In our latest blog, we sit down with our lead designer to talk about the small (but mighty!) details that make Spoonie Threads apparel truly functional. From real-user feedback to fabric choices, see what goes into creating clothing that works with your body.
What’s the first thing you consider when designing for someone with medical needs or a disability?
The functional need. We have to make sure the garment is solving a problem the user has, otherwise is doesn’t matter how nice it looks or feels. The function is the starting point.
How do you balance comfort, medical access, and style in one garment?
Once we have determined the functionality of the product, comfort is the next point of focus. Some items need to have more stretch, some require a stronger fabric that can provide more support, so that determines what kind of fabric we need. Comfort also dictates what closures (zippers, snaps, etc.) we use. By that point we have a fairly clear idea of what the item could look like, so then we determine how we can make it look like a fashion item, not a medical item. That impacts decisions around silhouette, color, zipper styles and sizes, and many other small details that make a big difference in the final product.
What are some design features people might not notice but make a huge difference for the wearer?
Zipper pulls are really important! Not everyone can use a tiny invisible zipper pull so we may use a smoother zipper with larger teeth and a larger pull. However, others may hate the look of a big zipper and want something more subtle. If they don’t have any dexterity issues using a tiny pull, then that could be a better fit for them. We like to have options as much as we can.
How do you gather feedback from the community, and how does that shape your designs?
We hire adaptive fit consultants to test out of garments. We mail them a prototype and do virtual fit sessions. If we can, we ask to see how they out the item on and take it off – because this gives us important information about how the customer will interact with the item. Our testers wear the garments in their daily life before doing sessions with us so we learn what worked for them, and what didn’t. Based on their feedback, we may alter a feature of the garment, change a zipper placement, try a different fabric, or something else.
At Spoonie Threads, we believe clothing should make life easier, not harder. It should help you show up in the world—whether you’re heading to chemo, walking your dog, or going to your first day of school. Designing with heart, function, and feedback is what makes all the difference.
Have questions or ideas? I’d love to hear them.
— Saba
