Adaptive fashion: Inclusive clothing that fits – and is visible

Adaptive fashion is clothing that adapts to different body types and needs – without compromising on style. Major brands such as Zalando and young designers such as Ann-Sophie Schälicke are setting new standards in terms of inclusion. The focus is on visibility, everyday practicality, and self-determination. Our gallery shows examples from the current fashion world.

In brief: What does adaptive fashion mean?

Clothing that takes functional needs into account
Practical details: e.g., magnetic closures or flexible cuts
Suitable for different body postures, e.g., sitting or standing
Goal: more self-determination, comfort, and fashion diversity

How adaptive fashion is created – with Zalando, Ottobock, and the community

For a long time, adaptive clothing was considered a niche product – functional, but rarely fashionable. That is changing: More and more labels are developing collections that are aesthetically appealing and break down barriers at the same time.

This development is particularly evident at Zalando: the company has strategically integrated adaptive fashion into its range and, since 2022, has doubled it to over 600 styles – from shoes and sportswear to children's collections.

An additional boost comes from the collaboration with Ottobock, a regular exhibitor at REHACARE. Together, they have created garments that have been developed in close consultation with users – with thoughtful details such as magnetic fasteners, easy donning, and functional materials. The Taleo Adjust prosthetic foot also enriches the adaptive portfolio: it allows freedom in shoe selection – from sneakers to high heels (0–7 cm).

At the same time, Zalando also promotes young designers – for example, through the Design Academy ADAPT, a program in cooperation with VORN – The Berlin Fashion Hub. Among the ten finalists was Ann Sophie Schälicke, whose adaptive creations – including a trench coat with magnetic adjustment options – were presented during Berlin Fashion Week. She is a prime example of a new generation of inclusive design talents whose fashion is both stylish and functional.

Sounds exciting? Find out more about the Design Academy finalists and their adaptive fashion creations at Berlin Fashion Week here!

Gallery: Adaptive fashion in images

In our gallery, you will find selected examples of adaptive looks and clever details that show what inclusive fashion looks like today.

Detailed shots of an adaptive trench coat: magnetic buttons and non-slip pocket design.

Detailed shots of the adaptive trench coat by designer Ann-Sophie Schälicke: Magnetic buttons make it easier to close, and a special shoulder strap secures the handbag—for more comfort and independence in everyday life. © A.Schaelicke

Rear view of a trench coat in two lengths, removable back section.

Model Ayleen shows two ways to wear the adaptive trench coat: the back section can be removed with a zipper – practical when sitting in a wheelchair, for example. © A.Schaelicke

Model in a wheelchair with a shortened trench coat, fabric does not hang down at the back.

The adaptive trench coat is also suitable for everyday use when sitting: no excess fabric at the back, high wearing comfort – without compromising on style. © A.Schaelicke

Black sports leggings with long and short legs, suitable for people with prosthetic legs.

One leg long, one leg short: Zalando's asymmetrical sports leggings are an example of adaptive fashion that adapts to different needs – for example, for people with prostheses. © Zalando

Sports jacket with removable sleeves, adaptive clothing for arm prostheses.

The sleeves of this sports jacket can be removed thanks to zippers. This helps people with arm prostheses or limited mobility, for example. © Zalando

Sports pants with zippers and grip rings, easy to use

Details with impact: The grip rings on the sports pants make them easier to open and close – a small feature with a big impact for greater independence. © Zalando

Two women with prosthetic legs and heeled shoes, both wearing the Taleo Adjust

Taleo Adjust: The prosthetic foot can be adjusted to different heel heights – from sneakers to pumps. © Ottobock

Woman with lower leg prosthesis and high heels uses Taleo Adjust

Confident, stylish, individual: Taleo Adjust allows you to wear high heels – even with a lower leg prosthesis. © Ottobock

Close-up: Hand pressing button to adjust height on Taleo Adjust prosthetic foot

Adjustable at the touch of a button: Taleo Adjust allows spontaneous shoe changes – and more flexibility in everyday life. © Ottobock

Voices from the industry – on diversity and function

Zalando: Progress through product range expansion

Zalando was one of the first major fashion companies in Europe to strategically integrate adaptive fashion into its product range. The development goes far beyond symbolic individual pieces.

"Diversity and inclusion are firmly anchored in Zalando's strategy, and the progress made in the area of adaptive fashion is impressive proof of this," says Pascal Brun, Vice President of Sustainability and D&I at Zalando. "Since 2022, we have successfully doubled our adaptive fashion range and in 2024 we already offered over 600 styles in categories such as shoes, sportswear, and children's clothing. This strategic expansion not only fills an important gap in the market, but also underscores our commitment to meeting the diverse needs of our more than 52 million active customers."

More about Zalando's commitment to adaptive fashion.

Ann-Sophie Schälicke: Perspective of a designer with a disability

Two women in wheelchairs: model Ayleen and designer Ann-Sophie Schälicke

As a wheelchair user, Berlin-based designer Ann-Sophie Schälicke has her own requirements when it comes to clothing – and she brings this experience to her designs. Her emerging label "A.Schaelicke" stands for clean lines, versatility, and functionality with attitude.

"Empowerment through design – this adaptive trench coat is more than just fashion. It is an ally in your everyday life, supporting you with elegance, functionality, and true inclusivity. Thanks to the magnetic adjustment options from Fildan Accessories, it easily adapts to different body postures and ensures style and comfort in every position – whether you are a rolling or walking fashionista!"

Experience adaptive fashion live – Zalando at REHACARE 2025

Zalando will be exhibiting at REHACARE 2025 this year. Visitors can find out more about the company's commitment to adaptive fashion on site.

Hall 4, Booth J18

To Zalando's exhibitor profile at REHACARE 2025

Further articles on fashion:

Inclusive fashion has long been more than just a niche topic – even on REHACARE.com. These articles focus on style, self-determination, and innovative approaches:

Nadine Lormis smiles in to the camera; Copyright: Victoria Emanuel

Author: Nadine Lormis | REHACARE eMag

Nadine Lormis has been writing about (digital) developments in the assistive technology sector, self-determined living and inclusion for over 15 years. As editorial director of the REHACARE eMag, she is closely networked with the community of people with disabilities and chronic illnesses – both professionally and personally.

published on: August 21, 2025

Gif animation: REHACARE 2026 from 23 to 26 September 2026 in Düsseldorf/Germany, linked to "More information about the Trade Fair"

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Several children's wheelchairs in different colors hang side by side on a wall at REHACARE.