“Chair Flair”—A Celebration of Self Expression

One of the most whimsical national observances in the month of July is that of Wheelchair Beautification. The month-long celebration, presumably in its fourth year, began very humbly when its founder, author and illustrator Horace Knowles, suggested “attaching a florist’s water tube near the top of a wheelchair by means of Velcro and inserting the real or artificial flower of your choice. It brightens the day not only for the wheelchair occupant, but for everyone they pass.”

Gaining Traction Across the Country

Like most fun fads or movements that catch on, the project took on a life of its own; and today, from Kansas to Washington D.C., the country is peppered with wheelchair parades and decorating contests. In fact, the trend became so prevalent it was picked up by MTV who went so far as to run a segment on “tricked out” wheelchairs as part of their Pimp My Ride series.

But that was just the beginning! Now, more than just the occasional holiday adornment, wheelchair decor is booming business, with accoutrements designed and manufactured by professionals such as Cool Hubcaps who sell everything from abstract design wheelchair hubcaps to animal theme and “formal” tuxedo/wedding white spoke guards.

Wheelchair beautifiers by CoolHubs

And the decorating frenzy is not limited to wheeled perambulatory aids only. The island of Kauai’s Garden Island Arts Council hosts a community service program called Happy Crutches and Wacky Walkers and Wheelie Cool Wheelchairs. Embellishments include paint, sequins, streamers, horns and just about anything festive the decorating team can get their hands on.

Customizable “Chair Flair”

For those using wheelchairs, companies found on the Internet these days offer something for every age, color scheme and taste, enabling riders to customize their transport to express their individuality and personal taste.

Do you—or does someone you know—get around on a wheelchair? If so, have you customized it any way to reflect your personality and style? Feel free to share your stories and photos on our Facebook page. We’d love to see them.

warmly,

Lilo