When you lose your independence or live with a disability, getting dressed can quickly become complicated. Yet, it’s an essential part of everyday life, also to maintain one’s identity and self-esteem.
In recent years, specialist brands have emerged, offering ranges of ergonomic clothing that is easy to put on and compatible with a wheelchair or even a drip. A real relief for people who are ill or losing their independence, and their carers.
Launched in 2017, the French initiative Bien à porter aims to identify clothes that are easy to put on and pleasant to wear in mainstream ready-to-wear stores. The site offers two selections, the first proposed by users, and the second identified and validated by a team of (healthcare and textile) professionals.
While there are now lines of adapted clothing, volunteers and entrepreneurs are going one step further by offering to modify the clothes of people who are losing their independence. In 2023 three young women launched Ladaptelier, a clothing conversion business that reworks the ergonomics of your favourite garments and makes personalised adaptations to all those who need them, so that they can retain their identity and style.
Adaptations can be ordered from anywhere in France. Prices average €30 and vary according to the type of garment and the fastening system chosen.
For clothes that are beautiful, practical and accessible for everyone.
Images from L’adaptelier website.
