What is Adaptive Clothing and Where to Buy It

As we’ve seen throughout the years, there are many benefits to raising awareness around the disability community. This education and knowledge has allowed for communities to come together to create solutions that benefit and improve the quality of day-to-day living for many. An increase in the variety of adaptive clothing available is one of these solutions. Designers have begun to take notice and offer more stylish, on-trend adaptive clothing options, seeing the need and value of these products. This assistive technology is one that can empower its wearers daily by giving them the means to confidently express themselves through the art of fashion without giving up the convenience of a piece that also offers functionality.

What Is Adaptive Clothing?

Adaptive clothing is designed with those in mind who experience challenges or have obstacles when it comes to dressing. Adaptive clothing is used by people with disabilities, seniors who have difficulty maneuvering buttons and zippers, and those who simply prefer the comfort and ease adaptive clothing provides. It can also offer greater independence for its wearers.

Examples of adaptive clothing include but are not limited to;

Pica behavior clothing – Clothing made for people who eat, tear, or require sturdier clothing.
Reversible clothing
Sensory-friendly clothing – Clothing that is tagless, with flat seams, and soft fabric
Clothing made with features that allow access for medical equipment
Pants that are more functional and comfortable for wheelchair users such as pants that cut lower in the front and higher in the back, with elastic waistbands, wider legs, and front pockets.
Shoes with Velcro closures and that are wide enough to be stepped into

Where Can You Buy Adaptive Clothing?

There are several places to find adaptive clothing options online. Below is a list of just some of the designers and retailers that sell adaptive clothing.

Tommy Hilfiger Adaptive
Tommy Hilfiger has an adaptive line of clothing for men, kids, and women.
Target
Target sells adaptive clothing for women, kids, and men.
Zappos
Zappos has a variety of brands with adaptive lines for men, kids, and women. It includes medical wear, sensory-friendly options, shoes, intimates, and more.
Friendly Shoes
Friendly Shoes sells adaptive shoes that are easy to put on and take off without sacrificing style.
Seven7 Adaptive
Seven7’s adaptive line includes adaptive casual wear and denim for men and women.
Adaptations by Adrian
Adaptations by Adrian sells pre-made and custom-made and pre-made clothing and accessories for women, kids, and men. Their inventory includes bathing suits, shorts, pants, capes, back-open jackets, loungers, and leg and arm warmers
Uniquely Regal
Founded by LaToya L. Lewis, whose son has autism and down syndrome, Uniquely Regal sells sensory clothing for men, women, and children.

This list shows just a small selection of adaptive clothing available. We hope that designers and brands will continue to recognize the need for adaptive clothing options allowing for a variety of fashion styles and looks.