Carol J. Salusso

Improving Pant Fit for Women 55 and Older through an Exploration of Two Pant Shapes

Relationships of sizing, body shape, and pattern shape to pants fit were explored for women aged 55 and older. Test pants were designed in two shape options (full/flat seat) in five sizes, produced, and tested on 176 participants in five states. Sizes were developed using ASTM D5586-94 data. Both participants and experts evaluated fit. Participants with flatter seat shape were significantly more satisfied with fit at the hip indicating that the introduction of a shape variable can improve satisfaction with fit for population segments with equivalent body shape variations. Experts were more critical, identifying areas of variation not addressed in the study. Results highlight the complexity of fit. Variations in body size, shape, proportion, and posture make creation of effective ready-to-wear sizing systems with a practical number of sizes difficult. Solutions to provide good fit may include creating sizing for a subset of mature women and developing custom fit methods.

An Alternative Approach to Sizing Apparel for Women 55 and Older

The purpose of this study was to examine Principal Component Sizing System (PCSS) methodology as an alternative approach to advancing the mathematical efficiency and effectiveness of apparel sizing for women 55 and older (Salusso-Deonier, 1982). The 1994 American Societyfor Testing and Materials (ASTM) national body measurement databasefor Women 55 and Older was classified using the PCSS method (ASTM, 2001). PCSS-55+ has a thickness-by-length structure similar to the current domestic sizing system. Only 25 sizes were needed to encompass the same range as compared to the 55 sizes within the current sizing standard. The PCSS method correctly classified 95% of subjects within 25 size categories and demonstrates potential as an alternative methodfor creating a simplified and marketable apparel sizing systems. With appropriate methods and databases, revision of US. apparel sizingfor women of all ages can provide long awaited valid and reliable sizing.

Gender Differences in Characteristics Reported to Be Important Features of Physical Attractiveness

The purpose of this study was to ascertain whether characteristics of physical attractiveness named by respondents as important would differ from those attributes previously examined by researchers. Gender differences related to the identification of important characteristics of physical attractiveness were also explored. Subjects, 230 male and 240 female undergraduates at two western state universities, completed a self-administered questionnaire. Respondents agreed that body build was the characteristic of greatest importance for both physically attractive males and females. Other important characteristics for physically attractive males were eyes, face, height, and hair and for females, hair, face, and eyes. Other than body build, there was no consistent ranking of characteristics by male and female respondents.

Design and development of western-style Nigerian apparel†

ABSTRACT This study focused on developing a western-style collection incorporating Ankara textiles for Nigerian women of varying body shapes. The collection was specifically designed for women participating in formal social events. The Functional, Expressive, Aesthetic (FEA) Consumer Needs model provided the conceptual framework for the study [Lamb, J., & Kallal, M. (1992). A conceptual framework for apparel design. Clothing and Textile Research Journal, 10(2), 42–47]. During Phase One of the study, 113 Nigerian women responded to an online survey. Respondents ranged in age from 18 to 55, with the majority ages 25–35 years. Respondents reviewed preliminary designs; their responses influenced refinements in the final designs. Phase Two included design refinements, creation of three final designs, and an exhibition. Based on respondents’ comments, the final designs emphasised fit, comfort, and modesty with a strong influence on Nigerian culture. This study demonstrates the applicability of the FEA model in designing culturally inspired apparel.