Apparel Fit Research Articles

Design and evaluation of a problem-based learning VR module for apparel fit correction training.

The increased adoption of three-dimensional (3D) digital prototyping software programs makes it necessary to train novice designers to use these programs efficiently. However, existing studies spanning from engineering to design education indicate that students feel incompetent in understanding 3D digital prototypes and navigating the software, so there is a need to find effective training methods. In the current study, training modules were developed to teach participants fit correction skills through an iterative problem-based learning (PBL) approach. A review of the literature was performed to develop the fit correction tasks and guide the module development process. Expert feedback was used to fine-tune the tasks and module interface. The current study explored the effects of PBL-based virtual reality (VR) training on learning how to correct two-dimensional (2D) apparel patterns to improve consequent 3D garment fit. Results indicated that the training module significantly improved spatial visualization and fit correction skills. Participants with higher apparel spatial visualization skills saw a higher improvement in fit correction skills because of the training. At lower spatial visualization skill levels, women saw a higher increase in apparel spatial visualization skills after the training than men but the difference between the learning outcomes across genders reduced when participants had higher spatial skills before training. These findings were supported by the results of qualitative data obtained through interviews. The participants found the PBL approach, immediate feedback, and aid in visualization through garment simulations beneficial for understanding the concepts. At the same time, they indicated that the training module could be used as a supplement to the traditional classroom but cannot replace the physical garment fitting practice. The findings of the study verified that PBL using virtual garment simulations can have a positive impact on learning outcomes and help identify the stage of education at which learners can be exposed to PBL.

Fit models’ roles in identifying fit issues in the apparel technical design process and implications for improving 3D virtual fitting

Fit sessions are essential in making well-fitted clothing. During these sessions, apparel fit is determined iteratively by a team of designers, technical designers, fit models, and merchandisers. With the advent of the digitalization of new product development processes in the fashion industry, fit sessions have been seen as a bottleneck for they are still held in person. However, the process is currently still irreplaceable, and what makes the feedback provided by fit models important is an area that has never been tapped. Therefore, the present study aimed to understand fit models’ role in fit sessions as well as how they assess the fit of garments and deliver their feedback. On-site observation during fit sessions and individual interviews with fit models were conducted. It was found that fit models gave comfort, fit, and tactile comments by testing garments while standing and moving between several postures. They had knowledge that overlapped with those of technical designers and designers and this empowerment enabled them to take part in the decision-making process in fit sessions. It also was found that fit models’ feedback on garments was essential as they were the first people to try on the garments and present the customers’ points of view.

Tailoring Garment Fit for Personalized Body Image Enhancement: Insights from Digital Fitting Research

In the context of the Fashion Apparel Industry 4.0, a transformative evolution is directed towards the Online Apparel Mass Customization (OAMC) strategy, which provides efficient and personalized apparel product solutions to consumers. A critical challenge within this customization process is the determination of sizes. While existing research addresses comfort evaluation in relation to wearer and garment fit, little attention has been given to how garment fit influences the wearer’s body image, which is also an important purchase consideration. This study investigates the impact of garment fit on the wearer’s body scale perception using quantitative research design. A digital dataset of avatars, clothed in varying sizes of T-shirts, were created for the body scale perception experiment, and an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model was developed to predict the effect of T-shirt fit on body image. With only a small number of garments and body measurements as inputs, the ANN model can accurately predict the body scales of the clothed persons. It was found that the effect of apparel fit on body image varies depending on the wearer’s gender, body size, and shape. This model can be applied to enhance the online garment shopping experience with respect to personalized body image enhancement.

