A FASHION graduate in Galashiels has created an innovative clothing range to help people with cerebral palsy.

Laura Reid took her inspiration from a book written four decades ago, which revealed that clothing for people with disabilities was either designed for the very young or elderly.

The Heriot-Watt graduate's collection took up the challenge of filling the gap.

And she was influenced from the fashion-forward 1970s to keep on-trend with the mainstream market.

Laura said: “Currently, the options for young adults are limited, with many brands not focusing on the younger adult market and not being financially viable due to the niche market.

“I wanted to design a collection which was suitable for my age group - for both the mainstream market and people with Cerebral Palsy.

“Aesthetically, the collection has followed a colour scheme of dark blues and forest greens, preventing the collection from appearing childish, with pops of orange as well as gold and rose gold foil to add an element of fun and remind the wearers they are still young."

Laura's clothing line features adaptations for people with the disability such as removable sleeves, elasticated waists and magnetic closures – proving that clothing and style do not need to be compromised due to a disability.

After speaking to Bobath Scotland – a charity which supports people living with cerebral palsy – Laura worked closely with a focus group to discuss some of the ways that clothing could be made more accessible and enable independent dressing, then set out to begin designs for a trailblazing collection.

She added: “Garments can be interchanged to suit the style of the wearer and create looks to suit different occasions.

“I’m very proud of the collection and highlighting an important issue within the fashion industry.”

The collection featured in this year's degree show exhibition at Heriot-Watt University’s School of Textile and Design in Galashiels.

Stephanie Fraser, CEO of Bobath Scotland, said: “At Bobath Scotland, we support people with cerebral palsy in a range of ways, including providing specialist therapy for children and adults across the country.

“We regularly work with people living with Cerebral Palsy to develop life skills that increase independence. Dressing as independently as possible is a big part of that.

“We wish Laura all the best with her fabulous collection, and hope that it highlights to the industry that accessible can also be fashionable.”