If you work in a professional environment you are likely faced with the need to carefully follow a corporate dress code. If you have a medical condition that requires clothing to help improve your health this can be a challenge. While it is certainly possible to request adaptations to the dress code, many employees would prefer to blend in with their coworkers while still fulfilling their health needs. Fortunately, today’s fashion makes this easier than ever with clothing designed to both look professional and function to improve your health.

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Socks and Hosiery

Let’s start with what is often the least visible but nonetheless essential, hosiery and socks. There are many medical conditions which necessitate the use of compression therapy products like compression socks or pantyhose. These have long been an established therapeutic component in treating conditions such as varicose veins, DVT, edema, lymphedema, and venous insufficiency. However, until recently it was very obvious that the socks or hosiery one was wearing was designed to be a medical treatment. They were opaque and often quite unattractive.

Thankfully, that has steadily changed over the past decade. It is now virtually impossible to distinguish dress socks or luxury hosiery from their medical counterparts. This is a significant upgrade to those working in professional settings where it is often still necessary for women to wear pantyhose and men are expected to have socks which are as fashionable as their tie.

Adaptive Clothing

Adaptive clothing can mean a variety of things depending on the adaptation the individual is looking for. However, it is most frequently used to describe clothing which has been designed for shoppers who use a wheelchair. These individuals face styling and fit challenges that are unique and designers must take these into consideration when creating business, casual, and evening wear for this consumer population.

Finding a clothing line that embraces fashion and functionality can be a challenge for individuals with medical devices or physical restrictions. It is just as important for a man or woman who is confined to a wheelchair to have access to gorgeous professional clothing as it is for anyone else. Some people think that simply means shopping in the same stores as their coworkers, but that isn’t always possible. Fortunately, there are many designers who are creating stunning pieces that are specifically tailored for those with adaptive needs. Some of the most popular include AG Apparel, IZ Adaptive, and MagnaReady.

Sensory Processing Friendly Clothing.

Individuals with sensory processing disorders often find compression or weighted items help them remain calm and focused throughout their day. This has become a common clothing consideration for many autistic children who are able to wear weighted vests or take weighted blankets with them when they travel or need to focus in school. While these are great solutions for children and are possibilities for adults, they do not necessarily promote the professional image many businesses prefer.

There are several ways to achieve the deep pressure needed to alleviate the symptoms of sensory disorders that are not visible to coworkers. Shorts and leggings can be worn under dress pants or skirts that provide the necessary compression. Form fitting shirts and vests that provide the same function can be worn under business shirts or tops.

Dressing to Impress

Regardless of your medical condition, disability, or company dress code it is important to always dress to impress when going to work. In part, this is to make a good impression to your employer and coworkers but the real benefit is in how it will make you feel about yourself. When you feel handsome or beautiful in what you are wearing that will translate into more confidence and professionalism in your attitude.

It is important to recognize and embrace exactly what it is that makes you feel stunning and powerful and then actively curate a wardrobe that incorporates those components to the best of your ability. Clothes should fit properly and reflect the general business culture of the environment while also allowing you to make a personal statement about your individual style.

Try not to look at a business dress code as a thing to be endured. Rather, look at it as an opportunity to learn more about the fashion industry and how far it has come in making sure all people are able to dress fashionably regardless of any health problems or conditions they may face.