Adaptive Fashion Startup: Vilber’s Story

Vilber’s, the Latvian fashion brand for people with physical disabilities, is on a mission to make their customers comfortable, stylish, and empowered. Judging from reviews and expert recognition, they’re already succeeding – this year alone, the company qualified for the global finals of the “Creative Business Cup” and won “The Million Euro Idea” TV contest.

Their secret? A commitment to quality, sustainability, and ethical fashion mixed with good old Latvian dedication and hard work. In less than two years, Vilber’s has released over 50 products ranging from everyday items like wheelchair-adapted cargo pants and T-shirts to specialized items like grip enhancers and wheelchair belts in various designs.

As Vilber’s founder and CEO Zane Bērziņa shares, the biggest encouragement comes from client reviews and personal letters: “Winning competitions makes us happy, but what pleases us most is when people say ‘yes, this is what I was looking for’ – when you’ve managed to solve problems and needs that weren’t given enough attention before. That’s the real satisfaction.”

How Vilber’s Designs Solve Mobility Challenges

Solving real problems through fashion means rethinking every detail – from cuts and closures to fabrics and fit. Every choice made at Vilber’s is designed to not only look good but also support the wearer’s independence, comfort, and confidence.

Magnetic zippers and buttons are easy to operate for individuals with limited dexterity. Wheelchair-adapted pants feature a unique no-back-seam construction that makes sitting for long hours safer and more comfortable. Tops have a longer back and shorter front for better coverage and a cleaner silhouette, avoiding the bulk that can bunch up while seated.

These details are informed by client needs and often tested and reshaped through direct user feedback. For example, Vilber’s winter overalls were originally designed with a central zipper, but users in an online forum pointed out that two side zippers would be easier and requested the ability to put on the overalls while wearing boots. The team evaluated the input and made adjustments.

Bērziņa emphasizes that this collaborative approach is central to their philosophy: “The product was already made based on research, but we polished it according to what people said. That’s really important to us. Of course, not all feedback aligns, so we have to weigh it carefully and choose what makes the most sense for our customer base.”

What’s Next in Adaptive Clothing: Vilber’s Roadmap

Beyond perfecting their designs, Vilber’s recognizes that growth and visibility are equally crucial to serving their community. Since most of Vilber’s products are sold abroad, growing their international presence is key. That’s why they’re continuing to research the field and planning to showcase at global expos like “RehaCare 2025’ in Düsseldorf, Germany, this September. With over 50,000 expected visitors but only five clothing merchants attending, it’s a prime opportunity to stand out and increase competitiveness.

“We might be small, but we are mighty,” says Bērziņa. “For companies from larger markets, it’s easy to get complacent and keep thinking ‘if it works, don’t fix it’ – even if the designs date back to the last century. We, however, are ready to surprise.”

Bērziņa is confident about Vilber’s potential to reach their ambitious goal: capturing 1% of the adaptive clothing market within the next decade. “One percent might not sound too impressive at first, but that’s around 7 million euros,” she notes. “Big goals help you keep moving.”

In her view, Latvia is a great place to nurture one’s “business babies”: “We have so many amazing, enterprising people, and the state offers solid support for business growth. The most important thing is to embrace optimism and remember that success comes to those willing to work hard.”