What to Wear? Autism and Clothing Challenges

What to Wear? Autism and Clothing Challenges

Autism and Clothing

Autistic people can be especially sensitive to how different types of clothing feel.  They might find certain types of fabrics to be too scratchy or they may be very sensitive to how seams and tags feel.  The fit of the clothing can also be a challenge for autistic people – they may struggle with clothing that feels too loose or too tight.  What feels like a mild itch or slight pressure to someone without autism might feel sharp, scratchy, or unbearable to someone on the autism spectrum.  Bright colors or strong smells from laundry products can also add to the discomfort, making it harder for some autistic people to tolerate certain clothes.

These difficulties are not about being picky or difficult; the brains of autistic people often interpret sensory inputs differently.  Because of this, autistic people may prefer soft fabrics, loose-fitting clothes, or items without tags or seams.  Some also find comfort in wearing the same types of clothing every day, which reduces stress and uncertainty when they are getting dressed in the morning.  Understanding these needs allows families, teachers, and communities to support autistic people by respecting their clothing choices and creating environments where comfort is prioritized over strict dress rules.

Adaptive Clothing

Autistic people who struggle with wearing certain types of clothing may benefit from adaptive clothing.  Adaptive clothing is designed to make getting dressed easier, more comfortable, and more accessible for people with different physical, sensory, or medical needs. These clothes often replace buttons or zippers with magnetic closures, Velcro, or elastic waistbands so they can be put on with less effort.  Some designs open at the sides or back to help people who use wheelchairs or who need assistance from caregivers.  By focusing on comfort and ease of use, adaptive clothing helps people maintain independence and dignity in daily life.

For autistic people and others with sensory sensitivities, adaptive clothing often uses soft fabrics, seamless construction, and tag-free labels to reduce irritation.  Clothes may also come in consistent, simple styles that feel predictable and calming.  Adaptive clothing is not only functional but also stylish, allowing people to express their personalities without sacrificing comfort.  With more companies now offering these options, adaptive clothing is becoming an important part of making fashion and self-expression inclusive for everyone.

Where to Find Adaptive Clothing

In recent years, lots of clothing brands have started offering sensory-friendly/adaptive lines of clothing, and brands that specialize in adaptive clothing have taken off!  To find adaptive clothing that works for you or a loved one, check out the options below!

• Walmart carries adaptive clothing that you can find if you search for “adaptive clothing”
• Target has a line of sensory-friendly clothing with flat seams and no tags, you can find it here.
• Amazon carries adaptive clothing that you can find if you search for “adaptive clothing”
• Kozie Clothes has a range of sensory-friendly clothing everything from compression tank tops to weighted vests, you can find the line here.
• Zappos, which is an online clothing and shoe retailer, has curated an archive of different adaptive shoe brands, you can shop for adaptive brands here.
• “Sonoma Goods For Life” has a line of adaptive clothing that is sold at Kohl’s for men, women, and children.
• Magna Ready is an adaptive clothing brand that makes stylish adaptive clothing for men, women, and children.

Don’t see your favorite brand?  Let us know in the Contact Us section!  We love adding to our list!

By: The Autism ToolKit

References

Cox, J., & Moynihan, S. (2021, September 27). My child is sensitive to their clothing, what can I do? Acorn. Retrieved November 15, 2022, from https://www.acornautism.co.nz/blog/2018/11/07-my-child-is-sensitive-to-clothing