GREELEY, Colo. — In an effort to challenge perceptions of disabilities, a Greeley-based organization used fashion to highlight the talents and personalities of individuals with disabilities. The “Styles Beyond Stereotypes” fashion show took place Saturday night in Greeley, marking the culmination of nine months of planning.
The show was organized by The Arc of Northeast Colorado, an advocacy organization supporting the rights of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Weld County and surrounding areas. Every look featured during the event was crafted from materials sourced from The Arc’s thrift store in Greeley.
Fashion designer Ryland Alms customized more than 20 pieces for the event. Alms described the experience as a creative challenge, requiring him to consider the unique needs of each model.
“Some models were sensitive to texture, others needed clothes that were wheelchair-accessible,” Alms said.
He designed several custom pieces, including a hoodie for Malik, a wheelchair-friendly outfit for Jacob, and a playful shawl for Avery. Each piece, Alms emphasized, was intended to reflect the personality of the model while ensuring both comfort and confidence.
One of the models, Ryan Akers, required four fittings to perfect his outfit. Alms said the extra effort was worth it.
“When we got him at the final fitting, and we got him in the full outfit, he was probably more lit up than any of the other kids,” Alms said. “It was pretty special to see.”
Akers, participating in his first fashion show, expressed excitement before hitting the runway.
“I’m not nervous,” he said confidently. Leading up to the show, Akers said he had been practicing his walk. Akers’ friends and family, including his mother, aunt, and girlfriend, were seated in the front row to cheer him on.
Around the entrance to the show, pictures of the models were displayed with motivational quotes.
Akers proudly read his: “‘Pursue your passion and let nothing hold you back,’ and that’s because nothing holds me back.”
For Alms, the experience of working with these young models reignited his passion for fashion.
A Greeley native and 2021 graduate of Colorado State University, Alms had spent several years in Los Angeles but returned home seeking a change.
“I was in a bit of a rut personally, kind of trying to back away from fashion,” he admitted, referencing difficult experiences with industry figures. “Then this opportunity presented itself, and it kind of brought my love for fashion and designing back... They’re just bright individuals in general, and it’s hard to not want to be around them.”
Proceeds from the event will directly benefit The Arc of Northeast Colorado, continuing its mission to advocate for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.