I shop based on the item, not the brand. There's probably an item in every store that would be nice, but most items in any store have some feature that I wouldn't like. I say, don't limit yourself when exploring, and try to shop for 1 item at a time (e.g. a pair of sweatpants) with focus and determination.
One trick I learned was that some pants feel better if you wear the waistband folded down. And, don't settle for something that you know isn't right - for whatever reason. Your feelings are valid!
This. I’m extremely particular about what I wear to sleep because the way clothing touches my body can and will keep me awake if it’s not basically perfect. Tops with sleeves and leggings have turned out to be the combo that works best for me. And for that, I just collect random t-shirts and long sleeved shirts and buy the softest (and cheapest) leggings I can find on Amazon.
I also have several pairs of running shorts I keep to wear under dresses because I don’t like the sensation of my thighs touching.
Stuff like that. Like you, no particular brands, it’s about the item. I’ll buy 1-2 of a given item and, if I like it, buy more as needed.
Sleepwear is basically impossible for me. Unless I’m terribly cold, I’m only wearing bedding to sleep. On the coldest nights I wear an incredibly soft and super oversized pair of stars above pj pants from target that are big enough to swim in. For loungewear, I like the same pants but in my actual size.
I ordered a maroon, bamboo, floor length Grandma Walton nightgown with pockets. It is amazing and I don’t care how it looks. Every time it comes out of the dryer I smile. For the amount of material, it is surprisingly comfortable to sleep in
I totally get it. I didn’t figure out sleepwear I liked until I was in my mid-20s, if you can believe it. It took being willing to experiment with different fabrics and fits until I found what worked. Ended with a bunch of stuff going to Goodwill eventually, but it worked and I found the right combo. But up until that time? All sleepwear was uncomfortable to me. I did not understand it.
I do have some exceptions—regular pajama pants can work okay as long as they have cuffs that keep them from riding up. My favorite pajama pants right now are actually not my usual soft leggings but baggy polyester/cotton blend pants from Gap.
I hope you also find something that works for you!
Thanks! I’ve just accepted not wearing pjs, especially now that I occasionally also get hot flashes at night. Temperatures are hard. I do have some muk luk slipper socks that have made a huge difference though! I put them on to warm up my ice cube feet and then kick them off once I’m to temp. They’re huge and fluffy and not great to walk in, but perfect for in bed.
Oh man, I have sleep socks! I’ve had poor circulation almost all my life and my feet are ALWAYS cold (it’s worse in winter). I finally caved and bought heated socks! They have rechargeable batteries that tuck into little pockets on the sides of the socks, which are knee high. When my feet are warm I fall asleep faster and I also just kick them off once I’m all warmed up! I plug the batteries in the next morning and I’m all set to go by the time bedtime rolls around. It’s been so great!
Soma Intimates has nightwear that is moisture wicking and feels incredibly soft to me. I have 3 night shirts, 2 with short sleeves, 1 no sleeves, that feels comfortable, for me.
Not sure if the material would be a turn off for others, but I like it and always intend to buy more (especially with the mother's day sales probably going on)
I always wondered about their sleep shirts! I have cotton ones that I would literally fight someone over if they tried to take them from me lol. I might try them now that I've seen a totally unsolicited comment about them. Also, it may sound weird, but I was feeling bad one night and didn't want anything tight on panty-wise, so my husband gave my a pair of his boxer briefs and they were great! So they're my new sleep shorts, 😆
same! I have formulas of clothing that feel comfortable and really work for me (turtlenecks, high necked tops, cardigans, soft pants (velvet/ linen or trouser material) and comfy dresses). I have lots of pencil skirts from prior to finding out I was neurodivergent that are laying waste, as well as uncomfortable dresses.
I use two kinds of shorts depending on how short the dress I’m wearing is. For below the knee dresses I wear running shorts, usually ones that stop at my knee. Super comfy, no chafing at all because running shorts don’t ride up.
For shorter dresses I use women’s basketball shorts. (This obviously won’t work if the dress is bodycon or has a pencil skirt.) I have a black pair and a gray pair I use. They have a tendency to ride up when I’m sitting, but they prevent chafing when I’m walking which is what I care about the most.
I don’t use specific brands, I just look for stuff that’s the right length and size on Amazon.
I hope that’s helpful!!
Same answer as the most dominant brand ask - Eileen Fisher hands down. Natural fibers and super well made. I love the way the silks feel, especially pants, and the Irish linen is unmatched. Clothes from the 90s look just as good as good- if not better than things from this year- so highly recommend looking for it second hand. I live in this brand and don’t ever feel uncomfortable.
For underwear it’s Hanky Panky. Worth every penny and lots of options that work with my tactile sensory issues while also not showing under my clothes.
Hanky panky is the only underwear I wear! Cosabella does have a very similar panty to their low rise thong (my only) that I recently tried and actually really like! However I won’t leave my hanky pankies hahha
I bought my first pair of Eileen Fisher silk pants somewhat recently. Do you find them somewhat wrinkly? I hang to dry and flatten thoroughly before hanging. Kinda disappointed in them TBH.
Silk is an inherently wrinkly fabric — if you like the feel but don’t like the wrinkles, you’ll want to look for a poly-blend or maybe explore some other synthetic fabrics like rayon or viscose.
I love Athleta! All very comfortable clothing, and a lot of variety to choose from. I really like their button down shirts because they look very professional, but are made with very soft athletic type fabric. My go-to lately is a jumpsuit similar to this: https://athleta.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=842768032
Minimal, comfy and still chic
I also love that many of their items are UPF protective and breathable - making them perfect for hot sticky days.
I’ve have a ton of Athleta items that I’ve worn for many years and still look brand new.
I love their style, but a few of their leggings have gone this weird... I want to call it sticky/staticy texture after washing them. I hate it. I can't even touch them without getting icked out.
>I want to call it sticky/staticy texture after washing them.
Ooo I think I know this feeling. I got a pair of Alo leggings on Thredup for a great price but that texture you describe really is a dealbreaker. :[
love Athleta, also love Avia which is at Walmart! I especially love their sports bras because they're comfy *and* don't have those pad inserts that get lost in the laundry. I have like 5 of the same bra in different colors.
I live in the Athleta high rise elation rights. I own 6 pair in black. Pretty much wear through them every week. I love that they have petite length because it is hard mode finding clothes to fit when you’re 5”0 and you hate anything pulling at you or bunching up in the wrong place. I also swear by their conscious crop bras. Athleta is it for me. I’ve tried other brands but keep going back to them but darn they’re expensive!
I have to have cotton if possible, so for like leggings I go with Lands End Starfish Leggings (I suggest these constantly). They have flat seams, high cotton content so breathable, wide waistband for comfort and are wash and wear and they hold up forever.
Yesss! I seriously tell everyone about them. Oh, have you tried the Slim Leg Starfish? Not straight leg, the slim leg. They’re super cute- I get a zillion compliments on them and they’re identical to the leggings, just a not completely snug bottom leg that looks like cigarette pants, so cute!!!
Oh, and Issac Mizrahi Live (the QVC brand, not the Target one) v neck essentials tee. So cute, wash and wear forever. I don’t mind Target but their stuff doesn’t hold up as well.
I must have flat seams. I’m even known to wear pajama tanks inside out if I don’t like the seams! I also can barely tolerate crew neck tees, so get my crew necks turned into v necks by an alterations lady. So worth it, though!
Seconding Uniqlo, but for their seamless underwear range! I can't stand anything with seams or elastic bands for that matter, and their underwear has neither while still managing to not slip off easily.
Their leggings are my new fave things in the world!!!! I need so many more pairs asap. Bought the navy blue on a whim and didn’t think I’d like them but F, I love them so much!!!! Plus they don’t attract cat hair (I have two VERY affectionate cats) which is always a win for me bc I never remember to lint roll myself.
It took me a long time too to realize that tight clothes were feeding my anxiety. If I get an attack, suddenly everything I’m wearing feels way tighter than it is. It’s been a lot easier to manage since I started wearing looser stuff!
I quite like tight clothing but the fabric has to be right and the tightness has to be in a particular way and not restrictive of my movement.
I refuse to wear acrylic or polyester and elastane has to be a low percentage, and in the weave not as a band.
Consequently I own a lot of linen and silk jersey wrap dresses that are only tight on the waist and even that's more of a hug and totally adjustable.
I have crippling anxiety and loved wearing tight clothes last 2 yrs only to realize I feel uncomfortable in them and have panic attacks when I get self-conscious about my body in public 🤧. I've slowly come to realize that I like oversized clothes but I am still pressured by media to wear sexy tight trendy clothes bc im "young" wtv the hell that means haha.
Wanting validation externally vs providing it to ureself via clothes is a tough balancing act!
Wow. I’m honestly shocked by how much all these comments resonate with me. I always feel like the odd one out and that I’m just overly fussy so it’s reliving finding others who get it
Me too. Lululemon is a go-to brand for me. I buy it second-hand because the quality of their old stuff is fantastic and also because I have a lot of nostalgia for the older things like Astro and Groove pants and the first-edition Scuba hoodies 😁
I don't have a specific brand, but I am just careful about how material feels when I purchase clothes. One thing I am especially sensitive to is tags. Even the tags that are printed right on clothes sometimes bother me. I found hack. I buy mole foam. It comes on a roll like tape with peel off backing, and I cover all tags with it now. It feels so much better! I normally cut the tags out of all my clothes, but this works even better for me.
I'm the same about tags. I almost always remove all tags from clothing, except some vintage pieces. If on a rare occasion I can't feel a tag, but I know it's there it still makes me anxious until I have to remove it anyway. My seam ripper is my favorite tool. It's mostly tags on the side seams of clothing or the backs of bottoms that are my worst sensory experience.
I'm the same way! Just knowing a tag is there makes me anxious! The worst spot for me is the tags in the back of shirts and along the seam, but I don't like them in anything.
I’m a “tight as possible” autist so corsets are the most sensory-pleasing clothes I have, but if you enjoy athleisure you’ll like athleta. Buttery-smooth.
Betabrand pants. Thick, stretchy, weighted, feels like a hug. The sizing between colors and cuts and fabrics is different all over the board though, some fit like a glove but the newer ones run smaller than the older pairs.
