POLITECNICO DI MILANO

School of Design

VIEWBRANCE: A Fashion Design-driven

Approach to Guiding and Empowering the
Blind Through Assistive Technologies

Masters of Science Thesis - DESIGN FOR THE FASHION SYSTEM

Supervisor: Carlo Emilio Standoli
Student: Ana Alice Alves Santos
Matricola 990051
ACADEMIC YEAR 2022-2023
ABSTRACT

This research tackles the daily challenges
encountered by visually impaired individuals,
with particular emphasis on the difficulties
they face in terms of guidance, exploring
how the fusion of fashion and technology
can offer empowerment to this community
through the utilization of wearable devices.
It explores the intersection between fashion,
technology, and the needs of the visually
impaired community, with the overarching
goal to empower individuals with visual
impairments by harnessing the potential of
inclusive design, assistive technology, and
innovative fashion integration.
This thesis concludes by presenting
Viewbrance, a wearable device designed
with a deep commitment to inclusivity and
self-expression in fashion, based on the
insights gained during this research.
Viewbrance offers visually impaired
individuals a unique means of navigating
the world with unshakable confidence and
distinctive style. The thesis argues that
Viewbrance is a valuable contribution to
the field of inclusive design and provides a
roadmap for how fashion and technology
can be used to empower, guide and include
people with visual impairments.

The thesis begins by examining the historical

context of the visually impaired community,
highlighting the challenges they have faced
in societal integration. It then explores the role
of fashion as a medium for self-expression,
identity formation, and communication,
particularly for a community that relies heavily
on tactile and sensory experiences.

Then, the discussion of the integration of

assistive technology into fashion is developed,
arguing that this convergence has the potential
to revolutionize navigation for the visually
impaired, promoting autonomy and confidence
in complex environments. The thesis uses the
participatory design methodology through a
series of interviews and questionnaires, along
with the double diamond model, emphasizing
the importance of a collaborative design,
ensuring that the voices and perspectives of
visually impaired individuals themselves play
a central role in shaping this transformative
landscape.
ABSTRACT

Esta pesquisa aborda os desafios diários
enfrentados por pessoas com deficiência visual,
com ênfase nas dificuldades que enfrentam
em termos de orientação, explorando como a
fusão entre moda e tecnologia pode oferecer
empoderamento a essa comunidade por meio
da utilização de dispositivos vestíveis. A
pesquisa explora a intersecção entre moda,
tecnologia e as necessidades de pessoas com
deficiência visual, com o objetivo geral de
empoderá-los por meio do potencial do design
inclusivo, da tecnologia assistiva e da integração
inovadora da moda.
A tese começa examinando o contexto
histórico da comunidade, destacando os
desafios que eles enfrentam relacionados à
integração social. Em seguida, explora o papel
da moda como meio de auto expressão,
formação de identidade e comunicação,
especialmente para uma comunidade que
depende muito de experiências táteis e
sensoriais.
Esta tese conclui apresentando o Viewbrance,
um dispositivo vestível projetado com um
profundo compromisso com a inclusão e a auto
expressão na moda, com base nas percepções
obtidas durante esta pesquisa. O Viewbrance
oferece às pessoas com deficiência visual um
meio único de navegar pelo mundo com
confiança inabalável e estilo distinto. A
tese argumenta que o Viewbrance é uma
contribuição valiosa para o campo do design
inclusivo e fornece um roteiro sobre como
moda e tecnologia podem ser usadas para
capacitar, orientar e incluir pessoas com
deficiência visual.

A discussão sobre a integração de tecnologia

assistiva na moda é então desenvolvida,
argumentando que essa convergência tem o
potencial de revolucionar a navegação para
pessoas cegas, promovendo autonomia e
confiança em ambientes complexos. A tese
utiliza a metodologia de design participativo
por meio de uma série de entrevistas e
questionários, juntamente com o modelo
“Double Diamond”, enfatizando a importância
de um design colaborativo, garantindo que as
vozes e perspectivas de deficientes visuais
desempenhem um papel central na moldagem
desse cenário transformador.
ABSTRACT

Questa ricerca affronta le sfide quotidiane prospettive delle persone con disabilità
incontrate dalle persone con disabilità visiva, visiva svolgano un ruolo centrale nella
con particolare enfasi sulle difficoltà che le definizione di questo scenario trasformativo.
persone non vedenti affrontano in termini di
Questa tesi si conclude presentando il
orientamento, esplorando come la fusione tra
Viewbrance, un dispositivo indossabile
moda e tecnologia possa offrire potenziamento
progettato con un profondo impegno per
a questa comunità attraverso l’utilizzo di
l’inclusione e l’autoespressione attraverso
dispositivi indossabili. Essa esplora
la moda, basato sulle intuizioni acquisite
l’intersezione tra moda, tecnologia e le
durante questa ricerca. Il Viewbrance offre
esigenze della comunità delle persone con
alle persone con disabilità visiva un mezzo
disabilità visiva, con l’obiettivo principale
unico per navigare nel mondo con fiducia
di abilitare individui con disabilità visiva
incrollabile e uno stile distintivo. La tesi
sfruttando il potenziale del design inclusivo,
sostiene che il Viewbrance sia un contributo
della tecnologia assistiva e dell’integrazione
prezioso al campo del design inclusivo e
innovativa della moda.
fornisce una guida su come la moda e la
La tesi inizia esaminando il contesto storico tecnologia possano essere utilizzate per
della comunità delle persone con disabilità abilitare, guidare e includere le persone con
visiva, evidenziando le sfide che hanno disabilità visiva.
affrontato nell’integrazione sociale.
Successivamente, esplora il ruolo della moda
come mezzo di autoespressione, formazione
dell’identità e comunicazione, specialmente
per una comunità che fa ampio uso di
esperienze tattili e sensoriali.

La discussione sull’integrazione della

tecnologia assistiva nella moda è quindi
sviluppata, sostenendo che questa convergenza
ha il potenziale per rivoluzionare la
navigazione per le persone con disabilità visiva,
promuovendo l’autonomia e la fiducia in
ambienti complessi. La tesi utilizza la
metodologia del design partecipativo
attraverso una serie di interviste e questionari,
insieme al modello a doppio diamante,
sottolineando l’importanza di un design
collaborativo, garantendo che le voci e le
 INDEX

Abstract
3 Chapter 1. Introduction
12 Design approach and methodology

15 Chapter 2. Literature review

17 The relation between society and blind people over the years
22 Motivations for research in visual impairment
24 Fashion’s psychological impact
29 What is assistive technology?
30 The fusion of fashion and assistive technology
38 Empowering the visually impaired: unveiling the impact of assistive technology
41 Do assistive technologies coincide with accessible and inclusive technology?
42 Exploring inclusive design
43 Wearable technology and the body’s map
44 Proxemics and the perception of personal space
46 The importance of social acceptability
50 The everyday experiences of the visually impaired
51 Fashion for the blind: when the physical dimension overcome the visual one
56 Navigation challenges and technological advances
59 Embracing inclusion

67 Chapter 3. Exploring Field Research with Visually Impaired Individuals

69 Interviews and meetings
71 Questionnaires

73 Chapter 4. A Comprehensive Analysis of Case Studies and Project Personas

75 Case Studies
75 Applications
77 Face and ears
87 Wrist
91 Body or adaptable
95 Neck
96 Experience
104 Introducing the project personas: exploring diverse perspectives for enhanced autonomy
109 Chapter 5. Findings and discussion
111 Key insights from the users participation
112 Interviews
117 Initial questionnaire
120 Final questionnaire
124 Fostering inclusivity and empowerment: enhancing the fashion industry for the blind
127 Empowering the visually impaired through innovative integration
130 Translating and supporting map application feedback through the lens of fashion

133 Chapter 6. Viewbrance: Fashion Wearable Guiding the Blind

135 Key requirements for a visually impaired-friendly wearable
137 Viewbrance: fashionable autonomy for the visually impaired
138 Simplicity and functionality: a guide to using Viewbrance
141 Inspiration from uniqueness
142 Material selection in the development of the wearable device
145 Crafting a sensory design narrative
146 Designing the viewbrance bracelet: from concept to self-expressive fashion
153 The final concept of Viewbrance design
156 The collections overview
164 The Viewbrance logo
165 Possible future developments

166 Conclusion
168 References
176 Appendix - Testing Viewbrance
“I learned that
fashion is about being
more adaptive and
independent.”
- Destiny Valazquez, 2019 Summer Fellow of the Open Style Lab.
Chapter One:

Introduction
1. INTRODUCTION
According to the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention (CDC), a disability is defined
as any physical or mental condition that
makes it more difficult for the person with
the condition to perform specific tasks and
interact with the environment around them
[25]. People with disabilities are those who
have long-term physical, mental, intellectual,
or sensory limitations that prevent them from
fully and effectively participating in society
[26].
Throughout history, people with impairments
have been stigmatized. Disability has been
associated with curses, disease, dependence
and powerlessness in many civilizations.
Disability stigma can manifest itself in a
variety of ways, including discrimination,
hate crimes and violence, stereotyping and
social avoidance [84]. Because of
misconceptions or prejudices regarding
impairment, disabled persons may be excluded
from social activities, and denied jobs, housing,
or other possibilities.
Information gleaned from the Connect
Voices Tracker survey, in conjunction with
insights from Slade and Edwards (2015),
reveals that individuals with visual
impairments often experience a sense of
disconnection from their surroundings and
interactions. This feeling is exacerbated by
the inaccessibility of information and
challenges in carrying out routine activities,
such as grocery shopping, as well as difficulties
in navigating and utilizing public transportation
[86, 18].
5
With the advances in fields like science,
design and technology, accessibility and
inclusion have grown, making environments
and opportunities more accessible for these
people, generating greater inclusion in society.
However, other factors affect this inclusion,
such as culture, social and financial contexts.
As per Betoni’s findings in 2014, the process
leading to social exclusion is cumulative and
occurs through a sequence of deprivations
stemming from various sources [9, 10].
Poverty, exclusion from educational
institutions and employment, and poor living
conditions all increase the likelihood of
disability-related illness and unmet healthcare
needs. The financial and social context
interfere directly in their lives. One example
is the data of 2023 from the United Nations,
which says that 80% of the world population
that has some type of physical or intellectual
disability live in developing countries [23].
On average, 19% of the less educated have
disabilities, compared to 11% of the better
educated [30].
Despite growing attention in recent years,
disability inclusion in humanitarian action
is still insufficient [26]. The social injustice
experienced by disabled people is still
considerable, creating barriers in society that
hinder their full participation.
The latest data for July to September, from
the United Kingdom Government’s Official
Statistics of Employment of disabled
people in 2022, shows that the disability
employment rate has fallen during the year,
while the non-disabled work rate has increased
in the country. As a result, the disability
employment gap has reached its widest point
since 2018 [28]. While in the US, in 2022,
21.3 percent of persons with a disability were
employed, up from 19.1 percent in 2021 [76],
and still a very low number.
During a research study conducted in 2021
by the British Royal National Institute of
Blind People (RNIB) [54], a participant shared
their perspective, stating:
"Many people and
businesses do not seem
to care that information
in print and in visual
format is useless to
me. If more info were
accessible I'd feel more
included in society
and able to be more
independent."
The voices of those directly impacted, such
as the participant in the RNIB research,
emphasize the profound impact of accessibility
on independence and societal integration.
The path ahead requires collective commitment
to dismantling barriers and fostering a more
inclusive environment.
According to the World Health Organization
(WHO), an estimated 1.3 billion people – about
16% of the global population – currently
experience significant disability [24]. Among
these, there are 43 million blind and 295 million
with moderate to severe visual impairment,
according to The International Agency for
the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) [39].
6 7
The social context surrounding the injustices
suffered by the blind is multifaceted and
reflective of the systemic barriers they
encounter.
As highlighted by the campaign report
“Who put that there?” (2015) from RNIB,
as well as data presented by Pavey et al.
(2009), transportation systems, pavements,
and constructed surroundings, for example,
frequently lack comprehensive design for
the inclusion of individuals with vision
impairments. When traveling necessitates
alternatives to walking, they often depend on
public transportation, taxis, and assistance
from friends or family members. Navigating
through streets, public areas, and structures
can prove difficult for those with sight loss,
especially when the surroundings are
unfamiliar, subject to change, or lack
accessible design [74, 114].
Figure 1. Most of signs in stations and public spaces are visual. Source: Unsplash.
“If I ask a driver to tell
me when the stop comes
up some do and some
don’t which is why the
automatic speech is
useful. The trains don’t
have automatic speech in
my area and sometimes
the conductors have time
to use the tannoy, but
not always if they are
busy. I understand but I
still might miss my stop.”
- British Royal National Institute
of Blind People - RNIB research
participant - 2021
 As noted by Slade J. and Edwards R. (2015),
over a third of individuals who are blind or
have partial sight report experiencing
occasional or frequent negative attitudes from
the public due to their visual impairment.
Individuals in the working-age group are more
prone to recount instances of unfair treatment
due to their impairment.
Additionally, M. Cay Holbrook, a special
education professor at the University of
British Columbia, and her colleagues found
that only 26 teacher-education programs in
North America include training in braille and
its connection to print and oral literacy, among
more than 3 thousand colleges, universities
and schools that offer preparation programs,
associate degrees and/or bachelor’s degrees
in education [91]. This lack of training can
hinder blind students’ access to essential
learning tools, further exacerbating
educational inequalities.
“There are real
challenges, no matter
how much support
you get... in my case
anyway, I’m never going
to get 100 percent out
of each and every class
at university because
they’re just not designed
for people who can’t see.
That’s kind of the hard
truth.”
- British Royal National Institute
of Blind People - RNIB research
participant - 2021
Figure 2. Book in braille. Source: Unsplash.
8 9
The combination of inadequate institutional
assistance and restricted specialized training
highlights the critical need for increased
awareness, activism, and policy changes to
address the social inequities faced by the
blind community and offer equal educational
opportunities for all.
That’s what Assistive Technology (AT) is
for: to support the person in managing and
overcoming their disability when living their
everyday life, giving them a mechanism to
achieve outcomes related to the things they
value doing and being. AT means not simply
having access, “but what this access represents
and what it enables them to be, overcoming
– to some degree – the stigma and exclusion”
[8]. With valuable functionality, AT has the
potential of fulfilling the first two needs in
Maslow’s hierarchy - physiological and safety
needs. By addressing practical requirements
like mobility, communication, and sensory
enhancement, AT can establish a foundation
of physical well-being and a sense of security,
thereby laying the groundwork for higher
levels of self-fulfillment and empowerment.
However, AT alone does not have the power
to change everything for the better: rather
than being viewed as the mission, it should be
viewed as a means to a larger mission of justice
or inclusion. For this to happen, AT should be
accessible to everyone, everywhere, in all
terms.
According to the research made by AT2030
– an AT innovation program led by Global
Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub) and
funded by UK Aid –, AT is too expensive in
low and middle-income countries, and due to
market failure, it’s often unavailable. With no
national and/or local services to guarantee that
the appropriate products can reach the right
people at the right time, people in severe need
of AT (even simple items like eyeglasses)
regularly receive the incorrect items or even
none at all. [7]
This accessibility deficit cannot be solely
ascribed to financial limitations. It is also
intricately entwined with cultural and social
barriers, often exacerbated by market
inefficiencies that render AT solutions
unavailable.
The consequences of this accessibility gap
are profound and far-reaching. It could lead
to the exclusion of adults from opportunities
in the workforce and within their families.
Children may face barriers to accessing
education, and the elderly might find
themselves unable to actively engage in their
communities.
In 2019, it was estimated that globally at least
2.2 billion people had a vision impairment or
blindness, according to data from the WHO
[117]. This group of people has activity
limitations and participation restrictions that
relate to the severity of the impairment as well
as environmental and personal factors.
Navigational challenges, in particular, emerge
as a considerable barrier, substantially
decreasing the autonomy of the visually
impaired community. These obstacles can
limit their ability to move around, acquire
information, and interact with their
surroundings on their own.
According to Slade and Edwards (2015), in
“My Voice 2015: The views and experiences
of blind and partially sighted people in the
UK”, individuals with sight loss exhibited more
than double the likelihood of encountering
challenges related to feelings of unhappiness
or depression compared to the average in the
UK [86]. The absence of AT products and
services can exacerbate these difficulties,
limiting their independence and freedom,
thereby impacting their overall well-being,
self-esteem, and self-actualization.
The need to create not only AT, but accessible
AT – regarding financial, social and cultural
contexts – is urgent, and fashion could play
a role in it. Although it is rare to see disabled
people at Fashion Weeks, runways or audiences,
and because of that it is rarely considered how
collections might relate to them [31], fashion
has a significant role in society and people’s
daily lives. If handled properly, it might have
a significant impact on these people and change
– for the better – how they are perceived and
heard, increasing their independence and their
self-esteem in daily life, fulfilling the last level
of needs according to the Maslow’s pyramid.
This study is a comprehensive exploration of
the intersection between fashion, technology,
and inclusivity for individuals with visual
impairments. It delves into various dimensions
to understand the motivations, the historical
context and challenges surrounding this topic.
It begins with a literature review that analyzes
the historical relationship between society
and blind individuals. It investigates the
motivations driving research in visual
impairment and the quest for inclusiveness.
The concept of AT is introduced, followed by
a detailed exploration of its fusion with fashion
to enhance inclusivity.
The thesis extends its exploration from the
micro scale of interaction, encompassing
aspects like individual wearers, the design of
wearables, form, proxemics, and wearability,
to the meso-scale. This broader perspective
delves into the realm of social acceptability
within the context of wearable technology
and proxemics. It aims to understand how
wearable devices interface with personal
space and body maps within social contexts.
Furthermore, the thesis transitions into a
comprehensive examination of the daily
experiences of visually impaired individuals.
This involves a deep dive into the challenges
they encounter in various facets of life,
10
including fashion, navigation, and overall
inclusion. By addressing these multifaceted
aspects, the research seeks to create a more
holistic understanding of the intersection of
wearable technology, social dynamics, and
the unique needs of the visually impaired
community.
Field research methodologies, such as
interviews and questionnaires, are explained,
showcasing the Participatory Design
methodology, employed to gain insights
from visually impaired individuals.
A significant part of the paper involves a
comprehensive analysis of case studies,
dissecting various wearable technology
applications across different parts of the body.
These case studies provide valuable insights
into the practical implementation and impact
of such technologies. Additionally, the paper
introduces project personas: different
perspectives that enhance autonomy for the
visually impaired.
Finally, the thesis presents a reflection on the
role of fashion design in fostering the use of
smart objects, translating and supporting map
application feedback into something acceptable
according to personal and social values. By
investigating how fashion elements can enhance Figure 3. Scheme about the intersection explored in the thesis. Source: the autor.
the experiences of blind and visually impaired
individuals, along with AT and its functionality,
this thesis offers a multi-faceted approach to
empowering their autonomy and fostering
inclusivity.
Through the development and evaluation,
this Master’s Thesis contributes to the growing
body of knowledge on fashion inclusivity for
the visually impaired community. It is hoped
that the insights and findings presented in
this work will inspire further innovation and
collaboration in the pursuit of a more inclusive
fashion industry for all.
11
1.1. Design approach
and methodology
Design, as a potent force, holds the capacity
to shape our world, touching upon social,
cultural, and environmental dimensions. Among
the various design approaches, Participatory
Design emerges as a prominent method, deeply
rooted in collaboration. It actively engages users
and stakeholders in the design process, seeking
to empower communities by enabling their
contribution to the development of design
solutions that directly affect their lives [111].
In the realm of assistive technology (AT)
designed for and by visually impaired
individuals, a diverse array of innovative
solutions emerges. These solutions are dedicated
to enhancing accessibility, independence, and
overall quality of life for those with visual
impairments. One notable example of AT
created by a blind individual is the Braille
system, pioneered by Louis Braille, who lost
his sight at a young age. Braille’s innovation
emerged while a student at the Institution
Nationale des Jeunes Aveugles (National
Institute for Blind Children) in Paris [11].
However, it’s noteworthy that many products
developed for individuals with disabilities are
not designed by or in collaboration with the
end-users. This disconnect can result in a gap
between the actual needs and desires of these
individuals and the solutions provided. Their
lived experiences and firsthand understanding
of the challenges faced by people with visual
impairments often lead to innovative solutions
that promote accessibility, independence, and
inclusion for themselves and the wider visually
impaired community.
To bridge this gap and create more effective
12
solutions, it is imperative to consider the
opinions and needs of the visually impaired
community. This is the central objective of
Participatory Design. By engaging directly
with users, it facilitates a deeper understanding
of tangible and intangible problems that affect
the community. It immerses designers in the
user’s context, ultimately fostering trust and
awareness [78].
To effectively employ the Participatory Design
approach in the research project focused on
developing inclusive fashion with assistive
technology for blind and visually impaired
individuals, the Double Diamond model is
employed. This model, developed by the Figure 4. Double Diamond model representation.
British Design Council in 2005 [14], serves
as a visual representation and guide for the
design process. It consists of four phases:
Discover, Define, Develop, and Deliver.
The Discover phase marks the initial stage
of problem identification. Within this project,
it encompasses the Literature Review and
Field Research components, which facilitate service, or research solution is conducted to
the gathering of insights about existing ensure its integrity. This often involves testing
challenges. The subsequent step in the Double and soliciting user feedback to confirm its value
Diamond process is Define, during which the and effectiveness.
emphasis is placed on precisely defining the In essence, the integration of Participatory
problem at hand. Following this, the process Design with the Double Diamond model offers
advances to the Development phase, where
a powerful and comprehensive approach to
the identified problem takes shape, and potential design that promotes inclusivity, empowers
solutions begin to emerge. The concluding
communities, and ensures that the voices and
phase of the Double Diamond model is Deliver, needs of the blind and visually impaired
wherein the focus shifts to presenting feasible community are central to the design process.
solutions for the problem that was defined in
the previous step. During this stage, known
as Deliver, a final assessment of the product,
13
Chapter Two:

