How Can we Promote Inclusivity in GRWM Content?

The hashtag #GRWM (Get Ready With Me) has surged in popularity, with over one million uses on Instagram alone. Gemma Adby, a professional model born with a left arm limb difference, advocates for more representation of disabled individuals in these posts. In a conversation with Cosmopolitan UK, Gemma discussed her viral videos and emphasized the significance of disability representation in the fashion industry.

“I was born with a limb difference, navigating life as a one-armed girl in a two-armed world,” Gemma shared. Growing up, she felt the absence of disabled role models in pop culture, despite the substantial disabled population in the UK. The lack of representation fueled her desire to conceal her disability, leading to a wardrobe centered around covering her arm.

Transitioning to social media was daunting for Gemma, as it meant exposing her vulnerability to a wide audience. Inspired by the popularity of “Get Ready With Me” videos but noticing the absence of disabled creators, she bravely posted her first video. The response was overwhelming, with 700k views on TikTok, signaling a hunger for diverse representation.

From hiding her arm in public to showcasing it online to thousands, Gemma’s journey has been transformative. Through modeling and social media, she has cultivated a supportive community and connected with fellow disabled creators. Gemma’s advocacy extends beyond social media; she is now the Content Director for Liberare, an adaptive intimate lingerie brand, dedicated to championing representation in the fashion industry.

Leading brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Aerie, and Liberare are driving the inclusivity movement by featuring disabled models and creating functional products tailored for disabilities. While there is progress, Gemma acknowledges there’s still much work to be done. By normalizing the presence of disabled individuals in fashion and beyond, creators like Gemma contribute to a more inclusive future.