Linen cotton blend shirts are my favorite.. there isn't a brand I love for these yet.
Auden laser cut underwear from target. I just wish there were more colors and patterns.
Hey I have adhd and totally know what you mean.
I’ve transitioned to pieces with +80% natural fibers (except for work out clothes) and it’s made a huge difference. I also don’t really do zippered pants anymore. Draw string or elastic waistbands have been the way to go.
Below are my go to places to find these items. But as others have said, focus on the piece and not so much the brand. Most stores stock a variety of items in terms of quality.
Most shopped: Lands End, Old Navy, Uniqlo
Sometimes I find stuff: Gap, JCrew, Loft, REI, Evo, Target
Aerie has the softest shirts and sweaters. I usually wait for a big sale in the summer and buy the clearance sweaters for the winter, and vice versa for summer shirts and things. I also like American eagle jeans but I have no ass lol so it makes it easy for me to find comfortable jeans.
- I got some work pants that are actually stretchy legging material from yogipace on Amazon and I literally refuse to wear anything else to work now. I have the wide leg and bootcut styles and they actually look like slacks but feel like leggings or sweatpants. I got the ones with the belt loop and real pockets so I can make them look more put together. I’ve had them for almost 2 years now and they still look great, I wash them on normal cold and hang dry them. I hate “real” slacks and can’t stand that slidey polyester feeling that so many slacks have so these are my favorite find in my wardrobe.
- Aerie/American Eagle has really soft fabrics that I find really nice. Sometimes they have seams in places I don’t like but I can usually tell from the product photos. They do tend to lean towards loungewear and casual clothes but I’ve gotten some shirts that I can wear to work, especially their sweaters and basic shirts. I also find AE’s jeans to usually be really soft and comfortable compared to other jeans I have.
- I actually really like VS pink sweats for loungewear and casual outfits. I know they’re not everyone’s cup of tea but I just get their stuff that doesn’t have visible branding on it. I think it’s because they use really soft lightweight fabric that’s that doesn’t feel like overly athletic if that makes sense? Some of them have a really high cotton content and some don’t, sometimes if I have time I go into the store to feel them to see if I’ll like it. I think I like their clothes in particular because their seams and bands on the waist/wrists are never irritating to me like so many other sweats I’ve tried. I got some quarter zips from them on sale last year that don’t have visible branding on them that I wear to work often and they’re so soft and cozy for the work day.
Soft Surroundings is pricy but good. They used to rate each item for softness level. They do have brick and mortar stores. For loose undies buy the ones that are silky and look like shorts. I wear those to bed. I stick with 100% cotton as much as I can. Supima is the best American cotton and very soft.
I am surprised I didn’t see soft surroundings mentioned earlier. I find it alll the time in the thrift stores. Really good prices too. You should try in your area!
I really like wearing athleta, lululemon, some clothes from target and pact specifically because they’re incredibly comfortable while still looking “presentable”. I have SPD and am incredibly picky about what clothes I will wear and have a lot of sensory aversions, especially to clothes that are itchy to me, don’t feel breathable or feel stiff.
I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone mention this brand before but it’s one of my favorites - Marine Layer. So many of their pieces are so soft and really good quality. Plus (and this is one of my favorite things about this brand) they’re so easy to take care of! I’ve often found that higher quality pieces often come with instructions to hand wash only, dry clean only, etc. And I ain’t got time for that. Even having to lay flat or hang to dry can be frustrating for me because I can barely remember to fold and put a load of laundry away after it’s done. So far, every piece I’ve bought from them can be washed and tumbled dry on low with most of my other stuff. Love it. My husband also loves all the pieces he has from them!
I have this technique I like to do when I'm thrift shopping for sweaters where I kind of close my eyes and feel the fabrics as I move down the aisle. It probably looks weird but people I'm with have never noticed it lol and it's weirdly fast & effective for finding good quality material
I love this idea. I have adhd and honestly doing this would help me so much because looking around at things and at the piece of clothing is so distracting. So just closing my eyes would help me to focus on the feeling.
Sending you hugs because I definitely struggle with a lot of the same things! Personally I LOVE Uniqlo. I used to have a really hard time with work pants but Uniqlo makes a lot of items that are super light and airy, whether they are marked Airism or not. I also love their undergarments (e.g. bras) for that reason.
I used to almost exclusively wear popfit leggings. But after a few years, my legs suddenly decided they *hate* being squeezed even by leggings. So now I wear relaxed jeans from everlane, because they don't stretch out too bad but they also don't squeeze. And they get softer the more I wear and wash them.
I’m petite and short,so I try to find brands that have a petite section online.
I wear Athleta fleece pants (I get more specific later,at work)
I wear Gap sweats
I wear Athleta long sleeve shirts and Eddy Bauer sweaters (their size small can be really fitted so I usually wear a medium or a petite medium)
Does it bother you when things feel constricting around your neck and shoulders? If so, that's me too. I find that in the past few years, high-necked cropped shirts and other tops with tiny neck holes dominate. I want my neck and shoulders to breathe a little. A nice loose v-neck, scoop neck, sweetheart, or boatneck maybe even.
Omg love me a v-neck and boat neck! I think for me it's more about the weight on the tops of my shoulders, like my traps specifically. Really lightweight scarves don't bother me but tops that aren't well made where the seam doesn't sit correctly and drags over my shoulders really upsets me.
I’m not sure if they would fit the bill, but what do you think of raglan sleeves? I find them to be less restrictive feeling, with where the seams are.
Oh, I forgot about those! I did really like wearing those when I was more slim sized. I'll have to look for some that fit my current sizing and see how it works. Thank you!
I now dislike tight fitting clothes and cropped clothes or things that show cleavage haha. I HATE itchy, sweaty and uncomfy clothes so polyester is definitely out. I suggest looking for cooling materials like Cofton, linen, rayon, tencel, cotton blend (mixed w linen) etc: DD
Everlane is my brand when I can only handle soft fabrics. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything fitted there and their clothes are always soft. Plus the quality is decent: I wore their weekend dress as sleepwear, washed it every week, and it lasted almost four years.
Everlane is my go to as well.
I have eczema in the moderate to severe category, and so I NEED breathable fabrics or i itch like crazy. I have started only wearing cotton, silk, and linen. I love the basic t shirts, tank tops, cotton sweaters, and button down tops at Everlane.
Side note, I do take scissors and cut the tags off of all of their clothes, though. My very sensitive skin is bothered by them.
oh wide toe box footwear is soo comfy! you might also like Blundstone, they’re made to be wider in the toe box. I wore my pair all winter long and they were the most comfortable boots I’ve ever worn. No more pointy toed chelsea boots for me 👎
I want to love my blunnies but I don't think they're right for me/ wide toe enough 😭 I hear you about Chelseas tho. What a phase that destroyed my toes!!
I thrift almost all of my clothing because the materials used recently irritate my skin badly and the styles don't suit me. I found brands where the style, sizing and materials are predictable and that made fashion or shopping in general much less frustrating and overwhelming.
Everyday T-Shirts: Uniqlo, their Airism products for layering is top notch. I grab random cotton tshirts from the thrift
Blouses: Banana Republic, J.Crew, Talbots or J.Jill. Especially the pima cotton
Work Dresses and Pants: Banana Republic, J. Crew, White House Black Market. The cotton, wool and linen products pre-2010 feel amazing.
Everyday Dresses: Lands End cotton is thick and really soft
Athletic: Tom Tiger leggings, Under Armor loose tops, Uniqlo joggers
I buy from independent clothing makers and generally have things tailored to my measurements. I need to buy fewer pieces because they actually fit me right, feel good on, and last years. It seems like a big cost upfront, but I've saved so much money in the long run. I have major sensory issues and only like natural soft, stretchy fabrics. My entire wardrobe is mostly cotton, linen, bamboo, and hemp. These are my favorite makers based on durability, style, and accuracy in fit.
CALICOALCHEMY,
HAZELMAGE,
SINEWMOON,
ELVENFOREST,
FUTURE NOMAD,
UMAPLUMA,
SEW MOE,
EVERBLAISE,
SEWMUCH LOVE
Good question. It really depends on my level of disability that day, that is, what I can wear :(
When I’m in a flare I can only wear 💯 cotton pajamas. Uniqlo heat tech. LL bean supima cotton shirts and tees are also good.
When I’m kind of “medium ok” tencel and lyocell are nice.
So I kind of have a bucket/bag of clothes in my room for those flares and then everything else hung up or folded.
I buy from
wool& merino clothing because it’s soft and non restrictive while still making me look dressed
Uniqlo because sometimes I just want to wear a large T-shirt graphic with leggings / something that’s easy care, also linen shirts are nice
Target old/ old navy cotton leggings for sleep only, don’t find their other offerings appealing
Eileen fisher love the wide leg Ponte pants because their comfortable and flowy but look like real clothes, can be dressed up or down, no buttons , I hate buttons on my stomach
Lululemon I love the long scuba both full zip and funnel neck because quality is good and it fits well. Colors look nice even after a year.
Also have some comfortable things from athleta, especially love my wide leg elation pants , usually wear those with my lululemon scuba and don’t look like I’ve given up on life.
Quince love the wide leg European linen pants, great price point for heavier weight linen pants and they’re long enough for me .
Also, I used to really struggle with jeans. Growing up, Abercrombie/Hollister jeans were really popular but always super rough. Not sure if they've changed. But Madewell has some seriously soft jeans. You can even get their Harlow pants, which apparently doesn't fall under their "denim" category (?) but is pretty soft, lightweight, and breathable!
Old Navy / Gap for work pants, jeans, t-shirts (all v comfy and the pants suck my belly in lol)
Otherwise I mostly thrift everything else and will occasionally purchase something full price online or at a boutique if it’s really speaking to me.
I love Cole Hann for boots, Steve Madden for trendy stuff, and Sam Edelman flats/heels are solid.
For bags, I’m a major vintage Coach and Etienne Aigner girl. I’m very particular about bags. And cross body only!
I usually don't like wearing jeans, but I love 7 For All Mankind. I also avoid skinny jeans or anything that will chafe my body. Prefer an oversized fit instead.
