Creating adaptive clothing is about more than just making alterations to existing designs – it’s a transformative process that starts with understanding and respecting the needs of the disabled community. They are the experts, possessing a wealth of lived experience and insights that are invaluable to anyone venturing into this space.

Adaptive clothing should be created with the community, not simply for it. The disabled community’s contributions extend far beyond pointing out challenges; they offer solutions that many of us might never consider. As designers, our responsibility is to listen, learn, and translate these insights into garments that serve real, practical needs.

A critical principle that drives our work is the belief that if there’s a problem with clothing, it’s not the person wearing it who is at fault, it’s the design. This mindset transforms challenges into opportunities for innovation.

Designing adaptive clothing means addressing these issues head-on and finding ways to solve them. It requires stepping into the shoes of someone who might interact with clothing differently due to physical, sensory, or mobility limitations.

Asking the Right Questions

Mainstream fashion often overlooks questions that are essential to the disabled community. In our design process, we approach every garment by asking key questions such as:

Is this garment comfortable for someone who spends most of their time seated?

Many people with limited mobility use wheelchairs or remain seated for extended periods. The design must ensure comfort without causing irritation or pressure. Features like adjustable seams, softer fabrics, or modified waistbands can make all the difference.

How easy is it to access a stoma or medical device in this piece of clothing?

People with stomas or other medical devices need garments that allow for discreet and efficient access without compromising style or comfort. Hidden zippers, strategically placed openings, and thoughtful construction can meet this need.

Can this item be put on using just one hand or with limited dexterity? 

Fasteners, buttons, and zippers that work effortlessly for someone with full dexterity can be frustrating, if not impossible, for others. Using magnetic closures, Velcro, or stretchy materials can empower individuals to dress independently.

Beyond the Questions: A Collaborative Testing Process

Once we’ve asked these big questions, the journey continues with rigorous, step-by-step product testing involving real, unbiased individuals. Collaboration is at the heart of every stage, ensuring that the final product truly meets the needs of the people who will wear it.

1. Prototype Testing

The first step is creating initial prototypes based on the answers to the critical questions. These prototypes are tested by members of the disabled community. Their honest feedback helps identify potential issues, whether it’s a zipper that’s hard to reach, a seam that’s uncomfortable, or a neckline that’s too tight.
For example, during one of our early tests, a user highlighted how a jacket’s opening made it challenging for someone with limited shoulder mobility to put on. This insight led us to redesign the jacket with a wider armhole and a magnetic fastening system, significantly improving usability.

2. Refining Designs

Using feedback from the prototype testing phase, we refine and adjust the designs. Every piece evolves based on the testers’ input. This iterative approach ensures the design is not only functional but also intuitive. For instance, we may adjust pocket placement, seam structure, or closure mechanisms based on real-world use cases.

3. Fabric Testing

Once the designs are optimised, the next step is fabric testing. Comfort and functionality go hand-in-hand, and fabrics play a crucial role in determining how a garment feels and performs. We organise community meet-ups with groups of individuals from various backgrounds within the disabled community.

Together, we evaluate a range of fabrics to find materials that meet three key criteria:

• Comfort: Fabrics must feel soft and pleasant on the skin, especially for individuals with sensory sensitivities or those prone to skin irritation.
• Functionality: Materials need to stretch, breathe, and hold up under frequent use. For instance, someone using a wheelchair might prefer fabrics that don’t bunch or wrinkle in seated positions.
• Durability: Everyday wear demands fabrics that are easy to clean, resistant to wear and tear, and long-lasting. This stage is often an eye-opener. Fabrics that seem perfect on paper may not perform well in practice. Community members provide invaluable feedback that helps us make informed decisions.
• Large-Scale Sampling: With the ideal fabrics chosen, we move to produce a larger batch of samples. These samples are then distributed to a wider group of testers to gather more
  comprehensive feedback. At this stage, we pay attention to nuances, how the garment holds up after multiple washes, how it performs in various weather conditions, and how users feel wearing it over longer periods.
• Final Adjustments: After collecting feedback from this expanded testing group, we make any necessary final adjustments. This process ensures that the final product not only meets but
  exceeds expectations, balancing accessibility, functionality, and style.

Innovation Through Collaboration

One of the most exciting aspects of our work is how collaborative it is. Every design begins with a spark of inspiration from someone in the disabled community. It might be a message sent to us online or a conversation at a community event. These ideas fuel our creativity and push us to think outside the box.
For example, one of our most popular designs, a jacket with hidden magnetic closures, was inspired by a customer who shared their frustration with traditional buttons. This simple yet innovative idea became a cornerstone of our adaptive range.

The Role of Style in Adaptive Clothing

Accessibility and functionality are non-negotiable, but that doesn’t mean style should take a back seat. Many individuals with disabilities express frustration at how adaptive clothing is often overly utilitarian. Our mission is to change that. We aim to create garments that people feel proud to wear. Whether it’s a chic blazer for work, a stylish evening dress, or a casual yet polished everyday look, our designs reflect the idea that accessibility and fashion are not mutually exclusive.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Adaptive Clothing

The future of adaptive clothing is full of promise. Every day, we’re inspired by the stories, ideas, and feedback we receive from supporters online and in person. It’s this ongoing dialogue with the community that keeps us innovating and striving for better.

One of the most rewarding aspects of our work is knowing that every garment we create has the potential to make someone’s life a little easier. Whether it’s a pair of trousers that a wheelchair user can comfortably wear all day or a t-shirt that allows someone with sensory issues to dress independently, each piece makes a meaningful impact.

To anyone reading this: your ideas matter. If there’s a garment you wish existed or a challenge you face with traditional clothing, we want to hear about it. Together, we can break barriers and redefine what clothing can do—empowering individuals with dignity, style, and comfort.

Conclusion

Adaptive clothing isn’t just about meeting basic needs; it’s about creating garments that enhance quality of life. By working hand-in-hand with the disabled community, we can ensure that every piece we design is accessible, functional, and fashionable.

The journey is collaborative, the process is iterative, and the future is bright. As we continue to listen, learn, and innovate, we remain committed to our mission: clothing for everyone, designed with empathy and purpose.

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Intotum creates stylish, functional, and comfortable adaptive clothing that empowers the disabled community. Founded with a dedication to inclusivity and continuous community feedback, they design garments that promote independence and individuality while addressing sensory needs and practical challenges. Purpl Members can get 20% off your first order with our Intotum disabled discount here.

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Related Disabled Discounts

Differently Perfect: 15% off your first order

Incontinence Choice: 15% off for new customers

Scamp & Dude: Up to 70% off outlet sale