We’ve talked about this before, but the disability community is severely underrepresented in the fashion world. Those who command the catwalk are finally waking up when it comes to showcasing all body types, but sadly, the majority of those body types seem to be of the able-bodied variety.
Well, meet Jillian Mercado. She’s about to change all that, which is one of the many reasons she’s my new hero. The 23-year-old New York native, who was diagnosed with spastic muscular dystrophy, has made a name for herself with her personal style blog Manufactured 1987; she’s also a regular on the New York Fashion Week scene.
“I think that being in the fashion industry kind of forced me to be more confident because there has never been someone like me who’s in a wheelchair and in the fashion industry,” she says.
Jillian brought that trademark confidence along when she shot Diesel’s spring 2014 ads. Clad in the brand’s classic denim, she’s poised and fierce, as if telling the camera, “I’m here to stay.” Bravo, Jillian! The world is changing, and I’m excited to have her leading the charge, aren’t you, friends? xoxo
[Via Huffington Post]
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Twinkle Terrior says
YES – Bravo Jillian !! I talk about my niece a lot b/c she is one of the most amazing, inspiring and sweet girls … she is in a wheel chair due to cerebral palsy. She has always loved fashion…….. I have to be sure she sees this post! 0x