Aerie Launches Intimates For Disabled Persons And They’re Actually Cute
By Mikelle Leow, 30 Aug 2022
When all the focus is on function, oftentimes, form gets neglected. That’s not always a bad thing; however, with intimates, you’ll want them to look good to feel good—they’re kind of like a less-visible version of putting on a red lippy.
American Eagle’s underwear line Aerie has thus turned to adaptive intimates brand Liberare to create comfy undergarments that validate disabled people’s beauty and ensure they feel comfortable in their own skin. The Aerie x Liberare collection is the latest lineup of its kind, joining the adaptive Slick Chicks series that Aerie already carries.
While adaptive wear can look utilitarian, these pieces are notably chic and simple, with lovely lace detailing.
The line’s functional bras, including a plunge bralette, are worn from the front and use a magnetized interlocking mechanism, instead of hook-and-eye fasteners. As such, they’re accessible for wearers with limited dexterity or hand mobility issues.
New lace undies have thread side-openers for wearers to easily put them on while seated or lying down. Magnetic closures sit at both hips to ensure the panties fit snugly on the body at all times.
Not to mention, they feature a romantic, fully sheer back.
Meanwhile, the range’s bikini bottoms replace waistbands with side-openers that are made of fabric-covered, extra-soft velcro.
Both versions of undies have grip loops and are cut higher at the waistline to accommodate seated and non-seated bodies.
“Most adaptive apparel is medical or ugly. It isn’t cute, and feminine, and sexy. There isn’t much out there for disabled people to feel beautiful in,” says Liberare’s Chief Creative Officer Alyssa Silva, who has type-one spinal muscular atrophy. “So we worked hard to really get that across in our first line. But also we are a team comprised of disabled people and nondisabled allies.”
You can find out more about the collection here.
[via Cosmopolitan and Forbes, images via Aerie]