Literature Review
 2. Literature Review
This section provides an insightful exploration
into various facets surrounding the experiences
and technologies associated with individuals
with visual impairments. It encompasses
historical perspectives on society’s relationship
with the blind community over time. The
argument for focusing on people with vision
disabilities is discussed, emphasizing the need
of addressing their specific challenges.
This section introduces the concept of AT
and its role in enhancing the lives of individuals
with disabilities. It covers various dimensions
of AT, including its applications for the blind,
its integration into fashion for inclusivity, and
its alignment with accessible and inclusive
technology.
Furthermore, the section delves into the core
of inclusive design, where the dimensions of
wearable technology, proxemics and social
acceptability intertwine to shape designs that
seamlessly integrate into the lives of individuals
with visual impairments.
The section then shifts its focus to the everyday
experiences of visually impaired individuals.
This exploration encompasses topics such as
the significance of fashion tailored for the blind,
advancements in technology aiding navigation
challenges, and the broader concept of fostering
inclusivity within their lives.
Through these interconnected subtopics, the
“Literature Review” section provides a
comprehensive understanding of the intricate
factors influencing the lives, technologies, and
design considerations for individuals with
visual impairments.
16
2.1. The relationship
between society and blind
people over the years
Over the years, the historical interaction
between society and blind people has
experienced revolutionary transformations.
Perceptions, attitudes, and treatment towards
blind people have evolved over time, affected
by myths, literature, and actual life. Since
ancient times, blindness has been interpreted
in various, often contentious ways. It has been
stereotyped and labeled by sighted people,
affecting acceptance of those with visual
impairments, tolerance for them, and their
integration into societal life. As highlighted
by Papadaki and Tzvetkova-Arsova (2013),
they were sometimes seen as objects of pity or
charity, with little possibilities for education
and meaningful work [73].
Blindness was generally perceived with
veneration and vulnerability in ancient societies.
It was associated with supernatural powers or
spiritual insight in some communities, raising
blind people to positions of esteem and even
worship. However, in other cultures, they were
viewed as powerless and dependent, relying on
charity and the goodwill of others for survival.
Blindness was frequently depicted in myths
and folklore as a punishment for misdeeds or
transgressions, further influencing societal
attitudes.
Tiresias [figure 4], a blind prophet with
clairvoyant talents in Greek mythology,
emphasized the relationship between
blindness and divine insight [96]. Characters
such as Homer’s blind bard, Demodocus, on
the other hand, demonstrated the creative
potential of blind people through their narrative
and artistic manifestations. These depictions
simultaneously reinforced misconceptions and
17
corrected negative prejudices, resulting in a
more nuanced picture of blind people in society.
Historical records indicate that in ancient
Sparta, individuals with disabilities were often
unable to survive due to prevailing societal
attitudes. Within this context, newborns with
disabilities were either cast off cliffs or
abandoned in the wilderness. Nonetheless,
differing viewpoints among scholars persist.
Some researchers contend that ancient Spartan
society exhibited a degree of acceptance
toward individuals with minor disabilities, as
evidenced by the selection of King Agisilaos
the Second, who bore a slight disability [73].
Blindness was used as a punishment in
several European countries, usually to resolve
political conflicts - for example, Bulgarian
prince Vladimir was blinded by his own father
prince Boris the First (IX century - 907) for
attempting to convert the country from
Christianity to paganism [38]. Prior to the late
1700s, the fate of those with disabilities was
likely to be terrible. Northern Saulteaux
Indians used to shoot disabled people with
arrows and burn their remains because they
were thought to be possessed by demons.
Some historical sources indicate that religion
played a role in shaping communal attitudes
and the well-being of families with disabled
children [35], and there are those who believe
that Martin Luther (1483-1546) was a proponent
of the idea of killing deformed children,
viewing them as “manifestations of the devil
in a living form” in Germany [73].
According to French (1932), the earliest
reports of eye illnesses were discovered in
the country of the blind - Egypt, in the Ebers
Papyrus (1553-1550 B.C.) [35]. The historical
reports furnish valuable insights into ophthalmic
care practices, shedding light on issues of both
acute and chronic ocular blurriness, as well as
detailing afflictions such as cataracts and
18
various other eye diseases [4]. The papyrus
is essentially a compendium of medical
prescriptions, and it is estimated that around
one-tenth of the extensive repertory of around
700 prescriptions included inside the Ebers’
Papyrus were produced for the treatment of
ocular problems [95].
Denis Diderot, a French philosopher,
published a “Letter on the Blind For the Use of
Those Who See” in 1749. This is one of the
first attempts to call attention to blind persons
not just personally, but also socially [73].
According to Farrell (1969), there are three
approaches observed attitudes toward the
visually handicapped: non-acceptance, which
excludes the visually impaired from social
contacts with the sighted community;
consideration of people with vision impairments
as helpless and unable of performing day-to-day
duties; and believing that the sighted must
assist the visually impaired poor “without
differentiating those blind persons who may
not need their help or those areas where help
is not acceptable” [32].
Throughout history, people with impairments
have been stigmatized. Disability has been
associated with curses, disease, dependence,
and powerlessness in many civilizations [84].
Various research shows that an unfavorable
attitude environment makes it difficult for
people with visual impairment to live a normal
life, encountering strict responses that separate
them from the rest of the social world.
The treatment regarding blind people evolved
alongside society. The founding of schools for
the blind, such as the Royal National Institute
for the Blind in the United Kingdom,
established in 1868, giving specialized
education and training to increase
independence and self-sufficiency. Braille’s
emergence as a key tool for accessing written
material, as well as advancements in mobility Figure 4. “Oedipus and Antigone” by Aleksander Kakular, c.1828. Source: Martini Fisher.
19
aids such as white canes and guide dogs, further
empowered blind people, defying social
preconceptions.
While the efforts of World War I veterans
played a crucial role in raising awareness about
disabilities, it was the veterans of World War II
who significantly amplified the visibility of
disability issues [12]. It was during this period
that the concept of the right to health gained
international prominence. In the 1946
Constitution of the World Health Organization,
a pivotal definition of health was established::
“Health is a state of complete physical, mental
and social well-being and not merely the
absence of disease or infirmity. The enjoyment
of the highest attainable standard of health is
one of the fundamental rights of every human
being without distinction of race, religion,
political belief, economic or social condition”
[19]. This declaration marked a significant
milestone in recognizing health as a
fundamental right for all, regardless of their
background or circumstances.
This had a major influence in disability rights
movements that have played an essential part
in influencing society attitudes on blindness.
An example is when activists for disability
rights in the United States pushed Congress
and marched on Washington in the 1970s to
include civil rights language for people with
disabilities in the 1972 Rehabilitation Act.
The Rehabilitation Act was passed in 1973
[figure 5], and for the first time in history, the
civil rights of people with disabilities were
legally safeguarded [13]. Advocacy activities
have drawn attention to the abilities and
potential of blind people, emphasizing the
necessity of accessibility and inclusive practices.
The establishment of anti-discrimination laws
and accessibility standards has tried to promote
equal opportunities and foster a more inclusive
society that embraces the varied capabilities
20
and contributions of blind people.
The journey of society’s relationship with
blind individuals has been one of complications
and transformations. Myths, literature, and
practical examples have shaped social attitudes
toward blindness from ancient times to the
present. While ancient tales maintained a
balance of veneration and vulnerability,
literature presented complex images that both
challenged and reinforced prejudices.
Education, advocacy breakthroughs and
technology in recent history have empowered
blind people, enabling a more inclusive and
understanding society. Despite progress,
challenges persist, and injustices against
disabled individuals, including blind people,
remain a pressing concern.
Startling statistics from Crime Against
Persons with Disabilities, 2009–2019, show
that, in the United States, the rate of violent
victimization against persons with disabilities Figure 5. The Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Source: Google Image.
(46.2 per 1,000, age 12 or older) was almost
four times the rate for persons without
disabilities (12.3 per 1,000) [103]. The same
research tells that persons with disabilities
were victims of 26% of all nonfatal violent
crime, while accounting for about 12% of the
population; and one in three robbery victims
(33%) had at least one disability. These
sobering figures remind us that much work
lies ahead in ensuring the safety, dignity, and
celebrated, but also given equal opportunity
rights of all individuals, regardless of their
and respect, creating a brighter and more
abilities.
compassionate future for all.
To achieve a more equal future, society must
challenge prejudices and continue to encourage
inclusion and understanding. A society that
accepts diversity and empowers every person
to succeed can be established, by valuing the
potential and contributions of all individuals.
It’s crucial to create an environment where
blind and disabled people are not only
21
2.2. Motivations for
research in visual
impairment

“Vision, the most dominant of our senses,
plays a critical role in every facet and stage
of our lives. We take vision for granted, but
without vision, we struggle to learn to walk,
to read, to participate in school, and to work.”
– World Health Organization on the 2019
World Vision Report [117].
In 2019, it was estimated that globally
at least 2.2 billion people had a vision
impairment or blindness, according to data
from the WHO [117].
The International Classification of Diseases
– 11 (ICD – 11) says that there are different
levels of visual function, and they can be
classified as follows in five different categories:
normal vision, mild vision impairment,
moderate visual impairment, severe vision
Access Economics, by considering that
the fundamental factors contributing to
sight loss remain constant, it is projected
that approximately one out of every five
individuals will encounter vision impairment
at some point in their lives. Additionally, a
significant number of people might undergo
vision issues due to occurrences such as eye
injuries, cataracts, or refractive error [48, 54].
Visual impaired and blind people rely more
heavily on other sensory systems such as
hearing and touch, yet this isn’t always enough
to make sure they are safe or doing their tasks
properly. One crucial element of personal
autonomy is the freedom to experience one’s
environment, whether it be a city, neighborhood, Figure 6. Number affected by all vision loss by GBD Super Region 2020 (all ages, males & females).
or any other locale. In the context of this study, Source: Data from VLEG/GBD 2020 model, accessed via the IAPB Vision Atlas

impairment, and blindness [47].
Blindness and vision impairment have an
impact all the time in the lives of people
everywhere. The ability to see is probably the
most crucial and important sense for humans.
It is estimated that 50% of the cerebral cortex
is involved in visual functions, and visual
dominance is a universal characteristic of
human cultures. [5] Preventing or restricting
vision implies a variety of participation
restrictions and activity constraints that are
related to the degree of the impairment as
well as to environmental and individual
circumstances. This increases the dependence
of these people, limiting their freedom to do
everything by themselves.
As outlined in the information provided by
“Incidence and Risk of Sight Loss and
Blindness in the UK” (2017) by Deloitte
the need for individuals with visual impairments
to navigate crowded environments using maps,
for instance, often necessitates the use of
headphones. Unfortunately, traditional
headphones can compromise a blind person’s
awareness of their surroundings, increasing
their dependence on others.
Illustrating this concept is the Shokz
OpenComm headphone, an exemplar in this
regard. Unlike conventional headphones that
rest on the ears, the Shokz OpenComm adopts
a distinctive placement against the jawbone
[53]. By employing vibrations, it directly
transmits sound to the ear canal, bypassing
the external ear altogether. This mechanism
of bone conduction enables the user to remain
aware of the environment while simultaneously
receiving audio from their smartphone or
other devices.
Developing innovative wearable technologies
to provide assistance to blind and visually
impaired persons can provide several benefits
and address unique issues they experience in
their everyday lives. Not everyone has perfect
sight. As a result, visually handicapped persons
must navigate the environment in an alternate
manner [107].
Integration of impaired people into group
communication is an important obligation of
society, as well as encouraging their
involvement in social, educational and other
daily activities and guaranteeing their security
and safety. This can be defined as social
inclusion: the actions taken to create equal
chances so that everyone, regardless of
background, can achieve their full potential in
life [89], and that is what AT does, promoting
equal access to services and enabling citizen’s
participation in the decision-making processes
that affect their lives.
By facilitating greater independence and
reducing reliance on others, wearable devices
can significantly enhance the quality of life for
blind and visually impaired individuals. The
ability to navigate independently, access
information, and perform everyday tasks
more efficiently can increase self-confidence,
productivity, and overall well-being.

22 23
2.3. Fashion’s
psychological impact
“There are those who
say that fashion is
frivolous but it is an
extension of who we
are and what we feel.”
- Rafaella Caniello.
As indicated by Slade and Edwards (2015),
over 40 percent of individuals with visual
impairments experience a moderate to
complete sense of disconnection from both
their surroundings and the people within
them. This disconnection can significantly
influence their overall sense of wellbeing and
self-esteem. The same authors, supported
by data from RNIB, emphasize that, on the
whole, individuals with visual impairments
tend to experience lower levels of wellbeing
compared to the average in the UK. This
emotional state encompasses feelings
of unhappiness or depression, as well as
sentiments of worthlessness and a lack of
confidence [18, 86, 87].
Although in the hierarchical order of needs,
developed by Maslow [63], clothing is ranked
as a basic physical need [61], Lee (1997) says
that there is evidence that fashion can satisfy
higher-order needs, such as belonging and
self-actualization [56].
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs essentially
outlines the spectrum of human needs,
starting from fundamental physiological
necessities and progressing to more advanced
aspirations like self-actualization. This
hierarchy [figure 7] is a psychological theory
proposed by Abraham Maslow in 1943,
24
illustrating the hierarchy of human needs in a
pyramid structure [63]. At its core, this theory
proposes that people are motivated by a set
of five unique needs, which are arranged in
a pyramid from the most fundamental to the
highest-order requirements. The foundational
level encompasses physiological needs, such
as air, water, food, and shelter, which are
essential for survival. Once these needs are
reasonably met, individuals progress to the
second level, which involves safety needs,
encompassing personal security, financial
stability, and protection from harm.
Moving up the pyramid, the third level
comprises social needs, emphasizing the
importance of belongingness, friendship,
and meaningful relationships. Individuals
progress to the fourth level of esteem needs
as these social needs are met, which include
self-esteem, acknowledgment, and a sense
of accomplishment. The fifth level of self-
actualization is at the top of the pyramid,
signifying the pursuit of personal growth,
realization of potential, and desire for self-
fulfillment. This theory emphasizes the idea
that people often prioritize meeting lower-
level needs before moving on to higher-level
aspirations, underlining the inherent interplay
between human motivation and the pursuit of
happiness.
Fashion holds the potential to significantly
boost an individual’s confidence and self-
esteem, increasing the chances to fulfill
a person’s self-actualization needs. As
highlighted by Atabi Mandal and Rajeev
Kumar in their work “Fashion is a Form
of Self-Expression” (2022), from the Figure 7. Maslow’s Pyramid - Hierarchy of needs representation. Source: the author.
25
International Journal of Research Publication
and Reviews, fashion can serve as a means
of empowerment and self-discovery. They
underline the role of fashion as a language,
capable of narrating stories, granting agency,
and constructing identities, representations,
and notions of individuality [60].
The report underscores that individuals who
express high satisfaction with their clothing
choices tend to exhibit greater levels of
sociability compared to those who report
lower satisfaction. Notably, over 96 percent
of individuals note a shift in their emotional
state when they alter their dressing style.
Sontag and Lee (2010) further elucidate
the psychological intimacy of clothing
by evaluating its relationship to the self.
This closeness is determined by various
factors: (1) whether clothing is perceived
as an integral part of oneself or merely
an accessory; (2) its recognition as a
fundamental element in shaping one’s
appearance, thereby establishing and
affirming the self; (3) its role as a potent
symbol of identity, mood, or attitude; (4) its
perception as a reflection of self-esteem or
self-value; (5) its recognition as a vital facet
of a constructive self-assessment; and (6) its
connection to body cathexis, or the emotional
attachment to one’s own body. Collectively,
these perspectives emphasize fashion’s
capacity to influence one’s perception of self,
fostering empowerment and self-assuredness
through the medium of clothing.
The phenomenon that refers to the effects
of clothing on our cognitive and emotional
processes is known as enclothed cognition.
The report from the Journal of Experimental
Social Psychology, “Enclothed Cognition”
(2012), emphasizes that the clothing we
choose not only influences how others
perceive us but also impacts our own mental
26
and emotional states [3].
The report by Hajo Adam and Adam
Galinsky explores how the act of wearing
clothes goes beyond the physical experience,
invoking connected abstract concepts and
their symbolic implications. They suggest
that wearing clothes leads individuals to
essentially “embody” the clothing and the
meaning it symbolizes. As a result, when
someone puts on a specific garment, it
triggers a psychological impact by invoking
related abstract concepts aligned with its
symbolic significance. This phenomenon
underscores the intricate interplay between
clothing, cognition, and symbolism, revealing
the nuanced ways in which our attire can
shape our psychological processes.
According to the authors, within the realm
of enclothed cognition, the link between a
physical experience and its symbolic meaning
is not direct; rather, the garments themselves
hold the symbolic meaning. In essence, this
significance is not inherent in the garment; it
is only realized when an individual physically
wears and thereby embodies the clothing [3].
Consequently, the research revealed that
clothing has the potential to influence
individuals’ self-perceptions. Opting for
comfortable attire can enhance one’s sense
of comfort, whereas wearing clothing
with a perceived formality can contribute
to heightened sensations of power and
confidence.
“Fashion is a powerful
communicator
influencing perceptions
of both ourselves and
of others.”
- Shriya Raghuram.
The phenomenon of feeling comfortable
and confident in clothing is often referred to
as “dopamine dressing.” This term is rooted
in the neurotransmitter dopamine, which
is integral to our experience of pleasure
and contributes to our cognitive abilities,
motivation, and engagement [21]. Dopamine
is released during pleasurable situations,
driving us to seek out those experiences
again. Essentially, “dopamine dressing”
embodies the idea of deriving happiness from
one’s clothing choices. Many individuals
intentionally select their attire to enhance
their overall wellbeing. When they put on an
outfit that elicits positive emotions, it triggers
a release of dopamine, creating a pleasurable
connection between their clothing and their
emotional state [110].
In the study titled “Fashion for the Blind:
A Study of Perspectives,” conducted by
Michele A. Burton, research involving
8 visually impaired individuals aimed to
better understand the feelings about fashion
from those without sight, delving into what
aspects contribute to the appeal of a design
beyond its mere functionality. Among the
participants, the tactile sensation emerged
as the most pivotal factor. In fact, one
participant even shared that even if her
sighted husband deemed a garment flattering,
she wouldn’t purchase it unless she liked its
tactile quality. Another participant noted that
embellishments held a distinctive significance
for those with visual impairments, a feature
that perhaps captured their attention more
than it would for sighted individuals [15].
Colors indeed hold symbolic significance
for visually impaired individuals, often
influenced by associations instilled by sighted
parents or friends. These associations then
shape their preferences for certain colors to
wear. Functionality is another crucial aspect
27
to consider when addressing clothing for the
visually impaired. Even if an outfit meets
the criterion of being appealing in terms of
its tactile qualities, they would not make a
purchase if it lacked practicality, comfort, and
ease of wear [15].
“There is no room for
error when it comes to
fashion when you are
vision impaired”
- Michele A. Burton.
This is the idea referred to the expression
of “poor blind girl”, expressed by four of
the nine participants of the research. These
participants elaborated that when they make
a mistake, such as mismatching colors of
clothing and accessories, they often feel
subjected to pitying gazes. In the absence of
the ability to independently style themselves
without committing such errors, their
confidence can suffer, as per the observations
of the author [15].
Although the act of dressing profoundly
affects human psychology on a daily basis,
it’s worth noting that the field of Fashion
Psychology is relatively a young field, with
limited empirical research conducted thus
far [62]. In general, most of these studies
have focused on the general public, rather
than including or specifically addressing the
needs and experiences of individuals with
visual impairments. The scarcity of research
regarding the emotions and experiences
of visually impaired people in relation to
fashion can contribute to the exclusion of
their needs from the development of a more
inclusive fashion industry for them, which
can affect the effects of increasing self-
esteem and confidence by fashion.

“Although the saying
goes that clothes do
not make the man, our
results suggest that they
do hold a strange power
over their wearers.”
- Hajo Adam, Adam D. Galinsky -
Enclothed Cognition, 2012
28
As shown, fashion can serve as a means to
attain the ultimate level of Maslow’s hierarchy,
which is self-actualization for individuals.
Despite research not being primarily focused
on the needs and experiences of visually
impaired individuals, the hierarchy of needs
inherently encompasses everyone, including
those who are blind. Fashion holds the
potential to significantly impact people’s
lives, and when integrated with AT, it can
further enhance well-being and self-esteem,
addressing their needs comprehensively.
In conclusion, the multifaceted realm of
fashion extends beyond the physical act
of dressing, entwining deeply with the
psychological and emotional dimensions of
human experience. The discourse presented in
this section underscores the intricate interplay
between fashion, cognition, and symbolism,
shedding light on how clothing choices can
influence individuals’ self-perceptions and
emotions. Furthermore, research underscores
the importance of tactile sensations and the
role of embellishments in shaping the appeal
of designs for visually impaired individuals.
The notion of clothing as a communicator and
a vehicle for self-expression holds a prominent
place, bridging empowerment, identity,
and agency. Nevertheless, the fundamental
principles of self-actualization within
Maslow’s hierarchy inherently encompass
everyone, underscoring the potential for
fashion to uplift and empower, particularly
when complemented by AT. Thus, fashion’s
transformative influence on self-esteem and
confidence remains a captivating area worthy
of continued exploration and development.
2.4. What is assistive
technology?
The social injustice experienced by
visually impaired and blind individuals
continues to pose significant barriers in
society, impeding their full participation. For
instance, challenges in navigation-related
activities deter them from engaging in
social interactions and activities. However,
Jeamwatthanachai, Wald and Willis (2019)
cited that technologies like accessible
maps or indoor navigation systems are
still incomplete in addressing the gaps in
independent navigation, as they require
additional information about obstacles,
barriers, and accessibility considerations [49].
This underscores the essential role of
Assistive Technology, which aims to
empower individuals in managing and
surmounting their disabilities to engage
fully in their daily lives, enabling them
to accomplish tasks that align with their
personal values and aspirations.
According to GOV.UK, AT is “products or
systems that support and help individuals
with disabilities, restricted mobility or other
impairments to perform functions that might
otherwise be difficult or impossible.” [6]
The WHO emphasizes that AT “enables
people with difficulties in functioning to
live healthy, productive, independent, and
dignified lives, participating in education, the
labor market, and social life” [116].
Certain examples of AT are widely
recognized, such as the wheelchair, designed
to aid individuals with mobility impairments.
Another instance is text-to-speech software,
which audibly reads on-screen text for
individuals with visual impairments.
However, it’s important to emphasize that
29
for AT to truly serve its purpose, it must be
accessible in terms of social, cultural, and
financial aspects. Ensuring the accessibility
of AT for the blind involves several crucial
considerations. Firstly, it’s vital to take into
account cultural relevance, language options,
symbols, and interfaces that are inclusive
and resonant with diverse backgrounds.
Additionally, adopting user-centered design
principles is key to crafting technology
that is intuitive and user-friendly, making it
easier for individuals to engage with these
tools effectively.
Advocacy plays a pivotal role in this
endeavor. It’s important to advocate for
policies that encourage the integration of AT
across various spheres like public, work and
educational spaces. Furthermore, advocating
for government or organizational subsidies and
funding programs can significantly contribute
to making these technologies more affordable
and accessible for those who require them.
In order to make a meaningful impact,
the pursuit of cost-effective solutions is
essential. This entails developing approaches
that cater to a wide range of individuals,
regardless of their economic status.
Ultimately, the true measure of success lies
in achieving comprehensive accessibility.
By following these steps, it is possible to
work towards breaking down barriers and
empower people with visual impairments to
live more autonomous and enriching lives.
In today’s landscape, an increasing number of
AT products are being developed, improving
quality of life for countless individuals.
A myriad of fields contribute to these
innovations, with fashion being among them.
2.4.1. The fusion of
fashion and assistive
technology
Assistive technology in fashion refers to the
incorporation of technological innovations
and design principles to create clothing
and accessories that cater to the needs of
individuals with disabilities or specific
functional requirements.
Clothing has been worn by humans for
thousands of years, and from its creation, it
has changed from serving a purely practical
purpose for survival to becoming an essential
component of civilization. It’s a field in
constant evolution.
Nowadays, fashion can have an impact in
different areas of our daily lives: businesses,
culture, art… It embraces many lifestyles. As
a key means of self-expression and identity
transmission to others, dressing is, now, also a
form of communication.
For this reason, over the years, fashion has
been created thinking beyond aesthetics,
generating more and more products that
include all types of bodies.
With that sense of inclusion, AT can play a
great role in it. A good example of universal
fashion (which means fashion for everyone,
including people with disabilities) is the brand
BILLY Footwear [figure 8] [113]. The brand’s
focus is on shoes that appeal to and work
for everyone, and the idea came after the
co-founder Billy Price broke his neck from a
three-story fall in October, 1996. He became
paralyzed from the chest down and lost the
ability to move the majority part of his body,
fingers included. Because of that, he never
found a pair of shoes that he felt attractive and
that he could put on independently.
30
Together with Darin Donaldson, they
created a solution for this problem: a
prototype that could fulfill Billy’s personal
needs, incorporating zippers that go along
the side of the shoes and around the toe,
allowing the upper of each shoe to open and
fold over completely. Currently, the brand
has a mission to create mainstream shoes that
are fashionable, functional and inclusive for
everyone.
There are also brands that are not focused
on disabled people, but have created
products that could work for or are made
especially for them. Nike is one of these
brands: The Go FlyEase shoe [figure 9] [70], Figure 8. Women’s Orchid Flower BILLY Sneaker Lace Mid Tops. Source: Billy Footwear.
released in April 2021, marks the first hands-
free sneaker ever made. The user just needs
to put the feet and the shoe adapts itself and
“close it” almost automatically. Despite the
marketing not being created for people with
disabilities, this is a good example of a shoe
that is adapted for everyone.
The major goal of AT in fashion is to
improve the functioning and usability of
clothing and accessories for people with
limitations. These advancements target
specific user requirements and demands,
such as easier dressing and undressing, better
mobility, independence, and comfort. AT
attempts to make fashion more accessible
and user-friendly by introducing features
such as adaptable closures, adjustable
elements, and sensory-friendly materials.
Wearing assistive clothes that fit their
personal needs can boost self-esteem and
promote a sense of empowerment for some
Figure 9. Nike Go FlyEase shoe. Source: Nike.
31
Social acceptability relates to how AT in
fashion is perceived by society at large. This
perception may differ depending on cultural,
social, and individual perspectives.
In the domain of AT in fashion, the
relationship between functionality
and sociability can be complex and
interconnected. When AT in fashion matches
the practical demands of people with
disabilities, it can boost their confidence,
independence, and general well-being.
Garments that improve functionality allow
people to participate more completely in a
variety of social activities and daily routines,
promoting inclusion and empowerment.
Sociability, however, is also influenced
by society attitudes, cultural norms, and
perceptions. Despite the functioning and
benefits provided by AT, societal stigmas and
biases linked with disability may still exist.
When wearing items that clearly reveal a
disability or deviate from standard fashion
conventions, some people may feel self-
conscious or confront social issues.
The social acceptability of AT in fashion can
be increased by establishing a more inclusive
and accepting society, minimizing any
potential stigmas and allowing individuals
to feel more comfortable and secure in
expressing their particular style.
Raising awareness, promoting inclusive
fashion campaigns, and encouraging varied
representation in media and advertising are
all part of addressing social acceptability. By
exhibiting the usefulness and style of assistive
technology through fashion, it is possible to
challenge preconceptions and encourage a
more inclusive and welcoming society.
One example of an inclusive event is
the project “La moda come non l’hai mai
vista” (translated as “Fashion as you’ve
32
never seen it”). Created by Rosa Assoluto, a
program of Italian women together with the
Unione Italiana Ciechi e Ipovedenti (UICI
- in english: Italian Union of the Blind and
Visually Impaired) this event has the aim to
promote inclusion in the field of fashion, and
bring more visibility to the blind and visually
impaired, strengthening their confidence and
self-esteem at the same time.
An event, a fashion show for blind and
visually impaired women, organized by the
staff of Exclusive Shopping, with the patronage
of the UICI and with the support of the
Fondazione dell’Istituto dei Ciechi di Milano
(Foundation of the Institute for the Blind of
Milan), and free patronage by the Camera
Nazionale della Moda (National Chamber of
Fashion). The event is planned to happen on
Sunday 25th February 2024, at the end of the
Fall Winter Milano Fashion Week 2024.
Through collaborative efforts spanning
various domains of intervention,
encompassing hairstyling, makeup, and
clothing, the project garnered an impressive
response, with more than 160 inquiries
pouring in from across Italy, spanning
diverse age groups of women. Driven by a
shared desire to embrace this one-of-a-kind
and exceptional project, these ordinary yet
remarkable women with visual impairments
or blindness enthusiastically step forward
to participate as models. This selection
process will encompass casting sessions,
aimed at identifying and selecting 30 to 35
models. In a realm frequently characterized
by visual aesthetics, this initiative transcends
conventional boundaries, heralding a
transformation in perceptions. It embodies
the essence of fashion as a conduit for
expression, empowerment, and individual
identity. The event celebrates the inherent
beauty and perseverance in each individual, Figure 10. Logo of the Rosa Assoluto fashion show. Source: Rosa Assoluto on Facebook.
33

Figure 11. Garment from the “Olhar, Olhares”
collection. Source: Geraldo Lima on Instragram.
Figure 12. The course “Sentir e Vestir a Moda”.
Source: Geraldo Lima on LinkedIn.
34
thereby altering conventional norms.
A research conducted by the Brazilian
professor and researcher in “Relationship
between Fashion, Design, Inclusion and
Education”, from the Anhembi Morumbi
University, Geraldo Lima, aiming to further
expand knowledge and, in this way, transform
it into information about the behavior of
the visually impaired and fashion, exposes
the senses of sight and touch as important
elements in the creation of references in
fashion [58].
The genesis of this research stems from
the imperative to address the challenges
confronted by individuals with visual
impairments concerning vital matters like
autonomy and integration. These challenges,
which encompass both personal and
professional aspects, are especially evident
in the realm of clothing and textiles. In
this project, a novel collection was crafted,
titled “Olhar, Olhares” (translated as “Gaze,
Gazes” in English), in which the clothes
have the information about color printed in
braille, to create more inclusion [figure 11].
To this collection, it was crucial to think
about the tactile qualities of the fabrics
that were intended to be adopted, that is,
to determine their characteristics related to
texture, fit, volume and touch.
The professor also conducts a course in
Brazil called “Sentir e Vestir a Moda” (in
english “To feel and to wear fashion”), at
Adeva - Associação de Deficientes Visuais e
Amigos (Association of the Visually Impaired
and Friends), which aims to bring knowledge
and information, transacting accessibility,
making fashion even more inclusive for
those with visual impairments [figure 12].
In terms of inclusive fashion, it is not just
about making fashion products, and this is
35
also a complex aspect. It is also necessary
that the information can reach people with
disabilities, that access to it as well as to the
products is created [59].
Another great example of AT in fashion is
the dutch designer Pauline Van Dongen’s
Vigor sweater [figures 13 and 14]. Originally
designed for senior citizens, the cardigan
employs stretch sensors made of conductive
yarn to collect information about a person’s
motions, which is subsequently used to
measure the exercises and activity levels
of persons who cannot readily track
them on their own. As a result, the knit is
beneficial not only to the elderly, but also
to persons with a range of disabilities. The
data collected by the Vigor knit can be
communicated to doctors or caregivers to
help them identify mobility patterns and plan
the next steps in physical treatment [46].
Even though fashion has made a lot of
improvements in recent years to become
more inclusive, there is still a lot to improve.
As we have seen with the few examples
shown, AT can make a difference on people’s
lives through adaptations and improvements.
Figure 13. Back of the Vigour sweater. Source: Pauline Van Dongen.

