Autism and clothing (summer edition)

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[@criticalmaz1609]

I solved my very niche wardrobe preferences and hatred of fast fashion in the most autistic way possible: by buying a sewing machine, learning everything I can about clothing and textiles in the past several hundred years, and doing it all myself.

[@LadyCatherineDeBurgh]

Ha ha ha same!

[@ankaretharmer3362]

I used to do that too! But I'm 75 now & have enuf clothes to last the rest of my life.

[@EmilyFPC]

😁 I'm about to sew some 'bralettes' for my medium sized bust out of 100% organic cotton! Everything I try is either too small, made of low quality material, or too expensive to even mess with having it shipped to the house to try out (& prob be unsatisfied with & send back...) I found some very simple old-school Bra patterns that look perfect! Do you have a laundry list of sewing projects you never get around to?? I sure do!

[@sturmykins]

Yup! Being able to make things that EXACTLY fit my body and style by making them myself has been a game changer!

[@Estarya]

Heck yeah that's really niche and cool. On the plus side you get to make very personal outfits even if they are simple black and white or muted, they're your's.

[@andeverytimewekiss]

Some clothing stuff just makes me want to unzip my skin like a onesie. But I will not make the mistake of voicing that to nuerotypicals again, those are always *fun* conversations

[@towah9474]

Partner is neyrotypical and didn't understand why I... do anything the way I do honestly. I put a stone in his sock and told him, he had to wear that if he tried to make me wear synthetic clothes on a sensible day ever again. He actually understood and helps me searching ever since

[@MammaApa]

I dunno. Freaking out neurotypicals is fun. I can't help myself doing it on purpose sometimes.

[@SpectrumScribe]

LOL

[@silentlyjudgingyou]

Neurotypicals are weird it's like they hate comfort or something

[@topowwow]

Exactly! It's also funny telling them that my (rarely applied) nail polish is suffocating my nails and they can't breathe. That is a very funny conversation 😃

[@SeiichirouUta]

I was at a shop today with my mum. I touched a pair of trousers, because I liked the pattern. Then I did a little arm flap dance of disgust and my mum laughed and said: "Viscose, hm?" We looked at the label. She was right. :)

[@sophieowen7972]

I have that will anything of a crepe/silk variety, and it’s the worst feeling ever walking up to something because you love the look, only to be met with that material-sensory nightmare!

[@silentlyjudgingyou]

@@sophieowen7972 Silk is the worst.

[@ravneskrik4282]

I can also tell by the touch what fabric it is - but I did make an apprenticeship as dressmaker where you learn about fabrics.. only polyester/polyamid is sometimes difficult to tell, although there is a difference (I can tolerate some polyamids in tights - nylon is still the best - but I absolutely hate polyester). it also depends on the chemical/mechanical treatment the material is refined with and it's weave and texture if I get sensory issues from a fabric. btw: ever had to steam iron a bale of silk fabric..? it doesn't only feel disgusting, it's also very very ugly smelling! >.

[@raven4090]

Faux swede does it to me. It takes about 10 minutes for my nerves to calm down after just touching it.

[@andreaming]

Viscose is tree pulp, a natural material and quite lovely at times!

[@froufroudeluxe]

I only wear “real clothes” when I have to go outside and jump straight into my home clothes as soon as I’m home. I wish I could wear a baggy shirt and sweat shorts everywhere

[@mariagordanier3404]

Move to any suburb in California. Everyone in shorts all day, every day.

[@eschient]

I'm apparently one of the few on Team Bra, too. The bands and clasps suck most of the time, but I can find tolerable ones. For me the feeling of my underboob touching my chest or sideboob brushing my arms is just a big nope. Plus I live in the US South and sweaty boobs {aka "humidititties"} are a waking nightmare. 🥵😭

[@roadrunnercrazy]

I'm with you on this. Could never understand why people were so eager to ditch their bras. Of course, I am very particular about what bra I will wear (no lace, must have soft fabric and fit well without shifting), but I hate the sensation of not having one. Come to think of it, I am also on team compression clothing. I lke sleaves and jeans to fit very snug but have stretch. I don't mind some skirts but really hate the feeling of bunching fabric beween my arms and my body or between my legs.

[@annawhitneysparks3112]

I'm also team bra. I cannot stand when my boots stick to my ribs because they are sweaty. It's an absolute nope from me. I need to feel contained, but not restricted

[@EmilyFPC]

🤣😂🤣😂 Humidittities!!!🤣🤣🤣 Girl, I feel ya! I live in Arkansas & that River Valley is like walking into a sauna! 80-90% humidity on top of 90-100°F is common this time of year.. I'm team bra for the same reason. Absolutely going to use this one! I'm always cracking people up by saying in the winter: "It's a titty bit nipply in here."

[@sturmykins]

Yes yes yes. Underboob on chest and the sweat is intollerable!

[@lindaware3082]

Humidititties 🤣🤣😂😂

[@thecannabiscrone4571]

I've often described my MAJOR fabric-sensory issues as the Princess and the Pea Syndrome...because it effects every single aspect of my life, including sleep. (Or lack thereof.) The wearing of fabrics is always one of three things for me: Skin screamingly scratchy, comfortable enough to deal with on a very limited basis, or stim quality comfortable, which then presents the obstacle of trying not to use the fabric as one of my stims, since that will just end up making me look like a weirdo who likes to fondle her own clothing.

[@lucycannon6732]

@ The Cannabis Crone " Princess and the Pea Syndrome" I used this exact analogy when I was explaining my sensory issues to my mom.

[@resourceress7]

My parents literally called me Princess and the Pea when I was little and having sensory annoyance.

[@ane3sha]

i use the exact same, but with more curse words 😂

[@EmilyFPC]

Yes, I'm a P&tP, too! Speaking of sleep, I CANNOT SLEEP IN POLYESTER SHEETS! Or blends or anything but cotton excluding jersey knit which I hate because it makes those horrible little balls on them. Its definitely the moisture being trapped in. I can handle polyester clothing in the coldest part of winter, but no way spring to fall!

