Our Four-Point Approach to Accessibility for Soft Goods
As part of our effort to use our expertise to create more inclusivity in the world of packaging and branding, we’ve taken a deep dive into the world of accessibility opportunities. It’s commonplace for businesses to lose out on sales by not being accessible, with 65% of disabled customers feeling limited in their purchasing options.* To capitalize on sales—and take action as you stand by your brand values—it’s essential to consider accessibility. Here’s our approach when it comes to creating accessible soft goods:
1. Consider Form & FunctionalityTo make products adaptive, there’s a reason it’s called “accessibility.” To put things simply, we strive to ensure that the product's purpose is easier to utilize for a wider variety of people. For our custom makeup bags, we create custom silhouettes that open up more than typical styles, allowing easier access to the contents.
2. Make More Out of Your MaterialsWe have high standards when it comes to how your soft goods look—but also for the way they function. We deliver the best of both worlds but choosing highly functional materials that look elevated and on-brand. For example, Nylon Ripstop and PU Leather are durable, and easy to clean in the instance of drops and spills.
3. Increase Visibility—LiterallyFor those with sight disabilities, increasing contrast can help them navigate products more seamlessly. For soft goods, you can choose material colors that help make the contents—for example, makeup products in a cosmetic bag—stand out for easy selection. Similarly, with any product branding or graphics, selecting an appropriate design size and contrast level is key.
4. Don’t Overlook DetailsWhile you may want to keep design and functionality simple for budgetary and design purposes, there are simple swaps and upgrades you can make to increase accessibility. Consider adding pull loops to zippers, or replacing complicated closures with velcro and snaps, to stay true to your vision while increasing your potential customer base.
At The DPS, we work with the industry’s leading accessibility experts to ensure our innovations are the most inclusive out there. If you have a vision for soft goods, and want to make it more accessible and inclusive, reach out today.
