Adaptive Fashion as an Expression of Inclusion and Identity in Children with Special Sensory Needs

• Author(s): Jammylly Fonseca Silva
• Paper ID: 1708107
• Page: 351-356
• Published Date: 31-05-2022
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 5 Issue 11 May-2022

Abstract

Fashion serves as a potent tool for self-expression, emotional well-being, and social integration. For children, clothing plays a vital role in shaping their sense of identity and belonging. However, for children with special sensory needs—such as those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), sensory processing disorders, or psychomotor challenges—clothing can become a source of stress and exclusion. This article explores the transformative potential of adaptive fashion, a growing field in design that addresses these children's specific sensory, physical, and cognitive needs. Unlike conventional garments, adaptive fashion is centered on functionality, comfort, and inclusivity, utilizing sensory-friendly materials, easy closures, and flexible designs to promote well-being and participation. Through a review of recent academic studies, the article highlights how adaptive clothing and accessories not only mitigate physical discomfort but also foster psychological resilience, emotional regulation, and social inclusion. Studies show that sensory-adapted apparel can reduce anxiety, minimize emotional outbursts, and increase self-esteem by allowing children to dress comfortably and feel confident among peers. Moreover, the participatory design process—where children collaborate in designing their garments—has been shown to boost self-worth and agency. Adaptive fashion also helps reduce stigma and bullying by providing visually inclusive garments that align with mainstream fashion, allowing children to integrate more naturally in social environments such as schools. By examining the intersection of fashion, design, psychology, and education, this article positions adaptive fashion as a critical element of inclusive child development. It argues that adaptive fashion must be considered not just a functional necessity, but a meaningful strategy for promoting autonomy, identity formation, and social belonging. The findings support a growing consensus that access to adaptive fashion is not merely beneficial, but essential in building equitable and empowering environments for children with special sensory needs.

Keywords

Adaptive fashion, Social inclusion, Sensory needs, Child development.

Citations

IRE Journals:
Jammylly Fonseca Silva "Adaptive Fashion as an Expression of Inclusion and Identity in Children with Special Sensory Needs" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 5 Issue 11 2022 Page 351-356

IEEE:
Jammylly Fonseca Silva "Adaptive Fashion as an Expression of Inclusion and Identity in Children with Special Sensory Needs" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 5(11)