Clothing for wheelchair users?

[KatyMac]

I dressmake and I'm researching creating flexible clothing - flexible in size and/or the way it can be worn. I try to minimise seams/labels so it isn't too much of a sensory issue

On another thread there was some discussion about the problems with mainstream clothing and wheelchair use

Does anyone have the time/inclination to talk to me about this?

TIA

Not a wheelchair user but two family members are, one a full time user. Both male.

I would consider using velcro fastenings rather than buttons, zips, loose comfortable clothes. There is a huge shortage of standard trousers ie jeans, chinos etc for men that are elasticated waist pull on/off style. My husband can no longer fasten buttons and zips but still wants to look smart and it's been really difficult to find smart casual trousers for him.

I guess for women dresses that are long and floaty can be problematic so maybe a dress that is like a trouser dress, not sure how to explain it but if I can find a picture I will post it.

Not sure if this helps but this was on dragons den a couple of weeks ago

Nina Tame is a wheelchair user who talks about this amongst other things on her social media and she looks fabulous too- she’s really stylish.

Thanks so much guys - this really helps

I hadn't thought about looking on social media but of course everything is documented nowadays

I'll see if I can find the dragons den episode, thanks

Yes trousers must be a nightmare, I rarely use zips and buttons but I do use ties which could be problematic. I should explore velcro more
plus sat down the bottoms must slide up so you need longer ones to look good then they become a tripping hazard if standing up is possible

My old fashioned department store (not a chain) would have golfing/sports trousers in chino like styles with elastic waists - although I'm sure you have exhausted that avenue

I don't make menswear but it's food for thought

Petalback clothing.

they makes clothes for people with limited mobility

I know family member says their legs get much colder now in wheelchair than when walking. So thicker warmer material for winter would be handy.

This might interest you from a knowledge perspective for children and some things would carry through to adults. www.baby-magazine.co.uk/marks-spencer-ms-clothing-easy-dressing-children-disabilities/

Thanks this gives me stuff to research into - much appreciated

Hi, I’m a carer for a young woman who is in a wheelchair. I have to help her dress and do transfers.

I think as well as thinking about practical function, it’s important to think about fit and colour as she still wants to look good. She hates wearing all black as she feels she just blends into the wheelchair, something that is fitted at the top and then flares out at the waist gives her shape. Jumpsuits are a pain (when going to the toilet- but aren’t they for everyone).

Good luck, would love to see what you come up with

I'm never a fan of all black 😁

Yes flamboyant is always good

I often make adjustable waistbands and people can change size depending on life/meds/cycle etc

I wonder if fishermen's trouser would be practical? That can be made into a jumpsuit too which could work - let me think