[@elen5871]

when I realized I was autistic, it made the whole "wearing sweatpants every single day of fifth grade until someone pointed it out and then never wearing them again" thing make sense! now I'm physically disabled as well, and I wear sweatpants every day again lol. ppl can say whatever they want they're already judging me just for the dang chair! 😆

[@coal.sparks]

It was a lacy white overshirt and grade six for me. I'd completely forgotten that until now.

[@andeverytimewekiss]

It was a pink Colorado sweatshirt every day of 6th grade and a green state park sweatshirt every day of 7th grade. When I say everyday I mean everyday. I once cried in my first period class because I was worried about social plans after school and the breaking point was realizing I forgot the sweatshirt

[@elen5871]

@@andeverytimewekiss omg I am like that now with a black sweatshirt with a silhouette of a pissed off goose on it 😆 won't leave the house without it if the temperature is below 50

[@TheSpeep]

Sweatpants, loose or not, just feel too light for me, I need some weight personally (also pocket space) So I'm a devout member of the cult of the cargo shorts.

[@wiegraf9009]

I HATED denim as a kid and always wanted to wear sweatpants too!

[@sallycarrera6319]

Whenever I find a piece of clothing I really like I have now learned to buy several, if available in different colours so much the better but same colour will do. Love your videos Sam 💞

[@CoreenMontagna]

This! Yes. My favorite bottoms are wide legged yoga pants from NY&Company, and my favorite things always seem to be discontinued, so I have about 15 brand new ones waiting in the closet for when I wear these out lol.

[@LaurArt_UK]

Same! I'm so fussy about clothes I have to grab them while I can when I find something good. Currently (in the UK at least) there are crop tops everywhere, which is a sensory nightmare for me, so finding anything is a mission 😂

[@AmbieJoi]

Same 🤣 I wear pretty much the same thing every day just in different colors!

[@sallycarrera6319]

😂 I had to laugh the other day when I pegged out on the washing line 5 different coloured GAP zip up hoodies and 2 different coloured GAP pullover hoodies. I might as well have put a sign out saying 'move along, nothing to see here, just an autistic woman doing her washing'. I also had one more in the wardrobe that didn't need washing! 🤣

[@evandrofisico3094]

So much this! I literally have a dozen of the same tshirt because it was the first time I found something that didn't feel weird around my stomach, but as I also dislike colors, they are all black or white.

[@lucycannon6732]

Hahaa!! My whole life, I've had holes in the back of all my shirt necks from ripping out the tags! I was really grateful when they started the printed type instead of the flappy nylon type. I really thought it was just me for years!

[@joylewis546]

I love printed tags!! I have all the info I need so I can buy again and I'm not taking the scissors out two seconds after my outfit is delivered. Such a win!

[@FaiaHalo]

Yes, same!!! I would ruin them so much because I couldn't stand them that I cut them as soon as they arrived, and my mom would reprimand me so badly for it.

[@leahtheanimationfan40]

I've always cut off the tags too. I really like the information printed so I still have the size and washing instructions but no sensory hell

[@marcellkovacs5452]

Decathlon now puts the label on a little extension piece that is made from the same fabric as the shirt (kinda like an umbilical cord). You simply cut the extension piece off and what remains is just normal fabric. I had no idea tags bothered other people as much as they bothered me, now I basically only shop at Decathlon.

[@tabithag6523]

Last year I had such bad anxiety about wearing out my favorite shirts (one of which I have hand since 2010). That I scoured the internet for replacements, found them and bought them. Zero regrets.

[@sylviabarnes5928]

Well done! 😁

[@potatolover5436]

I've always worn the same clothes until they start to fall apart. I've always done it, since I was a child. Not sure if this is an ASD thing or not

[@caseyriley1014]

Yeah once I figure out a "good" shirt or pants or somethings else which feels good... I wear it until it's in ruins

[@potatolover5436]

@@caseyriley1014 yes same. I hate having to buy new ones too. It makes me anxious and takes ages to get used to it, if I even do

[@caseyriley1014]

@@potatolover5436 exactly, I have multiple shirts that seemed fine at first, but which I haven't really worn since I bought them for one irritation or another... And in general I find it easier to just buy packs of something that I know will work, and then use it until it's ruined. There is a company though, where their female shirts actually fit perfectly... And all the designs are still masculine enough to my liking... It doesn't look like a girls shirt, which does matter to me... And I think I'll order a few hundred from the manufacturer, and never deal the problem again.

[@ricardop.maganha5408]

Haha, I do the same, I just think there is no logic stop to wear it because it's still okay. Besides, as Sam said, I'm that kind of person that don't care too much about what the people will think. 😊

[@sunowl5301]

Same, I literally wear the same thing every day and do laundry too often. Until the season changes drastically. Then find something new and do it all over again. I do the same with jewellery, I can’t just switch it up every day.

[@helms01ya]

Think I just fell out on the floor laughing when you talked about tiny pockets and women’s clothing and said what are there to hold- your mouse, your pen or your mouse‘s pen😂😂😂❤️❤️

[@JeremyHalterman]

I live in Florida and hate the feeling of even the slightest bit of perspiration underneath my clothing. To me, clothes are for warmth or protection, and I resent having to wear them when neither of those things is required lol I know this solution isn't for everyone, but naturism has been a revelation for me. Turns out I always hated outdoor activities and swimming specifically because of those sensations of damp clothing, and for the first time in my life I actually understand why people like going outside lol. Even better, it's also taught me radical acceptance of others and of myself. Again, this won't be a solution for all-or perhaps even most-but it did wonders for me even beyond the sensory aspects mentioned in this video.

[@kateaday]

I've only enjoyed swimming twice in my life, and both times were skinny dipping - maybe it was the swimsuit I hated!

[@EmilyFPC]

Lol, I had to look up Naturism, never heard of it!

