Fashion student creates clothing line for autistic children with sensory issues

A fashion student has created a line of clothes for children with autism who may struggle with sensory overload.

Farah Conn, who is in her final year of fashion technology at Heriot-Watt University, has invented her own brand of seaside-inspired garments that have ultra-soft fabrics, flattened seams and are label-free.

Dubbed Little Waves, Ms Conn’s collection is for children aged three to 12, and will later be featured at her university’s school of textiles and design at its Borders campus, Galashiels.

The student, of Biggar, South Lanarkshire, was inspired by parents, carers and professionals who support children with autism.

Ms Conn said: “Fashion technology is about solving real problems. I didn’t understand why children with autism should have fewer choices or less exciting clothing.

“I wanted to design garments that were calming and functional, but also joyful and inclusive, something children could feel good wearing.

“Through my own experiences speaking with parents and professionals, it became really clear to me that a lot of clothing available for autistic children simply isn’t designed with their needs or their individuality in mind.

“I wanted to solve a real problem and create garments that support sensory comfort while still being fun, inclusive and empowering. Autistic children deserve the same opportunities to feel confident and excited about what they wear as any other child.”

She added: “I’m incredibly proud to be presenting this work and to have had the opportunity to explore how fashion can make a genuine difference to people’s everyday lives.

“This project means a lot to me, and I hope it can be developed further after I graduate this summer, whether that’s through industry collaboration, further research or eventually becoming something that families can access more widely. I’d love to continue working in inclusive design and carry this approach forward into my career.”

Bruce Roberts, global head of fashion and textiles at Heriot-Watt University, helped Ms Conn throughout her project.

He said: “Farah’s project is an excellent example of what fashion technology at Heriot‑Watt is about – thoughtful, research‑led design that responds to real human needs.

“She approached this work with sensitivity, rigour and a clear sense of purpose, drawing on user insight and technical knowledge to create something genuinely innovative.

“It has been a privilege to support her through the process and see the confidence and clarity she’s developed as a designer.”

Ms Conn’s work is one of 90 projects to be showcased at the university’s textile and design degree show, which is open from Saturday, May 23-30 and is free to attend.