Accessories are also Adaptive Fashion

The UK fashion industry has made significant strides toward inclusivity, with several adaptive and sensory fashion brands launching in the last few years to lead this change. These thoughtfully designed pieces focus on the unique needs of disabled individuals and people with sensory challenges. 

The impact of this should not be underestimated as many of the brands we feature apply to broader customer base as the product appeals to a wide audience and this approach isn’t limited to clothing. Fashion accessories can also benefit from an inclusive approach too.

At Never Grey we like these bags from Optivus, suitable for wheelchair users and non-wheelchairs users, the smooth zips have a pulley tag so you can find and open te bag easily, there is an inner secure pocket for valuables and also a USB charging cable.  

Magnetic Fastenings offer that ‘snap close’ function which eliminates that frustration often associated with traditional fastening mechanisms. For people with limited mobility, coordinating fine motor skills can be a challenge, making magnetic closures a practical and stylish solution. 

Imagine a beautiful necklace that secures effortlessly with the click of magnets: no fumbling with tiny clasps or intricate ties. Will and Well Jewellery have made this a reality with easy magnetic fastenings which not only enhance independence but also allows wearers to showcase their personality through fashionable accessories without barriers. 

When it comes to medical jewellery, the items you wear to communicate your condition don't need to be boring. These colourful designs from Butler and Grace will alert people to your medical needs whilst enhancing your self expression. They cover all kinds of conditions with durable wristbands and sterling silver items, including an awareness range and LGBT accessories. You can also personalise an item with a message. 

Another range of practical jewellery can be found at Autistic Innovator. They offer stim necklaces in different sizes, shapes, textures that are suitable for people who chew at different pressures or regularity. In addition to this they have pin badges which will inform people around you of your additional needs. 

Accessories can be for practical purposes or to add that final touch to your outfit like the jewellery and cochlear coil hats from Deaf Metal. This brand has a huge adult range of decorative jewellery for hearing aids, in-ear headphones and safety necklaces. They also have a range for kids to encourage children to be proud to be hard of hearinh and throw off any shame or embarrassment they may feel about being unique.

And at Never Grey we like these super-soft hats from Wear Matter, regardless of whether the weather is colder or not! These beanies come in a wide range of colours so there is something for everyone whether you like to colour co-ordinate or not and they offer a snug fit to give that sense of comfort and protection that can be beneficial even when it's not icy outside.

Everyone should be able to find clothing they can put on and take off as easily as possible and the same applies to accessories. Much of this comes down to thinking practically about how you wear or pack a bag with use of one hand and what kind of fastenings would support people with other physical challenges. 

Designers are thinking more about what they can do, to create clothing and accessories for adults and children with a disability, cognitive condition or sensory difference. When you broaden the approach to include everyone, everyone benefits.