FASHION
This was the first time that on-trend current fashion was available for childrenwho are differently-abled.
The modificationsare explained on the Tommy Hilfiger website. For example, on abutton-down shirt, faux buttons and cuff plackets concealapatented MagnaReady magnet closure for ease of dressing. On pants, bottoms are drafted with Velcro and MagnaReady magnet closures on the fly and pant legs for easy open and close. Aloop-button system provides waist and length adjustability. Amazingly, the adaptive styles are offered at the same priceasthe rest of the clothes in the kids’ collection.
“ There is adirect correlation with clothes and achild’ s self-esteem and confidence,” says Scheier.
Now if differently-abled children choose to do so,“ they can wear what their peers are wearing,” she adds.“ This can change the stigma for the differently-abled community.”
Runway of Dreams and Tommy Hilfiger are already two collections ahead for children’ s wear, and Runway of Dreams is in discussions with other brands and retailers about making adaptive clothing available for people of all ages with different abilities. Oliver continues to be a“ daily inspiration” for Scheier, and both mother and son are full of excitement and gratitude for the overwhelming response to the clothes. ●
TOMMY HILFIGER: COURTESY OF RICHARD CORMAN
24 2017 EDITION | SPECIAL PARENT 201magazine. com