We Are Open Style Lab
Launched in 2014 at MIT as a public service project, Open Style Lab subsequently incorporated as a 501c(3) non-profit organization in 2015. Our mission is to make style accessible to people of all abilities.
To accomplish this, Open Style Lab undertakes three main projects: our flagship summer program, class offered at the Parsons School of Design, and research projects. We achieve this by the followings three ways.
Increase awareness about the importance of clothing accessibility for people with disabilities.
Equipping our community with the skills to create accessible clothing.
Aim to develop and distribute clothing designs and technologies that will increase clothing accessibility.
OSL Summer Program
Open Style Lab’s 10-week research program teams designers, engineers, and occupational therapists to create functional yet stylish wearable solutions with and for people with disabilities. Our 2017 program is currently operating from June 9th to August 12th.
Press
From the Museum of Science to Boston’s Fashion Week, we participate extensively in exhibitions and festivals to increase the visibility of the clothing challenges faced by people with disabilities.We have been featured in multiple press and news outlets, including The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, CNN Style, Christian Science Monitor, and the Boston Globe, and have been highlighted as one of the top competitors in the industry for research and education regarding wearable solutions for inclusion and accessibility. Most recently, our work was highlighted by the White House Office of Public Engagement and Office of Science and Technology Policy to take part in an inclusive fashion show and the New York Times Styles.
Sponsors & Partners