By: Nia Bowers

Clothing lines have historically balanced popularity with practicality, especially when the cost is low. Mass production of clothing has reduced the price of modern outerwear, but many fast fashion platforms often focus on quantity rather than prioritizing quality and comfort.

As many clothing companies begin acknowledging the rising demand for wellness-driven wear, one therapist-led label aims to address the need for functionality in fabrics designed for daily comfort. With its upcoming launch, Cozy Ino aspires to be the first clothing line developed by a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), aiming to support those managing sensory processing challenges through their garments.

A Clinical Cause for Comfort in Contemporary Clothing

As the first fashion label founded by an expert in applied behavior analysis (ABA), Cozy Ino emerged from a desire to address the sensory sensitivities often associated with conventional clothing. Created by internationally respected autism care specialist Dr. Deena Moustafa, Ph.D., BCBA, this fashion brand draws on more than 15 years of experience in trauma-informed, neurodivergent-affirming care.

Under her careful supervision, Dr. Moustafa has received recognition in outlets such as Cosmopolitan, TED-Ed, and USA Today. She has extended her care to families across California, Florida, and various parts of Europe. As an Associate Professor of clinical psychology, she continues to advise corporate leaders, healthcare systems, and educational institutions on the importance of ethical care and inclusive design.

With her expertise as a clinical consultant and published author, Dr. Moustafa applies her knowledge to create equitable solutions at Cozy Ino. Her background as the leader and CEO of the ABA therapy provider Go Behavioral highlights her ability to create intentional clothing solutions designed with a focus on supporting the nervous system.

Uniquely Centering Mental Wellness in the Wardrobe Market

Preparing for an August 2025 launch, the comfort-first clothing brand aims to align its values with National Health Awareness Month. This 31-day observance raises public awareness about autism inclusion, trauma-aware care, and the connection between what people wear and the emotions these wardrobes can evoke.

Striving to provide a practical solution to uncomfortable clothing, Cozy Ino’s debut curated collection, “Feel Safe, Feel Seen,” features:

• Comfy lounge joggers with adjustable elastic waistbands and flat seams.

• Lightweight, seam-free scarves that function as stylish layers to minimize texture-induced triggers.

• Seamless beanies and soft caps designed for added comfort.

• Tagless hoodies and t-shirts with breathable, plush designs, gentle on the skin.

While developing each piece in this sensory-safe fashion line, Dr. Moustafa has noted that human “bodies need clothing that soothes, not irritates.” After witnessing the discomfort her clients experience, she observed that the garment market often lacked options that offered comfort and relief.

Designed With Intention and Sensitivity

While the brand hopes to extend its inclusivity to all interested in sensory-friendly apparel, Cozy Ino focuses on designing clothing for:

• Children and teenagers with sensory sensitivities.

• Individuals with neurodiversities.

• Licensed therapists and caregivers.

• Parents managing sensory-sensitive daily routines.

• Women recovering from trauma.

With an emphasis on reducing overstimulation and promoting everyday ease, the brand’s cozy, calming products are designed to help wearers feel “comfortable, confident, and at peace in their own skin.”

Cozy Ino Addresses Clothing Industry Challenges

According to the CDC, one in six children in the United States lives with a developmental disability. However, fewer than 3% of clothing lines actively cater to sensory differences, overlooking millions of individuals who could benefit from safe, wearable options.

The clothing industry’s limited availability of sensory-safe fabrics and fits makes it difficult for many to find appropriate attire. Cozy Ino seeks to address this issue by offering regulation-compliant garments designed to accommodate various sensory needs.

Cozy Ino: Wielding Wearable Wellness for All

Looking to the future, Dr. Moustafa hopes to guide Cozy Ino in combining clinical insights with accessible design, bringing wearable wellness to individuals across the globe.

Cozy Ino encourages its wearers to move away from the discomfort they’ve historically endured, offering pressure-free, tagless, and seam-free apparel to promote a sense of security and serenity.

In discussing the future of inclusive clothing, Dr. Moustafa believes that “It’s time for fashion to better align with the needs of those with sensory sensitivities.” A world where sensibility and style can coexist is one worth striving for.