’s suitable or if certain products may need adjustments to make it easier to use. It would be great if all makeup kits, beauty tools and brush sets could be made universal, which everyone can use with ease!’
Our research
Our recent survey found 75% of disabled people say their needs are not being met by mainstream fashion in UK.