Figure 14. Detail from the Vigour sweater. Source: Pauline Van Dongen.

36 37
2.4.2. Empowering
the Visually Impaired:
Unveiling the Impact of
Assistive Technology
One of the most popular assistive
technologies are the eyeglasses. A visual
correction device that, together with mobility
aids, is among the oldest AT created.
According to the article “Assistive
Technologies for People with Disabilities”,
the existing ATs for blindness and visual
impairment could be divided in 5 categories:
haptic aids, traveling aids, AT for accessible
information and communication, AT for daily
living (Hersh, 2008), and phone and tablet
applications for blind and visually impaired
people [5].
Haptics refers to matters related to the sense
of touch, tactile interactions, a multifaceted
sensory mode that has traditionally served
as a stand-in for vision for blind and visually
impaired individuals. Notable illustrations
of this kind of AT, the most renowned ones,
are the Braille writing system and the white
cane. These two examples, which are highly
recognized, have evolved into even more
sophisticated technologies. The white cane, in
particular, is also regarded as a traveling aid.
Traveling aids are made to reduce the
challenges that these people face when
traveling through different environments,
including the unknown. These challenges can
be about mobility – locating a safe route to
navigate and avoid dangers and obstacles;
navigation – to be aware of one’s existing
situation and decide how to travel from it to
a destination; and environmental access – a
physical setting that has been thoughtfully
designed to reduce risks for blind and visually
38
impaired people while also providing them
with context [5]. An instance of a travel aid is
tactile paving and surfaces, designed to alert
individuals to potential hazards and provide
directional guidance.
As outlined in the same study, “technology
for accessible information and communication
includes technologies for specific purposes,
such as education, working and employment,
leisure and recreation.” [5] In contrast, AT
for daily life is something more embracing,
that includes devices for personal care, time
keeping, food preparation and consumption,
environmental control and household Figure 15. Tacks are included in Sonar’s garment not only as an ornament. They indicate the color of the
appliances, money and more. piece in braille. Source: Welum.
In the present day, owing to the heightened
significance of smartphone and tablet
applications, there exists a fifth category
within AT for blind and visually impaired
individuals. This category encompasses
color detection applications that leverage the
device’s camera to recognize and audibly magnetic fasteners to clothing. An example tacks. For those who aren’t disabled, this is
convey the name of a color for an item. of fashion for blind people is the Lithuanian seen as ornaments as well as functional. [90]
Additionally, this category involves money designer Rugilė Gumuliauskaitė: she creates Fashion has a significant role in society and
identification applications that employ the customized collection books so that her in people’s daily lives. Kathryn McPherson, a
camera to determine the denomination of a customers can feel the fabrics and body girl born with low vision, says that “fashion is
banknote. Voice recognition applications, such shapes that will be the foundation of their a great equalizer […] When I put effort in and
as iOS’s Siri and similar options, also fall new clothing [33]. dress up, people see me as the trainer of my
under this division, like many others. Another brand that has the aim to include [guide] dog, rather than the person who needs
When it comes to fashion, though, currently, blind people in fashion design is Sonar the assistance. It puts me at an equal level
a small number of companies are making [figure 15]: created by María Sol Ungar from with everyone else because people assume I
an effort to make life easier for persons Argentina, the brand’s garments feature special am fully sighted.” [85] If handled properly,
with disabilities by adding tactile clues to pockets to put walking sticks, and textures to fashion might have a significant impact for
packaging and labels, designing “seated” be felt easily. The label is written in braille and disabled people, and change – for better –
wheelchair-friendly apparel, and adding the color is indicated through embroideries or how they are perceived and heard.
39
 2.4.3. Do assistive
technologies coincide with
accessible and inclusive
technology?
Although assistive, inclusive and accessible
technology all aim to promote accessibility and
diversity, their focuses and scopes may differ.
According to the Assistive Technology
Industry Association, AT is any tool,
gadget, or program that enables people
with disabilities to accomplish tasks, gain
independence, or improve their capability,
increasing their overall quality of life [108].
It focuses on the demands and obstacles
that individuals with disabilities encounter,
trying to reduce barriers and give assistance
in a variety of aspects of life such as
communication, movement, education, and
daily activities.
Inclusive technology pertains to the
creation and advancement of technology
that is accessible and user-friendly for a
diverse range of individuals, irrespective
of their abilities or limitations. According
to OxfordLanguages, the world’s leading
dictionary publisher, the word “Inclusive”
means “not excluding any of the parties or
groups involved in something; aiming to
provide equal access to opportunities and
resources for people who might otherwise
be excluded or marginalized, such as those
having physical or intellectual disabilities
or belonging to other minority groups”.
Therefore, inclusive technology signifies
technology that is designed for universal use,
enabling everyone to derive its benefits.
It seeks to develop goods and services
that are inclusive from the start, taking into
account varied user needs and adding features
that cater to a wide range of consumers.
Figure 16. Examples of assistive and inclusive technologies.
Source: Assistive and Inclusive Home Technology: A guide for people with sight loss. Inclusive technology aims to remove
40
obstacles and give all people equitable access
to and engagement with technology.
The goal of accessible technology is to
ensure that technology is designed and
developed so that persons with disabilities
can perceive, understand, navigate, and
engage with it efficiently. This includes
examining universal design principles and
implementing features such as alternative
text for images, keyboard accessibility,
video captioning, social acceptability,
and customizable font sizes. Accessible
technology attempts to give those with
disabilities with equal access and usability,
allowing them to fully engage in digital
environments. This means giving them access
to the technologies needed regardless of their
cultural, financial or social contexts.
While AT focuses on meeting the unique
needs of people with disabilities, inclusive
and accessible technology attempts to
provide goods and services that are useful
and accessible to a wide variety of users.
Individuals with disabilities, older folks,
people with transitory impairments, and those
experiencing situational limits can all benefit
from inclusive and accessible technology.
It is essential to remember that these
terms are not mutually exclusive, and they
may overlap. AT can be both inclusive and
accessible, and inclusive and accessible
technology can contain elements that
help people with impairments. The main
goal is to use technology to break down
barriers, improve accessibility, and promote
inclusivity for all people, regardless of skills
or impairments.
41
2.5. Exploring inclusive 2.5.1. Wearable
design technology and the
body’s map
In the pursuit of fostering a more inclusive The body’s map is a critical consideration
world, the domain of design extends in the design of wearable technology. It
beyond mere aesthetics and functionality; provides designers with information about
it encompasses a profound interplay the different regions of the body, their
involving technology, human interaction, movement patterns, and their sensitivity to
and personal space. This endeavor embarks touch. This information can be used to select
upon an exploration that delves into the the ideal placement for a wearable device,
convergence of three pivotal dimensions: ensuring that it is comfortable, unobtrusive,
wearable technology, proxemics and social and socially acceptable.
acceptability.
When designing accessories, even those
As one navigates through these infused with technology, it’s imperative to
interconnected realms, a complex tapestry of prioritize a seamless integration that aligns
considerations that shape the design process with the wearer’s natural comportment,
unfold, particularly when addressing the contributing to its social acceptability. As
needs of individuals with disabilities, such as Dune et al. said: “for wearable devices,
the blind and visually impaired. the social perception and comfort of worn
artifacts often extends beyond the ‘static’
aesthetic variables of the artifact (worn
on the body, but not interacted with) into
the social aesthetics of interacting with a
body-worn device.” [27]. The placement of
wearable technology on the body can have
a significant impact on the device’s societal
acceptance.
The design process demands a
comprehensive approach, taking into account
aspects such as proximity and reachability
[16]. At its heart, though, is the relevance
of weight and dimension. Ensuring that
these characteristics are in harmony with the
body prevents restricting movements and
balance. Gemperle et al. emphasize that ideal
positions are those that move the least in
relation to the rest of the body [37].
Strategically selecting placement areas to
Figure 17. Most likely on-body locations for wearable technology if all considerations are weighted equally.
Source: Clint Zeagler ensure comfort gains prominence. Steering
42
clear of bony or extremity regions is key,
instead favoring fleshy, non-sensitive zones.
Zeagler’s body map, delineating prime
locations for wearable technology [figure
17], highlights the hand, wrist, forearm,
upper arm, upper chest, forehead, ear, and
mid-thigh as promising territories [120].
However, this choice hinges on technology
type, weight, and purpose.
For certain projects, the broader
environmental and bodily context plays
a pivotal role. Considering overall body
movement, sensor placements, and stimuli
becomes pivotal [93]. This multifaceted
approach harmonizes the intimate
relationship between technology, form, and
function, ultimately shaping wearables that
seamlessly meld with the wearer’s lifestyle.
In conclusion, the design of wearable
technology must take into account a variety
of factors, including the body’s map, the
weight and dimensions of the device, the
wearer’s comfort, and the social acceptability
of the device. The concept of proxemics,
which is the study of human spatial behavior,
can be helpful in understanding how people
perceive and react to wearable technology.
For example, people may be more likely
to accept a wearable device that is placed
in a non-intrusive location, such as the
wrist or forearm. Additionally, the design
of the device should be mindful of cultural
differences in proxemics. By taking these
factors into account, designers can create
wearable technology that is both functional
and socially acceptable.
43
2.5.2. Proxemics and
the perception of
personal space
“The branch of
knowledge that deals
with the amount of
space that people feel
it necessary to set
between themselves and
others”
- Oxford Languages dictionary.
Proxemics delves into the exploration
of human space and its influence on
interpersonal interactions. It revolves
around the notion of the personal space
individuals perceive as necessary between
themselves and others [22, 42, 115].
Developed by Edward Hall, this concept
categorizes interaction zones into four
proxemics zones: intimate, ranging from
0 to 50 centimeters; personal space,
spanning 0.5 to 1 meter; social zone,
encompassing 1 to 4 meters; and public,
stretching beyond 4 meters [42]. This
spatial differentiation holds significance
for effective communication in diverse
scenarios, spanning work, home, tourism,
and more. The context, whether a private
conversation or a public event, as well as
cultural nuances and personal traits, can
shape an individual’s spatial behavior [57].
Beyond interpersonal dynamics, Gemperle
extends the relevance of proxemics as a key
consideration in “Design for Wearability”
[37]. This emphasizes the importance of
44
comprehending the appropriate size of
wearable technology and components.
Ensuring that these elements do not extend
beyond the body’s inherent perceived
dimensions is essential to prevent
obstruction of natural movements within the
environment [120]. It’s critical to identify
the body regions where these components
can be placed without exceeding an
individual’s envisioned self-size.
In a broader sense, proxemics pertains
to a person’s perception of their self-size.
To accurately gauge how far a device can
extend from the body while still feeling
natural to the wearer, the research draws
from Clint Zeagler and the Georgia Tech
Wearable Computing Center’s body
map [figure 18] [45, 92, 119]. Anything
surpassing this distance may require
adaptation on the part of the user to
accommodate this expansion within their
personal self-size envelope [93].
The alignment of proxemics, body
map research, and considerations of
social acceptability collectively assume
a paramount role in shaping the design
process. By delving into the intricate
dynamics of proxemics, it becomes possible
to gain insights into the nuanced perception
of personal space, which directly informs
the placement of wearable devices. This
comprehension not only ensures that
these technologies do not interfere with
an individual’s spatial comfort, but it also
creates a sense of natural integration within
their self-defined bounds. Figure 18. Proxemics Body Map. Font: Clint Zeagler and the Georgia Tech Wearable Computing Center.
45
2.5.3. The importance
of social acceptability
Social acceptability serves as a pivotal
determinant in evaluating the viability
of a project, encompassing the collective
evaluation and opinion regarding a product,
plan, or policy [88]. Influential factors
contributing to social acceptability, as
depicted in figure 19, encompass aspects
such as active participation in decision-
making processes, the socio-economic and
geographical context, and the alignment of
users’ values, beliefs, and anticipations.
In the context of this research, social
acceptability pertains to the extent to
which wearable technologies tailored for
individuals with visual impairments garner
approval from the broader societal spectrum.
In prior studies, Kelly [52] characterized
wearables as computers or electronic gadgets
that are displayed deliberately in a manner
similar to fashion accessories such as
jewelry or sunglasses. She highlighted that
social acceptance is critical for such gadgets
because the usage of wearable technology
is a very public issue. To be acceptable
on a personal level, fashion goods must
be congruent with the person’s self-image
[51], and can even trigger dominance and
subordination behavior in relationships
[50]. Yang et al. [118] discovered that social
image and aesthetic attractiveness are both
critical determinants in how people perceive
wearables.
As outlined in the article “Fashion and
Technology: Implications for the Social
Acceptability of a Wearable Device” [50],
the initial premise was that fashion would
46
play a pivotal role in determining the
social acceptability of wearables. However,
the research subsequently underscores a
distinction between aesthetic considerations
and the social acceptability of wearable
technology. While aesthetics and social
acceptability share a relationship, they
remain distinct but interconnected concepts.
Notably, the work of Toney, Mulley, Thomas,
and Piekarski on their e-SUIT project [99]
demonstrates that subtlety emerges as a
paramount aesthetic concern in crafting
wearables with societal approval. It’s vital to
emphasize that aesthetics, though intertwined
with social acceptability, do not constitute an
identical notion.
It’s now evident that the scope of
social acceptability extends beyond the
mere creation of AT. It encompasses a
comprehensive and collaborative endeavor,
incorporating inclusive design principles
within the sphere of fashion. The innovation
of solutions extends beyond the enhancement
of the lives of individuals with disabilities;
it endeavors to cultivate an environment
resonant with their unique experiences.
This endeavor necessitates a comprehensive
approach, encompassing immersion into
their world, empathy towards their daily
challenges, and collective conceptualization
that seamlessly integrates functionality and
aesthetics. While certain dimensions of AT Figure 19. Scheme of the factors influencing social acceptability of projects. Source: MERN, adapted from
may intersect with medical requirements, Yelle (2013) and Stankey and Schindler (2006).
it’s imperative to steer clear of designs that
inadvertently perpetuate stereotypes or
undermine their autonomy.
47
 The notion of viewing individuals with
disabilities through a lens of “broken” or
impaired bodies is problematic on multiple
fronts. Not only does this perspective draw
upon prejudiced notions, but it also impedes
their social inclusion and acceptance. While
acknowledging medical requirements is
essential, it’s equally important to integrate
these needs into the broader tapestry of
their daily lives. An insightful quote from
an interviewee in the article “Assistive
Technology (AT), for What?” encapsulates
this sentiment [8]:
“What is so dramatically
important about
walking very slowly
and uncomfortably? It’s
ableism. It’s exactly what
AT does wrong, because
it has to be exciting
and futuristic and sexy.
It doesn’t deal with
the real needs of real
people.”
impact on their lives. Such an approach
ensures that AT truly serves their needs,
promoting inclusivity and aligning with their
overall well-being.
In conclusion, the concept of social
acceptability assumes a central role in the
evaluation and implementation of projects.
Within the context of this research, social
acceptability encompasses not only the
public perception of wearable technologies
designed for individuals with visual
impairments but also their alignment with
personal values, aesthetics, and societal
norms. As evidenced by prior studies, the
relationship between fashion, technology,
aesthetics, and social acceptability is
intricate, with considerations of self-image,
dominance, and aesthetic appeal playing
significant roles. The implementation
of inclusive design concepts within the
realms of fashion and AT demonstrates
a commitment to meeting the special
requirements of people with disabilities.
This comprehensive approach aims to push
the boundaries of conventional design,
guaranteeing that creative solutions promote
empowerment, autonomy, and a sense of
belonging.

Hence, the creation of inclusive

technologies for blind and visually
impaired individuals necessitates a
collaborative approach that centers on co-
designing solutions tailored to their unique
circumstances. This involves an in-depth
understanding of their daily routines, values,
medical necessities, economic realities,
social interactions, and environmental
considerations. AT should be crafted with
their direct involvement in decision-making
processes, taking into account its potential

48 49
 2.6. The everyday
experiences of the
visually impaired
Within a world predominantly shaped by
visual elements, individuals with visual
impairments encounter both challenges
and prospects that are uniquely their own.
This section delves into the multifaceted
dimensions of their daily lives, encompassing
elements ranging from fashion that extends
beyond mere aesthetics to the essential
guiding systems that strive for inclusivity and
empathy. Moreover, the impact of disability
on self-esteem is a significant aspect explored
here, highlighting how fashion can serve as
a catalyst in bolstering their confidence and
sense of self-worth.
50
2.6.1. Fashion for the
blind: when the physical
dimension overcomes
the visual one
For blind individuals, fashion extends
beyond visual aesthetics to include inclusive
and accessible clothes and accessories that
promote tactile experiences, usefulness, and
personal expression. It strives to empower
people with vision impairments to express
themselves via fashion, feel confident in their
clothing choices, and navigate the world
more independently.
Like anyone else, blind individuals have
unique tastes and preferences when it
comes to style. Fashion aims to provide a
diverse range of clothing options, allowing
individuals to express their personality and
cultural identity through clothing choices.
Fashion is important to the visually impaired
because it improves their overall well-being,
self-esteem, and social relationships. The
physical and sensory parts of fashion become
critical, allowing individuals to really engage
with and experience clothing.
Fashion for the blind shifts the emphasis
away from visual aesthetics and toward
tactile and sensory experiences, stressing
the physical and practical components of
clothing and accessories. The physical
component becomes crucial in this setting
since it immediately affects the wearer’s
comfort, mobility, and overall experience
with the clothing. The goal is to produce
fashion that is accessible, inclusive,
and meaningful for people with visual
impairments, with a focus on tactile qualities
and functional aspects.
51
Magnetic closures, velcro fasteners, and
adjustable components allow people with
vision impairments to dress and undress
themselves more independently. Braille
labels or tactile marks are also applied to
clothing tags or labels to provide important
information about the garment, such as
color, materials, care instructions, and style
features.
In some cases, blind individuals themselves
collaborate with fashion designers to share
insights and preferences, using the method
of Participatory Design, leading to more
authentic and inclusive fashion creations.
Fashion for the blind encourages diversity,
inclusivity, and originality, demonstrating
that style and self-expression are more
than just visual aesthetics. This approach
defies existing norms and emphasizes the
importance of sensory experiences in the
world of design by stressing the physical and
tactile aspects of fashion.
One way to do it is by using the principles
of CMF design (Color, Material, and
Finish) and No-Form design, resulting in
a more meaningful and inclusive sartorial
experience. It is a multidisciplinary area
that focuses on the selection and application
of colors, materials, and surface finishes in
product design and other creative sectors,
and it plays an important role in establishing
the overall look, feel, and user experience of
a product or object.
 “It is a methodology
based on metadesign,
which concentrates color,
material and finish in
the design process by
involving related factors
such as brand, market
and user experience.
This concept is inclined
to introduce different
disciplines, think about
the role of colors and
materials in functional
attributes and emotional
attributes, to form a
more comprehensive
design strategy.”
- Kang Zhou, 2020.
As articulated in Kang Zhou’s thesis titled
“The CMF Design approach engaging the
Contemporary Interior Design practice,”
diverse perspectives exist regarding the
origin of the “CMF” concept. Some attribute
its initial application to Harley Earl from
General Motors, who championed CMF,
then referred to as the “Art & Color” section,
in the automotive industry. Alternatively,
another prevalent viewpoint suggests that
Clino T. Castelli coined the exact term
“CMF” for the design concept as early as the
1980s [36, 121].
Emphasizing the importance of sensory
perception, Castelli underscored the
design value of tactile material [121]. By
breaking away from rigid visual forms and
embracing adaptability, No-Form design
52
could complement the notion of fashion for
visually impaired people.
Several forward-thinking designers have
embraced the CMF concept and incorporated
No-Form design principles into their work.
Humberto and Fernando Campana, a
Brazilian duo, have achieved attention for
their whimsical designs that incorporate
unusual materials, subverting standard visual
conventions. They delight in surprising
spectators with designs such as cardboard
sofas and plastic wrapping transformed into
seats.
Iris van Herpen, a Dutch fashion designer
who combines technology and haute
couture, is another innovator. Her innovative
use of 3D printing techniques in fashion
exemplifies the posthuman aesthetic,
exploring the link between humans,
technology, and non-human objects. Van
Herpen’s works also highlight organic and
inventive shapes, exciting both the visual and
tactile senses [66].
In her collection “Sensory Seas,” she finds
inspiration in the sensory interactions that
unfold within the complex makeup of the
human body, mirroring the intricate marine
ecology of the oceans. This collection
beautifully exemplifies how sensory
elements can be harnessed in fashion. It is
rooted in the dialogue between the brain
and its interconnected components. The
collaboration for this collection involved
scientist Ramón y Cajal, whose anatomical
drawings seamlessly merged science and
art, giving tangible form to the threads of
enchanting human biology visible to the
human eye [80].
Another designer renowned not only for
Figure 20. Outfit from the “Sensory Seas” collection. Source: Iris van Herpen.
his designs but also for the materials he
employs, is Nigel Xavier, the season two
53
 champion of Netflix’s “Next In Fashion”.
He marks an upcoming era of sustainable
fashion, by highlighting the materials used
for his designs. His work illustrates his aim
of eliminating fabric waste and inspiring
audiences to embrace mindful design and
creative behavior, developing patchwork
with used textiles [100].
Whilst Rugilė Gumuliauskaitė, a designer
hailing from Lithuania, takes a distinct
approach by crafting garments designed
with a strong focus on texture, specifically
tailored for the blind community. Her
creations prioritize the tactile experience,
with meticulous attention to both the tactile
quality of the material and the final finish.
This unique design philosophy underscores
her commitment to elevating the sensory
aspect of her designs, making touch a central
element of her creative expression [75].
By embracing the physical dimension over
the visual one, exemplifying the power
of design to be inclusive, innovative, and
environmentally conscious, designers
could continue exploring CMF design and
No-Form design principles, to expand the
boundaries of fashion for the blind, offering
unique and meaningful experiences for
individuals with visual impairments and
inspiring a more sustainable and inclusive
fashion industry.
Furthermore, fashion for the blind and
partially sighted people concepts can have
a positive impact on the fashion industry as
a whole, encouraging more inclusive and
accessible design techniques that benefit all
persons, regardless of their skills or sensory
perceptions.

Figure 21. Patchwork design made by Nigel Xavier. Source: Nigel Xavier on Instagram.

