Fashion Design Methodology Tools in Products’ Development for People with Disabilities and Low Mobility

Abstract

This paper presents an overview about the possibilities of methodology in fashion design projects, regarding people with disabilities and reduced mobility, in order to expand the projectual possibilities for an effective design for inclusion.

Methods or tools in clothing projects should be an integration between ergonomic and functional aspects and the needs and desires related to both communicational and aesthetic preferences of the users/consumers. Considering the insufficiency in project methods in fashion design field to effectively achieve usability, the paper intends to explore interdisciplinary tools and its application in clothing development. The study aimed to develop a methodological tool to contribute in the process of designing fashion products for people with some kind of reduced mobility.

The method employed was a qualitative, exploratory and applied research and, supporting the theoretical basis, an analytical approach was performed regarding methods of project from design, fashion and ergonomics aiming at a macro understanding of the processes of projects.

The research resulted in projectual guidelines that enhance and optimize the clothing design process focusing on people with reduced mobility, providing an projectual and creative possibility in fashion, regarding methodological tools, and increasing inclusion and accessibility. The guidelines propose, as a final result, an ergonomic approach aiming for comfort, safety and usability but also providing a better approach to inclusive design, instrumentalizing professionals in designing for disability.