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Getting dressed is a daily routine that many of us often take for granted. It’s a task that we perform every day, usually multiple times a day, and it can sometimes be quite challenging. While for some, choosing an outfit might seem like a simple task, for others, it involves unique and innovative approaches due to various circumstances and preferences.
In this article, we’ll explore the not-so-straightforward approaches to getting dressed by four individuals who offer a fresh perspective on fashion and dressing.
1. Nikki Hind: The Backup Packer
Nikki Hind, Australia’s first blind fashion designer, shares her approach to getting dressed, which emphasizes preparation and versatility. Nikki’s lack of sight adds a layer of complexity to her daily routine. She recalls an incident when she wore a new dress and thigh-high boots but didn’t realize her dress was inside out until someone pointed it out—an experience that many of us can relate to.
To overcome these challenges, Nikki prefers designing reversible clothing items. Reversible garments eliminate the risk of wearing an outfit inside out, offering practicality and style in one package. Nikki, who doesn’t drive, also needs to be exceptionally organized when planning her outfits. She considers factors like the duration of her outings, the likelihood of getting sweaty or dirty, and the need to carry an extra outfit with her.
Nikki’s choice of clothing also accounts for comfort, as she does a lot of walking. She often carries a second pair of shoes to match her outfit and opts for a backpack for hands-free mobility. Her approach to dressing is primarily based on how the clothing feels rather than how it looks, ensuring that she is comfortable throughout the day.
2. Aleasha McCallion: The Comfortably Fun Dresser
Aleasha McCallion, a mother dressing her eight-year-old son Arden, faces a unique set of challenges. Arden has complex disabilities, and Aleasha’s approach to dressing him prioritizes practicality and comfort while injecting an element of fun into his outfits.
Layering is essential for Arden’s comfort, as is the need for durable, soft, and stretchy clothing. Aleasha avoids non-stretch woven fabrics and garments with zip or button flies, instead opting for stretch waistbands and comfortable pants. She leans toward clothing made from natural fibers and often chooses secondhand items for their softer feel and reduced chemical content.
While prioritizing comfort, Aleasha also ensures that Arden’s clothing choices reflect his personality and bring joy. She looks for playful designs and patterns that make dressing a source of enjoyment for him.
3. Elin Williams: The Mind’s Eye Planner
Elin Williams, a blogger, writer, and speaker, approaches dressing with a unique perspective due to her visual impairment. She relies on her memory to put together outfits, creating a mental catalog of clothing items. Elin’s wardrobe is meticulously organized to facilitate easy access, as she cannot rely on mirrors to assess her appearance.
For Elin, confidence in her clothing choices is crucial. She selects outfits based on how they feel rather than how they look in the mirror, making her wardrobe an essential part of her daily routine. She often seeks a second opinion from her family to ensure her outfits are well-coordinated.
Her footwear choices are versatile, favoring comfortable options that complement various outfits. Elin’s style revolves around white trainers and ballet flats in the summer, while ankle boots are her go-to option in the autumn and winter.
4. Emma Albert: The Expressive Selector
Emma Albert, a mother dressing her six-year-old son Mikey, adopts an approach that empowers him to make clothing choices that express his personality and preferences. Mikey’s comfort and control are paramount in his dressing routine.
Emma engages Mikey by asking him what he would like to wear, allowing him to select specific items or colors. This approach enables Mikey to feel in control and assert his identity through his clothing choices.
To ensure Mikey’s comfort and accessibility, Emma looks for clothing that is durable, breathable, and easy to put on. She avoids garments that have restrictive features and opts for stretchy fabrics and adjustable openings. Additionally, she considers Mikey’s interests and encourages clothing that reflects his favorite bands and promotes conversations about disability inclusion.
In conclusion, these innovative approaches to getting dressed offer valuable insights into the diverse and creative ways individuals tackle the daily task of dressing. Whether it’s designing reversible clothing, prioritizing comfort and enjoyment, relying on memory and organization, or empowering children to make expressive choices, each approach reflects the unique preferences and needs of those who adopt them. These stories remind us that getting dressed is not just a routine but an opportunity for self-expression and creativity.