54 55
2.6.2. Navigation
challenges and
technological advances
Navigating the world can be challenging
and empowering for the blind and visually
impaired. In a world that is mainly designed
for sighted people, those with visual
impairments face a number of obstacles that
limit their movement and independence.
Everyday actions such as crossing the street
or navigating unfamiliar places can be
difficult.
Signs, traffic signals and visual alerts
are frequently used in public places. This
lack of access to crucial information can
cause confusion and potential hazards for
those with visual impairments. The lack of
braille or tactile signage can be a significant
obstacle for blind people, making it difficult
to identify locations or crucial details.
Blind and visually impaired people face
unanticipated barriers in outdoor situations,
such as uneven pavements, construction
zones, and illegally parked automobiles.
These hazards may limit their travel and
endanger their safety. Another challenge
is crossing busy streets, the absence of
accessible pedestrian signals or auditory
cues can make it difficult for them to
determine the right time to cross safely,
this is particularly relevant in today’s
metropolitan surroundings, where a variety
of modes of transportation coexist.
However, because of advancements in
AT, blind and visually impaired people
nowadays have tools to increase their
autonomy and safety, allowing them to
navigate the world with greater confidence.
At traffic light-controlled crossings, for
56
example, two sorts of devices can be used:
audio “beeping” signals or tactile signals,
such as rotating cones. When the “green
pedestrian symbol” or “it’s safe to cross”
phase of the lights is displayed, these devices
activate. When it is safe to cross, audible
signals create a constant beeping sound.
These are only provided for pedestrian
safety at crossings away from all others or at
intersections where traffic in all directions is
halted at the same time. Tactile indications
or “spinning cones” [figure 22] are located
on the underside of the push button control
box and revolve when the “green pedestrian
symbol” shows and it is safe to cross [75].
Some modern GPS and navigation apps
offer step-by-step voice guidance, assuring
safe and efficient travel. These apps employ
real-time data to guide users through streets
and buildings, allowing them to confidently
explore new places. However, there is still a
lack of information related to indoor and new
places, that can be prejudicial to the blind,
increasing their needs to other’s assistance,
such as furniture installed in the space and
obstacles attached on the wall, that are
too high to be detected by white cane, for
example, wall-mounted telephone and fire
extinguisher [49].
Another interesting alternative created to
assist blind and partially sighted people in
their navigation is through the tactile paving:
it has a curved top surface that allows you to
feel it underfoot. It is most commonly used
to indicate a road crossing, but it can also be
used to indicate the top and bottom of steps
or where a cycling route runs alongside a
footway [75].
Furthermore, wearable technologies such as
bone-conduction headphones allow users to
receive auditory signals without obstructing
their ears, allowing them to stay conscious
of their surroundings, whilst sensors in smart
canes detect changes in ground surfaces
and alert users to potential hazards, as the
UltraCane - the first electronic cane that
detects objects at the feet, legs, torso and
head level [figure 23]. It uses an ultrasonic
echo to detect the presence of nearby objects,
providing tactile responses that are inaudible
and do not interfere with other warning
systems [102].
Guidance for blind and visually impaired
people in a sighted world is an ongoing
obstacle, but with the support of AT, great
progress has been made to improve their
autonomy and safety. The incorporation of
accessible navigation systems, as well as the
development of smart canes and wearable
devices, offer crucial assistance to those
with visual impairments, allowing them to
navigate their surroundings and participate
in society. However, there is still work to
be done to make public spaces accessible
and inclusive for all, ensuring that blind
and visually impaired people can travel
independently and safely without constraints.
57

Figure 22. Assistive technology for blind during
traffic. Source: Unsplash.
Figure 23. UltraCane. Source: Google Image.
58
2.6.3. EMBRACING
INCLUSION
Blind and visually impaired people have
often experienced discrimination and stigma
throughout history. They were generally
seen as helpless and reliant, which restricted
their educational and career prospects.
Findings from a study conducted in 2019
by Fraser S., Beeman I., Southall K., and
Wittich W. reveal that individuals with visual
impairment, spanning various age groups,
commonly encounter a substantial prevalence
of unfavorable societal attitudes directed
towards them [34]. The lack of understanding
and awareness about their abilities limited
their integration into mainstream society,
promoting the notion of their “disability”
rather than their unique qualities.
According to the
Disability Inclusion
factsheet (2023),
from the European
Civil Protection and
Humanitarian Aid
Operations, individuals
with disabilities
frequently encounter
obstacles that impede
their complete access
to humanitarian aid and
protection.
In response, the concept of disability
inclusion strives to take into account the
distinct requirements of individuals with
disabilities, with the goal of guaranteeing
59
their comprehensive involvement in
humanitarian initiatives [26].
Inclusion is a basic human right that allows
everyone to participate fully in society
regardless of their ability. For visually
impaired and blind individuals, it extends
beyond physical accessibility to include
developing an environment that recognizes
their specific needs and ensures their full
involvement in all parts of daily life.
One important part is education, the
foundation of inclusive communities.
By giving visually impaired people with
accessible and specialized educational
opportunities, they can acquire knowledge
and skills that will assist them grow
personally and independently. Inclusive
educational techniques, such as braille
instruction, adaptive technologies, and
accessible learning materials, enable these
students to pursue their academic goals,
challenge preconceptions, and reach their
full potential as active and engaged learners.
The UN Convention on the Rights of
People with Disabilities acknowledges the
imperative for individuals with disabilities
to enjoy equitable and unrestricted access to
education at all levels within a nation. This
access should be designed to optimize the
abilities of persons with disabilities, nurture
their cognitive and emotional potentials, and
seamlessly integrate them into society without
any form of discrimination. This principle
is underpinned by the delivery of education
through equal opportunities [1, 20].
 Creating inclusive public spaces is another
key factor for ensuring that visually impaired
and blind individuals can move safely
and independently. As highlighted by the
Government Office for Science (2016), a
notable 55 percent of visually impaired and
blind individuals in the United Kingdom
expressed that their local roadways were
either inadequately safe or outright unsafe
[40]. Inclusive spaces not only facilitates
physical movement but also promotes a sense
of belonging and confidence, enabling these
individuals to explore and engage with their
surroundings.
A crucial aspect of inclusion is also
employment, providing individuals with a
sense of purpose, financial independence, and
social integration. Employers must prioritize
accessibility and reasonable adjustments in
order to create inclusiveness in the workplace.
Innovative AT, job-specific training, and
adaptable work settings enable individuals
with visual impairments and blind people
to succeed in a variety of professional
disciplines, bringing their own perspectives
and skills to the workforce.
Additionally, the UN Convention on
the Rights of People with Disabilities
acknowledges the right of individuals with
disabilities to engage in work on par with
their peers through requisite measures. The
Convention emphasizes the imperative
to foster vocational and professional
rehabilitation, retain and reintegrate jobs for
individuals with disabilities, and underscores
the importance of ensuring the provision of
reasonable accommodations in workplace
settings, encompassing various initiatives, that
safeguard and advance the actualization of
the right to work, even for those who acquire
disabilities while employed [20].
In an increasingly digital world, ensuring
60
digital accessibility is paramount for fostering
inclusion. Websites, applications, and online
platforms must be built with accessibility in
mind, with features including screen readers,
alt text for images, and keyboard navigation.
Furthermore, accessible mobile devices and
apps provide increased connectivity, freedom,
and social engagement options.
The benefits of smart homes and appliances
also play a significant role in fostering
inclusion for visually impaired and blind
individuals. The integration of assistive
technologies into household devices,
such as smart speakers, thermostats, and
security systems, enhances their autonomy
and independence. These devices can be
controlled through voice commands, enabling
users to adjust settings and perform tasks
without relying on sight. One notable example
is the Amazon Echo Dot, shown in the figure
Figure 24. Amazon Echo Dot. Source: Amazon.
24, a hands-free smart speaker featuring the
renowned virtual assistant, Alexa, which
stands as one of the most prominent ones
in the present day. From adjusting lighting
to setting reminders, smart appliance
technologies provide a more accessible and
seamless living experience.
However, for true inclusion, it’s imperative
that these technologies and solutions
created to facilitate everyone’s lives are
also accessible in terms of financial aspects,
ensuring affordability for those who need
them the most.
For a better inclusive world, cultural and
recreational activities must also be included,
to enrich the lives of visually impaired and
blind people. Audio descriptions in movies,
tactile exhibits in museums, and adaptive
sports programs are all critical components
of developing an inclusive cultural landscape.
By providing a variety of leisure activities,
society encourages social integration, nurtures Figure 25. Example of assistive technology for the blind during traffic. Source: Unsplash.
61
 creativity, and allows everyone to pursue their
passions and interests.
A notable illustration of enhanced
inclusivity within museums is exemplified
by Istanbul Modern’s educational initiative,
“The Color I Touch” [figure 26]. This
program, tailored for blind and partially
sighted children and youth, offers a
comprehensive experience comprising
curated exhibition tours led by experts,
immersive art workshops, and audio-
described film screenings [17].
Throughout the exhibition tours,
participants are provided with vivid
descriptions of artworks, enabling them to
Figure 26. “The Color I Touch” initiative.
Source: Istanbul Modern. interpret and engage with the pieces. The
workshops afford them the opportunity
to cultivate manual dexterity through
the utilization of diverse materials. In
drama-oriented sessions, participants craft
narratives through associative processes,
fostering imaginative growth. Additionally,
through audio-described screenings of
animations, they critically analyze and
engage with the films they view, enriching
their sensory experiences and cultural
engagement. This multifaceted approach
underscores the potential for museums to
provide an all-encompassing and enriching
environment for individuals with varying
visual abilities.
In Santiago, Chile, a unique initiative is
transforming the way visually impaired
individuals engage with street art. Through
touch panels, braille, and audio descriptions,
select murals created by Chilean artists are
now accessible to this community. Named
“Manos a la Pared” (Hands to the Wall),
as shown in the figure 27, this project is
introducing a new dimension of accessibility
Figure 27. “Manos a la Parede” - tactile panel making murals in Chile accessible to the blind. to a collection of murals located in the
Source: Mucho Cultura on Instagram.
62
vibrant Barrio Lastarria, a popular tourist
district within the city. This endeavor not
only amplifies the reach of street art but
also enhances inclusivity, enabling visually
impaired individuals to connect with and
appreciate large-scale artworks that were
previously beyond their sensory reach [77].
Another example of inclusive initiative is
the collaboration between the Royal National
Institute of Blind People (RNIB) and the
P&G brand Pantene, that embarked on a
campaign aimed at making a genuine impact
within the visually impaired community.
This effort not only introduced the first
visually impaired Pantene ambassador but
also sought to revolutionize how individuals
with visual impairments engage with hair
and beauty [44].
The brand introduced the beauty
industry’s pioneering Inclusivity Social
Code of Conduct. Despite the numerous
beauty tutorials produced each year, truly
inclusive content remains rare. This gap
in representation served as a driving force
for the campaign. With the dual objectives
of establishing brand recognition in retail
environments and providing accessible
hair and beauty tutorials for the visually
impaired, the campaign enlisted the
collaboration of Lucy Edwards, a visually
impaired creator, presenter, and journalist
who is passionate about beauty. This
partnership significantly influenced the
campaign’s strategy and planning. The
campaign yielded overwhelmingly positive
coverage sentiment across 38 publications,
marking a milestone in promoting inclusivity
and diversity within the beauty industry.
The prevailing societal attitudes and
misconceptions about blindness and
visual impairment are one of the most
63
major barriers to participation. Promoting
understanding and empathy are critical for
breaking down stereotypes and creating
inclusiveness. Society may develop a more
inclusive and tolerant atmosphere through
engaging in open debates, promoting
positive portrayals of visually impaired and
blind individuals in media, and fostering
empathy-building experiences.
The level of inclusion in society for blind
people varies based on geography, culture,
and present policies and programs. There
have been substantial attempts in many parts
of the world to promote the inclusion of
visually impaired and blind people in various
sectors of society, such as education, work,
public places, and cultural events, as it is
shown in the “Timeline of the Inclusion for
the Blind and Visually Impaired People”
[figure 28] [2, 41, 43, 67, 79, 112]. However,
there are still problems and challenges to
overcome, and there is room for progress.
Inclusion is a continuous process that
requires continuing education, activism, and
policy reforms. By working to create a more
inclusive and tolerant society, it is possible
to ensure that blind people have equal access
to opportunities, resources, and experiences,
resulting in a more equitable and empowered
environment for everyone.

Figure 28. Timeline of the Inclusion for the Blind and Visually Impaired People. Source: the author.

64 65
Chapter Three:

Exploring Field
Research with
Visually Impaired
Individuals
 3. Exploring Field
Research with Visually
Impaired Individuals
The field research section focuses on
Participatory Design involving visually
impaired individuals in the creation of
inclusive solutions. This approach emphasizes
collaboration and empathy, ensuring that
designs align with their real-life experiences.
Through interviews, meetings, and tailored
questionnaires, their unique challenges and
preferences are explored, shedding light
on navigation, technology adoption, and
fashion choices. This process underscores the
importance of designing with, rather than for,
this community, fostering a more inclusive
design practice.
Within the context of this thesis, the
implementation of the Participatory Design
methodology involved a series of meetings
with blind and visually impaired individuals,
supplemented by the distribution of two
Google Forms to gather their valuable
insights. These interactions aimed to gain a
comprehensive understanding of their needs,
opinions, daily challenges, and specific
contexts. Throughout the project’s duration,
ongoing communication and consultation with
these individuals were prioritized. Their input,
feedback, and suggestions played a pivotal
role in shaping the design process and its
outcomes.
A total of 42 individuals with visual
impairments participated in this collaborative
endeavor. Four of these participants actively
engaged in meetings, while the remaining 38
contributed their perspectives by responding
to the two questionnaires, collectively
enriching the research process.
68
3.1. Interviews and
meetings
This work describes a participatory design
initiative that actively involved blind and
visually impaired individuals in the search
of more inclusive and user-centered design
solutions. This study intended to gather
profound insights into the attitudes, opinions,
and daily lives of this community through a
series of interviews and meetings, with the
aim to encourage empathy, understanding,
and ultimately co-creation solutions that
respond to their particular needs and
aspirations by putting their experiences at
the center of the design process.
A qualitative research approach was
adopted, employing in-depth interviews and
meetings with blind and partially sighted
individuals. Interviews were conducted with
a total of four individuals who have visual
impairments, ensuring strict adherence to
ethical guidelines and obtaining informed
consent from each participant. Among
them, two were of Italian nationality, one
was British, and the fourth was Brazilian.
The participants’ ages ranged from 21 to 69
years old.
These interviews and meetings provided
participants a safe platform to express their
personal experiences and daily concerns.
Their candid observations shed light on
the different constraints people encounter,
ranging from physical navigation challenges
to acquiring information in digital
formats. This method allowed an accurate
understanding of the different requirements
and preferences of the blind and visually
impaired population due to this engaging
procedure.
69

During this stage, questions were conducted
regarding participants’ daily routines, along
with questions about the technological
applications they employ to enhance their
daily lives. Additionally, they were asked
about their methods of navigation in
unfamiliar environments, their perceptions of
personal autonomy, strategies for selecting
daily clothes, their level of interest in fashion,
and related topics. The discussions were
approached in a manner that prioritized
participants’ feelings, opinions, and
experiences, aiming to gather comprehensive
details that would contribute to crafting more
effective solutions.
It was discovered the revolutionary
potential of co-creating solutions that truly
fulfill their needs by listening to their voices
and understanding their experiences. The
experience highlighted the need for empathy,
respect, and collaboration in creating for
people with different abilities, encouraging
us to advocate for more participatory
approaches in the design sector.
70
3.2. Questionnaires
In a world that aims for inclusivity and
understanding, it is crucial to raise the voices
of all people, including the visually impaired.
For this project, two Participatory Design
Questionnaires were developed specifically
suited to the visually impaired population
as part of the commitment to promoting a
more inclusive society. The goal is to gather
vital insights into their thoughts, opinions,
and daily lives in order to ensure that their
viewpoints are prioritized in design decisions.
The primary purpose of these
questionnaires is to engage the blind
community to a better understanding of their
real needs, to directly shape the design of
products, services, and experiences created
for them. By inviting them to share their
thoughts and opinions, the aim is to:
• Gain insights into their specific
needs and challenges in daily life.
• Understand their preferences and
expectations concerning design,
fashion, clothing consumption
and elements such as tactile and
textures, audio feedback, and
inclusive aesthetics.
• Identify areas where
improvements can be made
to enhance accessibility and
usability.
• Ensure that the blind community’s
perspectives are integrated into the
design process from the outset.
71
During this phase, a total of 38 participants
took part in the study, consisting of 12
British, 23 Italians, and 3 Brazilians. All the
participants’ confidentiality and privacy are
valued. All questionnaire responses will be
analyzed, and personal information will be kept
totally confidential. The information collected
will solely be utilized for research purposes and
to derive valuable insights that contribute to the
development of the design solution.
The initial questionnaire was administered
to a group of 24 participants, who were
extensively questioned about various aspects
of their daily routines, navigation strategies,
utilization of AT, engagement with emerging
technologies, experiences of inclusion, and
related topics.
The second and final questionnaire was
provided to a group of 14 visually impaired
individuals, focusing specifically on the topic
of inclusive fashion for the blind. This phase
of questioning delved into various aspects,
including fashion consumption patterns, the
significance of fashion in their lives, their
personal style preferences, perceptions of
accessibility and inclusivity in the fashion
industry, inquiries about their approaches to
dressing themselves and others.
The project’s vision is to empower the blind
community by placing them at the center of
design decisions. By offering a participatory
platform, this research strives to design a
solution that enhances their independence,
autonomy, and overall quality of life. By
understanding their daily struggles and
aspirations, it becomes possible to co-
create solutions that truly meet their needs,
preferences, and aspirations.
Chapter Four:

A Comprehensive
Analysis Of Case
Studies And
Project Personas
 4.1. Case Studies 4.1.1. Applications

Case studies are a relevant and enlightening NaviLens

tool for investigating real-life situations
and phenomena in depth in research and Visually impaired people may have difficulty
academics. They provide a thorough using traditional signage and therefore,
investigation of individual situations, sometimes, can be dependent on others’
allowing for an extensive examination and assistance in unfamiliar environments. The
comprehension of the subject matter. In the NaviLens App assists these people by allowing
context of inclusive fashion with AT for them to scan codes without knowing where
blind and visually impaired people, case they are, providing the same information as the
studies can offer valuable insights into the
signage very accurately.
practical implementation and impact of these
technologies on the daily lives of individuals NaviLens codes help to get necessary
with visual impairments. information contextualized, making cities
smarter and more inclusive. The capabilities
In the quest for inclusivity and
of this code allow users to interact more easily
empowerment, the lives of impaired
individuals can be dramatically touched by and accessible with their environment in
a myriad of innovative case studies across places such as subway stations, bus stops and
various domains. This study sets out on a museums or public buildings.
journey to discover the transforming impact The app detects multiple tags simultaneously,
of these case studies, which are all aimed efficiently communicating them to the user,
at improving people’s lives. From cutting- even when walking or in motion while the
edge assistive technologies to apparel that cellphone is pointed up. Reading markers with
transcends visual aesthetics to inclusive NaviLens is almost instantaneous, having no
guiding applications that inspire autonomy, need for focusing, which is essential for people
these case studies demonstrate the progress
with visual impairments [69].
made to build a more inclusive and supportive
society for everyone.
Throughout this research, there were selected
22 case studies that fit into the theme and
could be helpful to a more depth analysis.
They were analyzed and then categorized
regarding their functionality, wearability,
accessibility and design concept.
To give a better introduction to the
case studies, they were splitted based on
their type or placement on the body. The
categories selected were Applications; Face
and Ears; Wrist; Body or Adaptable; Neck
and Experience.

74 75
 4.1.2. Face and ears

BlindSquare The app used synthesized binaural audio Navigation Glasses

BlindSquare is a popular accessible GPS app
for the blind, deafblind, and partially sighted
people. It is a self-voicing app, and when used
with third-party navigation apps provides
specific points of interest and intersections for
safe, reliable movement both outdoors and
indoors [109].
After determining your location,
BlindSquare gathers information about the
surroundings, then the app’s algorithms
determine what information is most useful
to the user, such as popular libraries or
restaurants. To hear the current address and
details about the nearest intersection and
venues, the user only needs to shake the
device. The app tracks the destination and
periodically announces the distance and
direction the user is headed. The user can
also mark the position to help find the way
back, and its favorites places and venues. To
avoid excessive information, filters can also
be applied to provide only the ones the user is
looking for.
to offer information about the surroundings,
producing the illusion of 3D sound. It worked
in the background with navigation or other
applications to provide the user with more
context. Using location and activity sensors,
the phone in hand or pocket recorded the
movement and allowed to walk toward a self-
set audio beacon.
Currently, after the research being
concluded, the project code is available as
open-source software [64].
Navigation Glasses is a concept design
by Xu Guang Suo: a pair of special glasses
teamed with an earpiece that helps the
partially sighted people to visualize their
surroundings, including peripheral vision. The
futuristic design would use built-in sensors to
alert the user to surrounding objects, whether
they are in front, behind, or beside the wearer,
and then give the auditory feedback [81].
A strategically placed mic allows the user to
communicate with the device and get accurate
real time feedback. It may have a greater,
360-degree reach than the usual white cane,
which merely alerts the visually impaired user
to items in front of them.

Microsoft Soundscape
A Microsoft Research project that
investigated the use of novel audio-based
technology to help people to have a richer
awareness of their environment, becoming
more confident and empowered to navigate.
Soundscape, as opposed to step-by-step
navigation apps, employed 3D audio cues
to enhance ambient awareness and create a
new method to interact with the environment.
It gave comfort in unknown environments,
assisting people in creating mental maps and
personal route choices. Figure 29. Navigation Glasses. Source: Yanko Design.

76 77
 Aira and ergonomics. Some blind people can
actually see at least some lights, which makes
A visual interpreting service, live, on- them extremely sensitive to bright lights. The
demand access to visual information. Aria glasses can be a protection regarding dust,
is an accommodation or productivity tool branches and other obstacles. Some people
that connects the user to actual humans wear glasses to actually cover disfigured eyes,
to simplify daily life. Founded in 2015 to gaining more social acceptance. The glasses
provide access to visual information to are also interesting regarding being close to the
persons who are blind or have impaired ears, making them ideal to provide auditory
vision, hence offering independence and feedback without blocking the ear canal
autonomy [105]. and allowing them to be more aware of the
surroundings. In the ergonomic field, glasses
An human-to-human professional assistance
are a natural hands-free device, which help
service that delivers on-demand, skilled
the user to protect and orientate himself [68].
and reliable visual interpreting for any task.
Using the camera of the glasses, connected
to the smartphone, a trained agent will assist
by visually interpreting the surroundings,
from describing to reading, from explaining
to navigating – just about anything, safely
Figure 30. Aira. Source: Google Image.
and securely.

Smart Glasses for Blind People

By replicating and complementing the
natural and intuitive system of orientation
with software, taking advantage of new
technologies, Smart Glasses for Blind People
is designed to improve the quality and quantity
of information a blind person receives,
improving the way they move within cities,
gaining independence at the same time.
When the user goes into a point of reference
in the city that is also embedded into the
program, the gadget vibrates. To learn more
about it, the user taps and receives extensive
auditive information. If it double taps again,
it can obtain more detailed information about
the area that is genuinely relevant to a blind
person. By tapping the device on any street in
the city, the user can obtain basic information.
The idea to create the glasses is because of
lightning, protection, acceptance, function
Figure 31. Smart Glasses for Blind People. Source: Google Image.

78 79

Figure 32. Envision Glasses. Source: Envision.
Figure 33. OrCam MyEye. Source: Google Image.
80
Envision Glasses product or through barcode recognition that
uses a preloaded database. Any type of text,
Envision Glasses are lightweight glasses with people’s faces, products and other visuals are
a camera and direct speaker that call aloud instantly converted into audio for transmission
text and environmental information, recognize through a tiny speaker that rests above the
faces, light, and colors, and allow the user to wearer’s ear or through a connected bluetooth
share that information. It can read any short device [71]
text that’s in front of the camera with instant
text and turn any kind of long-form text into
speech with scan text. Be it hand-written notes,
newspapers, magazines or the user’s own post.
The glasses excel in all types of text
recognition, including handwriting, in over 60
languages thanks to their unobtrusive, intuitive
design. It contains the “Ask Envision” feature
that enables people to scan documents and
ask questions using GPT-4 by OpenAI. With
this feature, people who are blind or visually
impaired can access any text-based content
with ease, enhancing the accessibility and
independence.
The Envision Glasses also allow the user
to make hands free video calls to friends or
family, with the Ally video call feature. It has
a 5-6 hours battery with regular usage, and
USB-C that supports fast charging [29].
OrCam MyEye
A voice activated device that attaches to
virtually any glasses, available in more than
20 languages. Created by Amnon Shashua
and Ziv Aviram, it can instantly read text
from a book, smartphone screen or any other
surface, recognize faces, help the user shop on
its own, work more efficiently, and live more
autonomously.
Designed specially for people with visual
impairment, OrCam MyEye conveys visual
information audibly in real-time and offline. It
speaks product details of any pre-programmed
81
 Zungle Wearable Sound as the technology doesn’t rely on that portion
of the ear to transmit sound.
Designed by BKID for Zungle inc, the
Its battery life goes around 16 hours of
Zungle Wearable Sound Device can be used
walking time, and its bluetooth also has
as a hands-free accessory. With the bone
multipoint pairing, which allows the user to
conduction technology, the device has evolved
switch from one source to another without
into a more powerful and wearable design for
having to reconnect the device [53].
its 2.0 version [122].
With an AI Assistant available via the press
button, and other features such as damp proof,
the glasses can be connected to any device via
bluetooth. The bone conduction technology
allows the user to have the ears free so the
environment can be heard and the awareness is
not compromised.
With the AI voice control, the user can ask
about anything, such as to play music or call
someone, or even about navigation. There are
different styles so the users can choose the
Figure 34. Zungle Wearable Sound. Source: Yanko Design.
ones they like the most. It was not designed
specially for the blind, but can help them to
be more aware of the surroundings whilst still
listening to music or navigating the city, and
protecting the eyes from glare and dust.

Shokz Open Comm

Shokz OpenComm is designed specifically

for mobile communication, engineered with
patented 7th generation bone conduction
technology and with an open-ear design. This
headphone helps the user to stay connected
to the surroundings while on the road, on a
jobsite, or anywhere else where.
It uses vibration to send sound straight to the
ear canal, bypassing the outer ear entirely. An
especially useful accessory for people who are
blind, offering several benefits over traditional
headphones, is also beneficial if the user has
hearing loss related to the outer or middle ear,
Figure 35. Shokz Open Comm. Source: Google Image.

