A Viewpoint on Inclusive Design towards Portuguese Fashion Designers and Brands

Abstract

Some fashion brands and designers have been developing services and products in the last decade taking similarly, into consideration consumers that have some disability. Knowing that visual communication of a brand itself is not possible with unsighted consumers, it is necessary and relevant to investigate how consumers can create an emotional attachment with fashion brands. This paper aims to analyze the inclusive design approach and methods. Attending to the following question of investigation, “how visually impaired consumers are able to create an emotional relationship with fashion brands” the methodology for this paper is based on a mixed methodology. The literature review is based on scientific papers, informative articles, books, and report analysis. Regardless of the product or services, clothing brands established in Portugal usually do not have an inclusive approach. A set of hypotheses were formulated from the literature review analysis, which will be further tested using the data collected. It was not possible to set up the empirical study winch will be carried out in the future. This study will be of added value to guide future investigations and endorse the possible future success of fashion brands and designers in Portugal in the field of accessibility and inclusive design.