Alumna Alexandra Connell’s Online Store and New Pop-Up Specializes in Inclusive Design

Alexandra Connell, the founder of Patti + Ricky.

Alexandra Connell, the founder of Patti + Ricky.

Alumna Alexandra Connell’s online store,  specializes in apparel and accessories for the more than 50 million Americans with mental or physical disabilities. Featured on the website , Connell (M.A. ’16), who was diagnosed with dyslexia and ADHD as a child, “was always keenly aware of how disabilities and looking or acting differently could have a major impact on a person’s life.” 

A graduate of TC’s Interdisciplinary Studies in Education program, Connell helped her mother find a stylish cane when she was in treatment for cancer. “Connell wanted to apply her disability studies degree towards a shopping experience,” WWD.com writes.

Launched about 10 months ago, Patti + Ricky sells apparel and accessories for women, men and children. Connell takes customers’ suggestions about what to sell on the website. “ ‘If it exists, I try to find it for them,’ said Connell. ‘You have to have people with disabilities involved with the process.’ ”

Customer favorites include Fidget jewelry and Braille printed jewelry, men’s shirts with magnetic closures and “gala-ready” arm slings, WWD.com reports.

Connell plans to open a “pop-up” store in Grand Central Station, near an entrance for people with disabilities.

Programs: Interdisciplinary Studies in Education

Published Monday, May 7, 2018