Sensory-Responsive Fashion: Sense-ational You's Revolution in Clothing Design
Julia and her little model are wearing the Sound Reducing Sensory Hoodie. Image Credit: Sense-ational You
Amidst an industry frequently lacking in addressing diverse requirements, Sense-ational You is up for the challenge: Crafted under the visionary leadership of Julia DeNey, this pioneering brand is shattering conventions by crafting apparel that not only exudes style but also prioritizes the unique sensory sensitivities of youngsters with autism spectrum disorder and sensory processing disorder.
Julia's journey began during her college years at Cornell University, where she was majoring in fashion design. Her involvement with a local autism preschool through her sorority work opened her eyes to the struggles faced by parents of autistic children when it came to finding suitable clothing. Educators and parents shared stories of challenges, from tags causing discomfort to fabrics not aligning with sensory needs. Julia's inquisitive mind was ignited and thus began her independent study into this neglected area.
"I just fell in love with the kids and the need there and just couldn't imagine not doing it anymore”
Upon graduating in 2020, Julia's passion led her to launch Sense-ational You. She was driven by the conviction that the fashion industry had ignored mainly a significant portion of children with sensory sensitivities, and she was determined to bring recognition and acceptance to this often-overlooked group.
"I just fell in love with the kids and the need there and just couldn't imagine not doing it anymore," Julia recalls.
What sets Sense-ational You apart is its commitment to both functionality and aesthetics. The brand aims to provide clothing that addresses sensory needs and looks stylish and trendy. The designs are carefully crafted to integrate sensory-friendly features seamlessly. Every clothing aspect is designed to prioritize comfort, from tag-free clothes and flat seams to magnetic closures and carefully chosen fabrics.
The brand aims to keep growing and offering more options that cater to various sensory needs, making inclusivity a hallmark of fashion.
In an exclusive interview with Julia, she shares insights into her brand's mission and challenges. She emphasizes that Sense-ational You is not just for autistic children; all kids benefit from its features. The clothing supports sensory needs and fosters independence and inclusivity, aligning with the brand's larger vision of promoting autism acceptance.
Julia's dedication to ethical practices and sustainability is also evident. She works with manufacturers that prioritize fair wages and ethical treatment of workers. The brand is committed to transparency and ensuring its supply chain reflects its values.
Feedback from the community has been a driving force for Sense-ational You's growth. Parents and autistic individuals have shared their stories and provided insights into the brand's offerings. Julia actively engages with the community through social media and email, using these interactions to refine and improve the products.
As Sense-ational You looks to the future, Julia envisions expanding its product line while staying true to its core values. The brand aims to keep growing and offering more options that cater to various sensory needs, making inclusivity a hallmark of fashion. While challenges are inevitable, Julia's passion and commitment shine through, making Sense-ational You a beacon of hope for the autistic community and a reminder that fashion can and should be for everyone.
All images provided by Julia DeNey/Sense-ational You