Written by Kewal Raja & Krishna Sabaratnam
The term "adaptive fashion" refers to clothing and accessories made to be more accessible for those who have varying degrees of disabilities and health concerns. The aim of adaptable fashion is to design stylish and practical clothing that is simple to put on, take off, and alter. Adaptive clothing frequently has elements like velcro closures, adjustable waists, side or back openings, and non-slip straps. The sole purpose of adaptive clothing is to help the individual dress with dignity and to develop a sense of independence in them.
Many people with impairments may find it effortless to dress with the help of items like magnetic fasteners, zippers, and garments with detachable panels. Additionally, some adapted clothing have sleeves and hemlines that may be adjusted for added benefits for the wearer. This attire is made to be both accessible and simple to use, as well as comfortable and fashionable.
Let’s look at some current trends in Adaptive Fashion
Sustainable Materials: Sustainable materials such as organic cotton, recycled polyester, bamboo and natural fabrics are becoming increasingly popular within the adaptive fashion industry. Adaptive fashion also reduces the amount of clothes that need to be produced, which helps reduce waste and preserve resources.
Inclusivity: Many fashion brands are launching adaptive clothing lines to make fashionable clothing accessible to people with disabilities. Brands are beginning to recognize the importance of inclusivity and are creating clothing for all body types, sizes, and abilities.
Technology: Technology is being used to make adaptive clothing easier to put on and take off. Zipper extenders, flat stitches, and open-back clothing are just some of the technologies being utilized. With the recent revolution of 3D printing and artificial intelligence - customization is at the forefront of adaptive fashion through technology such as tracking, biometric sensors and smart technology.
Accessible Shopping Experiences: Retailers are beginning to offer more accessible shopping experiences to cater to customers with disabilities. This includes providing tactile displays, braille labels, and other features to make shopping easier.
Booming Market: It is stated by 2030 that the adaptive fashion market size will cross over US$ 400B and will have a driving compound annual growth rate of 51.8% from 2023-2030. We are already seeing tremendous demand for adaptive clothing from hospitals, healthcare institutions and community living spaces to better treat and care for patients.
Adaptive clothing lines have been produced by major brands and designers including Nike, ASOS, and Tommy Hilfiger. People with impairments can showcase their personal style through the design and functionality of wearing adaptive clothing. Additionally, it is a fantastic method for businesses to demonstrate their dedication to ensuring that fashion is affordable and open to all. It is critical to keep in mind that adaptive fashion is more than just a fad; it’s a means of empowering individuals as the business of fashion expands.