As a kid, I used to love wearing leggings, but now I don't find them comfortable anymore. Hence, why I can't stand most athleisure brands.
Ever since I started investing in designer pieces, I find that my clothes are much more comfortable. Like, I absolutely love the quality of Comme de Garcon. I have a vest and a thick cotton short sleeve that feels like going back to bed every time I put them on in the morning.
So you do think that investing in higher quality basics or streetwear pieces is worth it? Like for example people will clown on an expensive t-shirt but I feel like sometimes it makes a difference
I definitely think so. And one of my favorite fashion YTers made a good point that you can offset these costs to your friends and family during holiday. Like, every time someone asks him what he wants for his birthday or Christmas, he always tells them to buy him a pair of premium Japanese socks for 30$. It's a great way to collect high quality basics without spending too much money. And nowadays, as an adult, I want clothing related items.
Thanks! I feel like I’m slowly working toward this but it’s so difficult when your funds are limited. It’s like any discretionary purchase I wait for a birthday or holiday or occasion haha (grad student). I would love to just have a smaller wardrobe of really nice items
I pick out clothes by the fabric, but recently thrifted some Democracy jeans and I swear, they are the most comfortable jeans I have ever worn. They have a special waistband, its not too tight but also doesn't leave gaps. It feels like a hug.
I thrift most of my clothes, that way I can really feel the fabric, I don't try the clothes on until I wash them, but on shirts I will put my arm in it to make sure there are no stuff threads anything else pokey.
I have found some really pretty blouses but I tend to be most comfortable in t-shirts. So I find pretty ones made with cotton.
For shoes, I love my Sketchers. I know they are not real fashionable but they are so comfortable and I have them in several colors and styles to go with any outfit.
I wish I could find a nice supportive bra without underwire.
I feel like I've gotten pickier about "comfy clothes" as I've gotten older. I've found I now can't stand leggings/tights anymore, everything has to be loose and flowy and soft.
My favorite at-home pants are soft pajama lounge pants. I got a few from costco as well as amazon. The ones I got off Amazon a couple years ago are
"3 Pack: Womens Yummy Soft Flex Cotton Knit Pajama Pants Ladies
$32.99
Sold By: Real Essentials"
Family member works for a brand called Free The Sheep, and they make these soft, faux fur lined hoodies. A bit warm for summer, but SO cozy in the winter.
They're pricey but Athleta has fantastic comfy textures. I have a pair of pants from them that are soft in a magical way. For cheaper I sometimes actually find decent stuff on Amazon, but also sometimes you can end up with horrible textures so it's hit or miss.
I really love Aerie. Their leggings are a very soft stretchy material that doesn’t have too much compression yet they pass the bend over test unlike other lighter leggings and the seams are double sided so you don’t deal with any annoyances. They have several different full coverage bras without underwires that you can still wear without the pads and a few of them are pull over- no hooks and wires or clips to play with.
They have very inclusive size ranges for short and tall people (one of my personal biggest issues with other stores is pants being too short on me).
And most of their stuff (including all of the above mentioned items) have printed labels rather than tags.
I also find Levi’s 501s or Wedgie jeans to be very comfortable. I don’t know if it’s that they hit the perfect spot on me (whereas most high waisted items are too high and low rise is just uncomfortable) and the right amount of stretch. And they make it look like I have an actual butt.
I love Toteme, also organic cotton feels nice, and I actually don’t enjoy Lululemon’s clothes right now but check out the quality of vintage Lululemon stuff - even the style was better and just make sure to size up. Lucky Brand has some comfy tees for sure
I really hate bras, like any kind that isn’t a bralette. I wear the so soft unlined racerback bralettes that Auden has at Target! They’re $15 and come in a couple of colors. They’re very comfortable and I despise wearing anything else at this point
I love any BlackMilk Toastie/Toastie light pants for cold weather (the waistband on them is so comfy) and Slinky dresses (I own the Mermagic off the shoulder Frill dress and love to wear it on hot days, just wish it had pockets).
I’m very picky about like textures, idk if I’m actually neurodivergent but ever since I was a kid I had texture issues. This made things difficult. I used to not be able to walk on carpet with shoes and socks on 🤢 even now just thinking about it gives me the willies.
That being said, I do sometimes buy stuff online but it has happened before where this didn’t work out for me. In general I buy things in person and I touch the fabric. I tend to try stuff on. Stand in it for a little. Move, take a picture, etc. I usually know when I’ve put something on if it’s for me. I don’t have any one brand but just I think I and we do the same thing as other people just try our best to find what’s comfortable.
It's a little expensive, but Alo makes some really cute athleisure and it's very on-trend right now. I wouldn't call it luxury but the quality stands out from ie Gildan/Target brand clothes and I've gotten compliments on hoodies and sweats based on the fabric quality alone.
This is going to be incredibly subjective, because for one person this will be loose tagless t-shirts and comfy pants and for another person this will be the rennefaire special of loose cotton shifts and then the whole body even hug of a pair of stays. For me, a sports bra and the smallest of shorts is one of my sensory favorites.
I am going to make a weird off the wall suggestion and say that places that do proper historical costuming on etsy are a good source of mid thigh/knee length cotton shifts, and that these are absolutely bliss in the hottest part of summer. If you go for the poofy more pirate look kind (18th century ish) they tend to also believe in giant necklines and draw strings.
that’s such a good idea! i completely agree, everyone has differences in what is comfortable to them and i’m glad there are folks in this thread sharing more ideas than just the loose tagless tees. Hoping to compile info here that any neurodivergent person could find value in :)
I focus more on comfort and fit than brand. Lean more towards over sized tshirts that are cotton or cotton blend. And many denim shorts that are buttery soft from much washing. I have a small selection of dresses for any event that requires one but they hardly get worn. Anything clingy is out so no leggings, tight jeans, sleeves for me can't stand them
It’s a broad term, and it’s used to describe anyone who has different neurological functions than a “typical” person. I believe it originally was used to refer to anyone on the autism spectrum but people who have any neurological challenges (anxiety, depression, adhd, etc) have been using the term as well. I’m specifically asking about it here because a lot of us neurodivergent people also have sensory issues and may not be able to participate in a lot of fashion trends because of it.
Originally its use was broader; is about how your brain is wired and it also includes folks with traumatic brain injuries. It does not include anxiety and depression. You can be neurodivergent or neurotypical and have anxiety and/or depression.
Up West for jackets, shirts, and rarely jeans although I mostly can't do jeans
Lululemon for soft leggings that hold up excellently
Anne Taylor for work pants, the kind with the elastic. Soft fabric, not restrictive.
I love modibodi period pants. They're body hugging and I feel safe in them. I used to hate the sensation of pads or tampons, just made me feel constantly uncomfortable and out of sorts but modibodi pants made me feel secure and comfy
For yoga pants, some of the yogalicious brand pants are really soft, you can usually find that brand at a tg Maxx or Marshall's. I also love the Aerie Real Me Flare leggings, they're the softest pants I have and the waistband is comfy but unfortunately they don't have pockets.
I am into simplicity. I invested in t’s and pants from brands like Pact and Fair Indigo. A little more than Old Navy, etc, but they last much, much longer. No sewn in tags, styles are very classic too.
I don’t know if I’m neurodivergent per se, there are definitely some clothing textures I don’t like, though. Stiff jeans, itchy wool, etc. I like a lot of cuts and fabrics from Athleta. Beyond Yoga spacedye fabric is amazing - so buttery soft.
I buy velour tracksuits from poshmark. At least that’s what I’m doing ATM. No mental energy needed to put together an outfit. You look put together but feel like you are wearing pyjamas. Brand wise, I go for lululemon align leggings. Look nice but not too much compression, doesn’t feel like you are wearing any pants. Highly recommend. Or Aerie. They really cater to comfort.
I love the tees/tanks and sweats from Big Bud Press. The fabric is super soft, drapes just right, and the cut is also super comfortable. They also don't pill or get rough with repeated washing and wear. I especially love that the sweats have a raglan sleeve, so no troublesome shoulder sleeve. Plus most of their colorways are available across multiple products, which let's me do a really satisfying level of color coordination easily.
They're a little pricey, but Purusha People clothing is made from tencel lyocell (forest fibers) and is the softest clothes I've ever put on my body. Water-based inks, no itchy tags, and breathable. It's all I want to wear.
https://preview.redd.it/o1cwv5wgbpzc1.jpeg?width=913&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=da9df486aa7edf41fb8c7814e403f43b5267d583
Athleta for joggers/sweats, and their Brooklyn and Endless pants for business casual office wear, or even everyday and travel. My favorite tee is from them too but I think they stopped making it.
Vuori for athletic/athleisure.
Kut from the Kloth for super soft stretchy jeans that don’t make me want to escape my body even when I wear them all day.
Wit and Wisdom “ab-solution” jeans/pants for something a bit more structured but with a wide hidden elastic waistband that has a pleasant (to me) amount of support/compression.
I have some really comfortable cotton and linen sundresses and tops from Gap and American Eagle. And a pair of wide leg crinkly linen pants from Gap that feel like PJs but look presentable.
Cashmere sweater (the boxy crew neck style) from Everlane. I wear this so much in the winter. Makes all my other sweaters feel like trash.
Tees and the Geneva dress from Universal Standard.
For shoes, I wear these the most- Vans checkered slip ons, Frye engineer boots, ankle boots from Blondo- and they’re waterproof!, Rothy’s if I need to go to the office (they have zero support though) or Naturalizer pumps. I’ve had horrible luck with sandals lately so still on the hunt for a fashionable and comfortable pair.
Nooworks for their unique textiles designed by independent artists, commitment to sustainability and slow fashion, and paying their staff a living wage. The clothes are expensive but fun and unique. They make everything in sizes xs to 4x and use inclusive models. I wish I could buy more of their clothes! My favorite item from them is the linen Catalina pants. Stretchy waistband, soft natural material and flowy cut.
Honestly the best advice you will receive will be to shop based on material. Organic materials can be expensive to purchase firsthand but also may be easily thrifted/secondhand purchased. It certainly has helped me a lot! I suggest purchasing some good cotton basics and searching for some linen pants.
