Adaptive Clothing Is the Future, and These 3 Leaders Are Changing the Game

One of our basic and universal needs—besides food, shelter, and security—is clothing. Clothing is a part of every person’s daily life, whether or not they consciously think about it. From what we

choose to wear to how denim production impacts the planet, the common thread the fashion industry has woven throughout the world is undeniable. Of course, this universality has always been at the forefront of priorities within the industry. It’s well-documented that exclusivity rather than inclusivity has been the driving force for a long time. This is why Black photographers struggle to secure cover shoots, why xenophobia still exists in the industry, why size inclusivity is still an afterthought, and why the adaptive-clothing market hasn’t been taken seriously. 

Despite the estimated $490 billion spending power within the disabled population, the efforts toward dismantling ableism within the industry through hiring disabled models and producing adaptive clothing have been slow. But it’s certainly not a lost cause. There are a few trailblazers who continue to lead the way. Ahead, we spoke with three founders who are curating, creating, and educating the fashion industry and the world at large about adaptive clothing. For these creatives, their work is about more than building a fashion brand, shopping adaptive-fashion brands, or even changing the industry—it’s about making fashion truly accessible to everyone.

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