Helen Diamond
BSC (Hons) Fashion Technology with DIT Graduate, 2020
Fashion Autist: An Investigation on Sensory Issues and Androgyny in Apparel for Autistic Adults
Tactile sensitivity is a known symptom of autism, yet there has been little research of the optimal fabric and construction techniques required to make clothing a help rather than a hindrance for autistics. There has been no research at all into clothing for autistic adults.
This project aimed to determine what factors affect sensory responses, and to create a framework where a collection of autism-friendly clothing could be produced.
There was also investigation in the higher incidence of androgyny in ASC individuals, and how this could influence design decisions for inclusive commercial clothing. Using a qualitative questionnaire, in-depth information was obtained that assisted in creating specifications for the project brief. This questionnaire confirmed of challenges with rough fabric, labels and seams and a higher than average preference for non-feminine clothing.
A collection of four outfits were designed and one outfit was completed in line with the brief.
It was concluded that the potential for designing and manufacturing autism-friendly clothing is well within reach for any retailer that wishes to do so. Recommendations were made for further research that includes greater involvement from study participants including sampling of fabric and garments to confirm the optimal factors in sensory friendly clothing.