82 83
 Amplify a way to transform a medical device into a
fashion accessory, removing the social stigma
Alice Turner decided to design Amplify, a of needing to carry around clinical-looking
hearing aid that was made to be seen, to be blood glucose meters. It is fashionable, safe,
confident in, and to let people live their lives environmentally responsible, and pain-free.
to the fullest, created to give the hearing-
impaired demographic an added value that
made the hearing aid more than just a medical
accessory.
Using bone conduction technology, it
provides users with high-quality audio for
a more comfortable and wholesome sound
experience. This technology enables the device
to decode sound waves and convert them into
vibrations that can be received directly by the
cochlea so the eardrum is never involved [97].
Still just a concept design, Amplify would
feature bluetooth connectivity which helps
the user to control smart speakers, smart TVs,
Figure 36. Amplify. Source: Yanko Design.
phones, and car audio devices.

Sense Glucose Earring

The Sense Glucose Earring is a unique

non-invasive wearable that incorporates
blood-sugar levels in the ear-lobe using safe,
high-frequency radio waves, revolutionizing
how Type 1 Diabetics check their blood
glucose levels.
The earring only requires a single lobe
piercing (as opposed to the daily pin-prick
tests required of diabetes patients) and stays
on the ear at all times. When the user needs
to check the blood sugar levels, the earring
collects data using sensors and algorithms,
which is subsequently delivered to the
smartphone. This drastically lowers medical
waste while also providing a painless way to
check sugar levels [82].
Figure 37. Sense Glucose Earring. Source: Yanko Design. At the same time, Sense Glucose Earring is

84 85
 4.1.3. Wrist

Sunu Band

A smart mobility aid that uses echolocation

to complement the white cane or guide
dog. The user simply wears it like a watch
and it works as an invisible white cane for
the upper body, allowing the perception of
people, obstacles, and spaces around through
vibrations.
To provide on-the-go GPS assistance, the
band pairs to the Sunu App, that accompanies
the wearer like a virtual sighted guide. The
app sends turn-by-turn directions, and also
gives information about places and streets
Figure 38. Sunu Band. Source: Sunu.
whenever the user points the hand [94].

Vibrance

A vibrating wristband designed to assist

those with hearing loss. Vibrance will detect
any noise louder than 60 decibels and convert
it to vibration. As a result, the user is aware
of the surrounding noises without actually
hearing them [104].
The purpose is to make deaf persons aware
of potentially dangerous situations that can
be avoided through the act of hearing. It can
assist the user in recognizing and exercising
caution when an emergency audio is being
conveyed around them.
It is 3D printed, and the 3D file is available
along with the circuit composition, allowing
anyone in the world to reproduce it, making it
even more accessible.
Figure 39. Vibrance. Source: Welder.

86 87

Figure 40. Dot. Source: Yanko Design.
Figure 41. Bradley Timepiece. Source: BBC.
88
Dot
Braille is one of the world’s most essential
writing systems today. Dot is a smartwatch
that preserves the beauty of Braille, it comes
with a powerful and cohesive look. It has a
unique display with built-in four cells where
the “interaction” happens. In addition, it has
touch sensors on both sides that respond to
gestures.
The idea arose in reaction to the fact that
there are many vision-impaired people today,
with little resources accessible. The Dot
Watch is merely 29 grams in weight, but it
is full of promise: developed by Dot Inc, the
watch employs the world’s tiniest Braille cell
technology [72].
Through bluetooth it can also be connected
to a smartphone, which allows the user to be
notified if someone is calling. When the user
receives a text message on the phone, the
message is converted to braille and sent to the
watch, allowing the user to “read” it.
It also has touch controls on the watch face
that are simple to use, and the Auto-Scroll
feature may be customized.
Bradley Timepiece
Designed for blind people and named after a
Paralympian gold medallist who lost his sight
in Afghanistan, the watch has a stark, circular
titanium face. There are no numbers, to mark
the minutes there is just a ball-bearing rotating
around a groove in the center, and to tell the
hours, another ball bearing rotating around the
edge of the watch.
With 4 different designs, raised hour
indications on the Bradley clock allow the user
to feel the time by touch: a triangular marker
for twelve, elongated line segments for three,
six, and nine, and shorter line segments for the
other markers [106].
89

Figure 42. Misfit Shine. Source: Amazon.
Figure 43. Athena. Source: Mashable.
90
4.1.4. Body or adaptable
Misfit Shine States. Designed by Roar for Good with the
cofounder Yasmine Mustafa, and named after
An desirable activity and sleep tracker the Greek goddess of wisdom and courage,
designed to motivate users to be more the product aims to prevent assaults before
physically active. It emits a halo of lights that they happen, whether the attacker is a stranger
indicates progress toward the daily activity or familiar.
target while also appearing to be an attractive
While pepper spray and tasers are difficult
accessory. Shine motivates the user to attain
to obtain and are frequently confiscated at
the goal every day by tracking how active the
airports, this product was meant to be simply
user is throughout the day.
accessible to everyone. In order for the text
It monitors running, walking, cycling, messaging system to function, Athena has
swimming - up to 50 meters deep - and other a small, low-energy Bluetooth chip that
activities. The Misfit app then takes all of the connects to a smartphone and cell service.
hard work and converts it into simple charts. The alert will sound regardless until the user
Seeing daily information like steps, calories, activates the SilentROAR option, which
distance, and sports activities helps the wearer disables the alarm while still transmitting your
visualize where it’s going and how to get there. location to your contacts [55].
It includes a long-lasting battery and wireless
syncing that is automatic. It can be worn
anywhere and at any time. It may be worn
wherever and however the user wants: the
elegant accessories include a sports band,
leather bands, necklaces, and clips designed
for comfort, versatility, and style [65].
Athena
Dedicated to preventing physical assaults,
Athena is a petite round button that clips onto
a belt or lapel. When pressed, it emits a loud
alarm and texts the wearer’s location to their
designated emergency contacts.
According to the CDC, an estimated 19.3%
of women and 1.7% of males have been
raped throughout their lifetimes in the United
91

Figure 44. Sonar. Source: Welum.
Figure 45. Rugilė Gumuliauskaitė. Source: DW.
92
Sonar
María Sol Ungar is a young clothing
designer from Argentina that created her own
label Sonar, which has the aim to include
blind people in fashion design. However,
Sónar offers clothes for everyone; it is not just
about clothes for the visually impaired [90].
The clothing of the brand has unique
pockets for walking sticks and easily felt
textures. Others consider this as both an
ornament and a utilitarian space to carry your
belongings, while for the visually impaired
this is considered inclusion. Furthermore, all
clothing labels are written in braille, and the
color is indicated by embroideries or tacks.
“I feel very strongly that design must have
a role, combining both aesthetics and a
functional nature. It is also a response to a
need.” (Maria Sol Ungar)
Rugilė Gumuliauskaitė
Rugil Gumuliauskait, a Lithuanian designer,
makes apparel specially for the blind and
visually impaired. With a sense of touch in
mind, the clothes convey a message through
fabric and textures, being aesthetically
enjoyable, not only visually. Regarding colors,
the majority are neutral, to facilitate the
combination between garments.
She also develops customized collection
books so the clients can feel the textures and
curves of their new clothing. The patterns
are dot cut in the paper, in a way that the
customers can have a first impression of the
shape, a different experience for the blind. It
is a cognitive process that allows the users to
understand the shape, colors and textures of the
clothes, before even touching the fabric [33].
93
 4.1.5. Neck

Sony SRS-NS7 Wireless Neckband

The SRS-NS7 Wireless Neckband Speaker

uses Sony’s 360 Spatial Sound Personalizer
technology to envelop the user in the rich
audio of the favorite shows and movies, while
being unobtrusive to others at home. Sony
provides a complete ecosystem for immersive
music experiences, this technology lets the
user build and experience immersive audio,
on a range of platforms, content, and devices
with 360 Reality Audio. Individual sounds
such as vocals, chorus, piano, guitar, bass,
and even live crowd sounds can be put in a
360 circular sound field, allowing artists and
producers to express themselves in new ways.
The combination of crystal pure acoustics
and tremendous sound pressure results in a
richer, deeper, and more gratifying listening
experience. This wearable wireless speaker
has a flexible and ergonomic design that fits
securely around the neck and allows hours of
pleasant viewing of movies, TV shows, and
concerts. An adjustable band on the back of
the speaker allows the user to find the right fit
for total comfort while watching the favorite
show.
With up to 12 hours of power and up to 5
hours at maximum volume, the neckband has
an optimal microphone placement that allows
the capture and delivery of the user’s voice
in excellent quality, while an X-Balanced
Speaker Unit reproduces colleague’s voices
clearly. With echo canceling minimizing
feedback, everyone on the call can hear and
be heard clearly [123].
Figure 46. Sony SRS-NS7. Source: Sony.

94 95
4.1.6. Experience
Two Blind Brothers
Led by two American brothers, Bradford
and Bryan Manning, who as children were
diagnosed with a degenerative disease that
causes people to progressively lose their sight,
this brand is more than just a fashion brand,
but a blind shopping experience [101].
With the focus on the softness of the
clothing, the products are very casual but
use high-end materials. The information in
Braille is included on the tag, so it can also be
inclusive, and 70% or their employees are also
blind, with everything the brand earns being
used to finance medical research and clinical
trials that aim to cure blindness.
The idea of this online brand is that the
customer shops not knowing what it will
receive: a totally blind experience. They
guarantee that the product is high quality,
reinforcing that the visuals are not the only
important characteristic about clothing.
96
The journey embarked upon through the
exploration of these case studies within this
project has illuminated a rich tapestry of
perspectives and insights. Each case study,
a separate thread woven into the fabric of
this research, revealed a different aspect of
the multifaceted issues faced by blind and
visually impaired people. In this concluding
reflection, the key characteristics that have
underpinned the investigative endeavors
come into focus: wearability, accessibility
in economical aspects, functionality, and the
nuanced interplay with visual concepts.
Wearability: At the heart of the exploration
lies the notion of wearability, a pivotal factor
that intertwines fashion with daily life. The
case studies have cast a spotlight on the
intricacies of creating clothing and accessories
that not only adheres to the ever-changing
standards of style but also accommodates
the diverse needs of the users. This terrain
reveals that wearability is not solely a matter
of physical comfort but also encompasses
emotional comfort—a sense of confidence and
self-expression that clothing and accessories
affords to all individuals.
To facilitate a comprehensive analysis of the
wearable case studies presented within this
project, a detailed table has been compiled to
map out their placement in the user’s body.
By examining them, a clearer understanding
of their individual strengths, focus areas,
and potential synergies can be discerned, the
study also reveals the strategic choices made
regarding the placement of these innovations,
indicating where their impacts are most
strategically leveraged. [figure 47]. Figure 47. Placement of the wearables analyzed in the case studies research. Source: the author.
97
 Financial accessibility: a critical component
that determines the impact and effectiveness
of AT. This analysis dives into the crucial
consideration of economic concerns
and their impact on the larger landscape
of technological inclusion. Economic
accessibility is a pillar in comprehending
the real benefits these innovations may
have on people’s lives when affordability is
highlighted, much as functionality emphasizes
the usefulness of design solutions.
To move forward with the investigation of
these case studies, it’s crucial to examine
their economic accessibility, getting insight
into their existing or potential levels of
affordability. A supplementary table has been
created to outline their distinct pricing points
to aid in this evaluation [figure 48]. It is worth
noting, however, that certain case studies are
still in the conceptual or preliminary stages
and lack actual price information, making
them ineligible for inclusion in this table.
It is crucial to highlight how these
technologies are highly expensive, especially
those developed for the blind. This severe
reality underscores a significant hurdle in the
path towards achieving broad accessibility
and inclusion.

Figure 48. Accessibility analyzed in the case studies research. Source: the author.

98 99
 Functionality: Beyond aesthetics,
functionality emerges as a cornerstone in
the case studies’ narratives. Within this
analysis, the focus lies on comprehending
the specific issues that design endeavors to
address and rectify. This exploration delves
into the intricate interplay between design
solutions and the practical challenges they
aim to resolve.
The table formulated provides a
comprehensive overview of the diverse
array of functionalities inherent to each case
study, elucidating their specific purposes
[figure 49]. Spanning from navigation
applications to products incorporating
bone conduction technology and medical
devices, these case studies collectively offer
a wide spectrum of solutions tailored to
various challenges. These functionalities
address a range of issues, including general
assistance, navigation aids, and even
timekeeping solutions, highlighting the
versatility and innovative nature of the
designs presented.

Figure 49. Functionality analyzed in the case studies research. Source: the author.

100 101
 Visual Concepts: Amidst the discussions in design, where discreet functionality was
of fashion and the visually impaired, a favored. This is evident in choices like using
paradox emerges — the interplay of visual inconspicuous headphones on the streets to
concepts within a non-visual realm. The prevent Screen Reader sounds from being
case studies echo a touching truth: the visual heard by others or opting for wrist-based
dimension remains a part of human identity, solutions instead of facial ones, facilitating
even as the traditional notions of vision easy concealment. The underlying principle
are redefined. This dynamic relationship here is to ensure the acceptability of users and
between sight and style becomes evident, their surroundings, striking a balance between
showcasing the significance of visual personal needs and the social context.
elements in personal expression. In conclusion, the case studies have
An integral facet of this research delves into expanded the investigation by providing a
the augmentation of inclusivity within the canvas painted with the complex brushstrokes
realm of fashion for the blind community. of wearability, accessibility, functionality, and
This endeavor hinges on the adept visual concepts. These features demonstrate
consideration of tactile attributes, comfort, that fashion for the visually impaired is a
and style. As mentioned earlier in this paper, symphony of individual stories and goals
within the topic “Fashion for the Blind: When rather than a monolithic endeavor. As this
the Physical Dimension Overcomes the Visual phase of the research comes to an end,
One”, one approach involves the utilization the project is ready to go on with a better
of CMF (color, material and finishing) design understanding of the many complexities that
principles, with an emphasis on material link fashion, technology, and inclusivity.
selection and surface finishes to prioritize the Figure 50. Visual concepts analyzed in the case studies research. Source: the author.
tactile dimension over the visual aspect.
To further comprehend the integration of
these concepts, a matrix was formulated
[figure 50]. This matrix serves as a tool to
discern the alignment of case studies with
these design philosophies. By categorizing
case studies based on their emphasis on
physical versus visual dimensions, the matrix
illuminates the spectrum of approaches within
this research.
Additionally, the matrix also delves into
the dichotomy of visible versus discreet
functionality. This dimension was unearthed
through an extensive exploration of
interviews and aggregated questionnaires.
A significant revelation was the nuanced
preference among participants for subtlety

102 103
4.2. Introducing the
project personas:
exploring diverse
perspectives for enhanced
autonomy
In the realm of assistive technology and
inclusive fashion, understanding the nuanced
experiences and aspirations of individuals
with visual impairments is fundamental. This
project delves into two distinct personas,
Sarah and Lucca, who embody unique
backgrounds, needs, and perspectives.
These personas were meticulously built
based on the interviewers and participants
in the questionnaires held in this project, in
order to shed light on the many challenges
and possibilities experienced by blind and
partially sighted individuals, providing
insights into their lives and priorities.
Persona 1: Sarah - Pursuing Autonomy
and Style
At 26 years old and residing in London,
Sarah is pursuing a degree in Psychology
while living with her parents. Born with 10%
of her vision, Sarah has navigated life with a
distinct perspective.
AT plays an essential role in her daily
routine. She utilizes a white cane for
navigation and dons sunglasses to shield her
eyes from glare and dust. While possessing
a cellphone, Sarah prefers seeking assistance
from people over map applications, as she
feels more confident and safe, she values
human interaction. Headphones on the
streets are a no-go for her, as she prioritizes
the awareness of the surroundings.
Fashion holds significance in Sarah’s life,
104
though she finds it challenging due to its
inherent inaccessibility. She often requires
external help to coordinate her outfits,
focusing on textures and materials rather
than just functionality. Apps assisting with
color selection are indispensable for her.
When she goes shopping for clothes and
accessories, she’s comfortable shopping
alone, using the seller’s descriptions of
the items. However, she prefers to be
accompanied by trustworthy friends who
can give her accurate details about the
products, helping her make decisions. She
relies on touching the clothes to know if
they’re comfortable and easy to wear, and to Figure 51. Persona Sarah - an overview. Source: the author.
understand how to put together an outfit.
She does consider how others might view
her clothing choices, but what matters most
to her is feeling comfortable and liking
what she wears. She believes that dressing
well makes her feel better about herself and
more confident.
Some of her habits include dressing up for
social outings, exploring new fashion items,
spending quality time with her family, and
listening to music and books.
105
 Persona 2: Luca - Empowering
Independence and Technology
Luca, aged 53, resides in Milan and
serves as a technology assistant at a blind
institution. His journey took a turn when he
lost his vision completely at the age of 20.
Navigating the world has evolved for
Luca, thanks to his adept use of assistive
technologies. He employs a white cane for
navigation, relies on a smartwatch equipped
with a screen reader and map applications,
and often benefits from his guide dog’s
assistance. Luca confidently employs
headphones on the streets, maintaining
awareness by using them in only one ear.
His preference for hands-free operation
aligns with his desire for independent
navigation while ensuring privacy.
When it comes to fashion, Luca places
functionality and quality at the forefront,
as he finds the fashion world often lacking
in inclusivity. His wardrobe leans toward
comfortable and practical attire that is easy
to manage.
When it comes to purchasing new clothes,
he usually goes shopping with someone else
or even asks someone to buy them for him.
In his daily routine, he can dress himself
easily and independently. He values both
how socially acceptable his clothes are and
how comfortable they feel.
Luca’s habits encompass spending
time with his wife, exploring the latest
technology products, immersing himself in
music, and enjoying the company of friends.
Through the deep development of personas
within this project, a comprehensive
understanding of the experiences of visually
impaired individuals has been cultivated.
The contrasting profiles of Sarah and Lucca
unveil critical insights that underscore the
106
challenges and opportunities faced by this
community.
In the realm of autonomy, Sarah’s reliance
on external assistance stands in stark
contrast to Luca’s empowered independence.
His ability to navigate and undertake tasks
without constant support presents a valuable
model for fostering autonomy among
visually impaired individuals.
Fashion emerges as a shared concern
for both personas, as they recognize the
lack of inclusivity and accessibility within
the industry. However, their responses
differ. Sarah’s engagement with fashion,
propelled by technology, showcases a means
of addressing personal style and self-
expression. In contrast, Lucca’s pragmatic
approach aligns with his functional needs
and reflects a stance that values utility over
fashion.
Due to his lack of interest in fashion,
he tends to rely more on others when Figure 52. Persona Luca - an overview. Source: the author.
purchasing new clothes, becoming
increasingly dependent. Conversely, Sarah
values the companionship of trusted friends
but is comfortable buying clothes and
accessories independently, relying solely on
the assistance of the seller.
Navigation strategies also diverge between As the personas intertwine and contrast, visually impaired individuals, all from a
them. Luca’s adept use of map applications, they illuminate the multifaceted nature of fashion-centric perspective. This innovation
augmented by his guide dog, emphasizes the the challenges and aspirations of the visually aims to enhance their autonomy by not
potential of technology to enhance navigation impaired community. By delving into their only addressing their safety requirements
for the visually impaired. His insights into unique experiences and perspectives, this but also catering to their self-esteem and
the challenges of indoor navigation spotlight project paves the way for tailored and self-actualization needs. This approach
areas for improvement. In contrast, Sarah’s innovative solutions that address the diverse embodies design thinking, wherein careful
reliance on human assistance reveals needs of individuals striving for autonomy, consideration is given to their unique needs
the complexities she faces in navigating
inclusion, and enriched daily lives. and perspectives, ultimately fostering
unfamiliar environments. The distinction a holistic solution that goes beyond
between outdoor and indoor navigation The central idea revolves around the
creation of a solution that can effectively functional necessities.
difficulties offers a nuanced perspective on
the broader issues encountered by visually translate and support the feedback from
impaired individuals. map applications tailored to guide blind and
107
Chapter Five:

