In today’s society, fashion often overlooks functionality, however, one individual who is rewriting this narrative is Destiny Pinto. As the founder and designer behind By Destiny Pinto, she is on a mission to transform the way we view assistive devices by reimagining them as luxurious, fashion-forward accessories. Recently spotlighted by none other than Vogue and BMW, Destiny’s journey from idea to international recognition is nothing short of remarkable. In this feature, Destiny opens up about the emotional roots of her brand and the power of perseverance when challenges stood in her way.
- Hi Destiny, can you please introduce yourself to Signature engagers.
Hi, I’m Destiny Pinto, founder, and designer of By Destiny Pinto, an accessories label reimagining medical devices as fashionable accessories.
- What sparked your interest to transform assistive devices into luxury fashion accessories, and how did your personal experiences influence these creations?
My journey began with my own experience wearing compression garments for Rheumatoid Arthritis, alongside by best friend’s experience with an ostomy bag due to bad IBD. Together, these experiences inspired me to create accessories for these devices that we would both actually want to wear.
- How did it feel to have your work highlighted by such a major platform that is Vogue?
It has been a dream come true. I’ve been working on my brand for over a year now, striving to show that medical devices deserve to be designed as fashionable accessories. To have my work featured on Vogue, one of the biggest fashion platforms in the world, has been an incredibly surreal experience. I always knew it was only a matter of time before the fashion industry recognised the need for my designs, and it’s amazing to know that Vogue was the first to truly believe in me and my mission.
- What were the main challenges you faced in transforming these assistive devices into pieces that were both functional and fashionable?
First of all, during my Vogue project, actually finding a hearing aid where my designed cover would be visible was a real struggle- most hearing aids are intentionally designed to be discreet. This was a big eye-opener and really highlighted the importance of the project. I saw first-hand how necessary it is for the Deaf community to have representation like this on a platform such as Vogue, where the design of a hearing aid is finally celebrated rather than hidden. Secondly, when I decided to open my shop, one of the biggest challenges was finding a manufacturer who understood the types of accessories I wanted to create- like ostomy bag covers and compression glove covers. Most had never even heard of them, which made it difficult to find someone capable of bringing my vision too life. Thankfully, I eventually found someone incredible talented who can produce my pieces on a larger scale and, just as importantly, truly understands and supports the mission behind my brand.
- Are there specific brands or designers you aspire to collaborate with to further the teach and impact of accessible fashion?
I think a really cool collaboration would be By Destiny Pinto Accessories partnered with Selfridges. It would truly solidify these pieces as luxury accessories- highlighting their importance and helping to create the cultural and psychological shift that’s so needed around medical devices.
- How has this collaboration and the recognition from Vogue and BMW impacted your personal journey as a designer?
I think this experience has made me realise that big things like this are truly possible. I never would have imagined that my vision could exist in the real world- let alone be featured on platforms like Vogue or BMW. It’s completely expanded my sense of what’s achievable and has genuinely shown me that dreams do come true, as long as you work hard for them.
- Finally, what advice would you give to not only your younger self but also to those aspiring to pursue their passion for creativity?
Block out the noise and believe in yourself and the best skill you will ever have is perseverance.
Here at Signature, we would like to thank Destiny for sharing her journey with us, highlighting that fashion should be a force for empowerment and self-expression. Through her brand, By Destiny Pinto, she is not only challenging outdated perceptions of medical devices but also creating a space where beauty and practicality coexist. Recognition from leading platforms, Vogue and BMW, marks a pivotal moment for accessible fashion, proving that thoughtful design has the power to shift culture. Her story is a testament to what is possible when creativity meet purpose and we wish her the best of luck in all future endeavours.
