Subject
A young graphic designer with cerebral palsy. She likes fashion and often uses a single crutch and wheelchair together but has to compromise on style, especially when using the latter. Coat sleeves are 'ruined in seconds' by dirt from the wheels leaving her feeling scruffy and disorientated.
Brief
To design an evening glove for wheelchair users that should be glamorous, fashionable, washable, protective around the wrists, hardwearing, have a heat regulatory function (given the circulation difficulties of wearers with cerebral palsy), and be seen as a fashion accessory rather than just functional.
Concept
The glove fabric accommodates a fluctuating body temperature and would be reinforced to stop abrasion on the wheelchair. The wrist straps are customisable and adaptable and can be changed according to the outfit. Boning and support are inserted inside the gloves in stitched channels (i.e. for people with arthritis etc). The same principle could apply to socks. The team called its innovation the SLUG (Supported Long Universal Glove).