Findings And
Discussion
 5. Exploring Field
Research with Visually
Impaired Individuals
This project embarked on a transformative
journey to enhance the inclusivity of fashion
for blind individuals through the integration
of assistive technology. The research delved
deeply into the domains of inclusion, fashion,
functionality, and their profound impacts on
the lives of those with visual impairments. It
explored the intricate interplay between these
aspects and their dynamic relationship with
society and daily routines.
This exploration culminates in the presentation
of findings from these comprehensive studies,
revealing their significance and highlighting
the transformative potential they hold for
cultivating a more inclusive and progressive
fashion industry. This chapter meticulously
unveils essential discoveries and insights,
structured around questions pivotal to this
study’s objectives. Each topic undergoes
comprehensive examination, thereby shedding
light on their significance and direct alignment
with the overarching research goals.
This study revolves around three central
questions: how to create an inclusive
fashion industry for the visually impaired,
the importance of merging fashion with
functionality for blind individuals, and how
fashion and technology can jointly enhance
autonomy for the blind. These questions
shed light on the challenges faced by visually
impaired individuals and underscore the
roles of fashion and assistive technology
in addressing these challenges. Preceding
the response to these inquiries, an in-depth
discourse was meticulously fashioned to
apprehend insights from user participation in
questionnaires and interviews.
110
5.1. Key insights from the
users participation
The participatory design initiative conducted
with blind and visually impaired individuals
provided invaluable insights into their
thoughts, opinions, and daily experiences. The
project involved 42 participants, comprising
22 blind individuals and 20 with partial
blindness. These participants represented
various nationalities, with 25 being Italian, 13
British, and 4 Brazilian.
Diverse age groups
were represented, with
around 19% of the
participants being below
25 years, 24% aged 26
to 46 years, and 57%
aged above 46 years.
The gender distribution exhibited considerable
variation, with 29 women and 13 men.
Furthermore, in both the conversations and
the initial questionnaire, participants were
queried about whether they were born blind
or if they acquired visual impairment during
their lives. Among the 28 respondents to this
question, approximately 43% reported being
born with visual impairment, while 57%
acquired the impairment later in life.
This project encompassed a series of
interviews conducted through various online
channels, as well as the administration of
two questionnaires using Google Forms. The
following discussion delves into the insights
derived from these activities, providing a
comprehensive exploration of their outcomes
and implications.
111
5.1.1. Interviews
Conducted online, the interviews involved
a total of 4 participants, comprising 3
women and 1 man. The primary objective
was to gain valuable insights into their daily
life experiences, routines, perspectives on
inclusion and guidance, as well as their
thoughts on fashion. These interviews
provided a firsthand understanding of their
unique perspectives and experiences.
The first interview included two
participants, both Italians, one woman and
one man. At the age of 55 and 56 years
old. Both individuals are employed at the
Istituto dei Ciechi di Milano (Institute for
the Blind of Milan). Subsequent interviews
were conducted individually, with one
participant aged 21 and the other aged 69.
These interviews spanned a diverse range
of ages and backgrounds, contributing to a
comprehensive understanding of the topic.
The initial phase of the interviews involved
asking basic questions to gain insight into
their daily experiences and routines. The
use of the white cane was a notable topic,
and all participants mentioned its integral
role in their daily lives for various tasks,
highlighting the need of using it not only for
a better understanding of the surroundings,
but for others’ perception of their disability.
Among them, two individuals reported
being able to perceive shadows, one had
limited peripheral vision in one eye, and the
fourth participant had no visual perception
whatsoever. This diversity in visual
capabilities provided valuable context for
understanding their perspectives.
Regarding technology, all participants
owned smartphones, utilizing them for
112
communication purposes, accessing various
applications for daily tasks, and more. This
common use of smartphones underlines their
significance in enabling diverse aspects of
their lives.
During the conversations, several issues
related to guidance emerged, and questions
such as “how do you do to go to an unknown
place” were made. One of them highlighted
how dependent they are and the need to have
someone with them all the time when out of
the house. This participant also mentioned
how guidance applications are useless
to them, expressing their fear of using it
wrongly and having consequences because
of it.
Another participant,
however, expressed
how technology can
be helpful with that,
mentioning the use of
map applications, such
as BlindSquare, to get to
places they are not used
to going to, especially
when by themselves.
Participants expressed their desire for
technology to address these challenges.
They emphasized the need for technology to
improve the overall accessibility of public
spaces and transportation. An intriguing
observation emerged: those who typically
venture outdoors with companions encounter
greater difficulties in outdoor navigation,
while those accustomed to independent
outings aided by map applications tend
to require more assistance with indoor
navigation. This highlights the nuanced
interplay between individual preferences,
technology, and navigation contexts.
In response to questions about headphones,
all participants underscored the significance
of maintaining awareness of their
surroundings, as hearing serves as a pivotal
sense for them. They universally rely on
headphones; however, when navigating
urban environments, preferences diverge.
Some participants opt to abstain from using
headphones in order to remain vigilant,
whereas others find it acceptable to employ
a single earbud, striking a balance between
engaging with their ScreenReader and being
attuned to their surroundings. This diversity
in headphone usage reveals a conscious effort
to optimize both auditory accessibility and
situational awareness.
When asked about potential technological
solutions, several participants emphasized
the need for enhanced guidance during
navigation. They highlighted the prospect
of technology providing clearer descriptions
of their surroundings both on the streets
and within interior spaces, particularly
complex environments like hospitals.
Additionally, the participants envisioned
technology improving accessibility to art,
suggesting the creation of tactile versions or
audio descriptions to render museums more
inclusive for them. In the realm of fashion,
one interviewee underscored the significance
113
of more comprehensive audio descriptions
for products, reflecting a desire for enhanced
accessibility in their shopping experiences.
These insights collectively reveal the
multifaceted ways in which technology
can be harnessed to address challenges
and enhance the quality of life for visually
impaired individuals.
In the realm of fashion, the sentiments
expressed by interviewees underscore its
profound significance. One of the participants
said that, in particular, fashion is not that
important, however, many interviewees
expressed a strong emotional connection to
fashion, highlighting its role as a powerful
means of self-expression.
For them, fashion
transcends the
utilitarian and takes
on a deeply personal
dimension, offering
a medium through
which they can convey
their individuality and
establish a unique sense
of identity.
One participant expressed that the act of
dressing becomes more than just putting on
clothes; it becomes a way to communicate
their personality, feelings, and preferences
to the world. This process of self-expression
not only empowers them but also contributes
to their overall well-being, as it generates
feelings of comfort and boosts self-esteem.
As pertinently put by one of the interviewees,
“fashion is an important part of my life”,
encapsulating the profound role that fashion
plays in enhancing their sense of self and
connection with the world around them.
In discussing the process of acquiring new
fashion products, a unanimous consensus
emerged among the participants: the
tactile experience takes precedence. Each
interviewee emphasized the significance of
feeling the fabric and structure of the items,
highlighting its crucial role in determining
their preferences.
Alongside tactile
considerations, comfort
during wear ranked
prominently, with
participants valuing
garments that offer
both aesthetic appeal
and physical ease.
Additionally, the practicality of donning the
chosen clothing or accessory was deemed
essential, underscoring the importance of
convenience in their daily routines.
When discussing wearable technologies,
opinions varied among participants. One
interviewee highlighted the importance
of discretion, suggesting that wearable
devices should not draw undue attention and
should seamlessly integrate into their daily
lives to gain greater acceptance from those
around them. In contrast, another participant
articulated the notion of a protective
wearable, such as a helmet, as an intriguing
114
concept. This perspective revealed concerns
about personal safety and a desire for tools
that could mitigate potential risks or violence
from others, underscoring the importance
of not only enhancing accessibility but also
ensuring a sense of security for individuals
with visual impairments.
Inquiries were made regarding inclusive
fashion brands, yet a unanimous sentiment
prevailed among the participants: none of
them were familiar with any brand that
catered to the blind in their catalog. Delving
into broader aspects of accessibility and
inclusion within the fashion industry,
one participant articulated a desire for a
cultural shift. They emphasized the need for
comprehensive education, spanning from
manufacturers to sellers, aimed at cultivating
an awareness of disability-related concerns.
This participant envisioned a transformation
of the industry’s perspective, advocating
for designs that extend beyond the visual,
emphasizing tactile attributes, comfort,
textures, and relief. Furthermore, they
underscored the importance of enhanced
customer service training to ensure a more
inclusive experience for visually impaired
individuals and others with disabilities.
When inquired about their daily dressing
routines, three participants conveyed that
they are self-sufficient in selecting their
attire. Interestingly, two among these three
participants added that they seek a second
opinion after dressing to validate their
choices. In contrast, the fourth participant
expressed a preference for external assistance
in outfit selection, while underlining the
importance of granting final approval before
donning the chosen outfit.
Through these discussions, valuable insights
were obtained into the use of technology,
navigation challenges, preferences, and
potential technological solutions from
visually impaired individuals.
Participants emphasized
the need for improved
guidance in both outdoor
and indoor environments
and envisioned
technology enhancing
accessibility in areas like
art and fashion.
The profound significance of fashion for these
individuals emerged, as it serves as a means of
self-expression, empowerment, and comfort.
The tactile aspect of clothing, comfort, and
practicality were identified as crucial factors in
their clothing choices.
Opinions varied on wearable technologies,
with considerations for discretion and personal
safety. The participants expressed a desire for
increased inclusivity in the fashion industry
and highlighted the importance of education for
both manufacturers and sellers. In their daily
dressing routines, some participants displayed
self-sufficiency while others preferred a
second opinion or external assistance. Overall,
these insights reveal the intricate interplay of
technology, fashion, and accessibility in the
lives of visually impaired individuals.
115
 5.1.2. Initial questionnaire
The initial questionnaire in this project
was designed to gather important insights
into the daily lives, routines, perspectives
on inclusion, technology and guidance of
visually impaired individuals. Administered
via Google Forms, the questionnaire involved
24 participants, including 15 Italians, 8
British, and 1 Brazilian. Among them,
14 were women and 10 were men. The
participants were evenly divided between
those who were totally blind and those
with partial blindness, reflecting a diverse
representation of visual impairments.
Among the initial questions, the use
of white canes emerged as a prevalent
theme. The majority of participants (70%)
reported using the white cane daily, with
10% utilizing it nearly every day, and the
remaining 20% using it occasionally or
seldom. The reasons for using the white
cane varied among participants: 3 used it to
signal their impairment to others, 2 used it
for spatial awareness, 2 for navigation, and
13 participants employed it for a combination
of purposes. This widespread adoption of
the white cane underscores its multifaceted
significance in facilitating their mobility and
interactions within their surroundings.
Regarding the use of sunglasses, around
58% of the participants wear them while 42%
do not. Among those who wear sunglasses,
reasons vary; 2 use them to hide their eyes,
11 to prevent glare, and 1 for a combination
of reasons, including fashion and prevention
from dust and glare. The majority of the
participants usually feel comfortable wearing
Figure 53. The amount of participants that use map applications. Source: the author. sunglasses on the street (around 86%), while
116
one person does not, and another indicated
that comfort depended on the occasion.
All participants own and use smartphones
on a daily basis, incorporating various
accessibility apps such as blindsquare,
Seeing AI, VoiceOver, and more, but also
usual apps such as What’s App, Google
Maps, and bank apps. While 56% of the
participants do not possess any wearable
devices, some utilize hearing aids,
smartwatches, and envision glasses.
Regarding orientation in unfamiliar
places,the primary methods that participants
relied on were various, including information
or assistance from others (58%), maps and/or
guide dogs with asked information if needed
(33%), or a combination of approaches.
Notably, 62,5% of participants used map
applications on their smartphones, with some
utilizing headphones (46,7%), while others
placed the phone near their ear (33,3%).
Opinions on wearing headphones
in outdoor settings varied among the
participants. 18 individuals expressed
discomfort due to the reduced awareness
of their surroundings. On the other hand,
6 participants found wearing headphones
comfortable, appreciating the hands-free
experience and the privacy of having their
smartphones read aloud. The utilization of
vibrational headphones was limited, with
only two participants having tried them, and
opinions were diverse regarding their efficacy
and comfort level. This range of viewpoints
highlights the complex considerations
individuals with visual impairments weigh
when using headphones in public spaces.
117
 Regarding technological solutions for
guidance-related challenges, participants
highlighted several specific issues
they wished technology could address.
Overhanging branches and outdoor obstacles
were identified as significant hurdles for
blind individuals. Participants expressed a
need for technology that could detect and
warn them about these obstacles, enhancing
outdoor navigation safety. Additionally,
one participant articulated a desire for
technology to provide alerts in case of route
deviations, ensuring real-time guidance and
helping users stay on their intended path.
This emphasis on obstacle detection and
route adherence underscores the potential
of technology to enhance their mobility and
improve their overall navigation experience.
Opinions on fashion for the blind were
diverse among the participants. While
some considered it irrelevant, others
emphasized the need for greater inclusivity
and accessibility in the fashion industry.
Participants highlighted the significance of
material, texture, functionality, and ethical
considerations when making new fashion
purchases. This variety of perspectives
underscores the complex relationship
between fashion and visual impairment,
reflecting the broader spectrum of attitudes
within this community.
“I dress as if I am sighted,
I color coordinate, choose
sustainable fabrics [...]
there is no such thing
as fashion for the blind,
there’s just fashion. If
it can be described or
touched, we can enjoy
and wear it just as easily
as a sighted person.”
- Questionnaire participant.
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In the realm of wearable orientation aids, participants expressed distinct expectations
preferences were marked by diversity. for technological solutions, ranging from
Suggestions ranged from wrist-worn devices obstacle detection to real-time route
like watches (64%), to face-mounted products guidance.
like glasses (28%). One individual proposed Fashion, as a subject, revealed diverse
integrating wearable aids as garments worn perspectives, emphasizing its potential for
on the body. inclusivity and individual expression within
the visually impaired community. Overall,
participants’ receptivity to new technologies
Notably, 85% of demonstrated a shared enthusiasm for
participants exhibited innovations that enhance their daily lives,
keen interest in signaling opportunities for meaningful
embracing emerging technological advancements in the field.
technologies that hold
the promise of enhancing
their daily lives.
This overwhelming enthusiasm underscores
their recognition of the potential benefits
these innovations could yield in terms
of improved accessibility and greater
independence.
In summary, the initial questionnaire served
as a pivotal tool for gaining comprehensive
insights into the lives, routines, perspectives
on inclusion, technology, and navigation
challenges experienced by visually impaired
individuals. Administered via Google
Forms, the survey engaged a diverse group,
representing a mix of nationalities, genders,
and levels of visual impairment.
The prevalence of white cane usage
emerged as a prominent theme, highlighting
its multifunctional role in facilitating mobility
and engagement. The questionnaire further
illuminated participants’ interactions with
sunglasses, smartphones, wearable devices,
and map applications, revealing both
common practices and individual preferences.
Divergent opinions on headphones’ use
and their potential benefits underscored the
nuanced considerations individuals weigh
for public auditory awareness. Notably, Figure 54. Preference among participants regarding wearable positioning. Source: the author.
119
5.1.3. Final questionnaire
The second questionnaire aimed to
delve into the realm of inclusive fashion
for individuals with visual impairments.
Administered through Google Forms,
this survey garnered responses from 14
participants, comprising 2 Brazilians, 4
British, and 8 Italians. Of these participants,
only 2 were men, reflecting a predominantly
female perspective. The age range of
participants in the second questionnaire
spanned from 15 to 69 years old, showcasing
a diverse group. Among them, 2 were
younger than 26, 4 fell within the age range
of 26 to 46, and the remaining 8 participants
were 46 years old or older. This wide age
distribution provided a comprehensive
perspective on inclusive fashion preferences
across different generations.
The questionnaire sought to unearth
valuable insights into the intersection of
fashion and visual impairment, shedding light
on the unique experiences and viewpoints of
these individuals.
Among the participants,
a majority (71.4%)
considered fashion to
hold significance in their
lives.
Furthermore, only three participants out of
the total indicated that they don’t typically
wear accessories.
A question regarding the connection
between fashion and self-esteem revealed
diverse responses. While only one participant
120
responded negatively, two others recognized
that this relationship varies depending on the
individual and other contextual factors. All
remaining participants confirmed their belief
in this connection. Notably, one participant
emphasized that dressing well contributes to
feeling good and confident, thus underlining
the psychological influence of fashion
choices on self-esteem.
Regarding the question “Do you consider
fashion inclusive for the visually impaired?”
The majority of responses were negative.
However, one participant answered yes,
another responded “a little,” and another
shared their perspective, stating that those
who are visually impaired can choose their
own style through tactile exploration of
clothing and accessories. This participant
emphasized that there is no need for special
accommodations, except for color perception,
which can be addressed through apps and
technologies.
One participant who did not perceive the
fashion industry as inclusive shared their
shopping experience, noting that certain
stores lack catering or styling services
for visually impaired individuals. They
mentioned encountering staff who often do
not have the time to assist in the manner
desired by those with visual impairments.
When discussing ways to make fashion more
inclusive and accessible, participants provided
various suggestions. Some mentioned the
importance of allowing guide dogs into
stores to facilitate a more autonomous
shopping experience for the visually impaired.
Others emphasized the need for improved
customer service for all individuals with
disabilities, including those with invisible
conditions. Better descriptions of products,
including details about materials, costs,
cleaning instructions, and patterns, were also
recommended as ways to enhance the shopping
experience for visually impaired individuals.
“I think designers need
to speak with visually
impaired people about
what they want from
fashion. Also, clothing
shop staff need
educating on how best
to support visually
impaired people who go
clothes shopping.”
- Questionnaire participant.
Regarding further improvements needed to
enhance fashion’s inclusivity, one participant
offered a thoughtful perspective, stating that
it’s crucial to have fully accessible shops,
equipped with staff trained to understand the
needs of blind individuals. They added that
each store, whether physical or online, could
employ a style advisor specifically for the
blind, offering advice on coordinating outfits.
The participant expressed that they also wish
to look stylish and not be brushed aside with
insincere compliments, explaining that it
would be helpful if items were color-coded
on labels with tactile letters, enabling the
visually impaired to identify matching pieces
more easily. As they cannot see models in
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store displays, such labeling would assist
blind and partially sighted individuals. This
sentiment underscores the importance of
tailored support and practical solutions to
make the fashion experience more accessible
for visually impaired individuals.
Another participant emphasized the
importance of incorporating accessibility
into the design process, suggesting that
designers consider the needs of visually
impaired individuals. They also pointed out
the need for better education among staff
members to ensure they are well-equipped
to provide effective support to people with
visual impairments during their clothing
shopping experience.
Another aspect
highlighted was the
inclusion of more blind
individuals in campaigns,
fashion shows and
magazines.
This perspective highlights the significance
of proactive measures in design,
merchandise and customer service to foster
a more inclusive environment within the
fashion industry.
In the context of the shopping experience,
the majority of participants (10 out of
14) expressed a preference for shopping
with the companionship of a friend or
family member. One of these participants
mentioned occasionally shopping alone
but still preferring company. While another
participant relied on others to purchase
fashion items for them, two participants
revealed that they typically buy clothes and
accessories independently with assistance
from the seller, and a final participant
mentioned relying on application assistance
for solo shopping. This range of shopping
practices reflects the diverse ways in which
visually impaired individuals navigate the
fashion retail landscape.
When queried about their clothing and
accessories priorities, two participants
emphasized comfort as their main concern.
Three participants placed a greater
emphasis on the aesthetic appeal of their
attire. Notably, the majority of respondents
(8 out of 14) indicated a multifaceted
approach, considering factors such as social
acceptability and overall presentation. This
diverse array of considerations highlights
the intricate balance visually impaired
individuals strike between personal
preference, comfort, and societal perceptions
in their fashion choices.
Regarding the utilization of applications
to enhance their shopping experience, only
a minority of participants (4 out of 14)
reported using such tools, with one individual
relying solely on a screen reader. Several
participants expressed dissatisfaction with the
current offerings on the market, noting that
existing applications lack the desired level of
helpfulness. This sentiment underscores the
need for more effective and tailored digital
solutions to better cater to the unique needs
of visually impaired individuals in the realm
of fashion shopping.
Fashion holds diverse meanings for
individuals, as reflected in the array of
responses provided when asked about its
significance. One participant expressed it
saying that fashion is the identification of a
person through the clothes they wear. The
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participants highlighted the significance of
comfort, but more crucially, how fashion
influences their self-perception and how
others perceive them. Feeling good in one’s
attire was underscored as essential, with the
added dimension that compliments received
on their outfits could significantly boost self-
esteem. This portrayal captures the intricate
relationship between fashion, self-expression,
and emotional well-being within the visually
impaired community.
Furthermore, a participant conveyed their
perspective on enhancing the shopping
experience by suggesting the inclusion of
experienced personal shoppers in stores.
This service would involve these shoppers
taking note of the individual’s preferences,
likes, and dislikes, ultimately facilitating a
more comfortable and personalized shopping
journey. The participant emphasized that such
an approach would foster greater autonomy
in subsequent shopping experiences, as they
would be better understood and catered to.
This approach not only aligns with the idea of
cultivating personal style but also emphasizes
the importance of respectful and inclusive
customer service for visually impaired
individuals.
Finally, the final questionnaire offered
valuable insights into the intersection
of fashion and visual impairment. With
responses from participants representing
diverse age groups and backgrounds, the
survey illuminated a range of perspectives on
inclusive fashion. Participants demonstrated
a keen awareness of the relationship between
fashion and self-esteem, underscoring the
psychological impact of clothing choices.
While the majority did not perceive the
fashion industry as inclusive, a variety
of suggestions emerged for enhancing
accessibility, including personalized shopping
assistance, better product descriptions, and
improved staff education. The need for
technology to play a role in this realm was
evident, with some participants seeking
more effective applications to facilitate their
shopping experiences. Ultimately, these
insights highlight the multifaceted nature of
fashion’s importance to visually impaired
individuals and the potential for the industry
to embrace inclusivity in meaningful ways.
The insights gained from these
questionnaires offer a comprehensive
understanding of the challenges and
opportunities faced by visually impaired
individuals, especially in the realm of
fashion. The participants’ suggestions and
desires align with the broader movement
towards greater accessibility and inclusivity
across industries.
In conclusion, the participatory design
initiative, with these three activities,
illuminated the multifaceted experiences
and preferences of blind and partially
sighted individuals. The insights gained
shed light on the significance of creating
inclusive and accessible design solutions
that prioritize acceptability, individual
needs and functionality. This project
contributes to the ongoing dialogue on
inclusivity in fashion, serving as a call to
action for the industry to take steps towards
creating a more accessible and empowering
fashion landscape for everyone. The study
serves as a stepping stone towards fostering
more empathetic and user-centered design
practices, especially in the realms of fashion
and technology, for the visually impaired
community.
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5.2. Fostering inclusivity
and empowerment:
enhancing the fashion
industry for the visually
impaired
Within the context of creating a more
inclusive fashion industry for the visually
impaired, this thesis has gathered a multitude
of insights. These insights shed light on how
the fashion industry could play a pivotal
role in enhancing the overall well-being of
the visually impaired community. However,
achieving this goal requires the careful
consideration of several crucial aspects.
From the outset of this thesis, it’s evident
that the historical interactions between
society and the visually impaired have had
a direct impact on their lives and societal
integration. Inclusion holds the potential
to facilitate better participation in social,
educational, and daily activities, thereby
securing their safety and well-being.
Slade and Edwards (2015) highlighted
that over 40 percent of visually impaired
individuals experience feelings of
disconnection, significantly impacting their
overall well-being and self-esteem.
This aligns with Maslow’s hierarchy of
needs, which Lee (1997) suggests that
fashion can fulfill higher-order needs such
as belonging and self-actualization. This
research affirmed this connection through
interviews and questionnaires, where 11
out of 14 participants from the second
questionnaire emphasized the link between
fashion and self-esteem, with one participant
highlighting that dressing well contributes to
their confidence and well-being.
The participants’ interpretations of fashion
further validated this connection. Fashion,
124
for instance, was described as a means of
personal identification, with dressing being
more than simply adorning clothes — it’s
a form of communication that reflects
personality, feelings, and preferences.
Notably, most
participants emphasized
how fashion influences
their self-perception and
how others perceive
them, accentuating the
concept of “enclothed
cognition.”
Another critical consideration in fashion
design for the blind is social acceptability.
In this context, social acceptability refers
to the extent to which wearable tailored
for individuals with visual impairments is
accepted by society at large. A pivotal factor
influencing this acceptability is the active
involvement of users in the design process.
This participatory approach was underscored
by one participant who expressed that
designers should collaborate directly with
visually impaired individuals. Descriptive
elements were also highlighted as essential
in both participant activities and the
literature review, indicating their significance
in making products socially acceptable.
The physical dimension takes precedence
over the visual in designing fashion for the
blind. With the absence of sight, tactile and
sensory experiences become paramount. This
shift in focus from visual aesthetics to tactile
experiences underscores the importance of
the CMF and No-Form design concepts.
During interviews and questionnaires, tactile
experiences emerged as central, with comfort
ranking as a primary concern. Michele A.
Burton’s study further corroborates this
emphasis, revealing that tactile sensation
stands as the pivotal factor for participants,
reinforcing its crucial role in blind fashion.
The role of tactile experiences was
exemplified in the collection “Sensory Seas”
by Iris van Herpen.
Inclusive elements, such as magnetic
closures, contribute to greater autonomy for
the blind in dressing themselves, reducing
dependence on others. Independence
emerged as a key theme during participatory
design, advocating for more inclusivity
and accessibility in the fashion industry.
Challenges such as guide dogs being denied
access to stores underscored the need for
improved inclusivity. Recommendations
for enhanced customer service for disabled
individuals and better product descriptions,
cleaning instructions, and cost transparency
were made by participants.
The call for inclusivity resonates
throughout all phases of the fashion
industry. The inclusion of more visually
impaired individuals in various fashion
aspects, including campaigns, shows,
and magazines, reflects the need for
greater representation within the industry.
125
Moreover, the dissatisfaction expressed by
several participants with existing shopping
applications underscores the pressing need for
enhancements in this sector.
Inclusive policies have the potential to
serve as a cornerstone in ensuring greater
inclusion of visually impaired individuals
within society. Implementing legislative
measures, such as mandating increased
representation of disabled individuals in
fashion offerings, can significantly amplify
their presence in the industry. Obligations
on fashion brands to provide descriptive
tags, encompassing detailed information
about products, materials, and more, in both
braille and text, alongside descriptive audio
for online platforms, can markedly enhance
accessibility. Furthermore, advancements
in tactile elements within the fashion sector
stand as an area ripe for improvement,
ensuring that the visually impaired can engage
with clothing in a more sensory manner.
Equally crucial is the enhancement of training
programs for store personnel, fostering
an environment that is truly inclusive
and accommodating during the shopping
experience. These legislations ensure
that individuals with visual impairments
have equitable access to information
about the products they choose, fostering
a more inclusive shopping experience
and empowering them to make informed
decisions. These strategies collectively
manifest a comprehensive commitment to
fostering a fashion landscape that welcomes
and empowers visually impaired individuals.
 5.3. Empowering the
visually impaired through
innovative integration
Another important question to be answered
in this thesis is about how fashion mixed with
functionality can play an important role in
the lives of the visually impaired individuals.
As shown before, fashion for the blind and
partially sighted individuals extends beyond
the visual concept, and integrating assistive
technology into fashion opens new avenues
for enhancing their daily experiences.
This fusion recognizes that clothing and
accessories can serve not only as expressions
of style but also as tools that facilitate greater
independence and accessibility.
The integration of AT has the potential to
significantly enhance autonomy and well-
being, directly impacting the physiological
and safety needs as posited by Maslow’s
hierarchy. Meanwhile, fashion, as delineated
by Lee (1997), can ascend higher up this
pyramid, addressing the realms of belonging
and self-actualization. It serves as a conduit
for empowerment and self-discovery,
profoundly influencing mental and emotional
states [3, 56, 60].
Adam and Galinsky (2012) underscore
how garments hold a symbolic essence when
worn, turning attire into an embodiment of
individual identity. When this symbolism
extends beyond mere appearance to
encompass functional attributes enhancing
autonomy, it can wield an even more potent
effect on confidence and self-esteem.
Consider the case of BILLY Footwear, an
exemplar of fashion entwined with AT. Their
shoes, adorned with zippers that trace the
sides and toe, unite fashion and function,
elevating autonomy for individuals with
Figure 55. The ear is one of the best places for a wearable device according to Zeagler. Source: Unsplash. disabilities. This alliance, when appropriately
126
matched with the practical requisites
of people with disabilities, can foster
confidence, independence, and overall well-
being. Such garments and accessories that
amplify functionality empower individuals to
engage more fully in social engagements and
daily activities, ultimately nurturing inclusion
and empowerment.
Yet, when crafting wearable technologies,
considerations extend beyond mere
functionality. The body’s map, an intricate
blueprint of body regions, their movement
patterns, and tactile sensitivity, serves as
a guide for positioning wearable devices.
Such placements must ensure comfort,
discreteness, and societal acceptance.
An interviewee’s insight underscores the
significance of discretion for enhanced
societal acceptance, mirroring the findings of
Toney, Mulley, Thomas, and Piekarski [99].
Zeagler’s delineation of strategic wearable
technology positions, including the wrist,
upper arm, forehead, and ear, aligns
with preferences demonstrated in the
questionnaires. Wrist and face emerged as
preferred locations, contingent on the nature
of technology and its purpose. However,
this choice must also account for weight,
dimensions, and user comfort.
The concept of proxemics, explored by
Gemperle [37], accentuates the importance
of wearability design. It delves into human
spatial dynamics and its influence on
interpersonal interactions, emphasizing
personal space individuals perceive as
essential [22, 42, 115]. It is crucial to ensure
that these components remain within the
confines of the body’s naturally perceived
127
dimensions, preventing any limitations to enhance their daily routines, 64% responded
natural movements in various environments affirmatively. This underscores the critical
and avoiding surpassing an individual’s significance of developing products that
envisioned self-size [120]. foster inclusivity, ultimately enhancing
In the context of fashion for the blind, as the autonomy of individuals with visual
outlined in the preceding section, the focal impairments in their day-to-day lives. The
point is not solely on visual aesthetics, but combination of fashion and technology
rather on prioritizing tactile and sensory further amplifies the potential for achieving
encounters, alongside comfort. Here, the this goal, presenting an even more promising
significance of CMF design surpasses that avenue for empowering the visually impaired
of the visual aspect, and an element of community.
discretion assumes importance in relation to In essence, this investigation encapsulates
functionality. Notable instances of discreet a vision of innovation that marries
wearable assistive technology tailored technology, fashion, and inclusivity.
for the blind, emphasizing tactile aspects The multifaceted approach resonates
over the visual, are illuminated in the case with Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs,
studies segment. Among these, the Bradley addressing not only physiological and
clock serves as a prime example, featuring safety requirements but also belongingness,
a ball-bearing mechanism that tactually self-esteem, and self-actualization. It
conveys the time to individuals with visual underscores that the integration of AT into
impairments [106]. fashion design is not merely utilitarian
In conclusion, this exploration into the but transformative, fostering autonomy,
integration of fashion and functionality self-expression, and societal change for
for the visually impaired has uncovered individuals with visual impairments.
a profound potential to enrich their lives.
The symbiotic relationship between fashion
and AT extends far beyond aesthetics,
manifesting as a transformative force that
can enhance autonomy, well-being, and
societal inclusion. Through the combination
of wearable technology into fashion, a
new horizon emerges where clothing and
accessories transcend their traditional roles,
becoming both statements of style and tools
of empowerment.
Significantly, it’s worth noting that in
the initial questionnaire of this thesis, an
impressive 85% of participants expressed a
strong desire for new technologies that offer
the potential to enrich their daily experiences.
Building upon this, in the final questionnaire,
when participants were queried about their
interest in more inclusive fashion that could Figure 56. Bradley Timepiece. Source: Dezeen

