TRANSLATING RESEARCH INTO INDUSTRY

2nd April 2023

So delighted to share that I’ve been awarded funding from NTNU Discovery to translate the insights from my PhD research into the Norwegian fashion industry.

From the very start of the PhD I was determined that the research would not just end-up inside a thesis gathering dust on a shelf. I want it to have a real life impact for my participants and beyond. My ambition is to make tangible changes in the fashion industry that will result in better choices for those with sensory issues with clothing; approaching clothing as a tool for inclusion.

At least 1% of the population is on the autism spectrum. Irritating sensory inputs can have a detrimental impact on their well-being. On the other hand, good sensations can have a beneficial impact both physically and mentally. This also holds for up to 5% of the population that have ADHD. I really do believe that the sensations that surround us affect everyone, whether we are conscious of it or not. We all benefit from sensory nourishment.

There are strong patterns emerging from the research in terms of problematic fabric content, how garments are constructed and movement restrictions. However, the challenge is that each of us have a unique sensory profile resulting in very personal sensory preferences. This is at odds with the mass-production of clothing to which we have become accustomed.

I will use this pre-project funding to identify opportunities that allow for customisation of clothing design within local design practices and European manufacturing processes. I’m already in discussions with some potential industry collaborators but would love to connect with more! The intention is to work part-time on building this network until the end of the year, in parallel with finishing my PhD.