Investigating the impact of body shape on garment fit

PurposeBody shape is a critical variable influencing consumers' garment choices (Zakaria, 2017), yet research investigating how UK females with varying body shapes evaluate and experience fit is limited. Moreover, while digital methods exist to classify female body shapes, application in a commercial setting is limited. To fill this gap within the literature, this study aims to understand the influence of body shape variation on garment fit evaluations of 30 UK females aged 18–34 years.Design/methodology/approachThis study conducts a physical garment try-on session whereby 30 UK females aged 18–34 years were body-scanned and categorised into a body shape, using the Female Figure Identification Technique method. Participants verbalised their fit experiences during a physical try-on session through semi-structured interviews to gain a deeper understanding of individuals' fit appraisals.FindingsThe findings demonstrate that UK females who share the same body shape classification experience the same issues when appraising dress fit, challenging Makhanya and Mabuza (2020) who found that body shape does not influence apparel fit satisfaction. The results shed light on the importance of body shape during the fit appraisal process.Research limitations/implicationsDespite the contribution, future research to improve the limitations should be addressed. First, although it was necessary to investigate a UK demographic to address research gaps, the finding of this study cannot be generalised to the entire UK female population nor to other areas of the world. Hence, future research should overcome this limitation by extending this study further to other countries, cultures and ethnicities.Practical implicationsThe findings of the present study shed light on the role of body shape in determining satisfactory clothing fit and how females' fit experiences will differ depending on their body shape classification. Thus, fashion retailers should use this insight to better inform their promotional strategies, not only making them more inclusive but also to help assist this particular consumer segment with their clothing decisions based on their body shape.Originality/valueThe present study provides an in-depth understanding of how females with the same body shape experience garment fit, contributing novel findings to the literature through a mixed-method inquiry previously lacking in this area, with a UK demographic which has not previously been explored.

Body shapes and apparel fit for overweight and obese women in the US: the implications of current sizing system

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to categorize the whole body shapes of overweight and obese females in the US and examine apparel fit based on the current ASTM sizing standards related to the body shapes categorized.Design/methodology/approachBody scan data from 2,672 subjects were used. To categorize their whole body shapes using 97 body measurements, principal component analysis with varimax rotation, a hierarchical cluster analysis and K-means cluster analysis were used. To compare the ASTM sizing standards for plus sizes (curvy and straight) and missy sizes (curvy and straight), five body parts (bust, under bust, waist, top hip, hip) using the formula for fit tolerance (measurement plus half of the interval) were compared with the ASTM sizing standards to determine the size appropriate for each body part.FindingsFive whole body shapes among overweight and obese females in the US were categorized: Rectangle-curvy; parallelogram-moderately curvy; parallelogram-hip tilt; inverted trapezoid-moderately curvy and inverted trapezoid-hip tilt. When the body measurements in each body shape were compared with the current ASTM sizing systems for both misses and plus sizes, four-fifths or more of overweight and obese female adults in the US would find it difficult to obtain a perfect fit for both tops and bottoms.Originality/valueIdentifying whole body shapes among overweight and obese women in the US contributes significantly, as it will help apparel companies that target the markets of larger women develop a new sizing system. This study is the first attempt to analyze fit by comparing the ASTM sizing charts with body measurements in each body shape group. Further, the study contributes to the body-related literature by filling gaps in missing whole BS categories among overweight and obese females.

Antecedents to purchase intention in virtual market space in India: an empirical investigation

This research attempts to integrate the Virtual Try-On technology, an application of image integrative technology, and the technology acceptance framework to examine the influence of interactivity and customer involvement on the online shopping experience. It attempts to empirically test the conceptual model to establish how the virtual trial of apparel attributes influences conative responses towards an apparel retail website. The antecedents of the conative response (purchase intention) have been empirically validated for a sample size of 410 internet users in India specifically of the millennial cluster. Result reveals the importance of confidence in apparel fit, utilitarian value, and hedonic value in strengthening the purchase intention of an online shopper.Body esteem is also a significant antecedent to purchase intention, while customers shop online. This research endeavor affirms the role of a virtual trial in strengthening the purchase intention in the virtual market space. The outcomes of this study add to the body of knowledge about the efficacy of Image Integrative Technology.

