Accessible Fall Fashions

Design Matters for Accessible Fall Fashions

By Stephanie Alves, ABL Denim

Whether it's colored leaves falling or Indian summer in your part of the country, Fall inspires hitting that refresh button. New events, new opportunities, impending holidays and future gift giving can inspire some ideas that add dimension to life and relationships. How we dress can reflect on how we feel. People with disabilities can look to what's trending while shopping for accessible, comfortable clothing. You may even want to have something altered to fit your needs. On the West Coast, The Able Tailor can help.

Build Your New Accessible Wardrobe from Treasures Already in your Closet

I always suggest looking at what you already own. Do you just need to hem those pants to make the leg fit a littler sleeker? That should be a given for PWDs (people with disabilities)! How about a new item that adds polish to how you present yourself? Maybe it's the newly-revived bomber jacket. For men it could be the new looks in graphic sweaters but beware the 80's redux on both those styles. For women, a lace top in white or a neutral rather than black. Mix it up with casual pants, a knee-length pair of shorts, or a slim skirt to the knee.

Blouses are back in style and Magna Ready makes the best shirts for people with finger dexterity limitations. Embroidery is everywhere and can be applied to anything, even with a pre-made applique from the craft store. Then there's western fringe and suede, but easy, partner, on that one. That neutral, natural feeling also goes to Africa when you translate it into Eisenhower short jackets and burlap-y colors and prints, looking nice after all those summer brights.

Tobacco browns, parchment, rusts, pinky-orange, and very pale pink are the new colors to add to the wardrobe whether in clothing or accessories. Military greens add to this new palette. Veterans with disabilities: we're talking to you, too! If you're going on vacation, Step In 2 Now makes an easy-access swimsuit that is a beautiful style for any body.

Athleisure: Greatest. Trend. EVER.

The "athleisure" trend isn't going away, and we in the disability community can be happy for that as you can look good and be comfortable. Sweatpants can be tidy-looking in the right new fabrics. The jeans are soft; the pant fabrics should have a nice hand feel and not be restrictive. If you have a disability, make sure they don't have harsh seams and have the type of fit you are looking for. Have a look at ABL Denim for the most functional fashion jeans for men, women and kids. Women have seen a revival of the big flare jean but it could be tricky if you're a wheelchair user. Wear the new trend of big earrings or other big jewelry instead if you want drama! 

And as my Grandmother used to say, "Wear it in good health!"

About the Author:

Stephanie Alves is the Founder and Designer of ABL Denim, a premium denim adaptive jean line made in U.S.A. for men, women and children.