Designer Crafts Adaptive Clothing Lines for Disability Inclusion in Fashion Industry
In the heart of Milan, a 24-year-old designer named Francesco Saverio Matera is making waves in the fashion industry with his groundbreaking brand, Materia. A graduate from IED, Matera's design prowess and innovative approach have set him apart, particularly in the adaptive fashion market[1].
Materia's first capsule collection, launched in 2023, is a testament to this. The collection, which has been praised for its high fashion runway theme, is a blend of aesthetics and practicality, a departure from the traditional focus on just one[2]. Matera's aim is to revolutionise the idea of fashion, offering clothing that is not only trendy but also comfortable, with oversized tracksuits and hoodies taking centre stage[3].
The collection's appeal extends beyond the fashion-conscious, with paralympic athletes being among its enthusiasts. These athletes have even contributed to the design process of the pieces, ensuring they meet the needs of those with disabilities[4]. Matera's commitment to inclusivity is inspired by his brother's disability, and it shows in the collection's adaptability and focus on comfort for both the person with a disability and their caregiver[5].
Matera's shoes, too, are designed with ease of wear in mind, catering to those who may struggle to move[6]. His designs have been praised for their attention to detail and innovative use of materials, a result of his collaborations with companies like Manteco, Majotech, Flat Knit, and Seamless machinery[7].
The collection has walked the runway at Palazzo Reale in Milan and has reached international markets, including Hong Kong and Dubai[8]. Matera's work has been recognised with numerous accolades, most notably the Woolmark Performance Challenge, which honours innovation and sustainability[9].
With an initial budget of just 30,000 euros, funded through university prizes and personal savings, Matera has positioned himself in a market sector different from mass-market brands like Primark or platforms like Zalando[10]. Materia offers a concept of elevated functional fashion, bridging the gap between style and accessibility.
In a world where fashion often prioritises trends over functionality, Matera's Materia is a breath of fresh air. It's a collection that truly understands the needs of its audience and delivers on both style and comfort, making adaptive fashion more than just a necessity - it's a statement.
[1] https://www.vogue.it/vogue-talents/2023/francesco-saverio-matera [2] https://www.vogue.it/vogue-talents/2023/francesco-saverio-matera [3] https://www.vogue.it/vogue-talents/2023/francesco-saverio-matera [4] https://www.vogue.it/vogue-talents/2023/francesco-saverio-matera [5] https://www.vogue.it/vogue-talents/2023/francesco-saverio-matera [6] https://www.vogue.it/vogue-talents/2023/francesco-saverio-matera [7] https://www.vogue.it/vogue-talents/2023/francesco-saverio-matera [8] https://www.vogue.it/vogue-talents/2023/francesco-saverio-matera [9] https://www.vogue.it/vogue-talents/2023/francesco-saverio-matera [10] https://www.vogue.it/vogue-talents/2023/francesco-saverio-matera
- As a finance entrepreneur, Francesco Saverio Matera manages the funds for his luxury fashion brand, Materia, which he founded in Milan.
- Balancing both style and comfort in his adaptive fashion business, Matera integrated the input of paralympic athletes in designing his first collection in 2023.
- Aiming to revolutionize the fashion industry, Matera's brand offers a fusion of fashion-and-beauty with entrepreneurship, appealing to a wider audience beyond just the fashion-conscious.
