Inside April Lockhart's Visionary World of Disabled&
For many creators, entrepreneurs, and models with disabilities, finding spaces that nurture both professional growth and authentic community can feel like an uphill climb. That's where April Lockhart comes in. The content creator and entrepreneur is spearheading Disabled&—a refreshing and much-needed initiative. More than just a set of events, this community is designed to be a powerful intersection of creative expression and meaningful networking, all tailored to supporting and uplifting disabled voices in fashion and beyond.
With expert speakers, engaging events, and opportunities for visibility, attendees will gain practical tools to turn their ambitions into reality. Most importantly, it creates a space where disabled creatives can connect with brands and industry leaders in an authentic, inspiring environment—one where opportunities are built, not just talked about. We sat down with Lockhart to unpack what this community would look like and learn more about her experience in the beauty and fashion industries.
How would you describe your personal style right now?
My style has evolved into something I call intuitive styling, which is my version of personal style. It's waking up and wearing what feels right to you that day. For a while in college and my early 20s, I got really hung up on trends. I was wearing a ton of neutrals. You wouldn't recognize me today. Now, I'm in a phase where I'm so excited to keep building my closet. I'm purging way less, which maybe isn't great because, honestly, where am I going to put all this stuff? But I've always loved thrifting and vintage, and now, I'm collecting more than ever and really appreciating weird statement pieces. I think the best personal style is kind of weird—the pieces that earn compliments and start conversations.
You've described fashion as a tool for confidence. Can you share a moment when what you wore completely shifted how you showed up in a space?
I just did a really fun shoot and got my first Chopova Lowena skirt, and I felt like the coolest. Here's a really embarrassing one: When I was 18, I was on a singing show on ABC. This is my past life; now, I'm outing myself to Who What Wear. They had a stylist there who was so fun and said, "Whatever you want to wear." I was really into patent-leather skirts, and I had my hair in space buns. These photos are still on the internet, so it's not hard to find. I loved punk style. I always looked up to Gwen Stefani and the No Doubt vibe. Even though I look back and cringe slightly, I was so proud of those outfits at the time. I still look back on them fondly.
What does disability-inclusive fashion actually mean to you? What's missing from the mainstream conversation?
