Inclusive Fashion Celebrated at NYFW Groundbreaking “It’s Time to Adapt” Exhibit

Adaptive apparel and universally designed fashion will take center stage at Hudson Yards this September 14-16. The Shops & Restaurants will house the powerful “It’s Time to Adapt” exhibit, presented by nonprofit Runway of Dreams Foundation. This free public showcase celebrates major brands expanding their offerings to increase inclusion, acceptance, and opportunity in the fashion industry.

The timely exhibit falls on the heels of Runway of Dreams’ 2023 New York Fashion Week show on September 13th that runway pioneered mainstream adaptive fashion with 70 disabled models. Now “It’s Time to Adapt” educates the public on the importance of these inclusive clothing options.

On display will be the past and future of adaptive fashion curated by Runway of Dreams. Top participating brands include Tommy Hilfiger, Zappos, Kohl’s, Target, JCPenney, Stride Rite, Steve Madden, French Toast Adaptive, adidas and Victoria’s Secret PINK. Victoria’s Secret’s first-ever adaptive intimates collection will make its public debut.

Runway of Dreams founder Mindy Scheier expressed the exhibit’s mission: “When you have a disability like I do, growing up and not being able to wear what everyone else was wearing was tough to deal with. ‘It’s Time to Adapt’ will show the public why adaptive and universally designed options are important, and how we can make it a reality.”

Scheier founded the nonprofit after struggling to find clothing her son, who has a rare form of muscular dystrophy, could dress himself in. Runway of Dreams has since championed inclusion in fashion, partnering with retailers to expand their adaptive offerings.

According to board member Dave Stevens, “The Runway of Dreams Foundation and its runway shows don’t teach confidence – they build confidence.” Stevens continued, “I am proud to champion this mission.”

With guidance from accessibility consultants GAMUT Management, Hudson Yards ensures the exhibit accommodates all visitors. This free public event invites the fashion industry and beyond to view the past, present and future of adaptive apparel and inclusive fashion.

As Hudson Yards Chief Commercial Officer Lance Kirk said, “Bringing together brands and nonprofits to incite change is part of our commitment to creating a more equitable world.”

“It’s Time to Adapt” makes clear that inclusive fashion is no longer just a trend, but a growing movement. The exhibit shows major retailers responding to calls for adaptive options that enable independence and confidence for millions of Americans.

By showcasing pioneering adaptive collections, this event highlights that fashion innovation isn’t just about design – it’s about empowering people through clothing. Brands embracing inclusivity are expanding access and tearing down barriers to apparel many take for granted.

This free exhibit provides an eye-opening look at how far fashion has come in serving individuals of all abilities. And it offers inspiration for how much more adaptive design can achieve when inclusion is made a priority.

Don’t miss this unprecedented public showcase of brands breaking new ground to make fashion accessible, inspirational and empowering for all.

Visit “It’s Time to Adapt” at Hudson Yards September 14-16 and witness the future of inclusive style.