[@JeremyHalterman]

@@EmilyFPC Oops, don’t forget to clear your browser history! 🤣

[@andreanatsuminadeau5608]

Fellow nudist here; never had the chance to go to a naturist event (crossing my finger for this summer) but as you I do find it ludacrous to wear clothes for anything else than warm us on winter and protection. I'm a vivid defendant of Top freedom; it's legal in Canada but not everyone got the memos...but I did...and in a typically autistic fashion I've memorized the name and date of the Ontario appeal court that make it legal since 1996 just in case some would annoy me.

[@crazyrainbowninja7097]

I hate swimming and the wet clothes too

[@spiritedtwilight4100]

Some stores also spray perfume everywhere or use candles, and it’s literal hell.

[@trevorrenfro9858]

I dealt with maybe one or two stores that did the perfume, and it stings my legs. On the other hand, I dealt with probably a dozen or more with the candles going on, and they tend to be harsh on the nose with so much. I think they might not expect men to go down those sections, or into those stores, depending, but it's definitely nothing like beauty products or clothing, rather just a section of a grocery store near the flowers or a gift store for things like greeting cards and scents (then having those strong-smelling things around definitely doesn't help when trying to pick out a scent).

[@rosap.8714]

YES. Restricting my movement is something I HATE. I love both "tight but stretchy" and "oversized completely loose" feeling clothes. And they cannot be itchy. Itching clothes or clothes that are too small (too short) are the. worst.

[@caseyriley1014]

Yes please do an autumn/winter version... Personally I really like tight clothing, but seeing the other perspective is really important, and very helpful, because I'm trying to do what you said earlier... Make a sensory friendly clothing line... And as you might imagine... It's difficult, because I have to have tight, and loose clothing, in both neutral, and visually stimmy asthetics... It's hard. I think I'll focus on the type of clothing that fits my sensory needs first, to open shop, and then put my money into the production of custom designed clothing for other sensory needs.

[@lindaware3082]

Love your videos They make me feel ‘normal’ I am 65 and although not diagnosed I’m positive I’m on the spectrum. Always felt ‘odd’ as a child 🙄 Your videos are great 👍

[@TheSpeep]

I'd be careful with specific self diagnoses, but if youve done even a basic amount of reading up, it is very easy to tell if youre some kind of neurodiverse. 12 year old me could tell something was off, though Autism wasnt something I'd ever heard of by that age, I did wonder if I might have ADHD or something like it... Turns out I have both, 12 year old me was right.

[@sylviabarnes5928]

Damn right you are normal 😊

[@lindaclairesartori]

Hey, Linda! I am 74 and just got diagnosed last week! ASD-mild. I am in South Florida.

[@lindaware3082]

@@lindaclairesartori I have a 20year old autistic grandson and I can SO relate to lots of his ‘ways’ I was always treated as a depressive child with ‘ tantrum tendencies ‘ as one teacher called it 🙄 I’m fine now and happy that I have a reason for thinking the way I do 🤪❤️👍

[@lindaware3082]

@@sylviabarnes5928 Thanks 👍😉

[@leslieyancey5084]

I’m gonna start using the term “underpantaloons” from now on! 🤣

[@MP-or6zn]

Although you are miles behind me in age, I have learned so much from you. I have never been diagnosed, but I can say with great certainty that I am on the spectrum. I definitely hate anything that is restricting, labels, tags, and bras, but never feel comfortable without, so they must be stretchy, However, the bands drive me nuts. Love earth colors and rarely can find them. I usually ware black, gray and brown with each other or maybe with another color. Can't stand being conspicuous. I loved your video. The style show was so cute. Keep it up. Great Job!

[@k.b.woodworker3250]

Me, too. I hate being conspicuous. Clothing is just a way to blend into the background.

[@kdelka81]

I'm starting to wear compression clothing for my abdomen and legs to help treat my POTS and it is a sensory nightmare! Of COURSE one of the best things to treat it would mess with the autism 🤦‍♀️

[@emmafoster2268]

I have Orthostatic Intolerance and was prescribed compression stockings to help. I can't wear them! It takes ten minutes to get them on and then I feel so uncomfortable all day. They started giving me acid reflux! I sympathise, it's tough not being able to follow advice that might help.

[@hollyr5153]

I LOVE THIS SO MUCH. Lately I've been living in soft cotton t-shirts, sports bras, and overalls. Thankfully my therapist is also neurodivergent and she encouraged me to embrace the "uniform" idea, so I've been thinking about getting rid of my wire bras altogether!

[@jamiefraser1505]

My clothing "hacks": I mostly wear toesocks (those socks that have seperate toes). When it's really hot out, I only wear LONG skirts and dresses (at least up to my ankles), because shaving for me is a nightmare (clumsy, the executive power to actually do it, the feeling of stubble). To manage executive functioning and also my worries about what looks "professionell" enough for work, my everyday outfit is highwaisted jeans and a longshirt in a basic color. In the bra department I started wearing only those stretchy, fabric-only bras, that don't have wires or clasps or anything, kind of like a sports bra (the word we use in germany is bustier [borrowed from french] but i can not find a proper translation)

[@raraavis7782]

Is there a particular brand/model you like for bustiers? I find a lot of them still rather uncomfortable, unfortunately. Sometimes, the elastic that sits under the breasts is very stiff and tight. Or there is scratchy lace.. A have 4 very soft, basic ones by Skinny, but I'd like some, that are a bit prettier and maybe a tad more supportive/forming. 👋 from Cologne

[@raraavis7782]

Oh, I think they call it either bralette or bustier in the USA as well.

