Inclusive design starts with thoughtful production.
As the fashion industry moves toward a more inclusive future, genderless and adaptive apparel are no longer niche—they’re necessary. At Rad Sourcing, we believe that innovation and empathy should guide every stage of production, especially for garments designed to serve a broader range of bodies and needs. Here’s how manufacturers can get it right.
1. Design with Real Inclusion in Mind
Manufacturing starts long before the fabric is cut—it’s in the intentionality of design. Adaptive and gender-neutral designs need to:
- Accommodate diverse body types: Avoid binary sizing charts. Use universal size grading or extended ranges with flexible fits.
- Center ease of use: Think magnetic closures, front-opening tops, and adjustable waistbands.
- Eliminate unnecessary gendering: Remove decorative seams, darts, and trims that reinforce traditional masculinity or femininity.
2. Collaborate with the End-User
The best garments come from co-creation, not assumption. Work with:
- People with disabilities or chronic illnesses to understand daily dressing challenges.
- Non-binary and trans consumers for fit feedback and design preferences.
3. Select Smart, Sensitive Materials
Fabric choice can make or break adaptive or genderless wear. Choose materials that are:
- Stretchy but structured (for mobility and shape)
- Breathable and hypoallergenic (especially for sensitive skin)
- Wrinkle-resistant and easy-care (reducing the need for ironing or dry cleaning)
4. Focus on Modular and Minimal Construction
Overly complex garments can hinder accessibility. Instead, aim for:
- Flat seams or seamless options (to avoid sensory irritation)
- Modular garments (layers or adjustable parts that adapt to different bodies and needs)
- Unstructured silhouettes (drop shoulders, wide legs, elastic backs)
5. Ethical and Scalable Production
Mass-producing genderless and adaptive wear shouldn’t sacrifice ethics. That means:
- Partnering with factories that understand small-batch testing before scaling.
- Using certified fair-labor practices to ensure inclusivity extends to the supply chain.
- Offering pre-order models to reduce waste while gauging demand.
Conclusion: Future-Proof Your Manufacturing
Genderless and adaptive apparel is more than a trend; it’s a movement toward universal design that respects all bodies and identities. By integrating these best practices, manufacturers don’t just expand their market—they help create a more humane and functional fashion future.
At Rad Sourcing, we’re proud to work with brands that are ready to break the mold. Want to bring your inclusive apparel idea to life? Let’s build it together.