Victoria's Secret and Pink Announce Adaptive Intimates
When Victoria's Secret announced its rebranding, the fashion world was understandably skeptical. For years, the lingerie brand had faced criticism. The company vowed to expand body diversity in its campaigns, beginning with the VS Collective, a consulting partnership with Megan Rapione, Paloma Elsesser, and Bella Hadid. Sometimes it is difficult to distinguish between marketing and real change, but for this lingerie brand, especially its latest venture, the latter is proving to be true: Victoria's Secret and PINK Adaptive Collection, the first for women with disabilities Intimate Collection.
The adaptive collection is derived from Victoria's signature lines Body by Victoria and Wear Everywhere and consists of modular underwear and bras. Victoria's Secret showcased a sneak peek of its newly launched adaptive line at the "Runway of Dreams" show, which debuted this fall at New York Fashion Week. Models in wheelchairs and on prosthetic legs strutted down the runway wearing bras with easy-clasp closures and panties with magnetic straps. It was a first for the brand, whose mission is to celebrate women of all shapes, sizes, and abilities.
The adaptive line was created with the help of GAMUT, a talent consulting agency that works with and represents people with disabilities. Direct feedback from people with disabilities was considered throughout the design process, and each product went through extensive wear testing, focus groups, and feedback panels. The company also earned the GAMUT Seal of Approval, a rare certification that proves the inclusion of people with disabilities in the production process. [Lydia Smith, Victoria's Secret Chief Diversity Officer, said in a statement, "From development to marketing, women with disabilities have been at the forefront of bringing VS and PINK Adaptive to life. We are pleased to continue to honor, welcome, and advocate for all women through this new collection."
It is common for fashion brands to see inclusivity pledges get lost in translation on their way to being sold to the public. However, Victoria's Secret is demonstrating its commitment to change and true inclusivity with its new adaptive line.
Victoria's Secret has become the first major fashion brand to offer adaptive products both in stores and online. Below you will also find some of the best items for shopping. In keeping with the accessibility theme of the collection, prices are wonderfully affordable, starting at $16.50 for shorts and $36.95 for bras.
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