[@sylviabarnes5928]

You do you of course, but I wanna put this out there: you can not shave and also not wear stuff to cover it! At least that's what do, because it's totally normal 🙂 I may be lucky though, with where I am location wise, so yeah it's easier said than done but I hope that (if you want) one day you can feel more comfortable showing it All the best

[@sylviabarnes5928]

Also I agree about the bras! Found some bamboo ones that are lovely and soft

[@jamiefraser1505]

@@raraavis7782 I mostly wear the ones by "schlankstütz", which I think is part of QVC and I mostly order them a couple of sizes too big, so they are more comfortable. They don't support as much, when they are too big, but you still have some support amd for me it is mostly so that I don't have to worry about my nipples showing and underboob-sweat (sorry if this is too personal)

[@TangentialTif]

When I’m in a store I shop with my hands first. I have to feel a fabric before I can even evaluate how something looks. However, being in stores is sometimes triggering. So I do a lot of online shopping and returning. 😬 I wish online sites gave more fabric info, especially ThredUP where I shop a lot for sustainability reasons.

[@ricardop.maganha5408]

Hi Yo Samdy Sam, you're amazing, look after yourself. This world needs you more than ever and we autistic people all love you 🏆

[@coal.sparks]

I don't rip the tags out because then I can't remember what can and cannot go in the dryer. I loathe shopping, because nothing fits right. And the salespeople either want to chat or they ignore you completely when you want to know if you have this shirt in a different size! I've been looking into drafting custom patterns and sewing my own clothes. This has mostly consisted of watching lovely videos by history-bounding people like Bernadette Banner, but I've recently branched out to watch folks who are less ambitious and very encouraging to the overeducated newb. But I'm procrastinating a bit on this because the last time I sewed it made a big mess and... big mess is one more thing to clean up. Also, for years I've warn neutral and un-flashy clothes on the outside, yet my underwear layer will have crazy leopard patterns in hot pink or giant green smiley faces or whatever. It makes me smile whenever I go to use the loo. I'm starting to get a bit more sparkle in my exterior clothing but I don't want that much attention, so I keep it subtle.

[@linden5165]

The fashion show was so fun and cute! I'm yes to loose, stretchy, natural fabrics (esp cellulose-based like bamboo, viscose, etc), colour and prints, soft bras, cosy scarfs. I like quite unusual colour combos. I'm no to denim, lace, 3/4 sleeves, jewellery, any plastic fabrics, pilled fabric, and don't wear white or light colours as I spill things on myself so often. At home I wear comfortable favourite things over and over until they basically fall apart. In public I present a bit tidier. Honesty I dress more boring than my personality is as a camoflage/masking/attention-avoiding thing. I'm lucky where I live people are very casual and accepting and it's normal to be quite scruffy. Shops are so uncomfortable. Online shopping is tricky though as you really can't gauge how fabric feels.

[@carole5648]

its the worst when something online says long sleeves but it's actually 3/4, the worst i say! i also can't wear white, because all day i'm anxious about it either being see-through or spilling something.

[@SarahJigglypuff]

I spend all summer wearing the various band/tour shirts I've collected over the years. They're all loosely fitted and hide any body parts I might feel self conscious about. They also usually never come with tags!

[@anklesockson8134]

I had a meltdown the other day and your video really cheered me up thank you, I am constantly made to feel like I am overreacting to all my sensory issues, it's nice hearing about all the small and extra things other Autistic people have to go through too. Would definitely appreciate a video for other seasons. My main hatred for clothing is having something tight against my stomach, so most trousers and jeans are out. I'm okay with some leggings and tights and so team them up with dresses or tunics. Maxi dresses are great in Summer for all the reason you'd probably hate. I also hate anything that covers my neck like turtle neck jumpers or mouth like masks.

[@leahtheanimationfan40]

Completely with you on the turtleneck and mask thing. I don't like anything covering my face unless it's cold outside

[@ruthstrickland6679]

So I've recently realised that I love colour and it makes me happy. I also like "rules" as it makes more sense to me. I've Kibbe typed myself and now dress to show off my best bits in bright colours and natural fabrics. Now feel much more comfortable and alot less confused!

[@Beany87]

'Sit like a pretzle as I go about my daily business' this literally made me laugh so hard. I sit in all the strangest ways and always get looks or comments but I don't care so long as I am comfortable. One of my less embarasing quirks, its all about the fitted stretchy clothes.

[@rahbeeuh]

Omgsh!!! #TeamBra! I don't feel right if I don't wear a bra. The right bra is a scavenger hunt for sure but if I find some I like I'll try to buy several. Tags/labels seem to not be a huge issue lately. Then again, the clothes I've gotten don't really have tags or labels so that may be why. Love the fashion show bit! Absolutely... Fashionable!!!

[@mariagordanier3404]

I have 5 of the same kind and worry about wearing them out and having to find another kind I can stand to wear.

[@rahbeeuh]

@@mariagordanier3404 definitely understand the worry. I think if you can afford to, buy some that you don't plan to wear often and those"ll be for when your main ones get worn out. Then again, it's easy to forget about those in the meantime so idk 😅

[@AdamElisabethHass]

Love this so much! I too, like fitted around the torso, but Not tight in the shoulders! I have gotten into a Historybounding community, which is all about wearing what you love... And I love late 70s aesthetic and soft old polyester. And I suddenly realized while watching that part of why I love thrift shopping is sensory. I love to go down the aisles and feel/look at every single thing. ♥️ One of my favorite things to do.

[@leahtheanimationfan40]

Thrift shopping is my favorite because I can usually find things in my size that are comfortable. I'm really tall and most of the modern women's styles these days are too wide and too short. I prefer shirts that are fitted but not tight, and I can't stand high rise pants so it makes it hard to find clothing in most stores.

[@lucyj8204]

Love this, particularly seeing that I'm not the only one stealthily wearing close-fitting layers under just about everything. Squeeze my soul back into my body! This summer I'm making clothes. I found a dress pattern that works for me and I'm making it multiple times in fabric I like (esp thrifted duvet covers).

