Primark Launches Clothing Range for People with Disabilities
Primark Launches Clothing Range for People with Disabilities.
The collection of womenswear and menswear comprises 49 pieces, each tailored from the brand's most popular items to accommodate a diverse range of requirements.
Primark has established itself as a preferred retailer for affordable underwear and designer-inspired alternatives. However, the company now aims to position itself as the leading destination for clothing tailored to individuals with various disabilities.
In a pioneering move for the budget-friendly high street brand, Primark is launching a collection comprising 49 pieces of both womenswear and menswear, modified from its most popular items to accommodate diverse needs.
This initiative is the result of a collaboration with Victoria Jenkins, a fashion designer with disabilities and the founder of the brand Unhidden. It builds upon the introduction of an "adaptive" underwear line released in the previous year.
A highly sought-after item is a cropped beige trench coat that can be easily donned or removed while seated. This garment received notable acclaim from wheelchair users during a preview of the collection on Monday.
“This has taken years of campaigning,” Jenkins said. “I didn’t think we’d see adapted fashion on the high street in my lifetime.” She said she hoped the launch would have a knock on effect among bigger brands.
The collection boasts several remarkable attributes, such as magnetic zippers that facilitate effortless fastening on trousers, discreet access points designed for stomas, insulin pumps, or other medical devices, and cropped jumpers that enhance the fit for individuals who are seated. Additionally, it features exceptionally soft pajamas, loungewear, and formal shirts and trousers equipped with concealed elastic waistbands.
Deciding which pieces to alter was challenging, Jenkins said. “We chose things that we could sell the adapted version at basically the same price as the non-adapted one. That was really important, the affordability.”
Prices commence at £5 for T-shirts featuring an adjustable neckline, while jeans, available in both seated and standing styles, are priced at £14. Additionally, men’s cargo pants, retailing at £22, are anticipated to be popular—described by Jenkins as “a bit 90s grunge, very on trend.” A little black dress is also available for £26.
Eliza Rain, a disabled activist and fashion vlogger, expressed enthusiasm regarding the current developments in the adaptive clothing sector. “Disabled people deserve to look and feel good, and they deserve to be able to buy their clothes in regular stores at a regular price,” Rain said.
The initiative to introduce the new clothing line was inspired by the positive reception of Primark's accessible lingerie, which has been on the market since January 2024. Following this, the brand undertook research that revealed 75% of respondents experienced challenges in finding accessible clothing, while seven out of ten indicated they tend to spend more on apparel, and 80% felt marginalized when it comes to purchasing trendy garments.
Adaptive fashion remains a rarity in mainstream retail. Marks & Spencer offers a selection for children, along with post-surgery bras and underwear designed for individuals with stomas.
Meanwhile, specialized adaptive brands are emerging, although their products are often priced at a premium.
Charlie Magadah-Williams, Primark’s head of diversity and inclusion, remarked that the new range is creating a “ripple effect,” and noted “We’re already thinking about what’s next.”
Primark's launch of its adaptive clothing range marks a significant step toward inclusivity in fashion. By offering stylish, functional, and affordable clothing tailored to the needs of individuals with disabilities, the brand is setting a new standard for accessibility in mainstream retail.
LATEST: Treasury Intervenes to Safeguard Car Loan Firms' Payouts.
The thoughtful design features, such as magnetic zippers, discreet access points for medical devices, and seated-friendly fits, ensure that everyone can enjoy fashion without compromise. This collection not only empowers disabled individuals to feel confident and comfortable but also paves the way for more inclusive initiatives across the industry, promoting equality in both style and accessibility.
The clothing line is set to be available in stores starting 28 January.
