When it comes to supporting autistic children, comfort and regulation often begin with something we don’t always think about—clothing. On the Autism Little Learners Podcast, Tara sat down with Julia DeNey, founder of Sensational You, a brand designing sensory friendly clothes that are both functional and fashionable. Together, they explored how clothing can either be a barrier or a tool for learning, confidence, and connection.
Meeting Julia: From Fashion Design to Sensory Clothing
Tara: Julia, I’m so excited you’re here! You have such a unique background. Can you share a bit of your journey?
Julia: Absolutely. I actually majored in fashion design at Cornell University. Around the same time, I volunteered at a local autism preschool. That’s when I first learned about how clothing can cause challenges for kids with sensory processing disorder.
I started an independent study designing solutions for those kids. What I thought would stay as a small school project eventually became the foundation of Sensational You. After graduating during COVID, I worked in autism classrooms, where I saw firsthand how much clothing can impact regulation and learning. That’s when everything clicked—I could merge my skills in fashion with my passion for helping kids.
When Sensory Processing Disorder Shows Up in the Classroom
Tara: That’s incredible. Do you remember a moment that really confirmed you were onto something?
Julia: Definitely. There was a student who was always such a great listener. One day, she wouldn’t line up when asked. It was unusual. Then I noticed her tugging at a tag in her shirt. I cut the tag out—and immediately, she stood up and got in line.
It wasn’t a behavior issue—it was discomfort from her clothing. That moment made it clear: sensory friendly clothes aren’t just about comfort, they directly affect learning.
Why Sensory-Friendly Clothing Matters
Tara: That’s such a powerful example. Many times what looks like “behavior” is actually dysregulation. So how do adaptive clothing designs help?
Julia: Clothing can fill up a child’s “sensory cup.” Tags, seams, or tightness may not seem like a big deal, but they push kids closer to overload. Then when a loud noise or new demand comes along, the cup spills over.
By starting with sensory-friendly clothing, we reduce those irritations before the day even begins. My designs go further—adding tools like built-in compression, fidgets, or sound-blocking hoods—so kids can regulate before hitting a breaking point.
Innovative Designs in Sensory-Clothing
Tara: I love that! Can you describe some of your designs?
Julia: Sure.
- Compression shirts with adjustable sides—so kids can tighten them without needing a separate vest.
- Joggers with deep pockets and magnetic closures that double as quiet fidgets.
- A hoodie that blocks sound with sewn-in materials around the ears and even has a hidden eye mask for a full sensory break.
All of these came directly from watching kids in real classrooms. Sometimes what started as an accident—like a magnet in a pocket—turned into a feature because kids naturally used it as a fidget.
Real-Life Impact of Sensory-Friendly Clothes
Tara: That’s amazing. What kind of feedback have you received from families and educators?
Julia: The stories are what keep me going. One parent told me her son was finally able to eat lunch in the cafeteria with friends because of our sound-reducing hoodie. Normally, it was too loud, and he had to eat alone. That one moment meant everything—for him socially and emotionally.
Hearing how these products help kids participate in daily life is why I keep designing.
The Future of Sensory-Friendly Fashion
Tara: Where do you see Sensational You going next?
Julia: My vision is twofold. First, I want our website to be a place where families can filter clothing by specific sensory needs—whether it’s seams, sound, compression, or fabric. Second, I want to see adaptive and sensory-friendly fashion become mainstream. Imagine walking into Macy’s and finding a section just for sensory clothing—school uniforms, sports gear, even formal wear. That’s the dream.
Where to Find Sensational You
You can explore Julia’s designs at shopsenseationalyou.com and follow Sensational You on social media at @sensational_you. Be sure to check out the videos—seeing these clothing features in action is eye-opening!
To listen to the Podcast Episode #142
Back to School Sensory Checklist
Autism & Behavior: A Compassionate Approach to Stress Responses
Regulation, Emotions, & A Calming Kit
5 Of The Best Sensory Books For Preschool
If you’re supporting an autistic child at home or in the classroom, visuals can open the door to shared understanding. This Visual Supports Starter Set was created with that in mind — easy-to-use visuals that help children know what to expect and express what they need. Sign up now to receive your set and start creating smoother, more connected moments together.
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