Body Measurement Specifications for Fit Models as a Factor in Clothing Size Variation

Abstract

Almost every apparel company employs a different fit model and develops its own size charts. As a result, there are widespread differences in sizing and fit of garments from various apparel manufacturers. It has been recommended that size charts need to be checked and revised every 10 years to reflect changes in characteristics of the U.S. population. The purpose of this research was to investigate one factor in sizing variation—body measurement specifications for fit models. Specifically, the focus was to determine current standards for size 8 and 10 fit models, to compare body measurement specifications for size 8 with size 10, and to compare current standards with those of 10 years ago to see if specifications have been revised Data for the study were collected from 1976 and 1986 trade journal advertisements for size 8 and 10 fit models. Data were analyzed using a t-test. Results showed a 1986 size 10 had significantly larger hip measurement specifications than a 1986 size 8. A comparison of 1986 and 1976 specifications revealed only one difference—hip measurement specifications for the 1986 size 10 were significantly larger than for the 1976size 10. A comparison of the range of measurement specifications between 1976 and 1986 revealed that a wider range existed in 1986 for both sizes 8 and 10 than existed in 1976.