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UN/HINGED: The Adaptive Clothing Revolution That’s Changing Lives

For most people, getting dressed is a thoughtless part of the morning routine. But for the one in five Australians living with a disability, it can be an entirely different experience. Dressing isn’t just about looking good; it’s about finding clothes that are easy to put on, but don’t make you look like a sack of potatoes, support your daily routines, accommodate sensory needs, minimise pressure injuries, and provide the independence they deserve.

Tricky? Absolutely. Until now.

MEET CHRISTINA STEPHENS: FASHION THAT WORKS FOR YOU

Australian adaptive fashion label Christina Stephens understands these challenges and is reshaping what “getting dressed” means. Their latest UN/HINGED Collection focuses on making dressing effortless, comfortable, and stylish.

Designed with thoughtful details that cater to a wide range of abilities, UN/ HINGED offers clothing that is both functional and fashionable. From seamless jeans that prevent pressure sores to magnetic closures that simplify dressing, every piece is designed to give people more choice and confidence—because looking good should be for everyone.

WHY DOES ADAPTIVE FASHION MATTER?

Imagine standing in front of your wardrobe each morning, wondering not just what will look great, but what will actually work for your day.

For many people with disabilities, clothing needs to accommodate dexterity limitations, prosthetics, temperature sensitivities, and mobility aids—without looking clinical.

Take Emma, who lives with Parkinson’s and MS. “With my condition, my mobility and functioning vary throughout the day. Some days I can be active, and other days, even holding a phone is a challenge. Christina Stephens' clothing adapts to my needs, providing comfort and style no matter how I feel.”

For Rachel, who uses a wheelchair, it’s about comfort and dignity. “The Sapphire Dress is not only beautiful but functional. It’s so versatile - I can wear flats with it through the day or dress it up for evening wear and it looks amazing.”

She adds, “Because it’s linen it breathes and feels so comfortable. I love it so much. It makes me feel confident enough to go out without worrying about discomfort.”

For Alexa, a corporate professional, dressing well is part of her professional identity. “In the corporate world, your attire is your armour. Christina Stephens’ designs allow me to look the part without compromising on comfort or functionality.”

For International Women’s Day in March, Christina Stephens launched a campaign highlighting the impact of adaptive fashion on confidence, selfexpression, and comfort.

Featuring Alexa, the campaign showcases how clothing designed for accessibility can help individuals present themselves with confidence in high-level professional settings.

As someone who regularly engages with clients and boards, Alexa knows the power of dressing well—not just for appearances, but for how it makes her feel and move through her day.

THE ADAPTIVE DESIGN GAME CHANGERS

So, what makes the UN/HINGED Collection stand out?

Spill-Free & stain-resistant fabrics

Say goodbye to outfit changes after every meal. These fabrics repel liquids and stains, perfect for those with dexterity or mobility challenges.

Magnetic closures

Buttons and zippers can be a nightmare for people with limited hand function. Hidden magnetic fastenings make dressing easier without sacrificing style.

Seamless comfort

Pressure sores are a serious concern for wheelchair users. The UN/HINGED Collection includes seam-free jeans and tops to prevent injury, friction, irritation, and discomfort.

Stylish adaptions

No one wants to wear hospital-style clothing. These pieces are designed to be seen, with stunning linen dresses, tailored jackets, and premium denim that look and feel refined.

Temperature regulation

Many people with MS or limb loss struggle with heat sensitivity. Lightweight, breathable materials ensure all-day comfort. On the flipside, people with spinal cord injuries can really feel the cold. Our lab-created fabrics are created from engineered fibres to enhance the warmth of our garments, such as our refined fleece lined denim.

A COMMUNITY-DRIVEN APPROACH

Unlike mainstream fashion brands that occasionally dabble in adaptive wear, Christina Stephens builds every collection based on real customer insights.

Through dedicated design focus groups, they listen to people living with disability to understand everything from fabric preferences to accessibility challenges. These sessions have led to meaningful innovations, like waist-adjustable jeans that accommodate changing body shapes, structured blazers with easy-stretch panels and magnetic closures designed for professionals, and pants with discreet side and crotch zippers to support daily routines. The brand has also created stylish bathrobes and cover-ups specifically for people who need comfortable, practical options after hydrotherapy or at-home care. By collaborating directly with their community, Christina Stephens ensures that each collection is thoughtfully designed to meet real-world needs.

"Every person's needs are different, and even an individual's needs can change throughout the day,” says founder Jessie Sadler. "That's why diverse customer feedback is at the heart of everything we create.”

AWARD-WINNING INNOVATION

The UN/HINGED Collection isn’t just changing lives—it’s making waves in the industry. Christina Stephens was recently honoured with the ATSA Product Innovation Award 2024, solidifying its reputation as a leader in adaptive fashion.

The brand is also a featured exhibitor at the ATSA Expos in Melbourne and Perth, where customers can experience the latest designs in person.

THE FUTURE OF ADAPTIVE FASHION

With rapid growth and increasing demand, Christina Stephens is expanding its vision for adaptive fashion. The team continues to develop lab-created textiles designed to regulate body temperature, helping those with conditions like MS and spinal cord injuries stay comfortable throughout the day.

They are also refining professional wear for corporate settings, ensuring that individuals who need adaptive clothing can still maintain a polished and sophisticated look at work. In response to customer feedback, the brand is exploring swimwear innovations that make dressing and undressing easier, removing common barriers for those who struggle with tight-fitting or water-heavy fabrics.

Beyond product development, Christina Stephens is also focusing on expanding their reach beyond shipping to Australia, NZ, US, UK, and Canada, ensuring that even more people around the world can access stylish, functional clothing that meets their needs.

And the most exciting part? They’ve opened their Brisbane design office as a showroom, where retail and wholesale customers can touch, feel, experience adaptive pieces with expert guidance.

Jake from the US, living with cerebral palsy, praises the brand, saying, "I think you have one of the coolest clothing brands, quite frankly, whether it's adaptive or not. Your clothing is great.”

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

Want to experience the UN/ HINGED Collection for yourself?

Shop online: www.christinastephens.com.au

EXCLUSIVE LINK MAGAZINE OFFER:

Enjoy $30 off your first order over $150 with free shipping by joining the Christina Stephens mailing list.

For LINK readers: Use code TheUNHINGED_LINK_10 for an extra 10% off your order!

NDIS approved & instant quotes available for plan managers.

Christina Stephens isn’t just selling clothes. They’re reshaping fashion to make it truly inclusive, functional, and stylish. Whether you need easy-dressing solutions, pressure relief, or just want to feel amazing in what you wear, this is the brand that gets it right.

Because everyone deserves to dress with confidence and ease.

Visit us at ATSA Expo Perth Stand #318 and Stand #546 Melbourne.