Fashion versus discretion is a central theme in design for disability. Traditionally, assistive products like glasses or hearing aids were often designed to be discreet, hidden away to avoid stigma or social attention. But this reading and my own experience show that disability does not have to mean invisibility or shame.
Having worn glasses almost my entire life, I recall how they were initially seen through the lens of social stigma. Comments like “Oh, she has glasses” or the belief that no one looks beautiful wearing them were common. However, over time, societal attitudes changed, and glasses transformed from a clinical aid to a fashion statement. Through this reading, I realised that this shift is not just about evolving social perspectives but also about the revolutionary change in spectacle design. Modern glasses are so stylish, with diverse frames and colors, that even people without any vision impairment now wear them purely as fashion accessories. This evolution speaks volumes about how disability can be embraced rather than hidden. It exemplifies that disability does not need to equate to discretion, why should we be invisible in our differences?
Moreover, it’s encouraging to see how design progress extends beyond spectacles to products like wireless earphones that made even hearing aids look in style, transforming assistive technology into mainstream accessories.
More than simply designing for disability, companies like Apple have shown how to create products like ipod that work seamlessly for all users, disabled or not. This approach represents the peak of design philosophy; one that emphasises minimalism, accessibility, and universal appeal without differentiating users by ability.
What I deeply take away from this reading is how disability acts as a powerful force in pushing design boundaries. It challenges conventional ideas and fosters innovation, driving designers to think creatively and inclusively.