The Runway of Dreams Mission Through Marist University
By: Jillian Antretter
Inclusion in fashion is often discussed as an idea, something that is referenced, but rarely executed. It is a voice that exists within communities, across media and especially among students, but is not always fully understood. At Marist University, Runway of Dreams approaches it differently, working to turn that idea into something real. Runway of Dreams works to push the conversation forward and most importantly to promote education around these issues and amplify the voices of individuals who experience the barriers within the current market firsthand.
Photographed | Kelly Behr
Adaptive fashion refers to clothing designed specifically to meet the needs of people with disabilities, focusing on both functionality and style. The problem arises within the mainstream fashion industry where adaptive design is still significantly underrepresented. Many major brands prioritize fast-moving trends and mass production, which often leaves accessibility as an afterthought rather than a core part of design. This creates a gap in the market, limiting options for individuals who need clothing.
The annual Runway of Dreams adaptive runway show 2026, taking place Friday, April 24th at 7PM at Marist McCann center, takes the mission of empowerment and turns it into a moment of real connection and understanding. A show not just about the clothing, but about the people wearing it and the stories and experiences behind it.
As a part of a larger national foundation, the organization focuses on adaptive fashion, creating clothing that is both accessible and expressive. Across campuses, chapters continue to form, each translating the same mission into their own environment: raising awareness around disability inclusion in fashion and beauty, challenging stereotypes and highlighting the need for adaptive and universal design. On Marist campus, empowerment takes shape through runway shows, speaker events and collaborations that highlight the importance of representation in fashion.
Photographed | Kelly Behr
During a recent episode of Measure Unmuted, Runway of Dreams Marist Chapter President Lauren Maggio shared, “For me, the most meaningful part is working directly with the models and really listening to them.” She explained that adaptive clothing is still an area where many people don’t have access to garments that balance function with their personal style, adding that understanding their needs and seeing their faces light up on the runway is what makes the work meaningful.
Vice President Kelly Holden echoed this sentiment, saying, “I completely agree. When I attended the Fashion Week show, I was overwhelmed with emotion.” She added that walking down the runway with a model was “such a powerful experience,” and noted that it reflects how strongly the community values inclusion.
Photographed | Sofia Sarzoza
These experiences don’t end when the runway show is over. The chapter, among the foundation across campuses, continues to linger in conversations and in the small moments of recognition that happen behind the scenes. At Marist, Runway of Dreams becomes less about a single event, but more about the future of the organization and the change it continues to make moving forward. Runway of Dreams is a clear symbol of the effort and passion it takes to rethink what fashion is, and can be, by showing how inclusion is built into design.
