I went to Splendour Festival in July last year and I dressed appropriately. I have a pair of patterned culottes on with a crop top and cardigan. But, surprise surprise, it began to rain! I had thought of that, though! I always have to be thinking about things like that. So my boyfriend, Dom, went off to the car to get my waterproof hoodie, still trying to look as fashionable as possible as well as staying dry!
Then it started getting cold and it wasn't even evening yet. Much to my disgust Dom went back to the car to find layers to keep me warm and dry. I can remember saying to him, "I look like your granny who you've taken out of the care home for the day". Dom just looked me up and down and nodded.
The next day when I woke up I decided it was time to have better, fashionable, options for people like me. When I say people like me, I mean young people who want to do enjoy festivals, concerts and so on, but just happen to have a disability! And that's when the idea of a waterproof all in one came to me!
I thought about it and thought about it. What does it need to be practical? But how can it still be stylish? Once I knew what it was I was asking for I sent a few emails around. Never did I expect ASOS to come back and say, "We would love to help you do this."
It has a jersey lining to make it conformable to wear. The top part has a zip all the way down like a jacket because it is a jacket that you can wear on its own. You can also wear the trousers on their own, too ... and then you can zip it together around the waist to make it an all in one! Practical, right?
On the top-left breast of the jacket there is a pocket that is completely waterproof. Handy for a phone or for important medical information for in emergency situations.
So between August last year and now, that is exactly what they have made. And now, I am able to type that the all-in-one waterproof I have designed with Asos is on sale.
But here is (what I think) is the most important part of this garment ... It isn't just for people who are in wheelchairs, it is for anyone. I can wear it, and my best friend can wear it, too!
My collaboration with Asos is only going to continue as we look into what other garments we can do this sort of thing with. So, people of the "disability" world, any ideas on what next?
Outings in the wet and cold and getting wet and cold are a thing of the past ... and we can do it in style, too. Bonus! Self-confidence is the best outfit you can wear, and a smile is the best accessory to go with it. That is exactly what I will be doing in my all-in-one when I put it on. I hope you will be, too!
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