Hi lovelies,

Fashion brands have been taking big steps recently to become more inclusive. On top of there being innovations in plus-sized fashion and gender-neutral fashion, the last decade has also seen many innovations in disability-friendly clothing (AKA adaptive clothing). For the millions around the world living with a disability, such fashion items are a great gift. Below are a few examples of ways in which fashion items are being made more disability-friendly. 

Hands-free sneakers
Nike has recently introduced its revolutionary hands-free sneaker, the Nike GO FlyEase. The shoe is designed so that the user is able to slip their foot in it without having to use their hands, making it ideal for users with limited dexterity or limited hand movement. It was inspired by a request from a 16 year old with cerebral palsy who was tired of relying on other people having to put on his shoes for him. Nike took the dream and turned it into a reality. In its short time in production, it s proved to be a big seller among the disabled community, while also attracting many able-bodied customers. 

Wheelchair-friendly jumpsuits
ASOS’s waterproof wheelchair-friendly jumpsuit is another example of revolutionary fashion catered to those with disabilities. The jumpsuit was inspired by BBC reporter and para-athlete Chloe Ball Hopkins, who after getting soaked at a festival suggested the idea of a waterproof jumpsuit that could be easily put on and taken off by wheelchair users. Incorporating adjustable cuffs and conveniently-placed zips, the jumpsuit achieves this and has been inspiring other brands to follow suit. 

Adaptive underwear
For those with limited mobility and dexterity, traditional underwear can be difficult to put on and uncomfortable to wear in some cases. A number of disability-friendly fashion brands have now started to release adaptive underwear, which is designed to be less fiddly without use of wire straps. This allows those with disabilities to get dressed into underwear themselves more easily, enabling a greater level of privacy, while also offering a greater level of comfort. 

Amputee clothing
In recent years, a few brands such as Blaxbee have started to cater to amputees with their own specialist clothing lines. This includes specially designed sports clothing with one sleeve or one trouser leg for single amputees who may otherwise have to cut off a sleeve or trouser leg. For those who struggle to put clothing on over rigid prosthetic limbs, there are also various forms of adaptive clothing out there that make getting dressed easier.  

Hearing aid jewellery
Greater attention is starting to be focused towards the aesthetics of hearing aids. On top of making hearing aids available in various colours and patterns, some hearing aid manufacturers have also begun releasing hearing aid jewellery. Specialist hearing aids with holsters allow you to fit charms and chains. There are also hearing aids available with jewels encrusted into them. The aim of such products is to make them stylish and fashionable in the same way that glasses now are, helping those with hearing impairments to feel less self-aware.