Listen to this Article
Be comfortable
Prioritise comfort when selecting your wardrobe. There is nothing worse than being stuck in tight and uncomfortable clothing.
Opt for soft, breathable fabrics that allow for ease of movement. Consider adaptive clothing options with features like magnetic closures, elastic waistbands, and adjustable closures, ensuring comfort throughout your journey.
Liberare has a range of underwear and sleepwear that provide extra accessibility.
Be bold and beautiful
Just because you need to be conscious of comfort does not mean that you need to look like a wallflower, you can be comfortable and stylish too. Something I learned about fashion when living in Italy, is that looking elegant is all about the tailoring of the fabric and not being afraid to be bold.
Make sure that your clothing fits your body type. Find a local seamstress if you cannot find clothing in the store that suits your body.
Are you an amputee? Check out No Limbits for stylish, comfortable jeans. They’ve got adaptive clothing as well.
Also do not be afraid of colour! Colour used correctly can make you people turn their heads for all the right reasons when you walk or roll into a room. Be the blossom Babe, not the wallflower!
I am blessed to have some of my dresses made for special events by my friend, internal award-winning luxury designer, Jacques Le Grange.
Accessories
Accessories are not just for style; they can also serve a functional purpose. Invest in stylish but practical accessories like crossbody bags for easy accessibility and hats or scarves for sun protection.
Now, you may not think of your makeup brushes as accessories, but they are. I keep one with me always just in case I need a touch up. My treasured accessories for these are from the inclusive beauty brand, Khol Kreatives. They ship internationally.
Adaptable Footwear
Comfortable and supportive footwear is crucial for people with disabilities, although in many cases, barefoot works perfectly fine too! When wearing shoes, opt for those that provide stability, and consider slip-on or adjustable styles to make the shoe-changing process more manageable. Even if you have no mobility and must use your wheelchair to get around, who says you can’t wear stylish shoes? I need my wheelchair, but I am addicted to Coast and Koi’s pumps, as well as sandals, espadrilles and brogues. They are unashamedly bold and luxurious and every bit as comfortable. I wear them with jeans, dresses and formal pants. Though handmade in South Africa, you can purchase them in other countries.
Accessorize with confidence
Express your personal style through accessories like statement jewellery, sunglasses, or a stylish hat. These small details can elevate your entire look while being easy to incorporate into your travel attire.
South Africa is home to The Cullinan Diamond, one of the biggest diamonds ever found. We are also home to The Diamond Works Institute, the first diamond workshop and showroom to include the blind in their tours by creating braille tactile signage.
