Is inclusivity part of the sustainable spectrum?

“Garment design is directly related to how it affects the wearer’s quality of life and self-expression. Fashion reaches 100% of the population, and it can be used as a social tool to make a positive impact.”  - Samanta Bullock

We need to raise visibility and representation so that the fashion community, including those with disabilities, can feel reflected and identified as a part of society. Different people have different needs, good design accommodates this, without compromising aesthetic and style. Congratulations to @adaptiveclothingcollective ! Their runway at Australian Fashion Week has started vital conversations and was one colourful celebration of fabulous fashions!

Sketch by Emma Bond, Runway photos: Women’s Agenda

Have you thought about disability as a social construct? As the result of the interaction between people living with impairments in an environment / system full of physical, attitudinal, communication and social barriers? 

People with disability have less fashion choices due to lack of good design.

This is why we design applying universal principles, so that garments are functional to women of a range of abilities; without compromising your love of texture, print and quality Australian manufacture.

Emma had always dreamed of becoming a fashion designer. After further study and research she was unable to start - there was already surplus fashion in circulation - it seemed too wasteful. Instead, she shared her passion for sustainable fashion design processes with emerging designers as a teacher. When she noticed the lack of fashion choices available to those with disability; she had good reason to start.

Inside our atelier, photos by Maree Richardson of @wandering_prints

Universal fashion design is good for everyone. Please find me women that don’t like easy to put on, comfortable, functional and easy to launder fashion!?  - Emma

We know that quality, loved clothes last. And those with good design, that allow for easy, functional dressing - will be warn many times. When we design with emotional and physical durability and reconnect people and clothing; we keep garments in use for as long as possible. One of the three core principles of circular design.

After a little something extra?! As each of our garments are hand cut and sewn on your order, do let us know if you require any adjustment to better suit your beaut body and needs. This can usually be done at no extra cost. Chat to one of our stylists or our designer Emma here or add a note when you order.

What are your thoughts on universal design, and the 2022 Afterpay Australia Fashion Week?

#visabledisability #aafw #australianfashion #australianfashiondesign #australianfashionlabels #madiandpip #universaldesign #adaptiverunway #fashionforall #australianmade