Adaptive fashion isn’t niche anymore. Big high street labels and specialist brands are quietly – and brilliantly – redesigning partywear so that getting dressed up is accessible for all. From magnetic buttons and one-hand zips to clothes cut for wheelchair silhouettes and smart slip-on shoes, adaptive pieces are showing up on the high street and at specialist shops alike. That means more choice for men and women who want glamour, comfort and dignity this party season.

We’ve put together a practical, stylish guide with outfit ideas and suggested retailers, all trying their hand at creating trendy, adaptive fashion. We’ve included items to cater for people with varying requirements including wheelchair users, those with limited dexterity, carers, prosthetic users, and anyone who wants easier fastenings.

Two things are happening. Specialist adaptive brands are continuing to innovate, and mainstream labels are launching adapted lines that look every bit as fashion forward as their other collections. Well known brands such as Tommy Hilfiger have full ‘adaptive’ collections, whilst specialist retailers such as Unhidden and The Able Label are dedicated to providing pieces with magnetic buttons, one-hand zips and prosthetic-friendly seams.

Here are some of the best adaptive features to look for this festive party season:

We hope you enjoy reading some of our suggested partywear picks ahead of the festive season ahead.

Sleek magnetic button blouses and tailored trousers gives easy elegance

What to look for – blouses with hidden magnets or side/back openings, paired with elastic waist tailored trousers (or wheelchair-cut trousers if needed).

Where to look – Tommy Hilfiger Adaptive shirts offer classic cuts with magnetic/one-hand features. Perfect for drinks receptions and office Christmas nights.

Little black adaptive party dress – the fuss-free sparkle

What to look for – open back or side opening dresses with discreet magnetic closures. Stretch fabric sits nicely while seated.

Where to look – Unhidden, The Able Label and Adaptawear make stylish dresses that hide adaptations – great for ‘invisible’ accessibility.

Budget friendly magnetic tops and wrap style alternatives

What to look for – magnet fastening tops or wrap style dresses with pull on silhouettes. Useful for quick changes and limited dexterity.

Where to look: Silvert’s sells magnetic closure tops and adaptive garments via Amazon. Primark and other high street shops also have adaptive clothing ranges available.

Adaptive party shoes for slip-on glamour

What to look for – slip-on pumps, elasticated vamps, or shoes with Velcro or magnetic straps. Wide fittings and removable insoles help with comfort and orthotics.

Where to look – Specialist retailers, such as Silvert’s, Able2Wear, as well as mainstream brands with wide-fit options.

One-hand friendly suit jacket or magnetic-button shirts

What to look for – jackets with shoulder zips, shirts with magnetic buttons, or shirts with side openings.

Where to look – Tommy Hilfiger Adaptive offers shirts and tailored pieces designed for easier fastening. John Lewis stocks some of these pieces in store or online.

Smart waistcoat or slip-on footwear

What to look for – waistcoats with easy front fastenings (such as magnets or poppers), elasticated waist trousers and smart slip-on loafers.

Where to look – Able2Wear and Adaptawear both carry wheelchair-friendly trousers and tailored adaptive pieces. For shoes, Silvert’s offer smart designs, suited for parties.

Casual party looks with adaptive knitwear

What to look for: shoulder-zip jumpers (one hand zips) and sweatshirts with side entry zips are all easier to pull on without losing the cosy seasonal vibe.

Where to look – Unhidden boast a great range of both casual, and more formal pieces.  

Adaptive fashion has matured, and choices now run from budget magnetic tops to designer adaptive pieces from major labels. The result? You can go to the office party, the family Christmas dinner, or a glittering evening out and feel both comfortable and trendy. Fashion has never been so accessible and we’re all for it!