Expanding the Definition of Inclusive: Adaptive Apparel
Inclusivity in fashion often brings to mind diversity in size or race, yet expands far beyond that. One aspect of inclusive fashion rarely thought of in the mainstream is adaptive fashion.
Adaptive fashion is apparel meant to provide its wearer more ease and accessibility than available with typical clothing. It’s often used by people who have a condition that makes typical clothing difficult to put on, the elderly, wheelchair users, and people with disabilities.
Thus, there are a wide range of discrete alterations that can be used to make clothes adaptive. This can include open back apparel, easy grip zippers, and Velcro or magnetic closures. Each modification serves a different purpose in making clothing more accessible.
For those who have difficulties with fine motor skills Velcro and easy access snaps can be added in place of buttons or zippers. Side fastening can be added to pants to help those with arthritis or wheelchair users. Post surgery dresses aim to reduce pain from lifting the arm with one-handed dressing and IV-line access alterations.
There are many more adaptive modifications available for a wide range of conditions and disabilities including Alzheimer’s Disease, incontinence, Parkinson’s Disease, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and more.
With the wide range of needs, adaptive clothing can sometimes be difficult to find. However, as fashion and designs become more inclusive those who need adaptive apparel are slowly accruing more brands to shop.
Silverts and IZ Adaptive are examples of brands who focus on adaptive clothing.
Founded in 1930, Silverts prides itself on leading the way in adaptive clothing. Their store offers a variety of apparel, from post-surgery clothing to adaptive footwear. Their website also includes articles on clothing guides and tips.
A newer brand, IZ Adaptive was founded in 2009 by Izzy Camilleri. Her line of adaptive clothing consists of fashionable modern wardrobe basics for with adaptive modifications. Many of her pieces are for wheelchair users, such as seated dress pants and seamless back jeans.
While Silverts and IZ Adaptive are adaptive brands, people can also look at brands they may know better for certain adaptive apparel.
Tommy Hilfiger has Tommy Hilfiger Adaptive, which aims “to deliver classic, American-cool style with innovative design twists.” Their collection offers clothing with modifications to accommodate various disabilities and prosthetics.
Nike has also created the Go FlyEase, a hands-free shoe that those with limited mobility can use. Laces are replaced by a heel that pivots open in some while others feature a wraparound zipper and two straps.
As more brands begin to incorporate adaptive fashion into their inventory, it’s important to remember being adaptive is the minimum requirement. People who benefit from adaptive clothing deserve to not only be comfortable but also to curate their personal style.
Article by Katie Jones, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Tearsheets by Isabella Gonzalez, Graphic Design Intern, PhotoBook Magazine
RELATED STORIES
