TWU Fashion Students Design Adaptive Clothing: Making Fashion Accessible for Disabled Youth
In a groundbreaking initiative at Texas Woman’s University, fashion design students are revolutionizing adaptive clothing for patients at Scottish Rite for Children in Dallas. The mass production class has expanded its innovative project, with 20 students now creating fashion-forward, accessible garments for young patients with various conditions including scoliosis, spina bifida, and those using prosthetics or wheelchairs.
Expanding Horizons in Adaptive Fashion
Under the guidance of instructor Remy Odukomaiya, MFA, this year’s project places significant emphasis on patient independence while maintaining style. “We heard from interviews that Scottish Rite is trying to increase the independence of these kids,” Odukomaiya explains. The students are incorporating these insights into their designs, creating garments that not only serve functional purposes but also align with current fashion trends.
Innovation Meets Style
Student Eric Bravo Walker emphasizes their dual focus: “Of course we have major emphasis on functionality, but we want to incorporate aspects like style, color, and what’s trending right now.” The class is developing innovative solutions such as pants with adjustable lengths for prosthetic users, shirts with dual shoulder openings, and specially designed skirts.
Attention to Detail
The students’ commitment to comprehensive design is evident in their approach to comfort and aesthetics. Kimngan Tran notes, “Some children bruise easily and seams irritate their skin, so we’re reconstructing patterns. We’re making sure the clothes are not only pretty and functional but also feel good.”
Growing Impact
The program has gained significant momentum, with increased enrollment and a $1,000 contribution from the Trinity Valley Quilters Guild. This support enables the students to expand their creative possibilities while addressing a crucial gap in the fashion industry.
Future of Inclusive Fashion
The impact of this project extends beyond the classroom. Students like Faith Stockton have discovered a new perspective: “The garments we’re making are giving people back their independence, making sure they can put it on themselves and look their age.” This awareness has inspired students to consider including disabled models in their senior shows and incorporating inclusive design in their future careers.
As the class prepares to deliver their latest collection to Scottish Rite on December 2, it’s clear that these fashion students are not just creating clothes – they’re pioneering a more inclusive future in fashion design where style meets accessibility.