Jillian Vickers models clothing from Jamey Perry’s new adaptive clothing collection for JCPenney during the Runway of Dreams show this week at Powerhouse Arts in Brooklyn, New York (Sean Zanni/Getty Images for Runway of Dreams)
A major department store is launching a new line of clothing designed specifically to meet the needs of women who use wheelchairs, with options for both everyday wear and special occasions.
The collection launched this week by JCPenney offers blazers, blouses, dress pants, cocktail dresses and other items with modifications such as zippers positioned for easy access, pocket positioning and extended back rises optimized for the sitting position and shorter sleeves to limit interference with wheels.
The clothing line known as Jamey Perry for JCPenney debuted at the Runway of Dreams show during New York Fashion Week. It is a collaboration with Jamey Perry, a paraplegic television writer and an athlete who plays wheelchair basketball for the Los Angeles Clippers basketball team.
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“Jamey made it clear how difficult it can be for women who use wheelchairs to find pieces that work for dressier occasions – weddings, a night out or an important work event – that are also comfortable and meet their mobility needs. We took on that challenge together and are thrilled to have created a collection that is both high-fashion and high-functioning,” said Chris Phillips, senior vice president and general merchandise manager for apparel at JCPenney. “We are proud to continue to grow our adaptive apparel at JCPenney and remain committed to making fashion truly accessible.”
JCPenney said the collection is the latest addition to the retailer’s adaptable offerings for children and adults, which were first introduced in 2021. The department store already offers adaptable lines from Liz Claiborne, IZOD, St. John’s Bay, Thereabouts and other brands.
Jamey Perry for JCPenney includes 18 women’s styles ranging in sizes from XS to XXL and priced between $44 and $99 each. Available online.
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