128 129
5.4. Translating and
supporting map
application feedback
through the lens of fashion
During this research, one of the biggest
challenges that the visually impaired
community encountered in everyday
life was regarding navigation. A pivotal
question then crystallized: how can the
autonomy of blind and visually impaired
people be fortified through the innovative
translation and support of map application
feedback, all viewed through the lens of
fashion? This inquiry stands as the heart
of the matter, seeking to bridge the worlds
of technology, navigation, fashion, and
inclusivity to empower these individuals
in their quest for greater independence and
enriched life experiences.
Despite remarkable strides in technology
aimed at augmenting the autonomy of
the visually impaired, as exemplified by
Jeamwatthanachai, Wald, and Willis (2019),
technologies like accessible maps or indoor
navigation systems still bear room for
improvement in addressing the gaps within
independent navigation [49]. In interviews,
participants disclosed their primary methods
for orientation in unfamiliar environments,
with 58% seeking assistance from others and
62,5% out of the total participants utilized
map applications on their phones.
In bustling surroundings, the need to
navigate using maps often leads to the
use of headsets. However, conventional
headphones can hinder auditory awareness
of surroundings, potentially increasing
dependence on external assistance.
Interestingly, 46.7% of participants preferred
using cellphones with headphones, while the
130
rest positioned the phone near their ear for
improved spatial perception.
Participants consistently emphasized
the necessity for technology capable of
detecting and alerting them to obstacles
in their path, particularly valuing real-time
guidance. This emphasis underscores
technology’s potential to profoundly
enhance mobility and overall navigation.
Customized solutions tailored to the unique
needs of the visually impaired are imperative
in the navigational landscape. Existing map
applications, though valuable for the sighted,
often fall short in addressing the intricacies
of non-visual navigation. This aligns closely
with Maslow’s foundational hierarchy
encompassing physiological and safety needs.
Transforming map application feedback
into actionable formats necessitates a design
paradigm shift—one that merges fashion
sensibilities with technology.
This collaboration could
birth wearable gadgets
harmonizing tactile and
aural cues, achieving a
blend of utility and style
to navigate the visually
impaired through
complex urban terrains.
The realm of wearable devices holds
promise in navigating for the blind, fulfilling
Maslow’s pyramid needs. A good and
viable functionality fulfills physiological
Figure 57. The majority of participants utilizes map applications. Source: Unsplash.
and safety requirements, while fashion
integration fulfills higher-order needs like
self-actualization. Tactile and sensory
experiences amplify autonomy, rendering
this technology experience more gratifying.
Wearability is a crucial aspect to think
about when designing for the visually
impaired, as highlighted in the previous
topic. Tactile aesthetics synergizing with
functionality equip wearers to face daily
challenges confidently and comfortably.
In this context, fashion emerges as an
avenue for inclusivity, ensuring unhindered
participation in society.
Social acceptability, a prominent factor,
emerges as a cornerstone. Acceptance
of wearable assistive technology by the
visually impaired community and society at
large carries profound significance. These
technologies not only address practical needs
131
but also engender a sense of belonging,
normalizing usage and erasing stigmas
linked to visual impairment.
Integration of innovative technology,
navigational support, and fashion
sensibilities forms a holistic approach
enriching well-being and quality of life
for this community. The translation of
map app feedback through a fashion
prism can redefine the lives of visually
impaired individuals, cultivating autonomy,
accessibility, and a renewed sense of self.
This research transcends investigation,
igniting change by fostering collaboration
between technology, design, inclusion,
and the resilient spirit of those navigating
life beyond sight. Aligning with Maslow’s
pyramid, this approach engenders a
comprehensive solution meeting diverse
needs and aspirations.
Chapter Six:
Viewbrance:
Fashion Wearable
Guiding the Blind
 6. Viewbrance:
Fashion Wearable
Guiding the Blind
Incorporating insights from the
comprehensive analysis presented in this
thesis, which encompassed diverse topics
and research findings, a wearable device
aimed at enhancing the autonomy of visually
impaired individuals during navigation while
enabling self-expression through fashion
has been conceptualized and developed.
The core idea revolves around the creation
of a product/system tailored to assist the
blind in navigating both indoor and outdoor
environments, with a particular emphasis
on the social context and the pursuit of
self-actualization. This endeavor leverages
the principles of fashion design to bridge the
gap between traditional map applications
and solutions that align with personal and
societal values.
This exploration underscores the pivotal
role of fashion design in facilitating
the integration of smart objects into the
lives of the visually impaired, effectively
transforming map applications into
something that aligns seamlessly with
individual preferences and societal norms.
The development of this fashion-forward
product began by establishing a set of
requirements informed by the insights
gleaned from this thesis. Inspirational
mood boards and material considerations
were meticulously examined, all while
keeping the users’ specific needs at the
forefront. Numerous sketches and thoughtful
considerations were meticulously weighed,
ultimately culminating in the creation of the
final product and its detailed specifications.
134
6.1. Key requirements
for a visually impaired-
friendly wearable
Based on the insights gathered during the
participatory design phase and the findings
presented in this research, it becomes evident
that specific requirements can be defined to
create an improved wearable device tailored
for the visually impaired. These requirements
are ordered by priority, and take into account
their unique needs and beliefs, aiming to
design a product that genuinely enhances their
daily lives.
1. Adaptable Size: To ensure
inclusivity and ease of use, the
wearable should be designed with
adaptability in mind, accommodating
different body sizes without the need
for extensive customization.
2. Easy Closure: Given the absence
of sight, a user-friendly closure
mechanism is paramount. Options
such as magnetic closures or Velcro
are excellent examples of fasteners
that could be employed to facilitate
effortless wear and removal. Another
option is developing a “closed”
wearable, with adjustable size to
better fit.
3. Comfortable Materials: Comfort and
wearability are of utmost importance.
Soft and comfortable materials
should be prioritized to enhance the
overall user experience, preventing
discomfort or skin irritation.
4. CMF Design: The Color, Material,
and Finish (CMF) design is critical.
It’s imperative that while the
technology remains functional, it
should be discreet, ideally resembling
135

an accessory rather than a conspicuous
wearable device. The primary
emphasis is on fashion aesthetics,
striking a delicate balance to ensure
that the wearable doesn’t unnecessarily
highlight the user’s disability.
5. Lightweight Design: The wearable
should be lightweight to prevent any
unnecessary burden on the user, for a
better wearability, allowing for all-day
wear without discomfort.
6. Tactile Textures: Considering the
significance of tactile experiences for
the visually impaired, the design should
incorporate textures to aid in navigation
and interaction. These textures should
be strategically placed for intuitive use.
7. Wrist Placement: As a majority of
participants expressed a preference for
wearing wearables on the wrist, this
should be a primary consideration in
the design.
8. Easy Description: Accessibility
features are vital. The product should be
easy to describe, either through audio or
tactile means, enabling users to identify
and select the product confidently.
By integrating these requirements into the
design process, the aim is to create a wearable
device that not only caters to the specific needs
of the visually impaired but also aligns with
their beliefs and preferences. Such a device
has the potential to empower individuals,
enhance their autonomy, and seamlessly
blend into their fashion choices, ultimately
promoting inclusivity and accessibility.
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6.2. Viewbrance:
fashionable autonomy
for the visually impaired
A groundbreaking wearable device designed
to empower the visually impaired community
by seamlessly integrating fashion with
advanced geolocation technology. At its core,
Viewbrance is a discreet and stylish bracelet
that redefines independent navigation for
individuals with visual impairments. This
innovative device is meticulously crafted to
cater to the specific needs and beliefs of its
users, ensuring both functionality and fashion
design-driven aesthetics.
Viewbrance, much more than a name,
embodies a revolutionary concept that
redefines the relationship between the visually
impaired and the world around them. This
groundbreaking wearable device, aptly named
Viewbrance, ingeniously fuses the senses of
touch and sound to empower individuals with
visual impairments.
The name Viewbrance is a fusion of two
powerful words: “View” and “Vibrance.” It
embodies the very essence of this innovative
wearable, where vibrations become the
user’s eyes, offering them a unique “view”
of the world. These vibrations are not
mere sensations; they are gateways to
understanding, knowledge, and independence.
Partnered with the Blind Square
application, when connected to it on the
smartphone, it becomes a reliable companion
for safe and autonomous navigation. This
powerful tool offers precise geolocation data
and turn-by-turn guidance.
Designed for hands-free operation,
Viewbrance enhances autonomy. It can be
used alone or in conjunction with earphones,
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confidently exploring the surroundings while
receiving important notifications effortlessly.
Its primary focus is on enhancing the
visually impaired’s awareness of the
surroundings. It offers a simplified and
intuitive user experience, ensuring that
the user remains informed without being
overwhelmed by excessive information.
The design philosophy revolves around the
concept of “hiding” the technology within a
stylish and comfortable bracelet.
It’s not just a wearable;
it’s a fashion statement
that complements the
personal style.
The discreet technology ensures that the
functionality doesn’t stand out, empowering
the user to embrace individuality without any
unnecessary focus on the disability.
By meeting the unique requirements
defined by the visually impaired community,
Viewbrance aims to redefine how fashion and
technology can harmoniously coexist. It’s a
testament to the belief that everyone should
have the opportunity to navigate the world
with confidence and style, regardless of their
visual impairment.
A symbol of inclusivity, accessibility, and
empowerment. It’s a step towards a future
where fashion and technology work together
to create a more inclusive world, where
every individual can express themselves and
navigate life on their terms.
6.3. Simplicity and
functionality: a guide to
using Viewbrance
The Viewbrance bracelet is designed for
effortless usability, particularly catering to
the visually impaired. With just three tactile
buttons, it offers an intuitive experience.
The primary button serves as the main
control, while the other two buttons are
dedicated to adjusting the volume. Through
Bluetooth connectivity, the bracelet pairs
seamlessly with your smartphone. It’s
specifically designed to work with the
BlindSquare app, a GPS application tailored
to the unique needs of the visually impaired.
Here’s how it works:
• Bluetooth Connection: When
connected to the smartphone and the
BlindSquare app is activated with
the desired destination, the bracelet
synchronizes to provide you with
precise navigation feedback.
• Hands-Free Navigation: One of its
core benefits is hands-free navigation.
With the smartphone securely stowed
in a pocket or bag, it is possible for
the user to move freely, enhancing
safety.
• Customized Notifications: The
bracelet exclusively works with
BlindSquare notifications. Any other
notifications on the smartphone won’t
trigger the bracelet. Exceptionally,
it will notify the user about battery
status and incoming calls.
• Vibration and Sound Feedback:
When a notification from the map app
arrives, the bracelet vibrates as tactile
feedback. Shortly after, it provides
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an audio notification, such as “turn
left in 20 meters.” This dual sensory
alert system, combining vibrations
and sounds, is crucial for non-sighted
individuals who heavily rely on touch
and hearing in their daily lives. The
vibration feedback is also given when
the bracelet is turning on/off.
• Replaying Notifications: To hear
the last notification again, the user
simply needs to tap the main body of
the bracelet. This repetition can boost
confidence in navigation. To hear the
sound message, the user can put the
wrist closer to the ear. For clearer or
quieter audio, it is possible to adjust Figure 58. Simple representation of how to use Viewbrance. Source: the author.
the volume using the side buttons.
• Call Notifications: When receiving a
call, the bracelet will sound a message
like “someone is calling you.” To
decline the call, the user presses the
bracelet twice, which also sends a
preset message like “Sorry, can’t interval between vibration and audio Alternatively, it is possible to accept
answer, call me later.” To answer the feedback, toggle call notifications the call through the earphone.
call, the user only needs to take out on or off, and prioritize specific
the smartphone. notifications when using both the • App Information: Within the
bracelet and earphones. BlindSquare app, there’s a dedicated
• Integration with Earphones: If the section for the wearable device. There,
user chooses to wear earphones as • Wearable Prioritization: Even if it is possible to configure settings,
well, the bracelet will vibrate seconds multiple notifications come through access product descriptions, learn
before the audio notification on the the earphone, the bracelet will vibrate about materials, cleaning procedures,
earphone. This keeps informed about only for BlindSquare notifications. and product warranty details.
map application alerts while staying This helps to differentiate navigation
aware of the surroundings. alerts from others. Viewbrance empowers users to navigate
• App Configuration: The • Call Handling: When receiving a the world with confidence, independence,
accompanying application allows call while wearing both the earphone and style. It’s not just about replacing one
the wearer to customize various and bracelet, the user can decline the sense with another; it’s about enhancing the
features. It is possible to set the call by pressing the bracelet twice. perception of the world.
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 6.4. Inspiration from
uniqueness

In the pursuit of creating Viewbrance as

a means for visually impaired individuals
to express themselves through fashion,
inspiration stemmed from the profound
concept of uniqueness.
Consider fingerprints, for instance – a
testament to individuality. These intricate
patterns are unparalleled; no two fingerprints
are alike, even within the same person or
among identical twins. They underscore how
each person can possess distinctive qualities,
even while sharing some similarities.
Likewise, tree rings offer a glimpse into
nature’s remarkable interconnectedness.
Found within the heart of trees, these
concentric circles function as nature’s
historical archives. Each year, a tree forms
a new ring, chronicling its journey through
time. It’s a living record, a biography in
wood, capturing the story of the tree’s life.
This intricate web of connections extends
further, from the veins coursing through
human bodies to the intricate patterns
of leaves. Nature, while profoundly
interconnected, celebrates individuality. It
underscores that everything is linked, yet
nothing is entirely identical. This intricate
balance allows each of us to possess our
own personal and unique characteristics,
celebrating the beauty of individuality within
the vast tapestry of existence.
This concept serves as the foundational
inspiration for the visual concept of
Figure 59. Inspirational moodboard. Source: the author.
Viewbrance, designed to enable users to
express their individuality through a bracelet
while simultaneously enhancing their
autonomy and confidence.

140 141
6.5. Material selection in
the development of the
wearable device

During the development of this wearable questionnaires, coupled with comprehensive

device, meticulous research was devoted to materials research.
material selection, with a keen consideration
For the bracelet band, a careful selection
for the distinctive requirements and
of materials was made to prioritize user
experiences of the visually impaired. The
comfort. Leather and silicone emerged as
primary emphasis was on identifying
the primary choices. Silicone, due to its
materials that not only ensure comfort while
cost-effectiveness, low toxicity, and high
wearing but also incorporate textures that
customizability [83], presented itself as an
enhance tactile sensations.
ideal option. Leather, on the other hand,
In terms of technology, a wide array of brings durability to the forefront, ensuring
wearables and their compositions were longevity and wearability, all while being
thoroughly analyzed. Their materials amenable to customization. In addition to
encompassed zirconia ceramic, aluminum, these materials, various types of stones
polycarbonate, stainless steel, and silicone. and metalcraft accents were contemplated
The zirconia ceramic is a good example of to introduce a tactile texture effect, further
material that could be resistant and skin- enriching the user experience.
friendly, being encompassed in different
On the other hand, for the main body,
types of smartwatches seen currently in the
which encompasses the technology aspect
market. This material can be very expensive,
of the bracelet, the material selection
so there is the alternative of mixing it with
included zirconia ceramic, in combination
Aluminum and steel alloys, decreasing the
with aluminum and steel alloys. These
value without losing the resistance.
materials were chosen for their durability
For the band component, a diverse range of and skin-friendly properties. Furthermore,
materials could be employed, including but PLA was identified as a suitable material
not limited to silicone, Polylactic acid (PLA), for the front part of this component,
beads, nylon, and leather, among others. The contributing to the overall functionality and
arrangement and design of these materials aesthetics of the device.
within the band play a critical role in
ensuring user comfort, a vital consideration
in the bracelet’s design process.
In the process of designing this product,
a material moodboard was meticulously
developed, taking into account the most Figure 60. Materials moodboard. Source: the author.
suitable materials for the Viewbrance
bracelet. This selection was based on a
synthesis of insights from interviews and

142 143
 6.6. Crafting a sensory
design narrative

The development of an inspirational mood In the fingerprint concept, circles were

board played a pivotal role in shaping the chosen as the defining symbol. These circles,
visual concept of the product. This mood reminiscent of both skin patterns and tree
board, featuring a curated collection of rings, symbolize warm colors. In contrast, the
images and patterns, served as the foundation veins concept draws inspiration from natural
for defining two distinct yet interconnected elements like leaf veins, tree leaves, and
design concepts: fingerprints and veins. ocean waves. Here, cool colors dominate, and
the symbol takes the form of lines.
These two concepts are differentiated
primarily by their colors and patterns. These distinctions can be elegantly conveyed
Fingerprint-inspired elements are through tactile textures and raised reliefs
characterized by circular motifs, which incorporated into the wearable, enabling
not only evoke the uniqueness of human users to easily discern the specific bracelet
fingerprints but also draw associations collection and color scheme they are wearing.
with tree rings and canyon lines. The
interconnectedness of these patterns reflects
the interconnectedness of nature, from sea
waves to leaf veins and even the intricate
network of human veins. This concept
underscores the idea that everything is
interconnected, each possessing its own
unique attributes while sharing similarities
with others.

In the context of designing a wearable

device for the visually impaired, careful
consideration was given to textures and
sensory experiences, prioritizing the CMF
design. Recognizing that blind users rely
heavily on tactile feedback, the concept
of describing colors in different ways to
enhance recognition became a critical aspect
of the design. Drawing inspiration from
Figure 61. Representation of the concept. Source: the author.
the fingerprint and vein concepts, a system
was devised to enable users to differentiate
between these elements through tactile
experiences, enriching their interaction with
the product.

144 145
6.7. Designing the
Viewbrance bracelet:
from concept to self-
expressive fashion
Based on the two concept inspirations,
a series of sketches were meticulously
developed, categorizing them into two
distinct collections. These concepts served
as the guiding principles for defining the
main shapes and textures of these collections,
enabling users to express their individuality
through the profound concept of uniqueness.
Prior to creating the sketches, careful
consideration was given to the interactions
between the user and the wearable device.
Various button types, including dip switches
and wheel mechanisms, were evaluated
for their usability. However, in light of
the importance of providing blind users
with intuitive interactions and a clear
understanding of the device, the decision was
made to utilize push buttons. These buttons
were designed with slightly raised edges,
ensuring a tactile interface that aids users in
comprehending the device’s functions.
In the initial sketches, the primary body
of the device featured two different shapes,
each aligned with a specific collection.
As previously discussed, circular main
bodies were associated with warm colors,
while hexagonal shapes were linked to
cold colors. The bands were designed with
careful consideration of materials that could
offer diverse textures for tactile sensations
while maintaining comfort, which led to the
selection of flexible materials.
The overarching idea was to create
something resembling an accessory rather
than a purely technological device, drawing
146
inspiration from stones and jewelry. The main
body incorporated reliefs in the form of circles
and lines to provide a tactile representation of
the bracelet’s color.
Regarding the closure mechanism, ease of
use for the user, especially those with visual
impairments, was a critical concern. Initially,
a magnetic metal closure with an adjustable
size chain was considered. However, concerns
arose about the potential complexity of trying
to put on the bracelet with one hand and then
closing it. To address this, it was decided
that a closed bracelet with an adjustable size
would be more user-friendly. Users could
simply slide the bracelet on and off their wrist
and then adjust it to achieve a comfortable fit.
Gender inclusivity was another important
consideration during the design phase. The
initial designs leaned toward a more feminine
aesthetic, potentially excluding a significant
portion of the community. To rectify this, the
main body shape was changed to a rectangular
one, striking a balance between delicacy
and ruggedness. Some design options were
discarded or modified to ensure they aligned
with the principles of Color, Material, and
Finish design and provided the best possible
user experience.
The chosen colors drew inspiration from the
mood board, with each collection represented
by either circles or lines in relief. However,
a potential issue arose: how could users
differentiate between colors within the same
relief pattern? To address this, the final design
incorporated a system where the number of
circles or lines in relief represented different cool colors. In contrast, plastic, with its room
colors. For example, one line represented temperature feel, was used for the warm
gray, two lines represented blue, and three collection’s circular reliefs.
lines represented green, with a similar system
All these thoughtful reflections and insights
for circles but for warm colors.
culminated in the final design concepts of
This tactile relief also served as a solution the “Fingerprint” and “Veins” collections,
to address another challenge: ensuring that ensuring that the wearable device not only
the blind user could discern the correct catered to user needs but also allowed for
orientation of the wearable device. In this self-expression through fashion and the CMF
context, the relief was strategically positioned design, with tactile experiences.
at the base of the front part of the main body.
This placement assists the user in determining
whether the bracelet is correctly positioned.
The final illustrations were a culmination of
these considerations and the core concept of
self-expression. The textures were designed
to offer tactile variety, allowing users to select
their preferred sensation. For instance, the
beige circle stones band featured a soft finish,
while the dark gray stones band had a rougher
texture. The silicone engraved bands offered
two distinct textures: “Fish skin” patterns for
a balanced feel and “Veins” patterns for a
more irregular, textured sensation. The warm
collection included a mix of leather and metal
for a classy and soft touch, while the cool
collection featured a blue stones band with
a leather strap, providing even more texture.
These options catered to users’ personalities
and preferences, enabling them to express
themselves through a fashion accessory.
The choice of materials for the relief patterns
was guided by the concept of synesthesia,
where one sense is experienced through
another. Metal, known for its conductivity and
cool feel, was chosen for lines, representing
147
Figure 62. First sketches. Source: the author. Figure 63. First sketches. Source: the author.

148 149
Figure 64. Sketches. Source: the author.

Figure 65. Viewbrance final sketches. Source: the author. Figure 66. Viewbrance final sketches. Source: the author.

150 151
 6.8. The final concept of
Viewbrance design
The final design evolved from the insights
gained during the sketches phase, leading to
a deeper understanding of the product, user
requirements, interactions, and overall design.
Both collections consist of three options
for bracelets, characterized by unique
textures and colors, enabling users to easily
distinguish between them.
In terms of dimensions, the bracelet
size was meticulously designed, taking
inspiration from the proxemics concept and
ergonomic measurements outlined in “The
Measure Of Man And Woman: Human
Factors In Design” [98]. Considering a
user demographic spanning from 18 to
65 years old and incorporating wrist and
grip measurements from the 1 percentile
woman to the 99 percentile man, precise
dimensions were determined. For the
bracelet’s circumference, since it is a slide
bracelet, the maximum dimension was based
on the largest grip circumference, while the
minimum dimension was derived from the
smallest wrist circumference. Consequently,
the bracelet’s circumference ranges from
130mm to 240mm. To enhance the design
further, it was decided to offer two different
bracelet sizes: one accommodating wrist
sizes from 130mm to 190mm and another
from 180mm to 240mm.
The main body’s size was carefully
considered, taking into account wrist length
to ensure it doesn’t exceed the body’s
proportions, aligning with the principles of
proxemics and body mapping. Therefore,
the main body’s dimensions do not exceed
Figure 67. Viewbrance measurements. Source: the author.
152
50mm, as per the 1 Percentile Woman’s
measurements.
All six types of bracelets designed in
this thesis share a common objective: to
empower visually impaired individuals by
offering them a means of self-expression
through fashion while providing guidance
for indoor and outdoor navigation.
The Fingerprint Collection draws
inspiration from the circular patterns found
in fingerprints and tree rings, embracing
warm colors and soft materials to offer a
tactile experience that resembles the texture
of human skin. Users can select their
preferred tactile sensations, reflecting the
uniqueness of their own fingerprint.
The spherical relief on the top of the main
body serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it
functions as a tactile guide for users, helping
them to orient the wearable correctly.
Secondly, it represents the collection,
providing a tactile cue for the warm colors.
Lastly, it enables users to identify the
specific color of the bracelet by the number
of spheres present.
The first bracelet in this collection
features a single sphere on its main body,
symbolizing wood with its brown color.
Surrounding the band are bronze circles
that mimic the appearance of tree rings. The
combination of soft leather and these bronze
accents offers a gentle yet distinguishable
tactile experience.
The second bracelet boasts two spheres,
representing the beige color. Its band is
153
crafted from leather with two types of
polished stones in sphere shapes: larger
yellow topaz stones and smaller tiger eye
stones. These smooth textures and regular
patterns create a fluid and organized tactile
sensation.
The final piece in the Fingerprint collection
showcases a bordeaux color and features
three spheres in relief on the main body
to represent it. The silicone band provides
users with a different material choice,
while the engraving in a “fish skin” pattern
imparts a regular yet grainy texture for
added tactile diversity.
The Veins Collection offers a contrasting
experience compared to the Fingerprint
Collection, introducing a deeper and cooler
tactile sensation. Inspired by the patterns
found in leaves, which resemble both human
veins and tree branches, this collection
features lines with rougher textures.
draws inspiration from sea waves, with the
textures resembling the rocks found along
the shoreline.
The final piece in the Veins Collection,
in a green color, symbolizes leaves and
incorporates three lines in relief on the main
body. The silicone band is engraved with an
irregular pattern inspired by leaf veins.
In the selection of materials, the choices
were informed by prior materials research,
with a strong emphasis on factors such as
comfort and CMF design, among others.
These two collections offer a range of
contrasts and similarities, enabling users
to choose among different finishing styles
and materials. This not only allows for
self-expression through fashion but also
empowers visually impaired individuals
with a wearable guidance device tailored to
their preferences.