APPRENTICES PERCEPTION ON APPAREL FIT MADE WITH PATTERN DRAFTING AND FREE-HAND CUTTING METHODS

Purpose: To assess the perceptions of apprentices on apparel fit made with pattern drafting and free-hand cutting methods.
 Methodology: The study employed a cross-sectional descriptive survey was considered adequate for this study as it has the advantage of soliciting respondent’s views on the nature of the situation as it existed at the time of a study. The design is an efficient way of collecting information of a large group of people within a short time using questionnaires. The survey design was deemed appropriate for this study as it has the advantage of seeking the views of informal dressmakers and tailors on the use of pattern drafting and free-hand cutting in apparel construction. It allowed for the use of both quantitative and qualitative techniques in the study. This paved way for better understanding of a phenomenon under study. The use of these methods offered the opportunity to have in-depth information and also the weakness in one method is compensated for by the strength in another method.
 Results: respondents agreed that using free-hand cutting method of apparel construction has certain limitations such as its inability to neither produce a perfect fit, takes care of fullness nor bring out the curves among others. Less than one third of the respondents were of the view that free-hand cutting contributed to perfect fit of apparel. Apprentices held a positive view about the use of pattern drafting as providing better fit of apparel as compared to free-hand cutting. It was summed that although free-hand cutting was the main training method used, some styles, because of their unique features, could only be cut with pattern and comes out better than free-hand cutting.
 Unique Contribution to theory, practice and policy: The implication is that given the opportunity, training and necessary materials, these apprentices would start using more of pattern drafting than free-hand cutting. Therefore, the study recommended that the IDTA increase the opportunities of pattern drafting training which will lead to more production of better apparel fit.
 The study recommended the IDTA should enact policy to incorporate pattern drafting and other methods of apparel construction into the training curriculum of apprentices to develop interest in the use of these methods right from the onset. Additionally, the study suggested future studies to focus on the factors that contribute to the dropouts during the apprenticeship period.

Are negative and positive reviews regarding apparel fit influential?

PurposeThe purpose of the current study is to explore how valenced fit reviews affect the consumer decision-making process during online apparel shopping.Design/methodology/approachA single factor (valence of fit review) within-subject experimental design was employed to examine how the valenced fit review (negative vs positive) affects the consumer online purchase decision process. A mock website was created to simulate the online shopping environment through four steps for developing a stimulus website for the main study. The data were analyzed using repeated multivariate analysis of variance and structural equation modeling.FindingsA total of 418 female consumers completed an online self-administrated survey. Results showed that positive fit review was more compelling than negative fit review for female consumers when they like the apparel product. Two aspects of information credibility (review and site credibility) and confidence in purchase decision evoked by both fit reviews and overall product information were significant determinants of the consumer purchase decision process in increasing consumers’ future purchase intentions through attitude to the online retailer.Originality/valueThe current study was an attempt to fill the gap in knowledge regarding the crucial role of fit reviews in apparel product purchase decisions in an online context. This study confirmed the type of fit reviews that would be influential on female consumers’ online purchase decision-making process for apparel products when they liked the apparel product, supporting positive confirmation bias from the information processing point of view. This study contributed to the importance of the two concepts (i.e. credibility and confidence in the purchase decision) in online information processing and purchase decision-making process.

Body cathexis and fit preferences of young South African women of different body shapes and ethnicity

ABSTRACT Young African (109) and Caucasian (125) women of different body shapes self-reported their perceptions of an ideal figure, body cathexis and fit preferences through a questionnaire. The hourglass shape was perceived by all shapes as the ideal and was further confirmed by a chi-square test (p > 0.05), which showed no association between participants’ body shapes and perceived ideal figure. All the shapes reported dissatisfaction with their mid and lower body parts. Close fit was preferred by most shapes, except Caucasian rectangle that preferred semi-fitted apparel at the abdomen. The results clearly pointed to the influence of body shape and ethnicity on the satisfaction with selected body parts. However, body shape did not seem to influence apparel fit preference. Apparel manufacturers need to better understand the interrelationship between body shapes, body cathexis and fit preferences to adapt manufacturing and marketing strategies to improve fit needs of their target markets.

