When clothes attack: a guide to sensory challenges

Ah, clothing & getting dressed. What should be a simple part of daily life can turn into an Olympic event when a child has sensory sensitivities. Tags, seams, tightness, texture, even colour can all be potential triggers.  

Here’s a closer look at the kinds of issues that can come up—and a few tips for finding solutions that just might help avoid meltdowns.

It starts with sensory sensitivities

For many children sensory processing issues, clothing discomforts show up early. Certain fabrics can feel like sandpaper on their skin, and tags may seem harmless but can be little terrors for some kids.

• Tags, seams, and fabric Issues: Tags and seams can be major sources of discomfort. Many parents end up cutting out tags, only to hear, “It still scratches!” Soft, tagless clothing and flat seams have been game-changers for a lot of families.
• The tightness factor: Too loose, and it’s sliding around annoyingly; too tight, and it’s like being trapped in a sensory prison. Finding that perfect fit sometimes feels like searching for a unicorn.

These seemingly small things can add up to big emotions. And as children get older, social situations start to factor in, bringing a new layer of challenges.

The social style dilemma

As kids grow, clothing stops being just about comfort—it’s also about fitting in. There comes a time when dressing “appropriately” becomes necessary, which can be a major challenge for some children.

• Fashion vs. function: Social norms dictate “appropriate” attire, especially for school events, family gatherings, or professional environments. For children with sensory sensitivities, anything outside their comfort zone can feel like torture, making it hard to dress for the occasion.
• The independence paradox: Growing up often means gaining more independence, including over clothing choices. But in this case, independence can be tricky. Many families want to respect their child’s preferences without sacrificing comfort or compromising basic social norms.

Navigating the world of sensory-friendly and socially acceptable attire can lead to a closet filled with clothes that meet the bare minimum of social standards. Comfort is still king, but here are some ways to make it work.

Practical solutions (some tried-and-true hacks)

Through a lot of trial and error, some solutions have been found that work for many families:

• Adaptive clothing options: Adaptive clothing has become a lifesaver for many. These items are designed with sensory-friendly materials and often feature closures on the back, where kids can’t fiddle with them as easily. Look for elastic waistbands and minimal fasteners.
• Multiples of the same item: When a comfortable piece is found—say, a soft, tagless T-shirt that isn’t “too scratchy” or “too tight”—it can be a good idea to buy in bulk. Many parents stock up on several of the same shirt in different colours, ensuring at least a few options that are comfortable.
• Gradual introduction of new clothes: It’s often best not to introduce new clothes all at once. Many families have had success introducing items in stages. First, it just stays around the house; then, it’s tried on at home. Only when it’s comfortable does it go out into the world.
• Social stories and visual Supports: Visuals and social stories can be great for explaining why certain clothes are needed for specific situations. These help lay out expectations and can give children a sense of control.

Now, about that workplace…

For young adults, the idea of “professional attire” adds a whole new level of complexity. Many workplaces require business casual, which can feel like a straitjacket to someone with sensory sensitivities.

• Advocating for accommodations: Comfort is essential, so many families find it worthwhile to talk to employers, supervisors, or anyone who will listen about sensory needs. Often, there’s a way to meet the dress code without sacrificing comfort.
• Focusing on confidence: The right outfit can offer a sense of confidence without needing to be formal. Sometimes, a well-fitting sweater or comfortable slacks work just fine.

The ups and downs of clothing choices

The journey with clothing can be long and filled with many small victories. Here are a few takeaways that seem to work well for families:

• Respect their choices: It’s okay to pick battles. If wearing the same shirt every day provides confidence, it’s often worth supporting that choice. Celebrate individuality and allow your child or young adult to grow into the person they want to be!
• Know when to compromise: They don’t have to look like a runway model, but some outfits can meet the minimum for social norms.
• Celebrate small wins: Adding a new piece to the rotation or finding an outfit that’s work-friendly without causing sensory discomfort is a win worth celebrating.

In the end, the closet might look a bit unconventional, but that’s just fine. The journey with clothing, as it turns out, is really about finding balance, respecting boundaries, and embracing individuality and personal choice.