Aaron Rose Philip for Collina Strada fall 2022. (Photo Credit: Collina Strada)
In the world of fashion, inclusivity and accessibility are becoming more than just buzzwords—they’re transforming the industry. Adaptive fashion, designed to cater to the needs of individuals with disabilities, is gaining momentum. These innovative brands are leading the marketplace, proving that style and function can coexist beautifully. If you haven’t yet viewed our 5-part series on adaptive fashion, created by industry expert, Tracy Vollbrecht, then get going! This is one of fashion’s fastest growing market, especially with an aging Baby Boomer cohort who are finding themselves in need of stylish, easy access fashion choices.
Here are a few adaptive fashion brands redefining the style landscape.
TOMMY HILFIGER ADAPTIVE
Looks From Tommy Hilfiger Adaptive Collection. (Photo Credit: Tommy Hilfiger)
Tommy Hilfiger has long been a household name in fashion, and the brand’s adaptive line is a game-changer. Launched in 2016, Tommy Hilfiger Adaptive offers stylish, high-quality clothing with modifications like magnetic buttons, Velcro closures, and adjustable hems. This line is designed to empower individuals with disabilities, allowing them to dress with ease and confidence.
SEVEN7 ADAPTIVE
A look from Seven7 able. (Photo Credit: Seven7)
Known for trendy denim, Seven7, a brand that originated in Europe n the 1960s, has entered the adaptive fashion scene with their Seven7 Able line. These jeans feature side zippers, elastic waistbands, and a faux button fly front, ensuring comfort without giving up on style. Seven7 Able’s collection accommodates special needs consumers who want to maintain their chic, denim-forward aesthetic.
NIKE FLYEASE
Nike’s FlyEase shoes were one of the first shoes for the adaptive market. (Photo Credit: Nike)
Nike’s FlyEase collection epitomizes the blend of innovation and practicality. Designed with adaptive athletes in mind, FlyEase shoes incorporate features like zippered heels and adjustable laces, providing ease of use without sacrificing performance and style. This collection is proof that high-functioning athletic wear can be inclusive and fashionable.
UNHIDDEN
A look from Unhidden’s Fall 2023 Collection. (Photo Credit: Getty Images)
Unhidden is a British brand dedicated to creating elegant adaptive wear. Founded by Victoria Jenkins, who has firsthand experience with the fashion needs of people with disabilities, Unhidden offers garments with discreet openings for medical devices, easy fastenings, and stylish cuts. Their designs ensure that everyone can feel fashionable, regardless of their physical challenges.
SLICK CHICKS
Lingerie from Slick Chicks. (Photo Credit: Slick Chicks)
Lingerie should be comfortable, functional and stylish—Slick Chicks hits all three marks. Their adaptive underwear line features panties with front and/or side velcro fasteners. Their bras are designed with front velcro closures and front accessible straps (instead of back), making it easier for individuals with mobility issues to dress independently. Slick Chicks believes that everyone deserves to feel confident in their own skin and their designs reflect this philosophy.
VON RUZ
A dress from Von Ruz. (Photo Credit: Von Ruz)
Von Ruz is a fashion label that effortlessly merges high fashion with adaptive functionality. Their collections include elegant dresses, versatile tops and chic outerwear, all designed with hidden magnetic closures, adjustable hems, and sensory-friendly fabrics. Von Ruz’s pieces are perfect for those looking to make a sophisticated style statement.
AUF AUGENHOEHE
Looks from Auf Aufaugenhohe. (Photo Credit: Auf Aufaugenhohe)
German brand Auf Augenhoehe focuses on creating adaptive clothing for people with dwarfism. Their designs are tailored to ensure the perfect fit, addressing issues such as proportion and ease of movement. Auf Augenhoehe’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in their attention to detail and dedication to meeting the unique needs of their customers.
AILLE DESIGN
A look from Aille Design. (Photo Credit: Allie Design)
Aille Design stands out for its commitment to both fashion and social impact. The brand’s founder, Alexa Jovanovic, works with blind and visually impaired people to create customizable clothing with beadwork that forms tactile patterns – which can be read by touch, allowing visually impaired individuals to appreciate the designs. Aille Design is not only adaptive but also artistically inspiring, proving that fashion can be a sensory experience for all.
JUNE ADAPTIVE
Looks from June Adaptive. (Photo Credit: June Adaptive)
June Adaptive offers a range of stylish and functional clothing options for men and women. With features like magnetic buttons, elastic waistbands, and sensory-friendly fabrics, June Adaptive’s designs cater to individuals with various disabilities. Their goal is to provide fashionable solutions that make daily dressing more accessible and enjoyable.
IZ ADAPTIVE
Looks from IZ Adaptive. (Photo Credit: IZ Adaptive)
IZ Adaptive, one of the pioneers in adaptive fashion, was founded by designer Izzy Camilleri. IZ Adaptive collections include everything from casual wear to formal attire, all designed with modifications like magnetic closures, seated cuts, and adjustable features. Their clothes are tailored to provide both style and comfort, making them a favorite among fashion-forward individuals with disabilities.
EMBRACING INCLUSIVITY IN FASHION
These brands are not only creating clothing, they are fostering a movement towards greater inclusivity and understanding in the fashion industry. Adaptive fashion is more than a trend—it’s a testament to the power of innovation and empathy, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the confidence that comes with wearing clothes they love. If you want to be part of this inclusive movement, be sure to watch UoF’s Adaptive Fashion Series by Tracy Vollbrecht. We just launched the last two lessons in her Adaptive Fashion series.
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