April is globally recognised as World Autism Month, set aside to raise awareness about the condition and increase societal acceptance of persons living with autism. While autistic persons may have varying degrees of the condition, they are generally known to be socially awkward. An autistic person may not want to dance, sing, clap and take pictures when you want them to. For many parents and carers, biometrics’ capture day is a tug-of-war. The list is endless.
But fashion is becoming one of the most exciting ways to access autistic persons. They are drawn to shapes and colours, hence it’s no brainer how they fit into the fashion ecosystem.
In the world of urban fashion, parents, friends and carers of autistic persons are exploring fashion as a way of identifying with autism.
Fashion trends associated with autistic people are centered around comfort, sensory-friendly designs, and self-expression. Sensory-Inclusive Fashion is a growing movement that focuses on designing clothing that is comfortable, functional, and sensitive to the needs of neurodiverse individuals, especially those with sensory processing differences.
Some key features of sensory-inclusive fashion include:
– Soft and breathable fabrics: Avoiding itchy or scratchy materials that can cause discomfort is key.
– Tagless designs: Removing annoying tags that can irritate the skin is one way to ensure comfort, at least to a reasonable extent.
– Adjustable fits: Allowing for flexibility and comfort in clothing.
– Seamless stitching: Reducing irritation caused by seams can prove to be beneficial for the autistic, whether young or old.
– Bold colours: Autistic individuals are also using fashion as a means of self-expression and communication. For example, some may use bold colors or patterns to express their personality or interests. So, when you spot a person wearing a bright-coloured shoe, jacket or tie, they are sending signals your way. Be kind.
–Odd Socks! Yay! Everyone’s so stoked about odd socks. Fast fashion stores are catching in on this trend which is now made more popular by autistic people around the world.
Additionally, there is a growing trend towards inclusive and diverse fashion, with autistic models and designers making their mark in the industry. Some popular autistic models who have gained recognition for their work and advocacy include Heather Kuzmich (from “America’s Next Top Model”), Nina Marker, and Raquel Abiahy. This movement promotes acceptance, understanding, and celebration of neurodiversity in fashion.