[@elizabethf8078]

I was bullied for how I dressed growing up , so I overcompensated by studying clothing, style and did a short stunt as a plus size model (the camera freaked me out something fierce). Now I live in linen and cotton knit as much as possible, because it doesn't go out of style and is classy (signals status without being flashy). Me trying to look trendy is dangerous ("that's so last week!"). I like slightly loose but not clownish. I stick to black or dark pants (hello..IBD humiliation), and linen button-downs with different colored cami's and accessories to keep from looking like a black and white photo. I went through a clothes horse period (trying to avoid painful rejection/humiliation) and amassed over 100 pairs of shoes...but I live in the same Black patent Fit Flops or Cole Haan loafer mules all summer. Last time I wore a short dress, I forgot I had it on and did a man spread.. exposed my crotch to half my department. So much for professional credibility. So dark linen pants & capris, cami's and linen button-downs. Patent Fit Flops and/or leather loafers.

[@alexba1ley]

Oh I so relate to being bullied for clothing and trying to overcompensate my going through an aggressively stylish phase. I vividly remember spending an hour at a shoe store as a child trying to figure out which shoes were the "right" shoes that my peers would not bully me for wearing. I ended up pressuring my mom to buy me the most expensive pair in the store which I didn't even like and my bullies just moved on from my shoes to mocking other things about me 🤦🏻‍♀️.

[@AurorasWindow]

Loved this video, they outfits are super cute! And I love the Alanis t-shirt! By the way, pants in the US are called panties or underwear

[@SarahDavisSings]

Part of me wants to try and start the trend of calling them “under pantaloons” though. 😂

[@k.b.woodworker3250]

Must be regional, no one called them panties that I know. We called them underpants or undies.

[@imagismus]

I have always struggled a lot with shoes also because of my scoliosis. They can't either be heels or flats. Also my feet seem to hurt a lot in the vast majority of shoes I put on, so I wear the same for years until I find good ones...and also they crook a little so the fact that I love boots makes it easier because it keeps my feet it place but not too "claustrophobic"

[@rahbeeuh]

I don't like jeans! I know, I know just about everyone wears them but ever since I was little I'd hide them so I didn't have to wear them. I'd been made to wear them anyway and told I was "being dramatic" for not wearing jeans. Nowadays, I simply don't buy or wear jeans. Closest thing I'll wear are stretchy and soft jeggings. I also have a tendency to be accident prone so black or colorful clothes work best for me.

[@potatolover5436]

'Underpantaloons' 😂

[@duplicitouskendoll9402]

Oh man, silk and satin materials make my skin crawl. My wife once put some satin bedsheets on the covers and I had one of those little sharp bits on one of my toenails and it scraped and caught on the sheets - I actually vomited because it was so unbearable! There's a ban on that type of material in my house now 😂

[@autonomic_pilot]

Elastic laces?!?!?!?!? 🤯 Game-changer!!! All this time I've been wearing my shoes tied just tight enough to stay on but just loose enough to slip on/off. I had no idea...

[@giveemelle7862]

yeah, definitely a clothing visual sensory seeker too. i remember once my college teacher was trying to make a point abt most people preferring to blend in - "look around, you're all wearing grey and navy mostly.........except...." me. i had a bright pink hoodie and green trousers on. not sure i got the memo 🙃

[@alethearia]

I... have completely transitioned to clothing I've made. Gave up on bras durring the pandemic so I switched over to bodices, stays, corsets (all made by me to fit and support). They make clothing snug where I need it but allow drape where I need it. And I get to pic the colors and the textures that work for me. If only we could bring back tailors, where you can bring someone that sews a bolt of cloth you like and picture of what you want and just pay them your clothing budget. Bonus, tailors often have quiet work spaces, like library quiet. It's so nice. I love tailors and dressmakers. Alas... the world wants to do away with tailors.

[@autismenlightenment]

I visited india 3 times and had some beautiful outfits custom made.

[@alethearia]

@@autismenlightenment not everyone can afford to visit India. I mean if I could then I would be able to afford a tailor. Flights out of the US are expeeeeeeensive

[@autismenlightenment]

@@alethearia i was just sharing that in india tailoers are still on every corner, not implying that we all can go there to have our clothing tailormade. That is cool you have the phisical and mental ability to sew. I enjoy it but its challenging for me, someone w both dyspraxia and dyscalculia to work w a sewing machine.

[@irisl7817]

Please do all the clothing videos you wish. All of the themes! I have shopping IS a special kind of hellish experience off/online. I'm not sure if I have every really sorted out or listed all my clothing needs. I should. But my body size/ shape further complicates clothes shopping. Just the thought of having to shop is terrible. Thinking about any type of underwear shopping makes me feel like sobbing. Shoe shopping is a nightmare too. I have learned that I just should not bother with open shoes, that I love "just the right amount" of pressure on my feet but my feet are still quite sensitive...and not a "standard" size. 😭 Also...I am team plain colours simple or no pattern.

[@brendalevesque6384]

Hi Sam. Thank you for this video. All my clothing has to be blue or white. I’m trying to branch out into blue -green. I like clothes that are soft and loose. My pants, knickers, are white and full briefs as I need things to be on my waist. I wear them inside out to be free from tickly labels and seams. I can’t bear anything on my legs and feet. I hate trousers and tights preferring long skirts, bare legs and sandals. I go bare legged where safe eg at home. I’m ok with acrylic jumpers as I’m allergic to wool. I hate thin man made fibres and prefer cotton. Cotton wireless bras are very hard to find so I no longer wear one. I’m 64 now and have always been like this. Apparently as a baby and young child my mum struggled to get me to keep my shoes and socks on.

[@janelain8611]

Bamboo!!!! I always had a thing about not sleeping under a sheet, in spite of trying many different kinds. Now I have bamboo sheets and I love them

[@alexba1ley]

I. LOVE. BAMBOO SHEETS!!!!!

[@Mlpzeldafan011100]

5:13 haha, another one for the list. Videos like yours have helped me realize I'm likely autistic, but in realizing this I've also noticed... my Mom has a lot of traits too, especially more common ones. She always wears her socks inside-out, because then the seams are on the outside & she doesn't feel them as much.

[@katheriney8318]

I wear an inside-out, soft t-shirt as my pajama top every night.

