Tracy Vollbrecht, a Kent State alumna, told attendees of the “Night at the KSU Museum” event that disability is not a bad word, but actually something that should be embraced, especially in the fashion industry.

Vollbrecht, an adaptive and universal design consultant, began the event by leading a conversation on adaptive fashion Wednesday night at Rockwell Hall. She talked about her experience designing clothes for people with disabilities and what designing unique clothing means for future generations who want to be in the fashion industry. 

The Kent State University Museum then showcased how its clothing can not only inspire others, but give many people a chance to be a part of something bigger through an adaptive clothing exhibit. People came together to show that fashion is more than just fabric and trends — rather, it’s a reflection of culture, identity, style and history. 

“Any type of disability improvement impacts anyone,” Vollbrecht said in her talk. “To advance this section of this industry, we’ve really increased the number of adaptive fashion plans.” 

The event captured this idea by showcasing what it means to have a disability and have better access to any clothing item such as stretchy dresses, magnetic zip-ups or side-entry skirts.

Director of the KSU Museum Sarah Spinner Liska said the event was not only for those who study fashion at Kent, but to enhance student engagement as a whole. Her goal was to reach a broader public who may be interested in inclusive clothing, even if they were not able to attend.

“It’s very exciting to highlight either student work or faculty work,” Spinner Liska said. “Programs like these are good ways of showing off our exhibitions.” 

Attendee and software implementation consultant Halden Bailey thought each exhibit was special and could influence him in a positive way, even if his profession does not revolve around fashion.

“I think working in technology, … things like more websites can be optimized more to be a bit more inclusive just with captions and alternate text,” Bailey said. “I learned a lot of new things.”

Attendees were encouraged to observe preserved dresses from every clothing era, shoes and intricate jewelry that brought the history of clothing to life.

Every decoration, festivity and style decision came from Sara Hume, a KSU Museum curator, who worked with Vollbrecht to show various adaptations for those with different needs. The event brought all sorts of different individuals together to show that they have a place and a voice at the museum. 

“Design can be for everyone,” Hume said. “To see representation in a display is super important, and it will be up for the summer months as well.” 

The presentation and each exhibit in the museum not only highlighted awareness for people with disabilities who could use adaptive clothing, but showed how clothing has transformed over time with everyone having their own sense of style and purpose.

Spinner Liska said she hoped to get one more message out to those who feel alone or unwelcome at the KSU Museum.

“Museums are for everyone, this museum is for everyone and fashion is for everyone,” she said.