Rethinking Design for Inclusivity
The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York has launched the ‘Adapt/Evolve’ exhibition, spotlighting adaptive and inclusive design across fashion, footwear, graphic, interior, and toy disciplines. This multidisciplinary showcase challenges the perception of adaptive design as a niche, positioning it as an essential and creative frontier. FIT Dean Troy Richards captures this vision, stating, “Adaptive design is not a category to be sidelined but a powerful arena for innovation that champions dignity and autonomy for all users.” The exhibition runs through January 13, 2025, emphasizing a future where design serves diverse needs without compromising style.
Practical Innovations Emphasizing Dignity and Style
Among the featured contributors, Slick Chicks exemplifies the seamless integration of function and fashion with its innovative fastening systems. Founder Helya Mohammadian describes their approach: “Our products are designed to offer independence and confidence, removing barriers with stylish simplicity.” By rethinking traditional design elements, Slick Chicks and other participants demonstrate how adaptive design directly enhances daily life, proving its relevance beyond the immediate user group and inspiring broader creative applications.
Inspiration for London’s Creative Scene
While ‘Adapt/Evolve’ takes place in New York, its themes resonate globally, encouraging London’s creative professionals to engage with evolving standards of inclusive design. The exhibition signals a shift toward accessible creativity as a key driver for future innovation across industries. For designers and cultural innovators in London, this represents an opportunity to pioneer adaptive solutions that celebrate diversity, enrich user experience, and position the city at the forefront of socially responsive design innovation.