In contrast to the spherical reliefs of the

previous collection, the Veins Collection
incorporates lines in cold metal, enhancing
the cool sensation when touched by the user.

The first bracelet in this collection, with

its dark gray color, evokes the appearance
of tree branches seen from a distance. It
features a single rectangular line in relief
on the main body, and its band is adorned
with raw black onyx stones arranged in an
organized line. This design contrasts rough
textures with the softness of the leather
band, offering a unique tactile experience.

The second bracelet, representing the color

blue with its two lines in relief, features
a leather strap completely covered with
raw lapis lazuli stones. This combination
ensures wearer comfort while still providing
rough textures on the band. The design Figure 68. The final collections. Source: the author.

154 155
6.9. The collections
overview

Figure 69. The Fingerprint collection. Source: the author.

Figure 70. The Fingerprint collection - 1st bracelet. Source: the author.

156 157
Figure 71. The Fingerprint collection - 2nd bracelet. Source: the author. Figure 72. The Fingerprint collection - 3rd bracelet. Source: the author.

158 159
Figure 73. The Veins collection. Source: the author.

Figure 74. The Veins collection - 1st bracelet. Source: the author.

160 161
Figure 75. The Veins collection - 2nd bracelet. Source: the author. Figure 76. The Veins collection - 3rd bracelet. Source: the author.

162 163
6.10. The Viewbrance
logo
The name “Viewbrance” marries the words
“View” and “Vibrance” to encapsulate the
core of this groundbreaking wearable. It
transforms vibrations into a user’s visual
gateway, providing them with a unique
“view” of the world. These vibrations
transcend mere sensations; they open doors to
understanding, knowledge, and independence.
The essence of the two collections designed
during this thesis are crucial when designing
the product’s logo. It subtly captures the cool
colors symbolizing veins, featuring a line
as its representation, while the warm colors
denoting fingerprints, akin to circles, are
softly integrated.
In striving for inclusivity for the visually
impaired, the logo also incorporates Braille,
making it more accessible. The addition
of colors adds a deeper visual dimension,
raising awareness for this matter and for this
innovative product.
Figure 77. Viewbrance logo. Source: the author.
164
6.11. Possible future
developments
In the realm of assistive technology and
inclusive fashion, the Viewbrance wearable
device represents a significant leap forward, not
just in terms of functionality but in its potential
to transform the lives of the visually impaired.
By harnessing cutting-edge technology and
innovative design principles, Viewbrance has
the power to enhance autonomy, promote self-
actualization, and increase awareness about the
challenges faced by the blind community. This
wearable empowers individuals to navigate
their surroundings with confidence due to the
self-expression through fashion, at the same
time that fosters a sense of autonomy.
However, the journey doesn’t end here. The
importance of rigorous testing with visually
impaired individuals cannot be overstated. Their
invaluable feedback and real-world experiences
are instrumental in refining the design and
functionality of Viewbrance. Identifying and
addressing any design challenges that may
arise is essential to ensuring that the device
truly meets the needs of its users. The testing
phase is shown in the Appendix - Testing
Viewbrance.
To initiate the testing phase for Viewbrance,
a comprehensive approach can be adopted.
This phase would involve assessing various
aspects of the study. First and foremost, it
would confirm the feasibility and suitability
of the adaptable size with an easy closure
mechanism for users. Another crucial aspect
to test is the effectiveness of the CMF design,
assessing the comfort of the materials and the
tactile sensations provided by the textures.
Additionally, the shape and size of the bands
should be considered, taking into account
gender differences and user comfort.
Regarding comfort, participants will test
two different types of faux leather and
silicone, for material and tactile evaluation.
To assess texture sensations, samples of
165
faux leather (100x122mm), with different
engraving or stones attached to it, will be
provided for users, for feedback on their
preferences, sharing their sensations, thoughts,
and opinions when touching these materials.
Finally, users will explore bands of different
shapes and sizes, provided in different
materials than the choosen for the product, to
determine their suitability.
Looking ahead, the possibilities for
Viewbrance are boundless. Imagine an
array of collections, each offering a unique
set of textures and sensations for the blind.
These collections could cater to individual
preferences and styles, allowing users to
express themselves through their choice of
wearable. From soft and smooth textures
to more rugged and intricate patterns,
Viewbrance could become a symbol of
personal expression and inclusivity.
Furthermore, the insights and reflections
gathered during the development of this
thesis extend far beyond Viewbrance itself.
The knowledge gained from this project
has the potential to inform and inspire
future technologies and fashion designs
for the blind community. By placing user
experience, inclusivity, and autonomy at the
forefront of design principles, it is possible
to usher in a new era of assistive technology
and fashion that empowers and celebrates the
blind community.
In summary, Viewbrance transcends its
role as a mere wearable device; it stands
as a driving force for transformation. With
the potential to boost autonomy, promote
self-actualization, and raise awareness
of the distinctive challenges faced by the
blind community, Viewbrance symbolizes a
promising future for the fusion of inclusive
fashion design and technology.
Conclusion
This thesis has delved into a multifaceted
exploration of the intersection between fashion,
technology, and the needs of the visually
impaired community. The overarching goal
hasbeen to empower individuals with visual
impairments by harnessing the potential of
inclusive design, assistive technology, and
innovative fashion integration.
The historical context has illuminated the
challenges that visually impaired individuals
have faced in societal integration, highlighting
the importance of inclusivity. This research
underscores the role of fashion as a medium
for self-expression, identity formation, and
communication, particularly for a community
that relies heavily on tactile and sensory
experiences. The fusion of tactile aesthetics
and functionality has emerged as a pivotal
aspect of fashion design, focusing on comfort,
autonomy, and confidence enhancement.
The integration of
assistive technology
into fashion has
opened new horizons,
redefining garments and
accessories as tools for
empowerment rather
than mere adornments.
This convergence has not only addressed
practical needs but also aligned with higher-
order psychological needs, contributing to
feelings of independence and well-being.
Wearable gadgets, harmonizing tactile and
aural cues, have the potential to revolutionize
166
navigation for the visually impaired, promoting
autonomy and confidence in complex
environments.
The participatory design
approach has ensured
that the voices and
perspectives of visually
impaired individuals
themselves play a central
role in shaping this
transformative landscape.
By actively involving the community in the
design process, this research has taken
significant strides toward addressing the
specific needs and preferences of those it aims
to benefit.
This exploration hasn’t remained theoretical;
it has acted as a catalyst for practical change.
With the Viewbrance creation, a revolutionary
wearable device, the insights and research
gathered throughout this thesis have been
instrumental in its development. Viewbrance,
born from a comprehensive understanding of
CMF design, participatory design principles,
the perspectives of the blind community,
considerations of wearability, proxemics, and
more, stands as a testament to the power of
this research.
Viewbrance is a wearable device designed
with a deep commitment to inclusivity and
self-expression in fashion. It offers visually
impaired individuals a unique means of
navigating the world with unshakable
confidence and distinctive style. This bracelet
embodies the fusion of fashion and technology,
embracing the principles of CMF design,
participatory design, and the invaluable insights
gained from the blind community.
Its unique features
not only enhance
autonomy but also
provide a platform for
self-expression, giving
individuals the tools
to define their identity
through fashion.
With further testing and refinement,
Viewbrance holds the promise of becoming
an even more invaluable asset to the blind
community. The integration of fashion,
technology, and inclusivity has the potential to
reshape societal norms and attitudes, fostering a
more accepting and accessible environment for
the visually impaired. The resounding desire
for new technologies and inclusive fashion
expressed by the participants emphasizes the
urgency and relevance of this endeavor.
In essence, this thesis presents a vision of
a future where the fashion industry goes
beyond aesthetics, becoming a powerful tool
for empowerment, autonomy, and inclusion.
By embracing the convergence of fashion
and technology, this research encapsulates the
potential for positive societal transformation,
where individuals with visual impairments
can navigate the world with confidence,
engage in self-expression, and experience a
heightened sense of belonging.
167
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Appendix
Testing Viewbrance
Focusing on fashion design and its
effectiveness in relation to the research
conducted for this thesis, the testing phase
of this project was developed to assess the
choices made for the final product. Building on
the primary requirements, these tests aim for
a thorough evaluation with the users involved
in this research, thereby striving for outcomes
that best cater to their needs, recognizing the
significance of Participatory Design.
Certain aspects, such as the adjustable size
and easy closure, were addressed during the
sketching phase and will not be tested at this
stage, although they hold importance for the
product and will be scaled for more in-depth
future development.
Regarding the other requirements, this phase
primarily concentrated on the comfort of
materials, the CMF (Color, Material, Finish)
design concept, tactile textures, and ease of
description. The tests were divided into four
stages, each involving a verbal explanation
to the user about the specific test’s objective
and how it will be conducted, followed by
individual tactile testing. Subsequently, users
were asked a set of open-ended questions and
presented with a questionnaire following the
style of the User Experience Questionnaire
(UEQ)¹ specific to that particular test. The
tests were conducted with four participants,
two of whom were blind, and two blindfolded
to provide deeper insights into the product.
The testing environment was intentionally
quiet and devoid of distractions.
Several key characteristics were considered
for evaluation, which might vary depending
on the specific test but always considered the
tactile attractiveness and overall interest.
¹ User experience questionnaire. User Experience Questionnaire (UEQ). (n.d.). https://www.ueq-online.org/
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The first test involved materials: samples of
leather, silicone, plastic, and metal were
presented to users to recognize texture and
comfort, enhancing their tactile discernment
regarding potential materials for the product.
Following the tactile exploration, questions
such as “In your opinion, what is the best
material for the bracelet?” and “Which material
do you think is most suitable for representing
cool colors?” were posed to users.
Subsequently, the questionnaire aimed to
assess the touch’s attractiveness, practicality,
material value, among other characteristics.
The second test focused on color recognition:
as previously demonstrated, each collection
is symbolized by a specific shape (spheres for Figure 78. Main body’s possible shapes for testing. Source: the author.
warm colors and rectangles for cool colors),
and each color is represented by the quantity
of these symbols. During this test, users were
initially briefed on how this differentiation textures were presented to users, including The final test pertained to the main body’s
worked, followed by the presentation of a lighter leather with smooth spheres 3d shape: the aim was to comprehend the most
various color recognition possibilities. The printed on top, the same lighter leather with suitable shape in terms of edge finish for touch.
objective was to understand if it is possible to pyramid-shaped stones 3d printed with a Users were provided with three types of
recognize and differentiate each color through raw finish on top, a more textured leather shapes: a more rectangular one with sharper
touch, considering whether the spacing with the same pyramid-shaped stones on top, edges, an irregular octagon with slightly
between symbols and their size interfered with and the same textured leather with smooth smoothed edges, and a rectangular shape
this goal. Questions like “Can you understand spheres 3d printed on top but spaced farther with rounded edges, offering a smoother touch.
which symbols represent warm colors and apart, allowing for more extensive touch For this test, users were asked about the most
which represent cool colors?” and “Can you areas; and four samples of leather with significant differences observed among the
tell me which one is related to the color blue?” engraving in two different patterns, each of shapes and their attractiveness, among other
were asked during the test. The subsequent them with two different sizes to know which characteristics.
questionnaire aimed to gauge the product’s are more easy to understand and pleasant Following the tests, the questionnaires
ease of use and understanding. to the user. Users were questioned about were compiled to extract results and gain a
The third test was related to textures, aiming the main differences noticed among the comprehensive understanding of the insights
to understand users’ ability to recognize textures and their preferences, among other obtained. These insights are invaluable for
different types of textures and finishes, characteristics. The UEQ questionnaire was guiding further design refinements in the
assessing their tactile attractiveness and the administered immediately afterward to gauge context of this thesis.
feelings each texture evoked. Eight types of the actual effectiveness of the textures.
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Figure 79. Materials for testing: two different types of silicone, two different types of leather, a sample of Figure 81. Samples for the texture testing. Source: the author.
metal and a sample of PLA plastic. Source: the author.

Figure 80. Samples for the color recognition system testing. Source: the author. Figure 82. Sample for the texture testing. Source: the author.

178 179
Testing Results
The initial test aimed to assess the texture
and comfort of six different material samples,
considering the tactile experience for potential
use in the product. Participants were presented
with two silicone samples, one with a rough
finish and the other with a smoother, more
plastic-like finish. Additionally, two faux
leather samples were provided, one with a
smooth texture and the other with a textured
surface. Aluminum and plastic samples were
also included in the test. Subsequently,
participants were asked questions about their
experiences with these materials, and they
completed a questionnaire.
One of the initial questions inquired, “In
your opinion, which material is the best one
for the band?” Three participants favored
the textured faux leather, while the fourth
preferred the smoother leather. However,
when it came to the most comfortable
material to touch, three participants favored
the smoother leather, while the fourth
favored the textured leather.
The choice of materials for the relief on
top of the main body, guided by the concept
of synesthesia, did not prove to be efficient
during the testing phase. When asked about
the most suitable material to represent cool
colors, three out of the four participants
chose the plastic material, while one selected
metal. Similar results were observed
for warm colors, with three participants
choosing the metal and one selecting plastic.
The questionnaire included questions about
each material separately, inquiring about
their attractiveness, tactile pleasantness, and
skin-friendliness.
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Attractive x Unattractive
Pleasant x Unpleasant
Friendly x Not friendly
The textured leather emerged as the most
attractive material, followed by the smoother
leather. In contrast, the rough-finished
silicone was considered the least attractive.
Assessing the skin-friendliness aspect also
reflected participant preferences. Although
no material was rated as highly unfriendly
(scoring 7 on a 1-7 scale), two participants
rated the rough silicone as a 6, three rated the
metal as a 4, and two rated the plastic as a 4.
This initial test underscores a preference
for leather among participants, highlighting
its effectiveness in terms of attractiveness,
tactile pleasantness, and skin-friendliness.
These findings validate leather as a suitable Figure 83. Participant testing the materials. Source: the author.
choice for the band of this product.
The second test, focused on color
recognition, involved presenting ten samples colors and which represent cool colors?” The Regarding the attractiveness of the
representing possible ways to recognize response was unanimous, with all participants symbols and the system, one participant
colors using the system developed in this answering affirmatively. When asked which rated it as 1 (on a scale of 1-7, where 1
thesis. Initially, users were provided with samples represented warm colors, color blue, is the most attractive), two participants
an explanation of the meaning of each and color brown, all participants answered rated it as 2, and the last participant as 3.
symbol and how the quantity of each symbol correctly, except for one who mistakenly In terms of comprehensibility, 50% of the
indicated cool/warm colors and the specific identified the color brown as represented by participants rated it at the highest level of
color itself. The samples used in this test are two spheres instead of one. understandability, while the other 50% rated
displayed in Figure 80. it as the third-highest level, indicating that the
Attractive x Unattractive system is understandable to users.
The objective of this test was to determine if
it is feasible to identify and differentiate each Understandable x Not Half of the participants considered the system
color through touch, taking into consideration understandable highly innovative and highly clear. However,
factors such as the spacing between symbols Innovative x Conservative efficiency garnered varied responses: one
and their size. The first question posed to Clear - Unclear participant rated it as 1, two participants as 2,
the users during the test was, “Can you Efficient x Inefficient and the last participant as 4, on the same 1-7
understand which symbols represent warm Easy x Complicated scale where 1 represents the highest efficiency.
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 Regarding the complexity of the system,
three participants rated it as a 3 on the same
scale, where 1 signifies the highest level of
“ease” and 7 represents “complicated.” The
fourth participant rated it as a 2, indicating that
the system is not perceived as complicated.
Concerning the samples with an equal
quantity of lines, those with lines of the same
size were perceived as easier to recognize by
three out of the four participants. In the case
of the spheres, the sample with two small
spheres spaced farther apart was considered
easier to recognize than the one with two
larger spheres positioned closely together.
Among the samples with three spheres, the
alignment of the spheres was unanimously
regarded as the most recognizable, while the
arrangement where they were not aligned was
found to be challenging for recognition by all
four participants.
This second test validates the effectiveness
of the system developed in this thesis for
color recognition through touch, fulfilling
a portion of the CMF concept and the Easy
Description requirements.
The third and most extensive test involved
eight different texture samples aimed at
assessing participants’ ability to recognize
textures and finishes, gauging their tactile
sensations, and uncovering their preferences
for tactile experiences
The first texture featured textured leather
with pyramid-shaped stones 3D printed on
top, followed by the same type of stones on
lighter leather in the second texture. The
third texture comprised textured leather with
smooth spheres 3D printed on top, while
the fourth was lighter leather with the same
spheres but positioned closer together. The
fifth to eighth textures consisted of smooth
leather samples engraved with two different
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patterns: a small-scale fish-skin pattern and
a small-scale “veins” pattern, as well as their
counterparts in a larger scale.
Participants described the first four textures
as “spiky” or “accentuated” with a “prominent
volume,” while the last four were perceived
as smoother, akin to being “cut in a fabric.”
Preferences for the textures varied among
participants, with each having different
favorites. The four textures rated most favorably
were textured leather with pyramid-shaped
stones, textured leather with smooth spheres,
lighter leather with the same spheres, and the
small-scale fish-skin pattern engraved in
smooth leather.
Participants cited different reasons for these
preferences, with some noting that the 3D
printed textures were easier to perceive and
more pleasant.
Figure 84. Participant testing the color recognition system. Source: the author.
The feelings conveyed
by these textures
ranged from “curiosity”
and “calm” to “comfort”
and “weirdness”.
The questionnaire accompanying the test
addressed aspects like attractiveness,
pleasantness, interest, and ease of understanding
for each texture, using a 1-7 scale where 1 was
the highest rating.
Attractive x Unattractive
Pleasant x Unpleasant
Interesting x Not
interesting
Understandable x Not
understandable Figure 85. Participant testing the textures. Source: the author.
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Figure 86. Participant testing the main body’s shape. Source: the author.
Figure 87. Another participant testing the main body’s shape. Source: the author.
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All textures received attractiveness ratings
of 4 or higher, except for the 8th texture,
which one participant rated as 6. The 1st
texture received mixed ratings, with 50% of
participants rating it as a 4. The 2nd and 3rd
textures also received varied ratings, with each
participant voting for each level from 1 to 4.
The 4th texture was considered a 2 level
of attractiveness by 75% of the participants,
with a 3 level marked by the last participant,
similar to the 5th texture, except for the last
participant that marked it as a 4 level. One
participant marked the 6th texture as the
highest level of attractiveness, while the others
75% marked it as a 3 level. The 7th texture
had the results exactly the opposite as the 4th
texture, while the 8th texture had the worst
result, in which 50% of the participants marked
it as a 2 level of attractiveness, 25% marked
it as a 3 level and 25% marked it as a 6 level,
closer to unattractive.
Regarding pleasantness, most textures
received ratings of 4 or higher, with the 2nd,
6th and 7th textures only receiving votes of 3
or higher levels. The 1st and 8th textures
received one vote each as a 5, indicating a less
pleasant tactile sensation.
In terms of interest, only three textures
(the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd) received ratings of 1,
signifying they were considered interesting.
However, the 1st texture also received 50%
of votes at level 4, suggesting it fell between
“interesting” and “boring.” Three textures
(the 5th, 6th, and 7th) were rated as boring
by one participant each.
The last question inquired about the ease
of understanding each texture. Only two
textures received the highest rating of
“understandable”: the 1st texture and the
7th. Most responses ranged between levels
2 and 3 in the 1-7 scale. The 5th, 6th, and
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8th textures received a 4, indicating they
were perceived as somewhat understandable,
while the 7th texture received a 5 rating.
The 6th texture received a single vote for
the highest level of “not understandable,”
alongside the 8th texture, which received
two votes at the same level.
This test reveals the diverse feelings and
preferences among participants regarding the
different textures provided. The 8th texture
- the “veins” pattern in a larger scale - was
the least preferable, with more votes leaning
towards negative aspects. The 7th and 6th
textures also exhibited significant preference
conflicts, while the other textures leaned
more towards positive aspects, with some
areas of agreement.
This diversity of choices was influenced by
individual feelings and sensations, such as
curiosity, calmness, comfort, and even slight
weirdness, as textures were explored through
touch. These insights into participants’
preferences for different textures will
play a crucial role in shaping the design
of Viewbrance, ensuring that it offers a
tactile experience that resonates with and
empowers users, further advancing the goals
of inclusivity and autonomy.
The fourth and final test focused on
determining the most suitable shape for the
main body in terms of its tactile qualities.
Three distinct shapes were presented to
participants: a more angular rectangular shape,
an irregular octagon with slightly smoothed
edges, and a rectangular form with rounded
edges, offering a smoother tactile experience.
The initial inquiry in this test sought to
identify the most noticeable differences
among these shapes, with all participants
highlighting the significance of the “corners”
in their evaluations. Impressively, 75% of the
participants expressed a preference for the
rounded edges, while one participant favored
the irregular octagon with smoothed edges.
When asked to elucidate the reasons for
their preferences, responses varied from
remarks like “it is smoother to touch with less
harshness on the sides” to “it possesses a more
pleasing and soft tactile profile” and even “it
feels more organic and smooth.”
The subsequent questionnaire delved into the
individual aspects of each shape, specifically
assessing their attractiveness, pleasantness,
interest, and tactile security.
Attractive x Unattractive
Pleasant x Unpleasant
Interesting x Not
interesting
Secure x Not secure
The first shape garnered a mixed response,
with 50% rating it as a 4 in terms of
attractiveness, placing it between “attractive”
and “not attractive,” while the remaining
participants gave it a 5, leaning toward
the “not attractive” end. The second shape
yielded a more varied result, receiving votes
ranging from 1 to 4, indicating a range of
perceptions. In contrast, the third shape
was notable for its popularity, with one
participant rating it as the highest level of
attractiveness, two participants at level 2,
and one participant at level 3, underscoring
its favor among the participants.
Pleasantness assessments for the first shape
were divided, with one participant rating it
as a 2, and the others ranging from 4 to 6.
The second shape received ratings from 2 to
5. The third shape, however, was perceived
as pleasantly tactile, with 50% rating it at
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level 1 and the remaining 50% at level 2.
Regarding interest, the first shape didn’t
particularly captivate two participants, while
the other two found it somewhat interesting,
marking it as levels 2 and 3. The second
shape garnered one vote at the highest
level of interest and three votes at level 3.
Similarly, the third shape had half of the
participants rate it at level 2 and the other
half at level 3.
When asked about the tactile security of these
shapes, responses for the first shape were
diverse, with votes distributed across levels 2,
3, 4, and 7. The second shape had two votes
for level 4, indicating a perception between
“secure” and “not secure,” and two additional
votes at levels 2 and 3. The third shape saw
a balanced split, with 50% of participants
marking it as the highest level of security and
the remaining 50% at level 2, reinforcing its
favored status among the participants.
In conclusion, the shape test offered valuable
insights into participants’ tactile preferences
for the main body of Viewbrance. While there
was some diversity in preferences, a notable
majority favored the shape with rounded edges,
citing its smoothness, pleasantness, and
appealing tactile qualities. This preference
underscores the importance of selecting
a shape that not only meets functional
requirements but also resonates with users’
sensory experiences. As Viewbrance seeks
to empower visually impaired individuals,
these insights will guide design decisions to
ensure that the device offers a comfortable
and engaging tactile experience.
In conclusion, the comprehensive testing
phase undertaken during the development of
Viewbrance carries immense significance for
the world of fashion and, more importantly,
for the users it aims to serve. Beyond
evaluating design choices, these tests have
illuminated a path towards inclusive and Viewbrance’s continued development: future
self-expressive fashion, where individuals tests with a more extensive and diverse
with visual impairments can fully engage group of participants will be invaluable. As
and communicate through their choices. we work towards more inclusive and self-
expressive fashion, these insights will guide
The material test, which favored leather
not only the development of Viewbrance but
for its attractiveness, tactile pleasantness,
also influence the broader fashion industry.
and skin-friendliness, reinforces the idea
that fashion should cater to diverse sensory
experiences. This insight validates leather’s
pivotal role in expanding the possibilities of
By understanding and
inclusive fashion, allowing users to not only
catering to diverse
sensory experiences,
wear accessories but also revel in the sensory
delight they offer. fashion can become
a powerful means for
The color recognition test has demonstrated
individuals to express
that fashion design can transcend visual
themselves, fostering
boundaries. The system developed to enable
color differentiation through touch not only
a more inclusive and
empowers users to make informed fashion
empathetic world of style.
choices but also underscores fashion’s role
as a means of self-expression for everyone,
regardless of visual abilities.
The texture test, with its diverse preferences
and the emotions textures evoke, underlines
the profound impact that tactile sensations
can have on fashion. Understanding which
textures resonate with users provides a
roadmap for designing accessories that
not only fits comfortably but also conveys
emotions and personal style.
Finally, the shape test emphasized the
significance of rounded edges, which were
favored for their smoothness and tactile
appeal. These findings underscore the
importance of selecting a shape that aligns
with users’ sensory experiences, vital for
a product aiming to empower visually
impaired individuals.
The insights gained from these tests extend
far beyond Viewbrance’s development; they
offer a glimpse into the future of fashion.
The results provide a strong foundation for
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