The Mighty Logo

Marks & Spencer Launches Line of School Uniforms for Kids on the Autism Spectrum

The most helpful emails in health
Browse our free newsletters

School uniforms aren’t known for being comfortable, but for many children with sensory sensitivities, wearing the same restrictive clothing every day can feel downright impossible. Now, thanks to U.K. retailer Marks & Spencer, children on the autism spectrum and kids with disabilities can buy school uniform basics without having to compromise their comfort.

For its “Easy Dressing” line, Marks & Spencer partnered with The National Autistic Society to create a shirt and pants set that is uniform compliant for all children, regardless of gender. The line was designed to maximize comfort for those on the autism spectrum.

This is the company’s second adaptive clothing line. The first line, which came out earlier this year, includes onesies for toddlers and older children with disabilities.

All Easy Dressing items are designed to be just that – easy to put on. The shirts, which look like button-down shirts, are fastened with soft velcro. Making life easier for parents, the shirts are also wrinkle- and stain-resistant. The pants are pull-on trousers, eliminating the need for buttons and zippers. The care instructions and tags are moved inside a pocket to eliminate discomfort and itching. For additional comfort, the back pockets have also been removed. Like the shirts, the pants are stain-resistant as well as water-repellant.

A highlight of the line is its affordability. A pack of two shirts will cost between $12 and $21, depending on size. The sizes are designed to fit children between the ages of 3 and 16. The pants, which are also sold in pairs, retail from between $17 and $26. Although Marks & Spencer is a U.K. brand, the school uniforms qualify for international shipping to the U.S. and other countries.

According to the Marks & Spencer website, 10 percent of the sale price of the Easy Dressing garments will be donated to The National Autistic Society.

Marks & Spencer could not be reached for comment.

Originally published: August 5, 2016
Want more of The Mighty?
You can find even more stories on our Home page. There, you’ll also find thoughts and questions by our community.
Take Me Home