Primark’s new adaptive fashion line, designed with disabled individuals in mind, features clothing items with functional features like detachable coats and secret access points for medical devices such as stomas and insulin pumps. The line has been crafted for both men and women.
The affordable retail giant introduced the innovative range with 49 tailored items that cater to a variety of needs. The adaptive clothing line got unveiled earlier this week, making Primark a pioneer in the sector.
In collaboration with Victoria Jenkins, a disabled fashion designer and founder of the brand Unhidden, the collection was created. This follows Primark’s previous launch of adaptive underwear in January 2024. The essential features of the line include magnetic zippers, snap fastenings, waist loops for easy trouser pull-up, and concealed openings for tube, stoma, or catheter access. The collection has been designed with wheelchair users and others who remain seated in mind.
Primark’s adaptive clothing line was formulated using focus groups and “hands-on” fit sessions involving members of the disabled community. The range includes both nightwear and underwear.
Jenkins expressed her pride at seeing the adaptive clothing line come to life, especially on such a large scale in the high street fashion scene. She emphasized that clothing should not present a challenge for disabled people, who already face many obstacles in their lives. The aim is to provide more fashionable options for the disabled community, so they are not limited to basic attire like jogging bottoms and T-shirts.
Despite a quarter of the UK population being disabled, research commissioned by Primark in association with the Research Institute for Disabled Consumers revealed that 75% find it challenging to source accessible clothing. Furthermore, 70% of those surveyed disclosed that they have to spend extra on clothing that accommodates their needs while 80% feel left out in terms of purchasing trendy clothes.
The adaptive fashion line became available from Tuesday 28th January in 31 UK stores and also through Click & Collect service in 113 UK stores.
The range includes items like a women’s V-neck knitted jumper (£24), men’s straight leg jeans (£14), a women’s poplin shirt (£18), and a men’s padded gilet (£12). All these items incorporate features to increase accessibility and comfort for disabled individuals, providing them with several fashionable options.
