I will never forget the day I was rolling through the mall when had my brand-new denim jacket on in my spanking new green wheelchair.  19-year-old me thought I was looking pretty darn cool. That coolness was soon horror as the large metal button on the jacket sleeve got caught between my push rim and wheel suddenly bringing me to a screeching halt. I fumbled around for what seemed like an eternity and finally released the button and tentatively went on my merry way. At that moment I realized not all fashion was created equal. 

Fast forward many years later, and thankfully adaptive clothing has absolutely found its place for people with a disability. Many mainstream clothing manufactures are bringing simple yet effective ideas to life to make clothing stylish yet functional.  Zips in place of button, Velcro fasteners, and magnetic closures have all transformed the way that clothes are worn. Designers are now thinking about how clothing may sit on a wheelchair user or how an amputee may get a pair of trousers on and off. 

Australian company Every Human is doing great things in this space. Their philosophy is simple, giving access to functional stylish clothing that does not compromise on the user's needs. They are creating an inclusive movement that is transforming the way that clothing can inspire, empower, and give a sense of pride both inside and out. 

The response from the creation of inclusive apparel has been outstanding. No longer do people with a disability have to pick what may work best and adapt themselves – they are now able to buy off the rack item that suits their needs. Yonny from Every Human says, ‘’We all face challenges in everyday life, and getting dressed shouldn’t be one of them. Everyone should have access to high quality, stylish and easy to use clothing.’’  

It’s exciting to watch how this change is taking place and unfolding.  I hope to one day go into a store and see a tag ‘inclusive fit’ - that’s when we know fashion will truly be inclusive. 

Australian and New Zealand adaptive fashion brands for you to check out: (Please comment with more brands for us to add to this blog!)

Every Human: https://everyhuman.com.au/

About Eliza:

Eliza Ault-Connell AM, is a wife, mother of three, Para Athlete and lover of life. Born and raised in Sydney Australia, she is an advocate for Meningococcal Disease awareness, positive body image and diversity and inclusion. In her spare time, Eliza loves to be active, out on the water, up a mountain and taking in life. Currently, Eliza is working toward racing for Australia at the Tokyo 2021 Paralympics.