Adaptive Fashion. Clothing as a Tool for the Inclusion of People with Disabilities Cover Image

Adaptive Fashion. Clothing as a Tool for the Inclusion of People with Disabilities
Adaptive Fashion. Clothing as a Tool for the Inclusion of People with Disabilities

Author(s): Kalina Kukiełko
Subject(s): Sociology, Health and medicine and law, Welfare services
Published by: Uniwersytet Jana Długosza w Częstochowie
Keywords: adaptive fashion; inclusive fashion; inclusion; people with disabilities;

Summary/Abstract: Based on subject literature and examples drawn from design practice, the article aims to introduce the concept of adaptive fashion, almost absent from Polish popular science discourse and tailoring practice. By analyzing its potential in the context of inclusion, the article demonstrates that adaptive fashion can play a crucial role in integrating people with disabilities, offering them the opportunity for fuller participation in social life. According to WHO data, over a billion people worldwide live with various forms of disability; however, the standard fashion market primarily focuses on the needs of “typical” body types, marginalizing individuals with specific requirements. The lack of tailored clothing can lead to social exclusion and reduced self-esteem, which limits active participation in social and professional life. Adaptive fashion addresses these challenges by providing functional, aesthetically pleasing, and comfortable clothing while allowing users to dress independently (fastening/unfastening, putting on/taking off).

  • Issue Year: 2024
  • Issue No: 17
  • Page Range: 119-128
  • Page Count: 10
  • Language: English
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