EDS & Sensory-Friendly Style Guide: Clothing That Supports Your Body
We don’t talk enough about how exhausting it is when even getting dressed hurts.
For people with chronic pain, EDS, or dysautonomia, seams can feel like sandpaper, waistbands can trigger nausea, and socks can leave bruises.
“Clothes are not a frivolous topic, and the conversation around them should not be belittled.” - Sinead Bourke (disability advocate)
The good news: adaptive and sensory-friendly fashion has grown in recent years, with both mainstream and independent brands offering softer, smarter options. Here are some practical swaps and resources to make your closet a place of comfort, not dread.
Undergarments & Accessories That Don’t Hurt or Cause Sensory Overload
Sometimes the worst pain or discomfort comes from what no one can see.
Swap:
❌ Itchy, scratchy fabrics or shapewear that digs
✅ Soft, seamless, and sensory-friendly pieces
Try:
Seamless underwear – Look for bamboo or modal in boyshort or high-rise styles
Compression socks with wide bands – For dysautonomia and fatigue (they’re medical tools as much as clothing)
Arm sleeves or knee braces – For stability and circulation (discreetly under clothing)
Tagless camisoles under scratchy tops – Creates a protective barrier layer
Slippers or soft shoes indoors – To support feet and joints all day
If you deal with temperature swings, layer with removable wrist warmers or cooling neck wraps to help your body self-regulate.
“Access to fashion is access to life.” — Dr. Ben Barry
Where to Shop for Adaptive & Gentle Clothing
There are more options than ever, from everyday basics to adaptive fashion innovators.
Mainstream Finds
Torrid – Super Soft Collection: Ultra-soft fabrics, inclusive sizing, and sensory-friendly stretch for everyday wear
Pact & Boody – Organic cotton and bamboo layers (eco + sensory-friendly)
Baleaf & Jockey – Affordable activewear with smooth seams
Independent Adaptive Brands
IZ Adaptive – Founded by designer Izzy Camilleri, fashion-forward adaptive line
Befree - Adaptive pants that open fully on both sides, ideal for post-surgical needs, or dressing from seated/lying positions.
Slick Chicks – Adaptive underwear with side fasteners for easier dressing
Unhidden Clothing – Stylish adaptive pieces, ethical and inclusive
Care+Wear – Medical wear like PICC line covers and port-access tops
Girls Chronically Rock - Founded by Keisha Greaves, this brand blends style, advocacy, and adaptive function. Their Adaptive Splash swimwear line and everyday adaptive tops aim to offer garments that are both empowering and functional.
“Yes, we may have a disability, but we still like to go out. We want to have fun, we want to look sexy just like everyone else.” - Keisha Greaves
And don’t underestimate thrift stores, often you’ll find already broken-in, buttery-soft clothing that your skin, wallet, and environment will thank you for.
Did you know?
Over 1 billion people worldwide live with a disability (WHO). Yet adaptive clothing, designed specifically with accessibility in mind, makes up less than 0.1% of the $1.7 trillion global apparel market (Verified Market Research, Statista).
Dressed in Dignity
The right clothes don’t just cover you, they support you.
Every seam, fabric, and fit can make daily life feel easier.
When your wardrobe works with your nervous system, getting dressed becomes more than routine, it becomes safety, dignity, and ease.
Choose softness. Choose support. Choose comfort you can truly live in.
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