The Relationship between Experience and Demographic Variables on Concern with Apparel Fit in Online Context

Although apparel fit and size has been investigated in previous research, it is yet to be test to understand apparel consumer behavior in ecommerce and their concern with being unable to try on clothing or imagine fit/size before making purchase decision. Therefore, the purpose of this exploratory study was to examine the relationship between concern with inability to try on clothing and imagining size/fit in online context and their relationship with demographic variables and previous experience. While these study findings indicated no significant relationship between demographic variables and apparel online shopping orientation, other psychographic variable should be explored.

의복 맞음새 향상을 위한 패턴 그레이딩에 관한 연구

의복 맞음새 향상을 위한 패턴 그레이딩에 관한 연구

Exploring Online Apparel Shopping Satisfaction on Sizing and Fit for Malaysian Children

The advancement for the internet facilities have encouraged the the proliferation of online shopping especially apparel segments in Malaysia. Apparel are not only for basic neccessity but also as a trendy fashion as well. Meeting an appropriate sizing and comfortable apparel are the most important elements for consideration of purchasing. This study has determined the uncertainty problem on sizing and fit of apparel for Malaysian children from the perceptive of parents or guardians. Girth and length were identified as a good key dimensions measurement. Height and bust and, height and waist were used to measure upper body and lower body respectively. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) has proved that higher income households had greater discrepancies with respect to satisfaction levels items than lower income household. Different apparel sizing system by brands and manufacturers could lead to consumer confusion and dissatisfaction in shopping via online.

MANAGERIAL PERCEPTIONS ON APPAREL FIT MADE WITH PATTERN DRAFTING AND FREE HAND CUTTING TECHNIQUES

Purpose: To assess the management perceptions on apparel fit made with pattern drafting and free-hand cutting techniques.Methodology: The study employed a cross-sectional descriptive survey was considered adequate for this study as it has the advantage of soliciting respondent’s views on the nature of the situation as it existed at the time of a study (Creswell, 2012; Mugenda, 2008). The design is an efficient way of collecting information of a large group of people within a short time using questionnaires. The survey design was deemed appropriate for this study as it has the advantage of seeking the views of informal dressmakers and tailors on the use of pattern drafting and free-hand cutting in apparel construction. It allowed for the use of both quantitative and qualitative techniques in the study. This paved way for better understanding of a phenomenon under study. The use of these methods offered the opportunity to have in-depth information and also the weakness in one method is compensated for by the strength in another method (Creswell, 2012).Results: The results revealed that dressmakers and tailors’ preference to free-hand cutting was influenced by the method they were trained with. Additionally, standardization of apparel production among the members can best be achieved by intensifying the use of pattern drafting as part of apprenticeship training to ensure accuracy in fit among informal dressmakers and tailors locally. The respondents were asked to state their views on whether educational level hinders the progress of their training.Unique Contribution to theory, practice and policy: Reason why informal dressmakers and tailors were not using pattern drafting in apprenticeship training might be related to the fact that pattern skills seemed too difficult to understand and the period of training might be short to grasp the details of the method. Taking their educational level and period of training into consideration, it would be very difficult for the apprentices to cope with the contents that come with patterns. This implies that, there is the need to inculcate the use of pattern drafting as part of training curriculum of apprentices and also increase the period of training to allow both masters and apprentices gain better grasp of the pattern drafting skills. When trainees are given adequate training skills on the use of pattern drafting, they would improve and this would in effect manifest in the high standard on fit of apparel among the dressmakers and tailors in the informal setting in the near future. The study recommended future studies to focus on the factors influencing training and acquisition of both skills of apparel constructions. This will help the policy makers rectify the structure of education accordingly to improve the way skills are disseminated and executed.