[@thehomeeclady]

I picked up sewing when I was REALLY young because clothes shopping and wearing certain types of clothing would put me over the edge. If I didn't make it, it is altered. And that's how I deal with sensory issues while dressing.

[@julie8234]

More of this, yes. I'm literally about to go through my wardrobe and make it sensory friendly to my needs

[@mhairimacdonald7353]

Love the fashion show, especially the narration voice 😂

[@peacechickification]

Not me watching this while wearing very high waisted compression leggings that have a mountainous landscape with pink skies on them. I’m wearing pants despite it being a heatwave because they’re UV protective and my sensory need dictate that I’d rather wear these pants than sunscreen. Also, leggings are like the only non-natural fibres clothing I’ll wear. My wardrobe is a cross of hand me downs/thrifted/secondhand clothes, and high end purchases (my leggings) because I hate shopping and have such specific needs from my clothes. So much of what you shared really resonated. Thank you for making and sharing this.

[@alexba1ley]

UPF clothing sounds like a good alternative to sunscreen. I need to save money for that.

[@nancyzehr3679]

I bought a safron colored abaya, one big patch pocket. It's beautiful. I hate shopping. This is the first clothes in years. Very pleased. On line shop. I just read an article on autistic humor. You nailed it!

[@beandoll]

"Let's say it's a wedding," had me cracking up! Thanks, Samdy 😁

[@briena8881]

Very interesting of how different your clothing needs are, I would go mad with that tightness of a body underneath in summer 😅. Your third outfit looked amazing btw.

[@catmccabe1148]

Great vid Sam! Agree with most of what you say, I'm okay with labels if they're soft but I've found the annoying ones you try to cut out leave an even more annoying scratchy seam when you can't get the whole lot out! I also hate 3/4 length sleeves, I like to choose when I push my sleeves up or have them all the way down if it's cold. Tight waist bands annoy me more as I get older. I cannot sleep in pyjamas the restriction around my legs in bed is a definite no so wear night dresses/T's instead. Also I get cold feet so socks are a must unless it's incredibly hot which isn't ideal with a lot of summer outfits 😕

[@kracklinkamphyre7142]

I have a "personal wardrobe" - I have about 10 of the exact same shirt ("hemp shirt" from DressforEarth on Etsy), and 4 of the exact same pants (Iron forge hemp pants from Patagonia) and that's all I wear no matter if I'm working, hiking in the woods, at the grocery store, going to a concert (well, if I ever went to a concert), etc. All my clothes and bedding and stuff are natural fabrics (mostly hemp and wool), natural colours (variations of tan and brown) with no patterns, quite baggy (non-restrictive), and super basic (not much in the way of zippers and buttons and stuff - eg slip-on shoes, no laces, even my rainjacket is a pullover smock). I buzz my hair and beard short because that's the easiest (shaving means you have to do it every day, and any longer than I have it means you need to style it). I wear the same clothes year-round, just adding a sweater, rain jacket, gloves and toque/beanie as needed. When my clothes get old I just order more the exact same stuff. Old clothes get used when gardening, painting, etc. and since everything is all natural fabrics, usually organic to boot, they just go in the compost when they're completely done. I'm totally laughing at myself as I write this. I started doing all this before I had any inkling I might be on the spectrum.

[@kamiiixoxo]

There’s a store called ND renegade and their clothes are made by a Neurodivergent mom with 2 autistic children! And they try to be sensory friendly! Ir can be a good option

[@magnifiekvervloekt]

I don't know why I've only watched this video today, your fashion show was *chef's kiss*. I'm not autistic (or at least I don't think I am), but I do have ADHD and a lot of sensory issues (clothing tags, baggy fit but for jumpers and not t-shirts--I usually like large t-shirts but I really hate baggy jumpers, clothes that are too bland and boring and not colourful enough, the texture of some purely synthetic fabrics etc). I find this very relatable and I also hate shopping for clothes at shops because they usually are a nightmare for my ears and nose. I just buy secondhand now anyways except for underpants so that's not a big problem anymore :D

[@joebonomono5078]

HULKED out of a maternity coat..... ROFL!! Thank you for sharing that.

[@murtazaarif6507]

I wear the same clothes for a whole season. My psychiatrist noticed this fact about me. During lockfown i gained confidence and started dressing sharply. I plan many months in advance. I dress to stand out from others even if i try not to i still stand out. My autumn dress is a gold coloured cotton denim jacket, yelow lemon shirt and brown cordles baker boy hat. Currently in summer i am shining in white grey silver as my hair shines matching with a white t-shirt, white grey chequered blazer and a white straw fedora hat. I like the fedora because it helps me hide from peoples gaze.

[@durabelle]

I'm not diagnosed with anything, but have a ton of sensory issues with clothing (and with other stuff too). I hate any kinds of bras, but am too conscious of nipples showing without, so sports bras are needed at times. Pants would ideally be boxer style with regular waist. Trousers need to have a high enough yet loose waist, and either loose or stretchy material. I can tolerate fabric brushing against skin, but nothing can be restrictive. Socks can't be too small, but they need to be tight, as any wrinkles inside shoes drive me mad. And shoes... oh boy. My mom felt desperate many times when she tried to find me shoes that I could actually wear and not find too irritating. I still can't have anyone with me in the stores or I feel so rushed that absolutely everything starts feeling horrible.

[@durabelle]

It's not even just clothing, but bedding too. I hate wrinkles in pillowcases, duvet cover that doesn't fit just right, and any floppy material. Sleeping with just a sheet would be a nightmare. Also don't know why anyone would want the horrible pillowcases surrounded by a useless slip of fabric all around! Weighted blanket is lovely and helps with restless legs, but absolutely can't go over my toes, as they need to be able to breathe and move freely. I can't sleep tucked in as it's restrictive, plus all that wrinkly material under me is a no-no, but need to be fully covered to feel comfortable and warm.

