Click on the flipbook below and see highlights of the fashion show!

Fashion became a powerful platform for confidence, creativity, and inclusion as The Arc Westchester hosted its Adaptive Fashion Show at Manhattanville University on June 12.. This was the culminating of a 14-week occupational therapy-led adaptive fashion program developed by Occupational Therapy Doctoral Student Giulia Tucci in partnership with The Arc Westchester.

The innovative program provided adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities an opportunity to explore personal style, self-expression, confidence, social participation, and adaptive clothing solutions that support independence and accessibility. Through weekly sessions, participants examined their sense of self, developed greater confidence, and strengthened social connections while discovering how clothing can serve as a powerful tool for self-expression.

The fashion show featured 15 runway models from The Arc Westchester who shined on the runway with confidence, energy, and style despite the day’s intense heat. Participants showcased outfits that reflected their unique personalities, interests, and preferences, with each model presenting three outfit changes throughout the event. The collections included adaptive designs from brands such as Kohl’s Adaptive, Tommy Hilfiger Adaptive, MagnaReady, Volto Santo, and others.

Every garment was carefully selected to meet each participant’s specific needs, including sensory preferences, magnetic closures for ease of dressing, and accessible openings to accommodate mobility devices and leg braces. The event highlighted how adaptive fashion can remove barriers while promoting comfort, independence, and personal expression. The program also showcased the role occupational therapy can play in supporting people as they develop confidence, strengthen identity, and engage in meaningful activities.

More than 80 family members, friends, staff, and community supporters attended the celebration, which recognized the participants’ hard work and personal growth throughout the program. Participants demonstrated significant progress in self-confidence, self-concept, and social participation over the course of the 14 weeks.

“The Adaptive Fashion Show is about much more than clothing,” said Giulia Tucci. “It is about empowering people to express who they are, build confidence, and participate fully in their communities.”

Ms. Tucci, a doctoral student at Quinnipiac University completing her capstone project, brought her passion for adaptive fashion to The Arc Westchester through a program designed to address the unique needs, abilities, and identities of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her project focused on creating opportunities for self-expression and inclusion while raising awareness of the importance of accessible and adaptive clothing.
“We are fortunate to have volunteers like Ms. Tucci and welcome others who are willing to share their time and knowledge with the people we support. Volunteers contribute to the innovative work that takes place every day at The Arc Westchester, while also gaining a personal rewarding experience,” said Todd Bazzini, Director of Volunteer Services and Fund Development.

The Adaptive Fashion Show served as both a celebration of participant achievements and a reminder that fashion should be accessible, inclusive, and empowering for everyone.
Our special thanks to Guila Tucci, Teresa Lombardi, Lori Delgado and all the runway models who provided a show to remember.