Over two million individuals in the UK live with sight loss, yet fashion remains largely inaccessible to blind and low-vision people. Despite misconceptions that visually impaired individuals are not interested in fashion, many enthusiasts, like Lucy Edwards, find unique ways to appreciate clothing through textures and styles. Non-profit organization Hair & Care has been working diligently to bridge this gap by making runway shows at London Fashion Week more inclusive. For Autumn/Winter 2025, they partnered with three renowned designers to create touch tours and audio descriptions, offering unprecedented access to visually impaired attendees.
Challenging Stereotypes: A New Perspective on Fashion
Fashion is often perceived as a visual experience, but for those with sight loss, it can be appreciated through other senses. Lucy Edwards, a broadcaster and disability activist, emphasizes that blindness does not diminish one’s interest in fashion. Instead, it fosters a deeper connection with fabrics and designs. The ability to engage with fashion through touch and sound allows visually impaired individuals to form and express their sense of self, challenging outdated stereotypes about their involvement in the industry.
Edwards shares her personal journey, explaining how she initially felt disconnected from fashion after losing her eyesight at 17. However, initiatives like Hair & Care and British Vogue’s audio descriptions have reignited her passion for style. These efforts have made it easier for her to stay informed about trends and participate in the fashion world. She highlights the importance of integrating accessibility into everyday consciousness, noting that once people recognize the needs of the visually impaired, inclusion becomes effortless. This shift in mindset opens doors for greater participation and enjoyment of fashion for all.
Pioneering Accessibility: Innovations at London Fashion Week
Hair & Care, founded by hairstylist Anna Cofone in 2019, has been instrumental in transforming London Fashion Week into an inclusive event. By collaborating with designers such as SS Daley, Roksanda, and Chet Lo, the organization created immersive experiences where visually impaired guests could explore collections through touch tours and audio descriptions. These sessions provided valuable insights into the design process, allowing participants to connect with the creative vision behind each piece.
For AW25, Chet Lo invited guests to his studio, where he shared detailed explanations of his collection, including his reinterpretation of chinoiserie patterns and innovative leather techniques. On show day, attendees received fabric samples and real-time audio descriptions narrated by the designers themselves. Cofone expresses pride in this season’s achievements, particularly the involvement of luxury brands, signaling growing awareness of accessibility within the fashion industry. She aims to continue advising brands on inclusivity, ensuring that more designers recognize the value and importance of opening their work to the visually impaired community. Through these efforts, Hair & Care is fostering a more inclusive and diverse fashion landscape, empowering individuals who have long been excluded from this vibrant world.