[@LinnaAP]

Clothes have always been a struggle, to the point that I gave up for some time but I'm trying to get back to it

[@jessicavallee3831]

Supposedly I am neurotypical, but I have never felt more understood and heard than when I listen to your videos. And this video in particular is really hitting a soft spot. Thank you. And thanks for the Loop discount code!

[@revmvernon]

I love almost anything that is light, very loose, with soft fabric textures. Summer is hellish for me because I have an extremely hard time functioning when it's hot and/or humid. 75F is about my upper limit, temperature-wise. I've recently been gifted several muumuus from my wonderful mother and have found them to be the perfect summer garment for me in most situations. A big plus for me is the array of vibrant patterns they can be found with. I just feel extra-fancy and glamourous when wearing them, and though they're definitely unusual in my area for mostly male-presenting folks (I'm agender, but rock some facial hair at present) I actually find myself feeling more confident and outgoing when I wear them. Not to mention I somehow always get more positive than negative comments when wearing them to run errands in my extremely conservative area. TL;DR: I am Team Muumuu all the way when the temps are too damn high.

[@PeachPlastic]

My biggest regret in regards to clothing is getting rid of The Perfect Shirt ™ during a misguided "decluttering" attempt. :(

[@alphahellhound]

Loved this. For me I love wearing printed shirts , usually black or at least a dark color with black jeans. The prints on my shirts are either related to my podcast ( the Struggling Scientists) or related to metal bands I listen to or related to anime/manga or comics I read / watch. My other 2 main things are my shoes and my hat. My shoes are Hoka running shoes I've worn out with running but that are still comfortable to walk in. Honestly even after 600km they are more comfortable to walk in than many new shoes I've worn in the past. My hats are are like my shirts, anime, comic, band related. I feel like a monkey in suit whenever I have to wear anything that is not my standard clothing. Always feels constricting, awkward and overall just worse. I've been making a deliberate effort to diversify my color palette and clothing by finding clothing items that fit my needs and only buying those. I cant stand to buy clothing from shops that I haven't had a chance to review and look at before seeing them in a shop. Almost feels like , well here is the crap we have so pick something and get out.

[@CoreenMontagna]

Omg, I have so many clothing issues. Also, loved outfit 3!

[@quinnsmusings]

Honestly Snag tights have been amazing to me, tights that don't feel like they're constantly trying to fall down, they're soft and strokable, and keep me mildly compressed on the belly without feeling like I'm in pain. After that Dolly and Dotty do these amazing vintage style dresses that I have 4 of the same of (but different colours) and I wear them near constantly. it's just perfect for slipping on when I'm feeling low energy and in colours that can cheer me up. Also pockets!

[@semadoesstuff]

i agree with what you said about restriction/pressure when i was 5-6 i had these capris and i thought they where really pretty but i didnt want to wear them because of the knots of fabric at the side. i thought it felt uncomfortable. i ended up wearing them because i liked how they looked on me and after a bit of keeping them on my skin got used to it i suppose. i dunno thats kinda weird

[@carstorm85]

In the last 15 years my clothing style has changed from t-shirt and sweatpants to t-shirt and cargo sweatpants. Wear the same thing year round regardless if weather is -30 or 110F out.

[@ivysenim8222]

this video inspired me to write up a list of sensory things that I love and hate with clothing (and everything else) to use as a guide for remembering my needs as I move forward!! The video was very fun to watch

[@ivysenim8222]

and I do hate bras LOL but I love wearing wireless and thin fabric bras. things that hug my skin without restricting much at all. I have a petite frame and bras rarely fit anyway. bralettes with adjustable shoulder straps and bands are my go-to when I decide to purchase.

[@vbickford]

Your mentioning the pockets in your Carhartt leggings (pants?) got me thinking about the value of a fashion series for autistics. Brands, textiles, styles and how they touch the body could save us all the enormous, and expensive, mistakes we go through trying to accommodate our various issues. Do you think you could work in some episodes with that type of content?

[@1337Cassie]

"leave me alone I never went to modeling college". 😭😭😭🤣🤣🤣

[@rebeccamurphy4695]

NO TAGS!! Yes, that is a huge deal for me and I have cut or seam rippered out tags for over 20 years!

[@resourceress7]

Underpantaloons 🤣 I'm a US American and I don't think I know anyone who's ever said that. But I'm going to suggest that they all do from now on.

[@mnemosynenovarg4981]

i've spent so many hours having trouble picking out clothes i like to wear, and until now i never considered it was a sensory thing? i like my upper arms being covered, like the feeling of cloth on from my shoulders to elbows, compression on my chest, i like longer pants that rub against my calves. you can imagine my plight during the summer. i'm not diagnosed with anything but with everything i learn i'm finding things that help me feel better and happier !!

[@maddiek3352]

I absolutely love rompers because they don't squeeze my stomach or waist, feel pretty loose, and I don't have to worry about flashing anyone

[@Bearingz]

Thank you so much for this video. Clothing is a major struggle for me for so many reasons. So stressful!

[@cheleseaboone8549]

I was doing so good at paying attention to what you were sharing, and then the "is butter soft?" started echoing around my brain and i think tonight i'm going to dream about it.

[@mrsmarlasinger5198]

Yes to an autumn/winter version! Though I must say that I struggle more with sensory issues in the summer due to the high temperatures. In summer I can’t stand the feeling of fabric touching my legs, so I tend to choose wide, flared shorts and dresses. I also have problems with compression around my belly, and it drives me crazy to feel cuff buttons on my wrists, so I always roll them up. And yes, socks and tags are a general big no-no 😅 I feel that companies on the more eco-friendly and slow-fashion side provide a wider range of fabric and cuts that do cater to our needs. You named bamboo, which I as well find extremely comfortable, as well as linen, viscose and light tencel/jersey.

[@wisecoconut5]

I just made a mini wardrobe of summer dresses. I love them all and I don't think I will ever go back to buying my clothes.

