H igh-fashion brands are exclusive, catering to the able- bodied majority for as long as we can remember. Thus clothing has been largely inaccessible to the disabled minority. Only recently have brands like Tommy Hilfiger been considering disabilities in their collections. However, Von Ruz is setting new inclusive standards in the fashion industry. The clothing brand addresses physical disabilities and also caters to the neurodivergent community.
Von Ruzive, founder of inclusive
womenswear brand, Von Ruz
Von Ruz’s Inspiring Journey to Redefine Fashion and Empower All Women
HOW VON RUZ CAME TO LIFE Vongai Ruzive is the visionary fashion designer behind this innovative, inclusive womenswear brand. Growing up with an autistic brother, Von saw firsthand how clothing could affect people on the neurodivergent spectrum. Her brother avoided fabrics like denim, which caused him discomfort and overstimulation. Von always had a pressing urge to alter the conventional fashion industry into something that fit people much better. She deep-
“I am a believer
PHOTOGRAPHED BY FABRICE MALARD PHOTO COURTESY OF VON RUZ WRITTEN BY MRUDAVI PUNEKAR
in staying informed
about what is happening around you without necessarily having to adopt everything.”
dived into research mode, resulting in an enlightening Venn diagram. It focused on the overlapping problems women across multiple abilities faced. She discovered a common theme of issues across all groups of women—disabled and non-disabled. Issues like itchy fabrics and irritable cloth tags were way too prevalent. Ruzive wondered, “Why not make something that everyone can wear that ticks the boxes of being both functional and aesthetically pleasing?” Recognizing the lack of attempts at addressing these very common complaints, Von took charge. Her purpose became to make all women feel beautiful, comfortable, and confident in their skin without compromising functionality, style, and fashion.
The Fabric of Change
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