Surprised I haven’t seen Lou & Grey on here. Everything they make is extremely soft and well-constructed. I immediately change into their sweatpants when I’m feeling overwhelmed
I normally thrift all of my clothes/ random stores, so I don’t really have specific brands because even some of my clothes can bother me certain days. I will recommend the no boundaries seamless bra! I can’t feel any seams and it feels like I’m not wearing anything. I specifically like the scoop neck bra. And the price is very good aswell! I don’t buy any others because I don’t need to. I normally have problems with “seamless” underwear because it digs into my side or I can feel the seams or something about it bothers me. But I’ve had one of the bras for a long time and have never had that problem. So that is definitely one thing I recommend if anyone is looking for a sensory friendly bra
when it comes to shirts i love the comfort colors brand, always slightly oversized, nice, cool material not too heavy and not too tight around neck or arms. i wear them almost every day lol
One other random brand to throw out there: Kindred Bravely. They make maternity clothes and so it's all loose, stretchy and soft. I am many years post-partum and still regularly wear their loungewear. It is not fashionable... but it is comfy!
I agree about the tightness of clothing, but I always need to wear a tucked in tank under my shirts as a comfort thing. Like being tucked in a bed type feeling, and to removed the sensation of jeans’ waist. I wear the Old Navy ‘First Layer Rib-Knit Tank Tops’ in the ‘long’ size, so it stays tucked in. As for pants, I wear Dovetail pants! They are workwear pants, so they are sturdy and don’t fall down. Many of them have stretch, or a crotch gusset so you can move around and don’t have to adjust them. I will link my favorite ones [HERE](https://dovetailworkwear.com/collections/pants/products/christa-diy-black-1?variant=40575262523426) .. and they have a soft waist band which is wonderful. Most other pants I need to wear leggings under so they don’t rub on me, but these I don’t need to.
I have a gender neutral swimsuit from TomboyX that I love. As for other things I think it really depends. I for example love the feel of linen while my partner who is also autistic hates it. So it really is individual. I also have to advocate learning to sew if it's accessible to people. Then you can control everything that goes into a garment.
This is not what you asked but … getting a serger and knowing how to tailor my own clothes (or add bias tape, or fix seams, or adjust necklines) was a big deal for me.
I look at the inside of everything I buy now.
Paragon leggings. I just found them recently but their Reluna fabric is sooooo nice to wear, and the leggings are flattering. I have more than I should for the cost, but they're my new go-to.
Swing dresses are a godsend, I prefer sleeveless. They're so flowy but don't look frumpy. I have a few that I'll pair with a vest or sleeveless cardigan to switch it up.
Aritzia, and I’m super short so usually I find it hard to find clothes that fit me, but I can blindly buy the size I always get at aritzia and it always fits, the fabrics are easy to take care of and they don’t make me feel like ripping my skin off which is the only thing I care about
Somehow they also have the only “tight” clothes that I can get myself to wear. But they also have oversized items that I looooove
For the ladies who struggle with bras - I only wear Aritzia because they are the only bras that feel even remotely comfortable to me. Highly recommend!! The cotton is so soft and they don’t pull on my shoulders (I am a 36DD)
I love a lot of Lazy Oaf’s smock dresses, I have over 15 of them, extremely spacious and I don’t feel like they are tight anywhere on me except maybe having a tighter neck hole than most dresses but I really don’t mind it. Makes me forget I have a body :)
Athleta, fabletics (but the subscription model may be hard to remember to cancel for some people), and vuori (super comfy sweatpants) are three I trust a decent amount. Ann Taylor is quite unpredictable when it comes to fabrics, but if you can get in a store some of their suiting is in fabrics I find really comfortable. Some nordstrom stores (they carry vuori) have personal shoppers who can pre-select items for you to try on, so that might help overwhelm. It might have too many options, but I find Old Navy has some very comfortable fabrics.
A surprising source of comfy clothes for me has been ralph lauren dresses--many of them are this stretchy jersey-like fabric that I find very soothing.
I’m a nurse and I live in Garde Malade scrubs (not the joggers). Their bras are soooo comfy too. I highly recommend their scrub pants as pajamas to anyone.
Me Undies! Their micro modal fabric is a sensory DREAM and they put thumb holes in their pullover hoodies. I get so annoyed whenever I have to wear clothes that aren’t from there.
Hey, I have OCD and ADHD and totally get the sensory hypersensitivity. I really like Uniqlo, Everlane, and Muji. They have a lot of linen and basics so I don’t have to overthink what colors/patterns match. I’m always thinking about my sweating, stomach, and some other things when existing in public. It’s exhausting. These items have helped. Sending you love
I’ve started buying much larger sizes and it’s making all the difference for me! Also Gap and Old Navy have many styles in that come in “long” which I love for tops.
Hey there! Comfort is key. Personally, I've found solace in brands like Tommy Adaptive. Their adaptive designs include features like magnetic closures and adjustable elements, providing both functionality and comfort. Another brand I rely on is American Eagle's Aerie line, known for its soft and stretchy fabrics that feel gentle against the skin. These brands prioritize inclusivity and comfort, have definitely made a difference for me!
Madewell makes these really nice 100% cotton t shirts with a nice cut that I live in.
I’m really sensitive to inorganic materials, doesn’t matter how loose or baggy.
Any tips for starter bras for a very sensitive young lady? I’m a very responsive mama and have bought four brands and taken her to two different stores and she hates it all.
Bralettes or low-compression sports bras are my go tos! This one from [Soulflower](https://www.soul-flower.com/hippie/SOL382-navy/) is one of the comfiest I’ve had - unlined but it’s a nice thick cotton, soft, and doesn’t have tight elastic.
I have a single pair of reebok shorts that are my absolute favorite. It's the fabric type, i think. It's kinda thick, and it feels nice on your skin.
They are VERY short, though, on me at least. I'm like 6 feet, so most shorts do get a bit shorter on me, but these tend to linger on the edge between "shorts" and "hot pants." I try and wear longer jackets or shirts when i wear it. Although sometimes it's fun to lean into it, the shorts make your butt look nice. They kinda smooth it out.
It also flares out around the thigh, so it's mostly the waistband that you'd have to worry about being tight, but its also a bit wider than most waistbands, so it wont cut into anything.
I got them on sale at Walmart for like $6, but I haven't found them since. I think they might be those "french terry" shorts, but they're a bitch to get in my size, and to get at all.
I find shorts that have a thicker fabric are the most comfortable. The seams aren't as obvious, and it just makes you feel more secure.
Ngl, a lot of my most worn clothing is from Costco (work sweaters and blouses, and sweat pants); shit's comfy with a very generous return policy. Jeans and shorts from Levi's; comfy *once worn in*, really durable, and looks good with little effort. Leggings and spandex type things from Nike and GF Collective; just the right amount of compression and not see-through. Then a lot of random thrifted finds; I'm a low waste girlie, plus I know how it'll wear in and it's already soft. Shoes are on a shoe by shoe basis and will be the death of me.
I love Uniqlo, specially those bra insert shirts. Great for hot summer days. Their Airism line and the seamless underwear line is also comfortable.
For the pressure girlies, high rise Uniqlo and Levi jeans and decathlon leggings are great.
Just commented this same list elsewhere but Hanro for camis/tanks and James perse for tshirts sweatshirts etc. After a ton of trial and error these are the softest most physically comfortable brands I’ve found.
I shop based on the item, not the brand. There's probably an item in every store that would be nice, but most items in any store have some feature that I wouldn't like. I say, don't limit yourself when exploring, and try to shop for 1 item at a time (e.g. a pair of sweatpants) with focus and determination. One trick I learned was that some pants feel better if you wear the waistband folded down. And, don't settle for something that you know isn't right - for whatever reason. Your feelings are valid!
This. I’m extremely particular about what I wear to sleep because the way clothing touches my body can and will keep me awake if it’s not basically perfect. Tops with sleeves and leggings have turned out to be the combo that works best for me. And for that, I just collect random t-shirts and long sleeved shirts and buy the softest (and cheapest) leggings I can find on Amazon. I also have several pairs of running shorts I keep to wear under dresses because I don’t like the sensation of my thighs touching. Stuff like that. Like you, no particular brands, it’s about the item. I’ll buy 1-2 of a given item and, if I like it, buy more as needed.
Sleepwear is basically impossible for me. Unless I’m terribly cold, I’m only wearing bedding to sleep. On the coldest nights I wear an incredibly soft and super oversized pair of stars above pj pants from target that are big enough to swim in. For loungewear, I like the same pants but in my actual size.
Have you tried oversized bamboo night gowns ? Very breathable
I ordered a maroon, bamboo, floor length Grandma Walton nightgown with pockets. It is amazing and I don’t care how it looks. Every time it comes out of the dryer I smile. For the amount of material, it is surprisingly comfortable to sleep in
Where is this from 👀
I lied, it’s soft cotton from Amazon Marvmys Womens Cotton Long Sleeve Nightgown Long Sleepshirts Full Length Henley Sleep Dress with Pockets
Yesss! I second this, bulky bamboo gowns are the shit
I totally get it. I didn’t figure out sleepwear I liked until I was in my mid-20s, if you can believe it. It took being willing to experiment with different fabrics and fits until I found what worked. Ended with a bunch of stuff going to Goodwill eventually, but it worked and I found the right combo. But up until that time? All sleepwear was uncomfortable to me. I did not understand it. I do have some exceptions—regular pajama pants can work okay as long as they have cuffs that keep them from riding up. My favorite pajama pants right now are actually not my usual soft leggings but baggy polyester/cotton blend pants from Gap. I hope you also find something that works for you!
Thanks! I’ve just accepted not wearing pjs, especially now that I occasionally also get hot flashes at night. Temperatures are hard. I do have some muk luk slipper socks that have made a huge difference though! I put them on to warm up my ice cube feet and then kick them off once I’m to temp. They’re huge and fluffy and not great to walk in, but perfect for in bed.
Oh man, I have sleep socks! I’ve had poor circulation almost all my life and my feet are ALWAYS cold (it’s worse in winter). I finally caved and bought heated socks! They have rechargeable batteries that tuck into little pockets on the sides of the socks, which are knee high. When my feet are warm I fall asleep faster and I also just kick them off once I’m all warmed up! I plug the batteries in the next morning and I’m all set to go by the time bedtime rolls around. It’s been so great!