[@haileymatthew4016]

I'm a 'close to the skin but stretchy' type too, although I overheat VERY easily and have hyperhydrosis so I have to be aware of fabrics and colours. I usually just wear black... Although this summer I've found some mid calf length floaty maxi dresses that, with shorts under, don't make me want to kill everything in a 5 mile radius and look gorgeous on! Hooray for Asda!

[@sylviabarnes5928]

I'm with you, about the "tight but stretchy" but also about the hyperhidrosis.. do you have a favourite kind of fabric? Glad you found some nice dresses btw!

[@haileymatthew4016]

@@sylviabarnes5928 I quite like the sporty dry type fabric, but the softer slightly thicker ones rather than the super thin ones... Shopping online is a little impossible unless I'm repurchasing!

[@lilyjones2368]

Love this!! As an ADHD girly with very extensive physical sensory issues- Hara the Label is my FAVORITE brand. They use bamboo- and the clothes and colors are so cute and comfy.

[@vaasnaad]

I don't cut my labels out... I brutally tear them out with much anger that someone put them there to begin with.

[@Jenny-px8sv]

I cut the tags out of every single item of clothing I own. My mum used to buy my sister and I the same clothes a lot as kids and it was the only way we could tell many of our clothes apart. If it has tags, it's not mine! 😂 I also hate wearing anything restrictive. My go to outfit is always a soft woollen jumper and stretchy high-waisted jeans. Predictable but very comfy!

[@kunstderfugue]

You are doing god's work. Thank you for your content.

[@AmbieJoi]

OMG I love this. More golden content! Thank yoouuu!

[@charliec2960]

um... this channel just became a must-watch for me. Hilarious fashion show voice-over combined with outfits I would ACTUALLY wear. Be prepared to start influence linking your outfits in the description box in future. This vid nailed it - yes to wireless bras, yes to neutral tones. Obviously, yes to an Autumn/Winter vid. Also, yes, to Sam starting her own fashion line. (Sidebar... do other autistics hate jewellery as much as me? I buy it, collect it, never wear it).

[@biale190]

Same here with the jewellery ! If I wear any jewels, I don’t feel comfortable. And struggling to remove a necklace (I’m very clumsy) is a special kind of anguish

[@TechieSewing]

I like pressure too, and in sewing groups people tend to think that everyone with sensory sensitivity likes buggy joggers. Those give me that fabric rubbing irritation and it's not just feeling, I get visible marks on the skin if I tolerate those, or wool. Oh wool. Everyone adores wool, it's like anyone who does not is ignored and isn't taken into account, wool this, wool that! I way prefer athletic artificial fabrics, those that are made smooth, or warm but not scratchy, I'm looking at you, wool, and I adore swim fabrics. I can just grab full hands of them in the store and stand and squeeze. Wearing them is nice too, sewing them is... adventure but I still enjoy that because it's like a sparring with a good partner.

[@wiegraf9009]

Clothing is definitely one of the things I am the most dysphoric about. I can scarcely imagine what clothing would work for me, although I think I tend to like looser clothing that's good at regulating my body temperature, since it tends to be quite unbalanced.

[@NFSMAN50]

Happy Saturday Sam!!!! I can relate to this lots.

[@portraitoftheautist]

The bit at the end was hilarious😂

[@ElaineWalker]

When I'm masking, basically talking to anyone I don't know really well, I sweat like crazy without even realizing it. That used to happen on dates. I wondered, "why do I sweat her time I'm on a date?" Autism explains it! (I was just diagnosed at age 52) So I learned to buy clothes that don't show sweat. That makes it really difficult. I used to be able to wear uncomfortable clothes when I was out and about, but the last several years I've had a way more stressful lifestyle, and now I just wear sweats and t-shirts at home, and put semi-comfortable clothes on (wireless bra) when I leave the house, and that all come back off immediately after I walk back in the door. lol

[@andreaharmon8931]

Yes please with the autumn and winter fashion show. That was fun.

[@brettburnside1457]

Haha! I'll help. Here in the States we don't say underpantalonies or whatever, lol. Here, pants cover any long-legged outerwear. This includes jeans, dress/casual pants (slack's), and exercise sweats. Underwear is the unisex term for the against-the-skin bottoms only. Women call them panties to distinguish from male underwear - which are also known as briefs, boxers, or the hybrid, boxer-briefs. One more thing, no one says the word 'trousers' unless you were born before the 60's. Hope this helps! Dig the channel btw : D

[@alwkw3783]

This is brilliant and hilarious! Would love to see another. Thanks!

[@kendragleeson6439]

In Australia: they’re called “undies”, I cringe when someone calls them “panties” 🤣

[@emmabrister747]

As a kid I used to love patterned clothes in bright loud colors….. now though I wear only black because bright colors are way too overstimulating.

[@selenericardez]

Hello! I love this video! It is crazy to think I really didn't get a diagnosis until way in my adult life. Generally, people described me as "plain" when dressing since anything with buttons, zippers, most pockets, and patterns are all very hard for me to wear. My boyfriend understands this now, and before making me try anything on, he lets me touch it. He is amazed as to how many items are an automatic "nope" but he respects it. (Not the case when we started dating) It used to be amusing to him that I also buy multiple pair of the same shorts, leggings or tops in all black, solid gray or green with little to no other color. Overall, I love hearing from other people's experiences, it makes me feel not so odd :) as we all have our own way of soothing. Thank you for the vid!

[@gennylittletreats148]

Thx Sam for this video that I really enjoyed! And yes, a winter version would be greatly appreciated. I also struggle a lot with shopping and clothes.

[@towah9474]

Thank you so much for the video!!! Please do versions of this for as many seasons and occasions you can bear! I cut off all the sleeves of my tshirts and can only wear XXXL Hoodies for I gate having anything right in my armpits. Also socks. The elastic band, no matter how soft and sensory friendly, has another fit than the rest of the sock. Changed over to knee highs, over knees, sneakers and pantyhoses so I'll never feel that again. For summer I changed mostly to sarongs, which I can fit to the need of the day with pins or knots :)