Comparison of body measurements between Chinese and U.S. females

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyze the differences of body measurements and body shape between U.S. and Chinese young females and to examine how well national clothing sizing standards used for the apparel industry in each country meet the sizing demands of current young females. 400 Chinese females and 340 U.S. females, aging from 18 to 35, were chosen for comparison. Twenty-four critical body measurements were involved to define the differences or similarities and compare them with national sizing standards. It was found that compared with Chinese young females, U.S. young females were generally taller, heavier and had a higher percentage of Talls and much lower percentage of Petites. The three most common body types for both U.S. and Chinese young females were: spoon, bottom hourglass and hourglass, though distribution of body shape was different from each other. Body size of Chinese subjects was consistent with Chinese sizing standards, except for Arm Length and Across Shoulder. Nine body dimensions of U.S. subjects had significant differences from American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. This study could provide valuable information for standardizing organizations in their attempts to improve apparel sizing systems, as well as contributing to development of international sizing standards.