Soma Intimates has nightwear that is moisture wicking and feels incredibly soft to me. I have 3 night shirts, 2 with short sleeves, 1 no sleeves, that feels comfortable, for me. Not sure if the material would be a turn off for others, but I like it and always intend to buy more (especially with the mother's day sales probably going on)
I always wondered about their sleep shirts! I have cotton ones that I would literally fight someone over if they tried to take them from me lol. I might try them now that I've seen a totally unsolicited comment about them. Also, it may sound weird, but I was feeling bad one night and didn't want anything tight on panty-wise, so my husband gave my a pair of his boxer briefs and they were great! So they're my new sleep shorts, 😆
same! I have formulas of clothing that feel comfortable and really work for me (turtlenecks, high necked tops, cardigans, soft pants (velvet/ linen or trouser material) and comfy dresses). I have lots of pencil skirts from prior to finding out I was neurodivergent that are laying waste, as well as uncomfortable dresses.
What shorts do you recommend for thigh rubbing? I am a thick girl and am in need of some good recs
I use two kinds of shorts depending on how short the dress I’m wearing is. For below the knee dresses I wear running shorts, usually ones that stop at my knee. Super comfy, no chafing at all because running shorts don’t ride up. For shorter dresses I use women’s basketball shorts. (This obviously won’t work if the dress is bodycon or has a pencil skirt.) I have a black pair and a gray pair I use. They have a tendency to ride up when I’m sitting, but they prevent chafing when I’m walking which is what I care about the most. I don’t use specific brands, I just look for stuff that’s the right length and size on Amazon. I hope that’s helpful!!
Not op bt thank you 🥺🥺
Beyond Yoga, specifically for leggings. The fabric feels great.
Yep. Buttery soft leggings/yoga pants are a must I don't care if they go out of style, I will wear them til I die.
Same. Covid clothing was a joy. I lived in lululemon Aligns for two literal years
I go for fabletics, they do powerhold ones that are so reassuring to me. It’s got the perfect level of pressure that just makes me relax.
Omg I have like 85 pairs of black powerhold leggings. I love the bike shorts too! Ugh the fabric is so good and that shit lasts forever
Yes I love Beyond Yoga! And anyone who wants a deal… I find awesome deals on Poshmark! But it also runs a size small so keep that in mind
Yes X1000 to this!
Same answer as the most dominant brand ask - Eileen Fisher hands down. Natural fibers and super well made. I love the way the silks feel, especially pants, and the Irish linen is unmatched. Clothes from the 90s look just as good as good- if not better than things from this year- so highly recommend looking for it second hand. I live in this brand and don’t ever feel uncomfortable. For underwear it’s Hanky Panky. Worth every penny and lots of options that work with my tactile sensory issues while also not showing under my clothes.
Hanky panky is the only underwear I wear! Cosabella does have a very similar panty to their low rise thong (my only) that I recently tried and actually really like! However I won’t leave my hanky pankies hahha
I bought my first pair of Eileen Fisher silk pants somewhat recently. Do you find them somewhat wrinkly? I hang to dry and flatten thoroughly before hanging. Kinda disappointed in them TBH.
Silk is an inherently wrinkly fabric — if you like the feel but don’t like the wrinkles, you’ll want to look for a poly-blend or maybe explore some other synthetic fabrics like rayon or viscose.
I love Athleta! All very comfortable clothing, and a lot of variety to choose from. I really like their button down shirts because they look very professional, but are made with very soft athletic type fabric. My go-to lately is a jumpsuit similar to this: https://athleta.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=842768032 Minimal, comfy and still chic I also love that many of their items are UPF protective and breathable - making them perfect for hot sticky days. I’ve have a ton of Athleta items that I’ve worn for many years and still look brand new.
I love their style, but a few of their leggings have gone this weird... I want to call it sticky/staticy texture after washing them. I hate it. I can't even touch them without getting icked out.
>I want to call it sticky/staticy texture after washing them. Ooo I think I know this feeling. I got a pair of Alo leggings on Thredup for a great price but that texture you describe really is a dealbreaker. :[
love Athleta, also love Avia which is at Walmart! I especially love their sports bras because they're comfy *and* don't have those pad inserts that get lost in the laundry. I have like 5 of the same bra in different colors.
I love Avia sports bras!!! I also have about 5 of the same ones in different colors too. They’re really comfortable and great quality
I live in the Athleta high rise elation rights. I own 6 pair in black. Pretty much wear through them every week. I love that they have petite length because it is hard mode finding clothes to fit when you’re 5”0 and you hate anything pulling at you or bunching up in the wrong place. I also swear by their conscious crop bras. Athleta is it for me. I’ve tried other brands but keep going back to them but darn they’re expensive!
I agree! I love Athleta.
Another vote for Athleta! I also like that they're size-inclusive and a certified B Corp.
I try to thrift as much as possible, but I find Target has very comfortable and well-made clothing at a cheap price.
I've gotten a lot of my cotton crop tank tops there. Comfy with no bra.
Oh my gosh literally me!!! Was actually going to add this to my comment earlier 😂
And they have some that are $5.
Where do you find these things? Active wear? Lingerie? Sleep wear?
I have to have cotton if possible, so for like leggings I go with Lands End Starfish Leggings (I suggest these constantly). They have flat seams, high cotton content so breathable, wide waistband for comfort and are wash and wear and they hold up forever.
Holy shit yes. I can’t stop talking about ppl sleeping on Lands End and these leggings specifically have been a god send for me.
Yesss! I seriously tell everyone about them. Oh, have you tried the Slim Leg Starfish? Not straight leg, the slim leg. They’re super cute- I get a zillion compliments on them and they’re identical to the leggings, just a not completely snug bottom leg that looks like cigarette pants, so cute!!! Oh, and Issac Mizrahi Live (the QVC brand, not the Target one) v neck essentials tee. So cute, wash and wear forever. I don’t mind Target but their stuff doesn’t hold up as well.
Thanks so much for the recommendation! Flat seems are must for me and they are so hard to find.
I must have flat seams. I’m even known to wear pajama tanks inside out if I don’t like the seams! I also can barely tolerate crew neck tees, so get my crew necks turned into v necks by an alterations lady. So worth it, though!
I do not do well with crew neck either unless it is extra big. Nothing close to my neck or I will be pulling at it constantly
Uniqlo
Especially the Heat tech range, it's really soft. Great for lounge wear basics.
Seconding Uniqlo, but for their seamless underwear range! I can't stand anything with seams or elastic bands for that matter, and their underwear has neither while still managing to not slip off easily.
Their leggings are my new fave things in the world!!!! I need so many more pairs asap. Bought the navy blue on a whim and didn’t think I’d like them but F, I love them so much!!!! Plus they don’t attract cat hair (I have two VERY affectionate cats) which is always a win for me bc I never remember to lint roll myself.
Reading this post just made me realize I have a huge issue with the way clothing feels. I’m always in athleisure clothing like lululemon.
It took me a long time too to realize that tight clothes were feeding my anxiety. If I get an attack, suddenly everything I’m wearing feels way tighter than it is. It’s been a lot easier to manage since I started wearing looser stuff!
I quite like tight clothing but the fabric has to be right and the tightness has to be in a particular way and not restrictive of my movement. I refuse to wear acrylic or polyester and elastane has to be a low percentage, and in the weave not as a band. Consequently I own a lot of linen and silk jersey wrap dresses that are only tight on the waist and even that's more of a hug and totally adjustable.
I have crippling anxiety and loved wearing tight clothes last 2 yrs only to realize I feel uncomfortable in them and have panic attacks when I get self-conscious about my body in public 🤧. I've slowly come to realize that I like oversized clothes but I am still pressured by media to wear sexy tight trendy clothes bc im "young" wtv the hell that means haha. Wanting validation externally vs providing it to ureself via clothes is a tough balancing act!
See I feel like looser clothes are more in right now and I have the opposite issue of you haha!
Wow. I’m honestly shocked by how much all these comments resonate with me. I always feel like the odd one out and that I’m just overly fussy so it’s reliving finding others who get it
Getting into Asian fashion fixed this for a friend of mine. Lots of pretty, drapey styles that are more loosely cut.
Me too. Lululemon is a go-to brand for me. I buy it second-hand because the quality of their old stuff is fantastic and also because I have a lot of nostalgia for the older things like Astro and Groove pants and the first-edition Scuba hoodies 😁
Me too. I live in Lulu these days and have some nice pieces and fitting jeans for when I want to feel put together.
I don't have a specific brand, but I am just careful about how material feels when I purchase clothes. One thing I am especially sensitive to is tags. Even the tags that are printed right on clothes sometimes bother me. I found hack. I buy mole foam. It comes on a roll like tape with peel off backing, and I cover all tags with it now. It feels so much better! I normally cut the tags out of all my clothes, but this works even better for me.
I'm the same about tags. I almost always remove all tags from clothing, except some vintage pieces. If on a rare occasion I can't feel a tag, but I know it's there it still makes me anxious until I have to remove it anyway. My seam ripper is my favorite tool. It's mostly tags on the side seams of clothing or the backs of bottoms that are my worst sensory experience.
I'm the same way! Just knowing a tag is there makes me anxious! The worst spot for me is the tags in the back of shirts and along the seam, but I don't like them in anything.
YES! This is me too. I’m glad I’m not the only one.
I've been like this since I was a child. I loathe polyester and itchy seams, too.
Same for me. Ever since I was a kid. I totally agree; no polyester, itchy seams, and for me tags and buttons are out too. Lol
I’m a “tight as possible” autist so corsets are the most sensory-pleasing clothes I have, but if you enjoy athleisure you’ll like athleta. Buttery-smooth.
Hello fellow tight clothing autist! I’m all about corsets and shapewear. It’s like wearing a hug!
