Case Study- DESIGN FOR ALL

Kids’ Adaptive Clothing

Design for All started as a side project with a very small team of designers who felt compelled by the story of one of our team members: a mother who has a daughter with autism. I was privileged to hear her story and excited by the idea to use Target’s resources to explore ways to design for kids with diverse disabilities. 

I got the opportunity to work with amazing families, learning how 3 million people in the US could benefit from research and how the smallest adjustments in the design of our day-to-day clothing can make all the difference to those that need it. 

We invited Target employees who were willing to share their stories and day-to-day experiences. We interviewed kids that used feeding tubes, who were transitioning genders, that used a wheelchair. We heard their experiences. We attended schools, centers for the blind, events, and researched other brands who had success in the industry. 

Our research took us deep into materials like magnetic closures and zippers, which would help with easy closures and adjustments. We looked for ideas to create small but meaningful updates like adding openings under conventional pockets for feeding tubes and jackets and pants, specifically designed for seated wear. 

We started by listening, by trying to be empathetic and observant. The team met with real kids and parents to understand what their needs were in different types of apparel, and how they dealt with different disabilities. 

Crotch snap closures further enhance the ease of dressing.

Double-layered construction features a hidden opening for abdominal access.

As we were learning, we put our research and expertise to the test and created the product line. Truly every piece of the initial collection was inspired by a story and a person. The personal connection showed in the success of the line.

At the onset, we never imagined the impact that this line would make and how it would change the Fashion industry for the better, creating an affordable way for kids with disabilities to dress and feel like they have the same options as everyone else. 

Without a doubt, this has been the most meaningful project that I have been a part of, and I am proud to share it with you now.