Danielle Sheypuk is the first wheelchair model to strut down the New York Fashion Week runway. She made history with her epic roll down the runway. The beautiful woman was also Ms. Wheelchair New York 2012. Carrie Hammer had chosen to switch up the traditional model by adding Danielle. Carrie wanted to feature Danielle as the first person to "walk" the runway in a wheelchair, and she did so.
Hammer discussed in an email interview that "[She] made the decision to cast 'role models not runway models.'" She wanted to portray positive body image and empower women of all ages, races and body types. She also adds that "[Her] line makes dresses to fit women." Danielle is proud to be the first wheelchair model, and she said she felt just like another runway model.
What Makes This Trend Stand Out
- Inclusive Fashion
- Designing fashion for people with disabilities and diverse body types is an opportunity for disruptive innovation.
- Representation in Modeling
- Including models with disabilities in fashion shows and campaigns is becoming a trend for promoting diversity and inclusivity.
- Role Model-centered Marketing
- Brands that use role models rather than typical models in marketing materials have an opportunity for disruptive innovation.
Sectors Adopting This
- Fashion
- Including models with disabilities and designing for diverse body types disrupts the typical standards in the fashion industry.
- Advertising
- Brands promoting inclusive images through diverse representation in modeling are setting a trend in advertising.
- Disability Services
- Promoting disability representation in modeling creates a need for increased services and resources targeting people with disabilities.