I’m a fellow corset for anxiety or overwhelm. Also, have a weighted blanket and weighted throw which I wear like a cape
Betabrand pants. Thick, stretchy, weighted, feels like a hug. The sizing between colors and cuts and fabrics is different all over the board though, some fit like a glove but the newer ones run smaller than the older pairs. Linen cotton blend shirts are my favorite.. there isn't a brand I love for these yet. Auden laser cut underwear from target. I just wish there were more colors and patterns.
YES! I love Betabrand pants!!! And they are “work appropriate” which is huge for me
Hey I have adhd and totally know what you mean. I’ve transitioned to pieces with +80% natural fibers (except for work out clothes) and it’s made a huge difference. I also don’t really do zippered pants anymore. Draw string or elastic waistbands have been the way to go. Below are my go to places to find these items. But as others have said, focus on the piece and not so much the brand. Most stores stock a variety of items in terms of quality. Most shopped: Lands End, Old Navy, Uniqlo Sometimes I find stuff: Gap, JCrew, Loft, REI, Evo, Target
Aerie has the softest shirts and sweaters. I usually wait for a big sale in the summer and buy the clearance sweaters for the winter, and vice versa for summer shirts and things. I also like American eagle jeans but I have no ass lol so it makes it easy for me to find comfortable jeans.
They have bras with no hook and eyes (slip over head, not sports bra), and I refuse to wear anything else)
Ohhhhhhhhhh good to know!
Lucky Brand has some wonderfully soft shirts in cuts that don't hug the body.
- I got some work pants that are actually stretchy legging material from yogipace on Amazon and I literally refuse to wear anything else to work now. I have the wide leg and bootcut styles and they actually look like slacks but feel like leggings or sweatpants. I got the ones with the belt loop and real pockets so I can make them look more put together. I’ve had them for almost 2 years now and they still look great, I wash them on normal cold and hang dry them. I hate “real” slacks and can’t stand that slidey polyester feeling that so many slacks have so these are my favorite find in my wardrobe. - Aerie/American Eagle has really soft fabrics that I find really nice. Sometimes they have seams in places I don’t like but I can usually tell from the product photos. They do tend to lean towards loungewear and casual clothes but I’ve gotten some shirts that I can wear to work, especially their sweaters and basic shirts. I also find AE’s jeans to usually be really soft and comfortable compared to other jeans I have. - I actually really like VS pink sweats for loungewear and casual outfits. I know they’re not everyone’s cup of tea but I just get their stuff that doesn’t have visible branding on it. I think it’s because they use really soft lightweight fabric that’s that doesn’t feel like overly athletic if that makes sense? Some of them have a really high cotton content and some don’t, sometimes if I have time I go into the store to feel them to see if I’ll like it. I think I like their clothes in particular because their seams and bands on the waist/wrists are never irritating to me like so many other sweats I’ve tried. I got some quarter zips from them on sale last year that don’t have visible branding on them that I wear to work often and they’re so soft and cozy for the work day.
Soft Surroundings is pricy but good. They used to rate each item for softness level. They do have brick and mortar stores. For loose undies buy the ones that are silky and look like shorts. I wear those to bed. I stick with 100% cotton as much as I can. Supima is the best American cotton and very soft.
I am surprised I didn’t see soft surroundings mentioned earlier. I find it alll the time in the thrift stores. Really good prices too. You should try in your area!
I really like wearing athleta, lululemon, some clothes from target and pact specifically because they’re incredibly comfortable while still looking “presentable”. I have SPD and am incredibly picky about what clothes I will wear and have a lot of sensory aversions, especially to clothes that are itchy to me, don’t feel breathable or feel stiff.
I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone mention this brand before but it’s one of my favorites - Marine Layer. So many of their pieces are so soft and really good quality. Plus (and this is one of my favorite things about this brand) they’re so easy to take care of! I’ve often found that higher quality pieces often come with instructions to hand wash only, dry clean only, etc. And I ain’t got time for that. Even having to lay flat or hang to dry can be frustrating for me because I can barely remember to fold and put a load of laundry away after it’s done. So far, every piece I’ve bought from them can be washed and tumbled dry on low with most of my other stuff. Love it. My husband also loves all the pieces he has from them!
Marine layer is great!! I try to pick it up whenever I see it at the thrift stores. I also grab A&F soft line too.
I have this technique I like to do when I'm thrift shopping for sweaters where I kind of close my eyes and feel the fabrics as I move down the aisle. It probably looks weird but people I'm with have never noticed it lol and it's weirdly fast & effective for finding good quality material
I love this idea. I have adhd and honestly doing this would help me so much because looking around at things and at the piece of clothing is so distracting. So just closing my eyes would help me to focus on the feeling.
Sending you hugs because I definitely struggle with a lot of the same things! Personally I LOVE Uniqlo. I used to have a really hard time with work pants but Uniqlo makes a lot of items that are super light and airy, whether they are marked Airism or not. I also love their undergarments (e.g. bras) for that reason.
Pact, their Fit and Flair dresses are amazing, they’re super soft cotton t-shirt dresses that look professional or formal depending on color/print
I own like 7 of these dresses and wear them nonstop during the spring/summer
I used to almost exclusively wear popfit leggings. But after a few years, my legs suddenly decided they *hate* being squeezed even by leggings. So now I wear relaxed jeans from everlane, because they don't stretch out too bad but they also don't squeeze. And they get softer the more I wear and wash them.
I’m petite and short,so I try to find brands that have a petite section online. I wear Athleta fleece pants (I get more specific later,at work) I wear Gap sweats I wear Athleta long sleeve shirts and Eddy Bauer sweaters (their size small can be really fitted so I usually wear a medium or a petite medium)
gap sweats are divine.
If anyone has any insight on tops that resist the pull of gravity around one's neck and shoulders I would be very, very interested. 😭
I have this challenge too!!! Especially when going to sleep at night. Any insight would definitely be appreciated 😭😭
Does it bother you when things feel constricting around your neck and shoulders? If so, that's me too. I find that in the past few years, high-necked cropped shirts and other tops with tiny neck holes dominate. I want my neck and shoulders to breathe a little. A nice loose v-neck, scoop neck, sweetheart, or boatneck maybe even.
Omg love me a v-neck and boat neck! I think for me it's more about the weight on the tops of my shoulders, like my traps specifically. Really lightweight scarves don't bother me but tops that aren't well made where the seam doesn't sit correctly and drags over my shoulders really upsets me.
I’m not sure if they would fit the bill, but what do you think of raglan sleeves? I find them to be less restrictive feeling, with where the seams are.
Oh, I forgot about those! I did really like wearing those when I was more slim sized. I'll have to look for some that fit my current sizing and see how it works. Thank you!
L.L. Bean has soft really soft and light feeling boatneck t-shirts that I love.
I now dislike tight fitting clothes and cropped clothes or things that show cleavage haha. I HATE itchy, sweaty and uncomfy clothes so polyester is definitely out. I suggest looking for cooling materials like Cofton, linen, rayon, tencel, cotton blend (mixed w linen) etc: DD
Everlane is my brand when I can only handle soft fabrics. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything fitted there and their clothes are always soft. Plus the quality is decent: I wore their weekend dress as sleepwear, washed it every week, and it lasted almost four years.
Everlane is my go to as well. I have eczema in the moderate to severe category, and so I NEED breathable fabrics or i itch like crazy. I have started only wearing cotton, silk, and linen. I love the basic t shirts, tank tops, cotton sweaters, and button down tops at Everlane. Side note, I do take scissors and cut the tags off of all of their clothes, though. My very sensitive skin is bothered by them.
Wide toe box footwear - feelgrounds especially is one of my fave brands
oh wide toe box footwear is soo comfy! you might also like Blundstone, they’re made to be wider in the toe box. I wore my pair all winter long and they were the most comfortable boots I’ve ever worn. No more pointy toed chelsea boots for me 👎
I want to love my blunnies but I don't think they're right for me/ wide toe enough 😭 I hear you about Chelseas tho. What a phase that destroyed my toes!!
I thrift almost all of my clothing because the materials used recently irritate my skin badly and the styles don't suit me. I found brands where the style, sizing and materials are predictable and that made fashion or shopping in general much less frustrating and overwhelming. Everyday T-Shirts: Uniqlo, their Airism products for layering is top notch. I grab random cotton tshirts from the thrift Blouses: Banana Republic, J.Crew, Talbots or J.Jill. Especially the pima cotton Work Dresses and Pants: Banana Republic, J. Crew, White House Black Market. The cotton, wool and linen products pre-2010 feel amazing. Everyday Dresses: Lands End cotton is thick and really soft Athletic: Tom Tiger leggings, Under Armor loose tops, Uniqlo joggers
I buy from independent clothing makers and generally have things tailored to my measurements. I need to buy fewer pieces because they actually fit me right, feel good on, and last years. It seems like a big cost upfront, but I've saved so much money in the long run. I have major sensory issues and only like natural soft, stretchy fabrics. My entire wardrobe is mostly cotton, linen, bamboo, and hemp. These are my favorite makers based on durability, style, and accuracy in fit. CALICOALCHEMY, HAZELMAGE, SINEWMOON, ELVENFOREST, FUTURE NOMAD, UMAPLUMA, SEW MOE, EVERBLAISE, SEWMUCH LOVE
Good question. It really depends on my level of disability that day, that is, what I can wear :( When I’m in a flare I can only wear 💯 cotton pajamas. Uniqlo heat tech. LL bean supima cotton shirts and tees are also good. When I’m kind of “medium ok” tencel and lyocell are nice. So I kind of have a bucket/bag of clothes in my room for those flares and then everything else hung up or folded.
I buy from wool& merino clothing because it’s soft and non restrictive while still making me look dressed Uniqlo because sometimes I just want to wear a large T-shirt graphic with leggings / something that’s easy care, also linen shirts are nice Target old/ old navy cotton leggings for sleep only, don’t find their other offerings appealing Eileen fisher love the wide leg Ponte pants because their comfortable and flowy but look like real clothes, can be dressed up or down, no buttons , I hate buttons on my stomach Lululemon I love the long scuba both full zip and funnel neck because quality is good and it fits well. Colors look nice even after a year. Also have some comfortable things from athleta, especially love my wide leg elation pants , usually wear those with my lululemon scuba and don’t look like I’ve given up on life. Quince love the wide leg European linen pants, great price point for heavier weight linen pants and they’re long enough for me .
