JCPenney Launches Adaptive Apparel Collection For Women
JCPenney is expanding its assortment of adaptive apparel with the debut of a new collection for women who use wheelchairs.
The Jamey Perry For JCPenney line is designed by accomplished disabled writer and athlete Jamey Perry and is said to meet the functional needs of wheelchair users while offering stylish options for daily life and special occasions. Since 2021, JCPenney has offered adaptive apparel for adults and children, including a line from Liz Claiborne that launched earlier in 2024, and collections from IZOD, St. John’s Bay and Therabouts, among others.
“Creating this line with JCPenney has been a dream come true,” said Perry. “Although I’m new to the design world, the JCPenney team understood that my lived experience lent a unique perspective when creating this collection. Women like me want to look great and feel great, and we also need clothes that fit our lives.”
Available in women’s sizes XS-XXL, the collection ranges from $44-$99 and includes 18 different styles such as blazers, dress slacks, blouses, and cocktail outfits, providing options for any occasion. The collection is designed to reduce common issues women in wheelchairs experience when dressing and wearing apparel, including well-placed zippers for easy access; positioning pockets to be maximally useful to a seated person; using soft, breathable fabrics to reduce skin irritation; extending back rises to accommodate seated wearers; shortening sleeves to prevent interference with wheels; and waistband loops to make dressing easier, all without sacrificing style.
“Jamey made it clear how hard it can be for women who use wheelchairs to find outfits that work for dressier moments – weddings, a night out, or an important work event – that are also comfortable and meet their mobility needs,” said Chris Phillips, SVP, GMM Apparel and head of Ecommerce for JCPenney. “We took on that challenge together and are delighted to have created a collection that is high-fashion and high-function,” “We are proud to continue growing our adaptive apparel at JCPenney and remain committed to making fashion truly accessible.”
Among her many accomplishments, Perry plays Division 1 wheelchair basketball for the Los Angeles Clippers Chairmen, part of the National Wheelchair Basketball Association (NWBA). JCPenney has made a $10,000 donation to the team in support of Perry and her fellow athletes.
