Innovative Singaporean OneTee Launch Targets Independence for Neurodivergent Individuals and People With Physical Disabilities

Discover how the OneTee uses magnetic snaps and sensory features to help people with disabilities gain independence. A new standard for inclusive design in Asia.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 9, 2026, 5:46 PM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from The Straits Times

Revolutionizing Daily Routines Through Inclusive Apparel Design

The simple act of dressing has become the focus of a significant accessibility breakthrough in Singapore with the release of a specialized T-shirt dubbed the OneTee. According to Jerome Lau, the managing director of Splash Productions, the garment was born from deep discussions in 2025 with caregivers and people with disabilities who highlighted the physical pain and logistical hurdles of standard clothing. By moving beyond traditional seams and fasteners, the initiative seeks to eliminate the bruising and discomfort often associated with restricted limb movement or head mobility issues, marking a shift toward functional fashion that prioritizes dignity and ease of use.

Strategic Features Catering to Diverse Sensory and Physical Needs

The technical specifications of the OneTee reflect a rigorous design process led by Elisa Lim of the fashion brand Will and Well. The shirt incorporates magnetic collar snaps that allow for adjustable widths, larger armholes constructed from breathable fabric, and side zippers specifically engineered to prevent fabric bunching for those in wheelchairs. For the neurodivergent community, the hem is lined with silicone bubble-like toys known as pop-its to provide sensory comfort, while Braille lettering identifies the project for the visually impaired. This multifaceted approach ensures that a single garment can address a wide spectrum of neurological and physical requirements.

Collaborative Development and the Voice of the Community

Direct input from the disability community served as the foundation for the product’s development, ensuring that the features met real-world demands. Judy Wee, the executive director of the Muscular Dystrophy Association of Singapore, noted that the ability to adjust shirt length via zippers is particularly beneficial for those using motorized wheelchairs. According to Wee, there is a pressing need for such specialized clothing to be available as off-the-rack options in mainstream retail centers to reduce the reliance on expensive custom tailoring. This collaborative model demonstrates how involving end-users in the design phase can lead to more effective and desirable lifestyle solutions.