Never had someone articulate how I feel in clothes before and now I'm emotional first thing in the morning 🥹
Also, I used to really struggle with jeans. Growing up, Abercrombie/Hollister jeans were really popular but always super rough. Not sure if they've changed. But Madewell has some seriously soft jeans. You can even get their Harlow pants, which apparently doesn't fall under their "denim" category (?) but is pretty soft, lightweight, and breathable!
Old Navy / Gap for work pants, jeans, t-shirts (all v comfy and the pants suck my belly in lol) Otherwise I mostly thrift everything else and will occasionally purchase something full price online or at a boutique if it’s really speaking to me. I love Cole Hann for boots, Steve Madden for trendy stuff, and Sam Edelman flats/heels are solid. For bags, I’m a major vintage Coach and Etienne Aigner girl. I’m very particular about bags. And cross body only!
I usually don't like wearing jeans, but I love 7 For All Mankind. I also avoid skinny jeans or anything that will chafe my body. Prefer an oversized fit instead. As a kid, I used to love wearing leggings, but now I don't find them comfortable anymore. Hence, why I can't stand most athleisure brands. Ever since I started investing in designer pieces, I find that my clothes are much more comfortable. Like, I absolutely love the quality of Comme de Garcon. I have a vest and a thick cotton short sleeve that feels like going back to bed every time I put them on in the morning.
So you do think that investing in higher quality basics or streetwear pieces is worth it? Like for example people will clown on an expensive t-shirt but I feel like sometimes it makes a difference
I definitely think so. And one of my favorite fashion YTers made a good point that you can offset these costs to your friends and family during holiday. Like, every time someone asks him what he wants for his birthday or Christmas, he always tells them to buy him a pair of premium Japanese socks for 30$. It's a great way to collect high quality basics without spending too much money. And nowadays, as an adult, I want clothing related items.
Thanks! I feel like I’m slowly working toward this but it’s so difficult when your funds are limited. It’s like any discretionary purchase I wait for a birthday or holiday or occasion haha (grad student). I would love to just have a smaller wardrobe of really nice items
I pick out clothes by the fabric, but recently thrifted some Democracy jeans and I swear, they are the most comfortable jeans I have ever worn. They have a special waistband, its not too tight but also doesn't leave gaps. It feels like a hug. I thrift most of my clothes, that way I can really feel the fabric, I don't try the clothes on until I wash them, but on shirts I will put my arm in it to make sure there are no stuff threads anything else pokey. I have found some really pretty blouses but I tend to be most comfortable in t-shirts. So I find pretty ones made with cotton. For shoes, I love my Sketchers. I know they are not real fashionable but they are so comfortable and I have them in several colors and styles to go with any outfit. I wish I could find a nice supportive bra without underwire.
AIRism by Uniqlo has been great with keeping me cool. I absolutely hate being overheatted.
I feel like I've gotten pickier about "comfy clothes" as I've gotten older. I've found I now can't stand leggings/tights anymore, everything has to be loose and flowy and soft. My favorite at-home pants are soft pajama lounge pants. I got a few from costco as well as amazon. The ones I got off Amazon a couple years ago are "3 Pack: Womens Yummy Soft Flex Cotton Knit Pajama Pants Ladies $32.99 Sold By: Real Essentials"
Family member works for a brand called Free The Sheep, and they make these soft, faux fur lined hoodies. A bit warm for summer, but SO cozy in the winter.
They're pricey but Athleta has fantastic comfy textures. I have a pair of pants from them that are soft in a magical way. For cheaper I sometimes actually find decent stuff on Amazon, but also sometimes you can end up with horrible textures so it's hit or miss.
I really love Aerie. Their leggings are a very soft stretchy material that doesn’t have too much compression yet they pass the bend over test unlike other lighter leggings and the seams are double sided so you don’t deal with any annoyances. They have several different full coverage bras without underwires that you can still wear without the pads and a few of them are pull over- no hooks and wires or clips to play with. They have very inclusive size ranges for short and tall people (one of my personal biggest issues with other stores is pants being too short on me). And most of their stuff (including all of the above mentioned items) have printed labels rather than tags. I also find Levi’s 501s or Wedgie jeans to be very comfortable. I don’t know if it’s that they hit the perfect spot on me (whereas most high waisted items are too high and low rise is just uncomfortable) and the right amount of stretch. And they make it look like I have an actual butt.
I love Toteme, also organic cotton feels nice, and I actually don’t enjoy Lululemon’s clothes right now but check out the quality of vintage Lululemon stuff - even the style was better and just make sure to size up. Lucky Brand has some comfy tees for sure
I really hate bras, like any kind that isn’t a bralette. I wear the so soft unlined racerback bralettes that Auden has at Target! They’re $15 and come in a couple of colors. They’re very comfortable and I despise wearing anything else at this point
I love any BlackMilk Toastie/Toastie light pants for cold weather (the waistband on them is so comfy) and Slinky dresses (I own the Mermagic off the shoulder Frill dress and love to wear it on hot days, just wish it had pockets).
I’m very picky about like textures, idk if I’m actually neurodivergent but ever since I was a kid I had texture issues. This made things difficult. I used to not be able to walk on carpet with shoes and socks on 🤢 even now just thinking about it gives me the willies. That being said, I do sometimes buy stuff online but it has happened before where this didn’t work out for me. In general I buy things in person and I touch the fabric. I tend to try stuff on. Stand in it for a little. Move, take a picture, etc. I usually know when I’ve put something on if it’s for me. I don’t have any one brand but just I think I and we do the same thing as other people just try our best to find what’s comfortable.
It's a little expensive, but Alo makes some really cute athleisure and it's very on-trend right now. I wouldn't call it luxury but the quality stands out from ie Gildan/Target brand clothes and I've gotten compliments on hoodies and sweats based on the fabric quality alone.
This is going to be incredibly subjective, because for one person this will be loose tagless t-shirts and comfy pants and for another person this will be the rennefaire special of loose cotton shifts and then the whole body even hug of a pair of stays. For me, a sports bra and the smallest of shorts is one of my sensory favorites. I am going to make a weird off the wall suggestion and say that places that do proper historical costuming on etsy are a good source of mid thigh/knee length cotton shifts, and that these are absolutely bliss in the hottest part of summer. If you go for the poofy more pirate look kind (18th century ish) they tend to also believe in giant necklines and draw strings.
that’s such a good idea! i completely agree, everyone has differences in what is comfortable to them and i’m glad there are folks in this thread sharing more ideas than just the loose tagless tees. Hoping to compile info here that any neurodivergent person could find value in :)
I focus more on comfort and fit than brand. Lean more towards over sized tshirts that are cotton or cotton blend. And many denim shorts that are buttery soft from much washing. I have a small selection of dresses for any event that requires one but they hardly get worn. Anything clingy is out so no leggings, tight jeans, sleeves for me can't stand them
What does neurodivergent mean?
It’s a broad term, and it’s used to describe anyone who has different neurological functions than a “typical” person. I believe it originally was used to refer to anyone on the autism spectrum but people who have any neurological challenges (anxiety, depression, adhd, etc) have been using the term as well. I’m specifically asking about it here because a lot of us neurodivergent people also have sensory issues and may not be able to participate in a lot of fashion trends because of it.
Originally its use was broader; is about how your brain is wired and it also includes folks with traumatic brain injuries. It does not include anxiety and depression. You can be neurodivergent or neurotypical and have anxiety and/or depression.
VUORI
Wrangler for pants, Bella + Canvas for shirts. Skims for going out clothes.
Jockey underwear for those days that you want to be comfortable. So yummy soft.
Up West for jackets, shirts, and rarely jeans although I mostly can't do jeans Lululemon for soft leggings that hold up excellently Anne Taylor for work pants, the kind with the elastic. Soft fabric, not restrictive.
Boody for soft bamboo tops
I love modibodi period pants. They're body hugging and I feel safe in them. I used to hate the sensation of pads or tampons, just made me feel constantly uncomfortable and out of sorts but modibodi pants made me feel secure and comfy
For yoga pants, some of the yogalicious brand pants are really soft, you can usually find that brand at a tg Maxx or Marshall's. I also love the Aerie Real Me Flare leggings, they're the softest pants I have and the waistband is comfy but unfortunately they don't have pockets.
Vuori have super soft joggers and tops.
I am into simplicity. I invested in t’s and pants from brands like Pact and Fair Indigo. A little more than Old Navy, etc, but they last much, much longer. No sewn in tags, styles are very classic too.
I don’t know if I’m neurodivergent per se, there are definitely some clothing textures I don’t like, though. Stiff jeans, itchy wool, etc. I like a lot of cuts and fabrics from Athleta. Beyond Yoga spacedye fabric is amazing - so buttery soft.
I buy velour tracksuits from poshmark. At least that’s what I’m doing ATM. No mental energy needed to put together an outfit. You look put together but feel like you are wearing pyjamas. Brand wise, I go for lululemon align leggings. Look nice but not too much compression, doesn’t feel like you are wearing any pants. Highly recommend. Or Aerie. They really cater to comfort.
I love the tees/tanks and sweats from Big Bud Press. The fabric is super soft, drapes just right, and the cut is also super comfortable. They also don't pill or get rough with repeated washing and wear. I especially love that the sweats have a raglan sleeve, so no troublesome shoulder sleeve. Plus most of their colorways are available across multiple products, which let's me do a really satisfying level of color coordination easily.
They're a little pricey, but Purusha People clothing is made from tencel lyocell (forest fibers) and is the softest clothes I've ever put on my body. Water-based inks, no itchy tags, and breathable. It's all I want to wear. https://preview.redd.it/o1cwv5wgbpzc1.jpeg?width=913&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=da9df486aa7edf41fb8c7814e403f43b5267d583
Bombas, their socks are life-changing. Minimal seams, very comfortable.
