ASOS' NEW ADAPTIVE OCCASIONWEAR IS READY FOR YOUR AUTUMN PLANS

While inclusivity is part of the conversation more than it ever has been, inclusive clothing options often remain limited to basic styles. Adaptive clothing uses specially designed modifications to make getting dressed easier for those living with disabilities or chronic illnesses.

Jaques wears the ASOS ADAPTIVE regular fit smart shirt, £35

The problem is, adaptive clothing tends to prioritise function over style. ASOS believes everyone should be able to enjoy fashion – both as a staple of everyday life and an outlet for creative expression. That’s why we created our new adaptive occasionwear range, styled on model Jaques above, providing quality garments for special moments in the calendar.

As ASOS Senior Designer Sarah Buchanan explains, ‘We wanted to create a collection that supports our customers across every occasion – from work and interviews to weddings, celebrations and everything in between. Versatility and confidence were key considerations throughout the design process.’

Noah wears the ASOS ADAPTIVE relaxed tapered suit, £100

A tailored trouser is one of those wardrobe foundations that can take you almost anywhere, and this pair, seen on Noah, brings a relaxed, contemporary take to the classic. ‘Tailoring runs throughout the collection with design details adapted for different ways of dressing,' says Sarah. 'Jacket options come in shorter and traditional lengths, while double back vents offer increased movement. Trousers feature an increased back rise for wheelchair users, too.’

 

The tapered leg and stretchy fabric are designed to make dressing simpler, allowing for smoother movement and greater comfort, while discreet zips at the hem make independent dressing easier. Additional tube-access holes inside both pockets allow wearable medical devices to pass through discreetly. Style yours with the matching jacket – you can dress the look down with lo-pro trainers or opt for loafers for smarter occasions.

Tom wears the ASOS ADAPTIVE waistcoat, £35

The waistcoat has had a fashion revival in recent seasons, shifting from a traditional tailoring staple to one of the easiest ways to give an outfit a polished, directional edge. This adaptive waistcoat, styled on model Tom, keeps the crisp, elevated feel of the classic while making considered changes for comfort. The back belt and buckle have been removed for a softer feel when seated, while stretchy fabric means less restriction. Wear it with the ASOS Adaptive smart shirt and tie for a full tailoring moment, or break it up with denim and a simple tee.

'The new range has been so carefully thought through, really taking into account the needs and desires of people who will be wearing it,' says Tom. 'Yes, the pieces are beautifully functional, but they're also clothes that I genuinely know people are going to love wearing. I can already see this being a huge success for the adaptive community.'

ASOS ADAPTIVE slim suit jacket in stone, £65

 

Consider this suit jacket the foundation piece for an occasionwear wardrobe that doesn’t compromise on style or practicality. The slim fit gives it a sharper, more contemporary silhouette, while a half lining allows for greater ease of movement. Magnetic fastenings are also designed to make independent dressing simpler, without affecting the polished finish of the jacket.

As for how we'd wear it, ASOS Senior Stylist Charis Gray is all for upping the neutrals: 'Colour drenching always adds to the premium edge of a tailored look, and pairing it with a staple accessory like a leather bag or cap will keep things in line with the season's key trends.' 

Tom wears the ASOS ADAPTIVE knitted long-sleeve polo, £32
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The knitted polo is a perennial styling favourite for good reason: smart enough to dress up, relaxed enough to layer and particularly useful in transitional weather. This fine-knit version has a soft feel and a considered silhouette, with a wider neckline for easier independent dressing.

 

A reduced body length and side splits are designed to provide greater comfort when seated, while tube access along the seam allows wearable medical devices to pass through discreetly. Tom styles it over a classic white T-shirt for a preppy twist, but you can also wear it beneath heavier outerwear as temperatures drop.

Jaques wears ASOS ADAPTIVE relaxed tapered suit in navy, from £35

 

As Sarah puts it, the aim was to make adaptive fashion feel like fashion, full stop. ‘Being able to bring that aesthetic to a broader customer in an inclusive and wearable way has been a particular highlight of the collection for me.’ You can explore the full range on ASOS now.