Design and Product Development

“There’s no way I’m doing that easily”: Closure Issues and Independent Dressing for People with Limited Dexterity

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Abstract

For over one billion people with disabilities (PWDs) worldwide, finding clothing that meets both functional and aesthetic needs remains a significant challenge. This study investigates the closure-related difficulties faced by women who use wheelchairs, focusing on their experiences with donning and doffing garments. Using the social model of disability and a user-centered design framework, semi-structured interviews were conducted with five women aged 25–35 who experience mobility and dexterity limitations. Participants reported frustrations with closures that hinder independence, such as small buttons and back fasteners, and shared preferences for pull-on garments and larger, more accessible design features like reinforced belt loops. While adaptive clothing is intended to enhance usability, participants criticized existing closures like Velcro for limiting autonomy. Findings highlight the necessity of accessible, closure-free designs that prioritize functionality, independence, and dignity for PWDs. These insights provide critical direction for adaptive apparel design aimed at enhancing usability and independence.

Keywords: closures, disability, donning, doffing, adaptive, apparel design

How to Cite:

Miller, M. L. & McBee-Black, K., (2025) ““There’s no way I’m doing that easily”: Closure Issues and Independent Dressing for People with Limited Dexterity”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 81(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.18934