SOUR has partnered with Open Style Lab, a non-profit organization with the mission of making style accessible to people of all abilities, to host the 2019 Summer Program, where international research fellows in the fields of design, engineering and occupational therapy came together to research accessible methods and tools to hack and alter wearables. Working together with NYU Langone Health Initiative for Women with Disabilities (IWD), OSL has developed an accessible toolkit by customizing grips, supplies and instructions through 3D printing, laser cutting and most importantly through feedback of the IWD young women and teenage girls that were integral to the process. Through such kits, the aim is not only to hack clothing as needed basis, but also to empower people with disabilities through making and STEAM skills, ultimately allowing greater independence. Sponsors of the summer program included Macy’s, The Woolmark Company and Convene.
The initial prototypes were presented at Convene, 237 Park Avenue, on Friday, August 23rd and feedback was collected from the guest judges: Mama Cax – Model and Disability Advocate, Kimberly Drew – Curator, Blogger and Influencer, Becca McCharen-Tran – Founder of Chromat, Aya Kanai – Chief Fashion Director, Hearst and Kayleigh McCann – Design Director, Mens Alfani Macys
SOUR is continuing to collaborate with OSL on other research projects in the topics of inclusive built environments, as well as accessible assistive devices. The projects and initial outcomes will be announced by end of 2019.
Open Style Lab (OSL) is 501(c)3 organization dedicated to creating functional wearable solutions for people of all abilities without compromising on style. To learn more about the organization or donate, please visit www.openstylelab.org
