Vithanage Erandi Kawshalya Madhushani Jade Times Staff
V.E.K. Madhushani is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Fashion.
A New Era of Inclusive Fashion
Destiny Pinto, a woman from Crawley, West Sussex, was inspired to create a line of stylish fashion accessories after struggling to find fashionable options for her compression gloves, which she needed for rheumatoid arthritis. Realizing there were few stylish choices for those with medical devices, she expanded her range to include fashionable covers for hearing aids, stoma bags, and other medical accessories.
"It’s almost like everyone forgot about these devices in fashion," Destiny said, reflecting on the lack of options. Her designs have since gained massive attention on social media, catching the eyes of prominent figures such as Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles, singer SZA, and model Tasha Ghouri, who wears a hearing aid and is set to appear on the 2024 season of Strictly Come Dancing.
Creating Confidence Through Fashion
Destiny’s designs have resonated with many individuals who wear medical devices, including children and adults who often feel self conscious. "I hear personal stories, like children who wear colostomy bags or hearing aids, and they’ve never felt confident before seeing my designs," Destiny shared.
Her best friend, Nikola, who underwent life saving bowel surgery at 21 and now permanently wears a stoma bag, explained the challenges of finding clothing that is both fashionable and functional. Tight clothing can cause complications, so Nikola has to opt for baggier or differently styled clothing to avoid discomfort. The few stoma bag covers available tend to be plain or clinical looking, but Nikola prefers something more expressive.
"I like to be out there and I want something that makes a statement different materials, different designs," Nikola explained. She added, "These covers let me match my outfit. They’re not just practical; they allow me to feel like myself again, turning the stoma bag into a stylish accessory rather than something that detracts from my look."
The Importance of Inclusive Fashion
Libby Herbert, chief executive of Colostomy UK, emphasized the importance of accessible fashion, explaining that it can help prevent feelings of isolation and poor mental health. "If the industry doesn’t embrace accessibility, people may avoid returning to work or struggle to maintain relationships. But being able to express yourself even with a stoma bag through fashion can significantly impact someone’s wellbeing," she said.
Building a Supportive Community
Destiny’s mission goes beyond just selling fashionable accessories. "I want my project to be more than just a shop. I want it to be a community a platform that I never had when I was diagnosed, and that Nikola never had either," she explained. By combining fashion with function, Destiny is not only transforming medical devices into stylish accessories but also creating a sense of belonging for people with disabilities.
Her innovative designs are changing the way people perceive medical devices and are making fashion more inclusive for all.
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