Exploring apparel design and fit for older women: a technology intervention

ABSTRACTWith the rapid growth of the older population, older women represent high purchasing power in the fashion market. However, the lack of attention from the fashion industry makes older women hard to find appropriate apparel in terms of fit and style. The purpose of this study was to explore ways to improve apparel fit and design attributes for older women by investigating practical design applications through the use of various emerging technology in the apparel industry. Findings indicated that integrating 2D and 3D computer-aided design technologies into the apparel design process can provide flexibility and effective visual analysis as well as save time and materials compared to the traditional design method of cut and sew. Therefore, our study presented a case for a particular target population in terms of technology integration methods to better respond to the current needs.

Evaluation of body geometry and symmetry for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis with 3D body scanning system

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to quantitatively assess the three-dimensional (3D) geometry and symmetry of the torso for spinal deformity and the use of orthotic bracewear by using non-invasive 3D body scanning technology. Design/methodology/approach In pursuing greater accuracy of body anthropometric measurements to improve the fit and design of apparel, 3D body scanning technology and image analysis provide many more advantages over the traditional manual methods that use contact measurements. To measure the changes in the torso geometry and profile symmetry of patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, five individuals are recruited to undergo body scanning both with and without wearing a rigid brace during a period of six months. The cross-sectional areas and profiles of the reconstructed 3D torso models are examined to evaluate the level of body symmetry. Findings Significant changes in the cross-sectional profile are found amongst four of the patients over the different visits for measurements (p < 0.05), which are consistent with the X-rays results. The 3D body scanning system can reliably evaluate changes in the body geometry of patients with scoliosis. Nevertheless, improvements in the symmetry of the torso are found to be somewhat inconsistent among the patients and across different visits. Originality/value This pilot study demonstrates a practical and safe means to measure and analyse the torso geometry and symmetry so as to allow for more frequent evaluations, which would result in effective and optimal treatment of spinal deformation.

Analysis of Individual Aspects Influencing Non-purchasing in an Online Environment and Consumer Willingness to Purchase Custom-Made Apparel

Abstract Purpose: The main purpose of the study was to assess the opinion of online consumers about the possibility of making custom apparel using 3D body scanning technology in an online environment and to investigate the shopping experience of consumers who purchase in the online apparel market. In order to be able to propose solutions to improve the online shopping experience, we also investigated aspects influencing non-purchasing in an online environment. Methods: An online questionnaire on shopping experience, influences on the purchase, and the process of online apparel shopping using advanced technology was prepared and distributed via several online channels to the consumers who purchase apparel online. The questionnaire was completed by 76 respondents from different European countries, the United States and Australia. In order to analyze individual aspects influencing non-purchasing in an online environment, an exploratory factor analysis was performed. Results: The factor analysis revealed that the two broad dimensions of reasons why consumers have never bought any ready-to-wear apparel online despite browsing are a misperception of product integrity and time-consuming searching. The results show that the proposed solutions to improve the online apparel experience, such as making custom apparel using advanced technologies, have a positive impact on the decision of the consumers to purchase on the online apparel market. It turned out that a high proportion of potential consumers are willing to share their body dimensions through 3D body scanning technology in order to improve the fit of the apparel. Conclusion: According to the results, we expect that the advanced 3D body scanning technology would provide substantial progress regarding fit, visualization, and manufacturing of custom-made apparel when purchasing in online stores.

3차원 동작분석법을 활용한 골프웨어 평가를 위한 기초연구 - 상체 동작범위를 중심으로 -

The purpose of this study is to analyze joint angle for a range of swing motion derived through 3D motion analysis in order to design the ergonomic golf wear, use it for evaluation method of apparel fit to improve exercise functionality and provide the basic materials necessary for designing clothes. In order to do this, the subjects for this study were 3 men of age 20s. The data for a range of motion of golf swing were collected by using equipment for 3D motion analysis and then were used for analysis of joint angles and evaluation method of apparel fit. Range of motion was derived through 3D motion analysis of golf swing motion and joint angles for items of joint motion item and of X, Y, and Z-axis were calculated, respectively. In order to set the evaluation questions for evaluation of apparel fit, to find a range of motion at the maximal value and the minimal value of swing motion. As a result, during the swinging motion, neck extension, right shoulder extension, right/left elbow extension, right/left elbow supination did not appear. Items of joint motion showing the maximum at range of each swing motion were applied into 55 questions and consisted. The results of this study were meaningful as a basic study to apply 3D motion analysis to the fashion industry. It's expected to be used to design functional clothing.

