You might think that those who wear hearing devices would try to hide them to blend in. However, accessorising hearing aids and cochlear implants can be a powerful way of fostering d/Deaf pride and identity. In a world where we are often pressured to conform to the norm, for many individuals with d/Deafness, the journey to self-acceptance and pride in their d/Deaf identity can be complex.

“The intersection of fashion and functionality aids us in breaking down social stigmas around d/Deafness”

However, for those who wear hearing devices, the burgeoning trend of hearing device accessories is helping change the narrative, transforming these essential aids into symbols of empowerment and self-expression. The intersection of fashion and functionality aids us in breaking down social stigmas around d/Deafness. It helps normalise our hearing aids and cochlear implants through fashionable, fun, and expressive choices!

While some may perceive hearing device fashion as a way of making these devices invisible and unnoticeable, others – including myself – aim for the opposite. Accessorising hearing devices is an opportunity to stop hiding them and to celebrate our individuality. I was born Deaf and, as a child, I felt incredibly self-conscious about my hearing aids, often trying to hide them, so I understand first-hand the importance of feeling confident and proud about who we are. Accessorising my hearing aids has not only boosted my confidence, but it has also strengthened my sense of d/Deaf pride and identity whilst allowing me to express myself.

“Artistic designs transform cochlear implants and hearing aids into wearable art pieces”

For me, creativity knows no bounds when it comes to expressing myself through fashion. Crafting my own hearing aid charms and ones that hang off my hearing aids like earrings has become one of my favourite ways of showcasing my personality. These unique accessories not only add a touch of flair to my outfit, but also allow me to share my journey and advocate for d/Deaf awareness. I love pointing out that my “earrings” are in fact hearing aid charms. From ear mould colours - including solid colours, marble effects, and sparkly designs - to customisable implant skin prints, the options for personalisation are endless.

At the moment, I love the bisexual colours of my pink, blue, and purple marble-effect hearing aid moulds. My twin sister, a cochlear implant user, likes to change her cochlear implant skins according to the season, with snowmen at Christmas and sea prints in summer, for example. She believes that seeing other d/Deaf people’s designs and their pride in their hearing devices encourages others to be more confident in their own d/Deafness and helps to increase d/Deaf awareness.

So how can you decorate your own hearing device?

Try some DIY! Stickers are a great option – either ones specifically designed for hearing devices or any others that fit. If your hearing device uses ear moulds, don’t be shy about asking for custom options if this is available to you. Another idea is attaching beads and charms to the tubing of your cochlear implant or hearing aid. Alternatively, you could use them to make charms that hang off your hearing aids. You could even wrap thread or thin coil around your device’s cords/tubes to create a braided effect. Have fun and experiment with different techniques and materials to personalise your hearing aids or cochlear implants!

Hearing aids and cochlear implant accessories are no longer confined to clinical aesthetics; they have evolved into a vibrant canvas for self-expression and a way of asserting our identity proudly. Decorative covers and artistic designs transform cochlear implants and hearing aids into wearable art pieces and amplify the message of d/Deaf pride. They also incentivise younger children to feel more confident wearing their hearing devices when they might otherwise be reluctant to do so.

Instead of hiding our d/Deafness and hearing devices, we should be encouraged and empowered to embrace our d/Deaf identity unapologetically, show them off to the world, and be proud.