Shaw woman calls for better disability representation ahead of Manchester fashion show

A woman from Shaw is calling for better representation of disabled people in the fashion industry ahead of a disability pride catwalk event in Manchester later this month.

Julie Blagborough, 51, will be among 16 models taking part in what organisers describe as the most inclusive fashion show the city has staged.

The Disability Pride Catwalk will take place at Aviva Studios in Manchester on Saturday 27 June and will feature models aged from their 20s to their 50s who are disabled, neurodivergent or living with chronic illnesses.

Participants will wear adaptive clothing designed by Manchester fashion label RECONDITION, which was founded in 2025 by Manchester Metropolitan University graduate Ellie Brown.

Ms Blagborough, who also studied fashion at Manchester Metropolitan University, said her experience as a wheelchair user had highlighted the lack of suitable options within mainstream fashion.

She said, "I've always loved fashion and enjoy following the latest trends.

"I love sportswear and designer clothes.

"But since I've been using a wheelchair, I'm much more restricted in my choices. Mainstream fashion doesn't really cater for me, but I don't want to give up on how I look. How you dress is part of your identity. It's important."

As well as modelling in the show, Ms Blagborough is part of RECONDITION's co design group, helping to test garments and advise on adaptations that make clothing more accessible.

The label's designs include front pockets positioned for wheelchair users, ring pull zips for people with reduced dexterity and sleeves fitted with poppers to accommodate prosthetic limbs and medical equipment.

Ms Blagborough said, "RECONDITION is the opposite of fast fashion. Everything they design is thoroughly tested, and if the garments are not accessible, it's back to the drawing board."

She added that being involved in the project had helped her feel more confident discussing her experiences as a disabled woman.

"Before I joined the RECONDITION co design group I had never felt comfortable discussing my needs as a disabled woman before.

"It's lovely to share experiences and realise that we have so much in common."

Ms Blagborough first noticed muscle weakness while studying at university in her early 20s. She was later diagnosed with muscular dystrophy and has used a wheelchair for the past nine years.

RECONDITION founder Ellie Brown said the event aimed to celebrate diversity while encouraging wider conversations about inclusion.

She said, "The Disability Pride Catwalk is a safe space for people to celebrate bodies of all kinds whilst enjoying the atmosphere and experience of a runway show.

"I also hope the event will provoke useful discussions about how fashion and society as a whole can take more accountability for inclusivity."

Research from disability charity Leonard Cheshire found that mainstream fashion does not meet the needs of three quarters of disabled people in the UK.

The free event will be held at Aviva Studios ahead of Disability Awareness Month.