Information:
In providing a protective function, a garment inevitably creates a layer of resistance to our body’s movement and a degree of obfuscation on our expressions. Often these garments are discussed in terms of performance: for example, how can we make protective garments less abrasive and more ventilated, to allow work to be done without exhausting the wearer? However it is also important to note that protective garments are worn at unusual times, and often in these occasions, the ability to demonstrate human expression is just as important. A discussion on assistive functions is incomplete without discussing the support for human expression. What can we learn from the perspective of sensory enhancement to ensure assistive wearables are desirable and not just functional?