How a pair of sneakers featuring Braille is making a statement on inclusivity


By AGENCY
Fashion brands are releasing collections that prove to be more accessible to as many people as possible, whether in terms of size, gender, culture or disability. Photo: AFP

Inclusion is about breaking down certain stereotypes that have long left those who don't fit in with society's constructed norms feeling like an outcast.

For several months now, these stereotypes have been slowly and surely eroding as voices are raised to denounce them – notably led by Gen-Z – forcing some brands and companies to reinvent.

This is the case in fashion, with collections that are now accessible to as many people as possible, whether in terms of size, gender, culture or disability.

Read more: While women are swapping out stilettos for sneakers, men are doing the opposite

The Caval brand is continuing its long-standing collaboration with Handicap International NGO with a new sneaker drop. This time, the duo has teamed up with street artist The Blind to create two pairs of sneakers featuring Braille, inviting fashion fans to show their support for the inclusion of people with disabilities.

For several years, Caval has been committed to designing products that would today be dubbed inclusive. Indeed, the brand's mismatched, or asymmetrically designed sneakers are designed to highlight and magnify difference.

Today, the brand is continuing its partnership with Handicap International NGO to raise awareness about the inclusion of people with disabilities.

In collaboration with the street artist The Blind – who creates works in Braille – the brand has designed two pairs of sneakers with a sole marked with the words "Humanite" (French for humanity) and "Inclusion" in Braille.

Made in Europe, the collab' shoes are available in two models – one all-black style with white Braille writing, and one blue and white colourway.

What's more, the whole shoe is made with recycled or eco-friendly materials, right down to the laces. – AFP Relaxnews

Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

RM 11.12/month

Billed as RM 11.12 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 9.87/month

Billed as RM 118.40 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Style

Framing fashion: Bibo Aswan, the photographer shaping Malaysia's visual style
Has Taylor Swift’s wedding just outshone the Met Gala in fashion stakes?
Fashion awaits Taylor Swift's bridal look, but here's what the guests wore
The American dream, dressed: A look into 250 years of fashion and aspiration
Why letting go of a wedding dress can be among fashion’s hardest choices
Fashion sees clearly as glasses emerge as the chic accessory of the moment
The bikini at 80: Fashion is still pushing the limits of this swimwear classic
Two shirts, one outfit: Is this fashion’s smartest layering trick yet?
A shirtmaker so extraordinary that a luxury fashion house is buying the brand
Holidaying somewhere hot and humid? Stylists share their fashion essentials

Others Also Read