Did you ever go to your closet and think “What on earth am I wearing today? I have nothing to wear!” … even as hangers full of clothes are staring you right in the face? We’ve all had those days, and depending on how you are feeling at any given moment, your relationship with your clothing changes. Those “go to” black pants just aren’t doing it for you today and that sweater! What were you thinking?!
"Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak." — Rachel Zoe
So if you are wearing ill-fitting and uncomfortable clothing, what is it that you are saying about yourself?
Now imagine that finding a great pair of jeans was an impossible task because, well, because you are… you! Uniquely perfect you! Luckily NBZApparel and Downs Designs are here for you!
No Buttons or Zippers!
NBZApparel (NBZ: No buttons or zippers!) “Elastic waists, No tags, Great style, No zippers, No buttons, No hassle!” and Downs Designs offers jeans and pants that are made specifically for children and adults who have Down Syndrome.
Sensory Friendly
Equally important to fit of course is feel. Check out this article from Target about their Cat & Jack kids’ clothing assortment—a limited selection of sensory-friendly pieces. Target has taken this a step further to their home accessories line called Pillowfort with sensory friendly items that range from a rocking desk chair to fun floor cushions and weighted blankets.
In addition to Target, other brands that are emerging from this trend are from Tommy Hilfiger and Zappos/PBS. So just to be clear, here is a short list of some features to look for when considering “adaptive” clothing, courtesy of www.adayinourshoes.com:
- easier to manage zippers (or NO zipper!) and other fasteners
- different locations of fly and other fasteners, to accommodate wheelchair sitting
- no tags, comfortable fabrics for sensory issues
- zip-off sleeves
- footless sleepwear
- diaper-friendly leggings and bodysuits
- hidden openings for abdominal access
- magnets and/or velcro instead of other fasteners
Full disclosure, I found all of these “gems” on one of my favorite blog spots, The Assistive Technology Blog. Check out the related article I found there about one Grandma on a Mission - making pants!
Shoes
Almost forgot, what is fashion without shoes! “Smashing fashion with function, BILLY Footwear incorporates zippers that go along the side of the shoes and around the toe, allowing the upper of each shoe to open and fold over completely. Thus the wearer can place his or her foot onto the shoe footbed unobstructed. Then with a tug on the zipper-pull the shoe closes and secures overtop the user's foot. It's simple. It's easy.” - Billy Footwear
And, finally, after a long day of staring into your closet, dejected and convinced you really truly have nothing to wear, cuddle up with one of these luxurious Gravity Blankets. You’ll be glad you did.
UPDATE: Check out this great resources from Autism Parenting Magazine!
Warmest regards,
Jean