Fashion designers are pushing and advocating for inclusivity in the industry through adaptive fashion which aims at seeing more locally designed clothing, specifically tailored to accommodate people with physical disabilities.
Leading the initiative is designer Xandria, who also launched the All Shades of Beautiful pageant to promote inclusive design and create space for designers and models with disabilities.
In an interview, Xandria said people with disabilities continue to be left out of mainstream fashion despite having clothing needs that go beyond aesthetics.
“Fashion often leaves people with disabilities behind. As a designer, I believe everyone deserves to feel confident and included,” she said.
The fashion designer said adaptive fashion incorporates features such as magnetic buttons, elastic waistbands, side zippers and soft, stretchable fabrics to ease dressing for individuals with physical challenges.
“Through adaptive fashion, we solve this by designing garments that are easier to wear,” said Xandria.
She urged industry players to actively listen to the needs of marginalised groups and involve them in creative processes.
“Stakeholders can support us by sponsoring equipment such as adaptive sewing machines, partnering with us for skills training or simply by sharing our message and giving inclusive fashion a platform,” added Xandria.
Upie Collections founder designer Upile Chirwa said adaptive fashion will help designers to design clothes that are not just stylish, but comfortable.
“Fashion is for everyone, and that includes people with disabilities. Adaptive fashion allows us to create clothing that is comfortable and practical. It’s about dignity and inclusion,” she said.
Chirwa, based in Mzuzu, is one of the designers who is promoting inclusion in the fashion industry through her fashion show that allows designers with disabilities to showcase their works.
Xandria’s All Shades of Beautiful pageant, which brings together designers with and without disabilities, is part of the efforts to challenge perceptions and promote visibility for people with disabilities in the creative sector.
Anzathu Charity Initiative chairperson Ganizani Killowe, who trains young people and the deaf community in fashion design, said their collaboration with Xandria is aimed at finding innovative ways to respond to the fashion needs of people with disabilities.
