Sustainability and Social Responsibility

The Seal of Approval™: Developing a Certification Mark for Adaptive Apparel

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Abstract

This study examines the development of the GAMUT Seal of Approval™, a certification mark designed to ensure adaptive apparel products meet the needs of people with disabilities (PWDs). Using a case study methodology and thematic analysis, this research identifies trust, authenticity, and promise as critical themes that connect corporate social responsibility initiatives with the PWD consumer market. Collaborating with stakeholders, including PWDs and their caregivers, the Seal team established rigorous evaluation criteria to validate adaptive products. Findings highlight the Seal's role in building consumer trust and empowering brands to engage authentically with PWDs. Future research should assess the Seal's market impact and influence on adaptive product development.

Keywords: adaptive apparel, corporate social responsibility theory, social capital theory

How to Cite:

McBee-Black, K., (2025) “The Seal of Approval™: Developing a Certification Mark for Adaptive Apparel”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 81(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.18499