Do I have to wear a lanyard to use the sunflower symbol?

No. While the sunflower symbol is most commonly seen on lanyards, especially in public spaces like airports, it can be displayed in many ways. Clothing, pins, badges, or accessories allow you to carry the sunflower in a way that feels comfortable and personal, without committing to a lanyard if it’s not your style.

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Collection

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a simple way to voluntarily share that you have a condition that may not be immediately clear. Our designs let you wear a sunflower with comfort and pride.

Sensory-Friendly Comfort

Soft threads, no tags, no harsh seams. Just clothing that feels right, inside and out.

Autistic-Made, Autistic-Loved

Created by and for autistic adults. Because no one understands our needs better than us.

Fast U.S. Shipping

Fast U.S. shipping in 1–3 business days. Tracked, reliable, and no surprise fees.

Made for You in the USA

Each piece is one of a kind, crafted with intention, not mass-produced.

COMMUNITY FAVORITE

Autism Awareness Sunflower Tee

$32.95

COMMUNITY FAVORITE

Hidden Disabilities Awareness Backpack

$59.95

COMMUNITY FAVORITE

ASD Sunflower Hat

$32.95

COMMUNITY FAVORITE

“I Am Safe” Sunflower Dog Tag Necklace

$79.90 $60.95

COMMUNITY FAVORITE

Autism Awareness Sunflower Tee

$32.95

COMMUNITY FAVORITE

Hidden Disabilities Awareness Backpack

$59.95

COMMUNITY FAVORITE

ASD Sunflower Hat

$32.95

COMMUNITY FAVORITE

“I Am Safe” Sunflower Dog Tag Necklace

$79.90 $60.95

Frequently asked questions

The sunflower is an internationally recognised symbol for hidden disabilities — conditions that may not be immediately visible, such as autism, ADHD, chronic illness, or mental health conditions. Wearing or carrying the sunflower symbol is a discreet way to signal that someone may need extra understanding, patience, or support, without having to explain their condition verbally.

For autism, the most recognised sunflower design is the yellow sunflower emblem used in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. While not exclusive to autism, it has become a widely accepted symbol for autistic people who wish to share that they may have sensory, communication, or processing differences, in a gentle and non-verbal way.

The sunflower was chosen because it is bright, positive, and easily recognisable from a distance, yet non-confrontational. It symbolises visibility, warmth, and life, while remaining neutral enough to represent a wide range of conditions. Its association with hidden disabilities began in the UK and has since spread worldwide.

Yes many people choose to wear or display the sunflower to show solidarity with friends, family members, or the wider hidden disabilities community. If you don’t have a hidden disability yourself, it’s respectful to be aware of the symbol’s meaning and be ready to explain your reason for wearing it if asked.

You can shop a wide range of sensory-friendly sunflower clothing and accessories at Hey ASD’s Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Collection, including our best-selling Sunflower Autism Awareness T-Shirts and our practical Sunflower Hidden Disabilities Backpack. Every piece is designed for all-day comfort with soft, tag-free fabrics and an inclusive message of pride and visibility.

The sunflower is a quiet, powerful symbol recognised worldwide for hidden disabilities and autism awareness. For many in our community, it says “I see you. I understand. You’re not alone.”

Our Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Collection brings that meaning to life with sensory-friendly apparel and accessories—soft, tag-free t-shirts, cosy hoodies, and practical sunflower backpacks—made for all-day comfort and quiet pride. While the sunflower often appears on hidden-disability lanyards, these designs are created to be worn or carried every day in whatever way feels right for you.

Curious about the symbol’s history and global meaning? Explore our in-depth Hidden Disabilities Sunflower guide. Or, if you’re looking for style inspiration, read our sunflower t-shirts guide.