In the final months of her life, Gloria Steinem, the renowned feminist and writer, participated in a fashion photo shoot for the virtual marketplace Weldun, which focuses on clothing designed to accommodate the diverse physical needs of women. The images, captured by photographer Paola Kudacki, are poised for their first public viewing following Steinem’s death, marking her last formal portraits and underscoring her lifelong advocacy on issues related to women and aging.
Weldun, launched recently, aims to bridge the gap between fashion and the shifting realities of women’s bodies due to injury, illness, disability, pregnancy, or menopause. Carly Berlin, the 38-year-old founder of Weldun and a breast cancer survivor, conceptualized the platform after her own experience with a preventive double mastectomy highlighted the lack of clothing options that address altered physical needs without sacrificing personal style.
The photographs were taken in Steinem’s home, showing her in various relaxed poses wearing pieces from brands such as Kallmeyer and Another Tomorrow. Steinem selected the outfits herself, which included a black sweater, her signature cuffs, aviator glasses, and a white button-up shirt, occasionally leaning on a cane. The images portray Steinem engaged and expressive, sometimes laughing, reflecting her enduring spirit.
Amy Richards, a longtime collaborator of Steinem and board member of her foundation, noted that though Steinem frequently declined fashion-related offers, she embraced the Weldun project because it represented an often overlooked stage of life. Richards emphasized Steinem’s belief that clothes should serve the wearer and not impose constraints, a principle consistent throughout her life.
Weldun’s approach involves curating existing brand items with inherent accommodations, such as pants fitting over surgical boots or shirts with magnetic fastenings, advised by a committee of users with varying physical needs. The goal is to allow women to maintain their identity and autonomy without compromise, addressing challenges that might otherwise force them to forgo self-expression through clothing.
The photo shoot and accompanying video interview, part of Weldun’s “Voices” series, feature Steinem discussing the significance of bodily autonomy and clothing as an extension of self-determination. The series also intends to include figures like actress Jamie-Lynn Sigler, who publicly shares her experience living with multiple sclerosis.
Following the shoot, Steinem expressed surprise at her visible wrinkles but declined any retouching, recognizing the photographs as a lasting legacy. For Berlin, the images underscore a universal truth: physical changes are an inevitable part of life, making inclusivity in fashion an essential, rather than niche, consideration. Proceeds from limited-edition prints will support Steinem’s foundation, further linking the project to her enduring impact on women’s rights and representation.