Join us on this enlightening episode of The Uniformer as we sit down with Kate Annett-Hitchcock, Professor Emerita at the Department of Textile and Apparel Technology and Management, Wilson College of Textiles. In this conversation, Kate shares her expertise on the critical role of adaptive apparel in ensuring inclusivity within the workforce, particularly for individuals with disabilities. She explores the historical context and current trends shaping this field, drawing from her influential book, 'The Intersection of Fashion and Disability.' Throughout the episode, Kate discusses her academic path and long-standing connection with North Carolina State University, a textile education and innovation pioneer. She details the university's unique approach to supporting industries through specialized education and reflects on her academic experiences and various university roles. Kate also dives deep into adaptive apparel, explaining its significance beyond the term 'adaptive' to embrace a broader definition of inclusivity, covering size, gender, and physical variants. She advocates for design processes that start with inclusivity at the forefront rather than adapting existing designs to fit diverse needs, illustrating this with examples from her research and professional consultations. Whether you're an industry professional, a designer, or someone interested in the intersection of fashion and functionality, this episode offers a compelling look at how adaptive apparel is shaping the future of workplace attire. Listen as we explore the transformational impact of inclusive design and consider the future of an industry at the crossroads of tradition and innovative necessity. More info about the book at https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/intersection-of-fashion-and-disability-9781350143111/ More info about the NAUMD at https://naumd.com