Stretch to fit – made to fit

ABSTRACTIt is widely recognised that elastic fibres (spandex and lycra) are used to impart stretch to fabrics. The amount the apparel stretches to fit depends on the elastic fibres’ characteristics and recovery properties, in providing pressure comfort and ease of movement. Made to fit, by comparison, is the construction of two-dimensional non-stretch pattern blocks using body darts to denote the 3D form. Building patternmaking theory can lead to a better understanding of the body to garment interaction, and the fit of apparel. This investigation commences with the identification of garment block construction methods for woven and jersey apparel, and corresponding garment fit expectations, comparing two published patternmaking methods. It proposes a system of adding bust cup grading into non-stretch garment blocks. The experimental results indicate that the proposed method would be easy to implement and could generate patterns with an improved bust girth fit. The purpose of this paper is to show that a new grading system would better serve the female population than the system currently in use. This system would also be more efficient as it would reduce the consumer time spent in fit identification as labelling would also indicate bust cup sizing.

Manual Design for Pattern Developing and Virtual Modelling through Product Analysis - Focused on Disposable Protective Coverall -

The demand for coverall-type protective clothing are increasing in many industrial fields; however, it is impossible to evaluate the wearers` apparel fit because there is no commercialized pattern in the market. This study produces a manual for the process of acquiring patterns by separating PPE products into pieces to provide information on acquiring patterns. The analysis was on coverall-type non woven protective clothing in the domestic market, and 4 panels examined the validity, reliability, and efficiency of various possible methods on each step of process. Five steps were conducted to acquire patterns removing wrinkles, marking seams lines, separating seams, and pattern completing. The process of converting these into pattern files was designed through three procedures of digitizing, editing, and exporting and detailed stages. Fitting tests were undertaken, real patterns by actual modeling and pattern files by virtual modeling; all showed similar forms with outfits wearing ready-made protective coveralls. This study sought the most efficient and objective method of virtual modeling and proposed it as a manual. It is expected for the pattern reverse-designing manual through products analysis presented in this study that would be a helpful addition of information to the pattern tracing of pattern-less clothing products.

Exploring apparel purchase issues with plus-size female teens

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore apparel-related issues experienced by plus-size female teens around the functional, expressive, and aesthetic consumer needs model. The goal was to uncover any issues which have interfered with or restricted apparel purchases. Design/methodology/approach – A mixed methods research design was employed to collect body measurements with the use of a 3D body scanner and conduct in-depth interviews with a convenience sample of 30 plus-size females aged 12-17 years and their families. Findings – The current US sizing system does not fully meet the measurement needs of this study group. Functional fit requirements often dictate the apparel purchased by plus-size female teens. Expressive and aesthetic desires often go unfulfilled by the apparel that satisfied their functional needs. Confusion over apparel size designations interfered with brand and store loyalty and resulted in fewer purchases from both physical and online stores. Practical implications – Plus-sizes are the fastest growing segment of apparel and offer brands and retailers substantial opportunity for market growth. Plus-size female teens desire to increase their apparel purchases, but have been hindered by certain product development and merchandising practices. Participants made suggestions for brands and retailers to increase sales in the plus-size female teen market. Originality/value – This study is unique by uncovering previously unknown issues regarding apparel fit and purchase behaviors of the plus-size female teens as well as relating participant’s advice to the apparel industry on this target market.