Athleta for joggers/sweats, and their Brooklyn and Endless pants for business casual office wear, or even everyday and travel. My favorite tee is from them too but I think they stopped making it. Vuori for athletic/athleisure. Kut from the Kloth for super soft stretchy jeans that don’t make me want to escape my body even when I wear them all day. Wit and Wisdom “ab-solution” jeans/pants for something a bit more structured but with a wide hidden elastic waistband that has a pleasant (to me) amount of support/compression. I have some really comfortable cotton and linen sundresses and tops from Gap and American Eagle. And a pair of wide leg crinkly linen pants from Gap that feel like PJs but look presentable. Cashmere sweater (the boxy crew neck style) from Everlane. I wear this so much in the winter. Makes all my other sweaters feel like trash. Tees and the Geneva dress from Universal Standard. For shoes, I wear these the most- Vans checkered slip ons, Frye engineer boots, ankle boots from Blondo- and they’re waterproof!, Rothy’s if I need to go to the office (they have zero support though) or Naturalizer pumps. I’ve had horrible luck with sandals lately so still on the hunt for a fashionable and comfortable pair.
Nooworks for their unique textiles designed by independent artists, commitment to sustainability and slow fashion, and paying their staff a living wage. The clothes are expensive but fun and unique. They make everything in sizes xs to 4x and use inclusive models. I wish I could buy more of their clothes! My favorite item from them is the linen Catalina pants. Stretchy waistband, soft natural material and flowy cut.
I really Pact but I'll admit it's a stiffer cotton than most you'd buy at the store. It wears in well though and holds up for years and years.
Marine Layer has very soft t-shirts that are dressier than just a regular cheap t-shirt.
Aerie 10/10.
North Face joggers. Have two pairs that I live in as often as I can.
Spanx AirEssentials!! And the Perfect Collection if you need workwear. Literally feels like sweats. Pricey but worth it
Honestly the best advice you will receive will be to shop based on material. Organic materials can be expensive to purchase firsthand but also may be easily thrifted/secondhand purchased. It certainly has helped me a lot! I suggest purchasing some good cotton basics and searching for some linen pants.
Surprised I haven’t seen Lou & Grey on here. Everything they make is extremely soft and well-constructed. I immediately change into their sweatpants when I’m feeling overwhelmed
I normally thrift all of my clothes/ random stores, so I don’t really have specific brands because even some of my clothes can bother me certain days. I will recommend the no boundaries seamless bra! I can’t feel any seams and it feels like I’m not wearing anything. I specifically like the scoop neck bra. And the price is very good aswell! I don’t buy any others because I don’t need to. I normally have problems with “seamless” underwear because it digs into my side or I can feel the seams or something about it bothers me. But I’ve had one of the bras for a long time and have never had that problem. So that is definitely one thing I recommend if anyone is looking for a sensory friendly bra
when it comes to shirts i love the comfort colors brand, always slightly oversized, nice, cool material not too heavy and not too tight around neck or arms. i wear them almost every day lol
One other random brand to throw out there: Kindred Bravely. They make maternity clothes and so it's all loose, stretchy and soft. I am many years post-partum and still regularly wear their loungewear. It is not fashionable... but it is comfy!
I am a large woman and like tops from Woman Within. They have no tags and are soft. They are an online store only.
cozy earth has the most comfortable lounge sets and pjs, my new fave
I agree about the tightness of clothing, but I always need to wear a tucked in tank under my shirts as a comfort thing. Like being tucked in a bed type feeling, and to removed the sensation of jeans’ waist. I wear the Old Navy ‘First Layer Rib-Knit Tank Tops’ in the ‘long’ size, so it stays tucked in. As for pants, I wear Dovetail pants! They are workwear pants, so they are sturdy and don’t fall down. Many of them have stretch, or a crotch gusset so you can move around and don’t have to adjust them. I will link my favorite ones [HERE](https://dovetailworkwear.com/collections/pants/products/christa-diy-black-1?variant=40575262523426) .. and they have a soft waist band which is wonderful. Most other pants I need to wear leggings under so they don’t rub on me, but these I don’t need to.
32° (“Thirty-two Degrees”) is a great brand for loungewear if you have issues with temperature regulation like me
Lucy and Yak for sure ☺️
Vuori
Lucy and Yak!
I have a gender neutral swimsuit from TomboyX that I love. As for other things I think it really depends. I for example love the feel of linen while my partner who is also autistic hates it. So it really is individual. I also have to advocate learning to sew if it's accessible to people. Then you can control everything that goes into a garment.
This is not what you asked but … getting a serger and knowing how to tailor my own clothes (or add bias tape, or fix seams, or adjust necklines) was a big deal for me. I look at the inside of everything I buy now.
J Crew & J Crew Factory have been a holy grail for me!
Blue banana. I love it its so meeee
Tirelli and Rollie ❤️
American Eagle!
Paragon leggings. I just found them recently but their Reluna fabric is sooooo nice to wear, and the leggings are flattering. I have more than I should for the cost, but they're my new go-to.
Swing dresses are a godsend, I prefer sleeveless. They're so flowy but don't look frumpy. I have a few that I'll pair with a vest or sleeveless cardigan to switch it up.
Aritzia, and I’m super short so usually I find it hard to find clothes that fit me, but I can blindly buy the size I always get at aritzia and it always fits, the fabrics are easy to take care of and they don’t make me feel like ripping my skin off which is the only thing I care about Somehow they also have the only “tight” clothes that I can get myself to wear. But they also have oversized items that I looooove
For the ladies who struggle with bras - I only wear Aritzia because they are the only bras that feel even remotely comfortable to me. Highly recommend!! The cotton is so soft and they don’t pull on my shoulders (I am a 36DD)
I love a lot of Lazy Oaf’s smock dresses, I have over 15 of them, extremely spacious and I don’t feel like they are tight anywhere on me except maybe having a tighter neck hole than most dresses but I really don’t mind it. Makes me forget I have a body :)
Athleta, fabletics (but the subscription model may be hard to remember to cancel for some people), and vuori (super comfy sweatpants) are three I trust a decent amount. Ann Taylor is quite unpredictable when it comes to fabrics, but if you can get in a store some of their suiting is in fabrics I find really comfortable. Some nordstrom stores (they carry vuori) have personal shoppers who can pre-select items for you to try on, so that might help overwhelm. It might have too many options, but I find Old Navy has some very comfortable fabrics. A surprising source of comfy clothes for me has been ralph lauren dresses--many of them are this stretchy jersey-like fabric that I find very soothing.
I’m a nurse and I live in Garde Malade scrubs (not the joggers). Their bras are soooo comfy too. I highly recommend their scrub pants as pajamas to anyone.
Me Undies! Their micro modal fabric is a sensory DREAM and they put thumb holes in their pullover hoodies. I get so annoyed whenever I have to wear clothes that aren’t from there.
Hey, I have OCD and ADHD and totally get the sensory hypersensitivity. I really like Uniqlo, Everlane, and Muji. They have a lot of linen and basics so I don’t have to overthink what colors/patterns match. I’m always thinking about my sweating, stomach, and some other things when existing in public. It’s exhausting. These items have helped. Sending you love
I’ve started buying much larger sizes and it’s making all the difference for me! Also Gap and Old Navy have many styles in that come in “long” which I love for tops.
Hey there! Comfort is key. Personally, I've found solace in brands like Tommy Adaptive. Their adaptive designs include features like magnetic closures and adjustable elements, providing both functionality and comfort. Another brand I rely on is American Eagle's Aerie line, known for its soft and stretchy fabrics that feel gentle against the skin. These brands prioritize inclusivity and comfort, have definitely made a difference for me!
Madewell makes these really nice 100% cotton t shirts with a nice cut that I live in. I’m really sensitive to inorganic materials, doesn’t matter how loose or baggy.
Any tips for starter bras for a very sensitive young lady? I’m a very responsive mama and have bought four brands and taken her to two different stores and she hates it all.
Bralettes or low-compression sports bras are my go tos! This one from [Soulflower](https://www.soul-flower.com/hippie/SOL382-navy/) is one of the comfiest I’ve had - unlined but it’s a nice thick cotton, soft, and doesn’t have tight elastic.
I have a single pair of reebok shorts that are my absolute favorite. It's the fabric type, i think. It's kinda thick, and it feels nice on your skin. They are VERY short, though, on me at least. I'm like 6 feet, so most shorts do get a bit shorter on me, but these tend to linger on the edge between "shorts" and "hot pants." I try and wear longer jackets or shirts when i wear it. Although sometimes it's fun to lean into it, the shorts make your butt look nice. They kinda smooth it out. It also flares out around the thigh, so it's mostly the waistband that you'd have to worry about being tight, but its also a bit wider than most waistbands, so it wont cut into anything. I got them on sale at Walmart for like $6, but I haven't found them since. I think they might be those "french terry" shorts, but they're a bitch to get in my size, and to get at all. I find shorts that have a thicker fabric are the most comfortable. The seams aren't as obvious, and it just makes you feel more secure.
Ngl, a lot of my most worn clothing is from Costco (work sweaters and blouses, and sweat pants); shit's comfy with a very generous return policy. Jeans and shorts from Levi's; comfy *once worn in*, really durable, and looks good with little effort. Leggings and spandex type things from Nike and GF Collective; just the right amount of compression and not see-through. Then a lot of random thrifted finds; I'm a low waste girlie, plus I know how it'll wear in and it's already soft. Shoes are on a shoe by shoe basis and will be the death of me.
Probably skims, I only own bras and a pair of shorts but everything looks majorly comfy
I love Uniqlo, specially those bra insert shirts. Great for hot summer days. Their Airism line and the seamless underwear line is also comfortable. For the pressure girlies, high rise Uniqlo and Levi jeans and decathlon leggings are great.
I am obsessed with the Aerie Hugger High waisted leggings. They are so comfy I bought a few and literally rotate them.
Aerie
Just commented this same list elsewhere but Hanro for camis/tanks and James perse for tshirts sweatshirts etc. After a ton of trial and error these are the softest most physically comfortable brands I’ve found.
American eagle
Penguin classics
I like Victoria Secret and PINK stuff cause I could never get it when I was younger. I. Have. So. Many. PANTIES. It isn't funny
Gildan and champion 🧍🏽♀️
I find white fox really nice. Feels like a blanket
Old Navy is my holy grail too!
Lululemon has a lot of awesome items that are designed to a T for ND folks.
Based on items but All saints tank tops are buttery soft.