10 adaptive and sensory-friendly kids clothing brands that don’t sacrifice style

Practically every parent on the planet has struggled with getting their kids dressed at some point. From complaints about shoes that are “too squeezy” to shirts with itchy tags and socks that bunch, it’s bound to happen at some point. However, for kids with diagnoses like Autism , Sensory-Processing Disorder or other special needs, solutions are non-negotiable.

Luckily adaptive clothing for kids is a quickly growing market. With features like flat seams, compression and soft, breathable materials, there are now tons of inclusive wardrobe options. We’ve rounded up some of best kids’ clothing brands that offer sensory-friendly and adaptive styles that kids will enjoy wearing—ones that don’t trade practicality for style.

From shirts and dresses, to shoes and even masks, check out the adaptive clothing for kids we’re loving right now.

Primary

Primary

We’ve long loved Primary for their simple mix-and-match clothes that make it easy to get kids dressed (and even dress themselves. 🙌. ) But what’s more, their bold, colorful pieces are also made from soft, cozy fabrics with flat seams and no scratchy tags.

Don’t miss:

• The Classic Leggings that come in all the colors of the rainbow (and then some!)
• The Reversible Swing Dress with a 2-in-1 design that makes “inside out” a thing of the past

Appaman

Appaman

Appaman has always offered funky, super-cool kid styles and we couldn’t be more thrilled to see they’ve expanded into adaptive options. Developed in partnership with Gamut management x Runway of Dreams, they’ve created a unique capsule collection with ease of dressing features, including VELCRO® closures and internal pull-up loops that keep kids looking cool no matter what their needs may be.

Don’t miss:

• The impossibly rad metallic leggings
• The super-soft white “button down” beach shirt that closes with velcro

Target

Target Cat & Jack Adaptive

As if we needed another reason to love Target, the continued expansion of their Cat & Jack Adaptive line would do it. Since its launch in 2017, the affordable, easy-access line has grown to include wheel-chair-friendly options and clothes that offer abdominal access among the tagless, flat seam sensory-friendly pieces they’ve always offered. The line also comes with a one year guarantee (with a receipt), so go ahead and return those holey leggings!

Don’t miss:

• This super rad dinosaur button down that actually features snaps
• Pull on knit shorts that kids can live in all summer

Kozie Clothes

Kozie Clothes

For kiddos who benefit from the calming effects of compression, Kozie Clothes has all the wardrobe basics they need. Launched in 2013 by a Pediatric Occupational Therapist with a Certification in Sensory Integration, their therapeutic pieces are made with four-way stretch to offer gentle, deep pressure that can help ease anxiety or counteract responses linked to ADHD, Autism, or SPD.

Don’t miss:

• The plain and simple short sleeve compression shirt which works as a first layer or all on its own
• Sensory compression pants that stay comfy even as they play

Independence Day Clothing

Independence Day Clothing

Launched in 2015 by a mom who wanted to help her son with autism get dressed on his own, Independence Day Clothing helps kids with special needs feel confident and stylish without frustration. Everything in the line is soft and sensory-friendly, with no buttons, zippers, collars, or tags, and best of all? Everything can be worn inside out and backward.

Don’t miss:

• Their multicolored T-shirt dress which swirls and twirls
• Surf and Turf shorts that come equipped with plenty of pockets for treasure holding

Kohl’s

Kohl’s adaptive line

Kohl’s is setting a new standard for what it means to be inclusive. Recently they’ve expanded three in-house lines (Jumping Beans, Urban Pipeline and SO) to include all kinds of features like two-way zippers, wider necks and hems and even diaper friendly pieces in larger sizes. But what we appreciate most is the fact that kids with special needs don’t have to choose between clothes that work and clothes they want. The Jumping Beans line features a Disney collaboration they’ll love. Buzz Lightyear T-shirt? Check. Minnie Mouse dress? No problem!

Don’t miss:

• The adaptive twill pants with an elastic waist and easy-on hook and loop closure hems
• The tag-free, flat seam swing dress which comes in a fun unicorn print

NoNetz

NoNetz

From bunching up to getting sand in all the wrong places, swim trunks are uncomfortable by design. Luckily, NoNetz has that problem solved. Instead of the typical netting, their anti-chafe swim shorts feature a super soft liner that extends down the thigh. And, to ensure that there are no points of discomfort, each design is tested by texture-sensitive children. With no tags, a lined waistband and light, water-resistant fabrics, summer just became fun again.

Don’t miss:

• Each style of swim trunks which also boast a 50+ UPF rating.

Plae

Plae Shoes

As a design-focused brand, Plae shoes have always been a top choice for developing feet. But with the addition of their adaptive-friendly line, they even work for little ones with ankle-foot orthotics, high insteps or other mobility support needs. Not only are they comfy and super easy to put on thanks to pull tabs in the back, a wide opening and added ankle support, but they also come in the most fun and stylish colors with interchangeable pull tabs for customization.

Don’t miss:

• The sporty mary-jane style Emmy with its silver metallic finish
• The funky Max hightop that’s ready for adventure

SmartKnit

SmartKnit

For kids with SPD, sock seams can be a real no-go. SmartKnit’s well, smart design is truly seamless, with no seams inside or out. They’re also made with no defined heel, making them easy to slip on without help.

Don’t miss:

• Their 3-packs which are available in ankle, crew and knee-high styles.
• Their seamless undies for boys and girls which are free of seams and elastic but still don’t bunch or squeeze.

Rafi Nova

Rafi Nova

For kids who struggle with mask-wearing, Rafi Nova has the mask you’re looking for. Their sensory-friendly mask which was developed in collaboration with EasterSeals SoCal features minimal seaming and structure to keep it away from the mouth along with comfy straps and a mulberry silk inside for maximum softness.

Don’t miss :

• The mask which is available in sizes for little kids, big kids and even adults.

We independently select and share the products we love—and may receive a commission if you choose to buy. You’ve got this.