Growing up in the 90s, I spent my childhood in denim overalls, vibrant and carefree, running on my knees as a double above-knee amputee. However, as I matured, my playful approach to fashion turned into a means of hiding my identity. The introduction of prosthetic legs at 12 led to frustration, as clothes seemed unsuitable for my body, pushing me towards styles that masked my disability.
Shopping became disheartening, as I conformed to societal expectations, opting for neutral basics to avoid unwanted attention. Eventually, an online community of disabled individuals inspired me to embrace my uniqueness, reigniting my passion for fashion. At 31, I wore a midi skirt without fear and shared it on social media, rediscovering my love for vibrant textures and colours.
Navigating the fashion world as a disabled woman of colour presented challenges, often leaving me feeling like an outsider. Yet, I learned to tune out negative opinions, focusing instead on what made me happy. Today, my wardrobe is a celebration of colour and individuality. Fashion now empowers me to advocate for genuine representation in the industry, reinforcing that style is for everyone, regardless of societal norms.
My journey, which began with innocent joy, transformed into a powerful form of self-expression, showing me that fashion is a door to reclaiming my identity and defining who I am without words.